The way I see it, Senate Democrats shouldn't even agree to hold hearings on Gorsuch for at least 10 months. That's how long the Republicans stalled over the nomination of Merrick Garland.
Then let's see where we're at come December.
Then let's see where we're at come December.
90
"Furthermore, and this is just a wild theory of mine, it is not clear to me that Trump will hang around for a full term, not so much because he might do something to spark an impeachment proceeding, but because it’s not clear to me that he wants to serve out the term.
Trump is simply not behaving like a president with an eye trained on longevity. "
- standard responses/ reactions don't apply to trump - he'll stay in power as long as possible with the help of his zealot followers.
Yes, Mr. Blow, you are right, we might be able to win back seats in the house /senate, only if we finally realize the little girls tea party is over & the are gloves off.
I hope the Democrats take this into consideration for the mid term elections.
Your do not need to roll in the gutter to win but you do need to show true leadership with the guts to stand up and deliver the truth and FACTS to the voters.
Trump is simply not behaving like a president with an eye trained on longevity. "
- standard responses/ reactions don't apply to trump - he'll stay in power as long as possible with the help of his zealot followers.
Yes, Mr. Blow, you are right, we might be able to win back seats in the house /senate, only if we finally realize the little girls tea party is over & the are gloves off.
I hope the Democrats take this into consideration for the mid term elections.
Your do not need to roll in the gutter to win but you do need to show true leadership with the guts to stand up and deliver the truth and FACTS to the voters.
30
Why let a little thing like facts get in the way of a good leftist rant, but here goes anyway. 1} If the Executive Order is truly a muslim ban, then why are Catholics and Jews from the affected nations {nations chosen from a list the Obama administration compiled} also precluded from entry into the U.S.? 2} As a former prosecutor, I agree that James Comey should be investigated--as to why he declined to recommend a prosecution of Mrs. Clinton after clearly establishing a compelling case v. her in his initial press conference, 3} Are the dems who refused to even attend their respective committee hearings "fight[ing] a gentleman's' war"--or are they acting like petulant children? 4} An "asterisk" justice? Does that mean his decisions will have that appendage? Please. 5) The "election was stolen from the American public"? Just how did that happen? Did the KGB alter the electoral college tally? Or are is Mr. Blow simply annoyed that the RCN's cyber security is better than the DNC's? I know Mr. Snow is desperate to establish his leftist bona fides with his superiors, but even Frank Bruni writes with some degree of factual and intellectual honesty.
45
I believe in every thing you say, I am not sure about picking this fight. The Democrats may look better to the public and the states they need to win seats in if they play this with integrity and show the Republicans how it is done. They wont be able to stop this guys nomination anyway and it will stand as a reference point going forward. There will be more important things to block going forward. The most important thing right now is to win the mid term BIG and change the balance of power. In order to accomplish this we will need to win Red State seats and we can't look like we are as bad as the people we are trying to unseat we nee to look like salvation.
11
Mr. Blow: This seat was not "stolen" from anyone because it does not belong to anyone. It was established by the Constitution to determine if laws passed by Congress were in accordance with that document. What has tarnished the court is that politics and policy correctness have overcome the original intent.
28
I just want to give a nod to Charles for "upping his game". The writing and critiques are sharp and top-notch. Blow has reall hit his stride as a political opinion writer. He knows his adversary and he's loaded for bear, as he rightfully urges more liberals to be. Good gor you, Charles, and good for us to hear a voice that refuses to relent to feafness, trivialization and cynicism. As many people seem to be hoping out loud lately, perhaps this highly flammable White House will inspire the actions that are necessary to make government responsive to calls for social progress.
37
Wow. This is just nonsense. The "fog of Russian interference" is cute. You mean when The Clinton campaign was exposed for illegally colluding with the DNC to cheat Bernie out of the nomination? Then illegally colluded with CNN to get Sec. Clinton advance copies of the questions in a debate so she could cheat her opponent? You are actually trying to defend the position that "Trump cheated because someone exposed Clinton for cheating and she lost"? Really? How pathetic.
Now you want to whine that Gorsuch is not a legitimate nominee because Garland was blocked? OK, lets look at this as if you are a reasonable human being and not a partisan hack. Would you feel better if Garland was given a fair hearing and then rejected? Because that is what would have happened. There is actually ZERO chance that the Republican majority in the Senate would have approved him. ZERO. Had they voted in a justice that was publicly anti 2nd amendment and pro abortion then they could forget about re-election, they could never show their faces in their home states again.
Now lets look at the "Muslim ban" - more nonsense. The "ban", if you want to call it that, only covers 7 out of the 50 Muslim majority countries in the world. 7 out of 50. If your "ban" on something on impacts about 20% of it then you are doing it wrong.
All of this being said, I REALLY hope you can keep this up until the midterm elections. It is kind of fun to watch you implode under the weight of your own hypocrisy.
Now you want to whine that Gorsuch is not a legitimate nominee because Garland was blocked? OK, lets look at this as if you are a reasonable human being and not a partisan hack. Would you feel better if Garland was given a fair hearing and then rejected? Because that is what would have happened. There is actually ZERO chance that the Republican majority in the Senate would have approved him. ZERO. Had they voted in a justice that was publicly anti 2nd amendment and pro abortion then they could forget about re-election, they could never show their faces in their home states again.
Now lets look at the "Muslim ban" - more nonsense. The "ban", if you want to call it that, only covers 7 out of the 50 Muslim majority countries in the world. 7 out of 50. If your "ban" on something on impacts about 20% of it then you are doing it wrong.
All of this being said, I REALLY hope you can keep this up until the midterm elections. It is kind of fun to watch you implode under the weight of your own hypocrisy.
56
Since Trump likes to make deals, why not strike a 'grand bargain': Democrats will not obstruct the review if Trump releases his personal and business financial records? This would enjoy widespread public support, even among many Republicans, and would put the minority's leverage to better use than a lot of symbolic, but ultimately futile, posturing.
24
The media has decided this guy is brilliant. As a lawyer, let me say that if he was brilliant he wouldn't be a lawyer.
18
I agree that Democrats need to get tough, after 8 years of bringing a handshake to a gun fight. The problem is that they have nothing much to fight with. They lack the ability that the GOP has to manipulate the media and get their message out. If they do go to the mat, the GOP will say they are unpatriotic obstructionists, Joe Manchin will say they need to give Trump a chance, and the media will bring Manchin on to represent the Dems against some GOP bomb thrower. The real poisoned tree was the Obama admin's failure to understand how media works, and the consequent failure to communicate the many positives of things about Obamacare, TPP and the Iran deal, etc
20
Yes. Please fight dirty Democrats.
Please protest at the airports so people who have real jobs and families have to listen to your babyish chants and be delayed getting home or to work.
Please pepper spray your political opponents while they are being interviewed.
Please peddle conspiracy theories regarding the last election.
Please continue to tell decent hard-working Americans that their "whiteness" is a problem.
As a conservative I want you to do all of these things. You'll never hold power again.
Please protest at the airports so people who have real jobs and families have to listen to your babyish chants and be delayed getting home or to work.
Please pepper spray your political opponents while they are being interviewed.
Please peddle conspiracy theories regarding the last election.
Please continue to tell decent hard-working Americans that their "whiteness" is a problem.
As a conservative I want you to do all of these things. You'll never hold power again.
46
Charles Blow = intellectual & moral clarity (i.e."lean mean fighting machine")
18
Precisely. Trump does not plan on staying around. It's been slash and burn since he raised his ugly head. Thanks again, Charles, for brilliant writing!
18
Mr. Blow is absolutely right. Democrats have been using Cocktail Party manners while Republicans have been street fighting; no question who's going to come out on top in such a battle. As a matter of principle, if for no other reason, but more importantly for the future of our Nation, Mr. Gorsuch CANNOT be appointed to the Court!
37
Mr. Blow, your "wild theory" of this president's short-lived power does a terrible disservice. The suggestion that Trump won't serve out his term, that he will be impeached, his Cabinet offices will leave, Republicans will lose control of the Senate is pure fantasy. Please get over it. Instead of offering hollow distractions, advise readers how to forestall the unfolding tragedy that confronts our nation.
29
Yes!! And Thank you.
15
I agree completely. I think that the liberal left must reclaim the D party on the streets.
31
"His furious, prodigious pace of edicts also bespeaks a man who feels like he’s on a clock and his time is running out. He seems like a man about to burn out or be kicked out — but of course that could just be my wishful thinking."
That's occurred to me also. This is rushing. And the reason Mitch, Ryan, and the rest of the old GOP Politburo are going along is to force through the dream list of destruction. At some point they may try to put a drag on Trump, but not before the dream list is accomplished.
That's occurred to me also. This is rushing. And the reason Mitch, Ryan, and the rest of the old GOP Politburo are going along is to force through the dream list of destruction. At some point they may try to put a drag on Trump, but not before the dream list is accomplished.
26
Great photo. Protesters are organized and prepared, and don't even care what they're going to protest.
10
Help save the country, Charles. Run in 2018!
17
Charles:
I have often disagreed with you in the past, but today you nailed it. I can only add my own voice to yours and others who demand that the Dems hold fast and refuse to approve ANY Trump SCOTUS nominee until either they win back Congress in two years, or Trump is removed from office, whichever comes first. The Dems have "compromised" our democracy to the shores of peril, and its time they wake up before the ship of state runs completely aground.
I have often disagreed with you in the past, but today you nailed it. I can only add my own voice to yours and others who demand that the Dems hold fast and refuse to approve ANY Trump SCOTUS nominee until either they win back Congress in two years, or Trump is removed from office, whichever comes first. The Dems have "compromised" our democracy to the shores of peril, and its time they wake up before the ship of state runs completely aground.
30
If Judge Neil Gorsuch is truly such a strict constructionist in the tradition of the much Republican praised Antonin Scalia, why has he not denounced the unconstitutional nearly year-long denial by Republican Senators to give President Barack Obama's nominee Judge Merrick Garland a hearing?
54
Thank you! My thoughts exactly. Democrats, grow a spine! Your constituents are watching.
22
Every hour the evidence for removal of Donald Trump, using the 25th Amendment- grows: Today, using the sanctity of a National Prayer Breakfast gathering to go completely off-topic"reflecting" on the "Apprentice's" ratings under the helm of a new host... surely the count is being monitored and tallied..
25
I generally support taking the high road—but in this case, the high road means insisting on Garland or no one. Repubs stole this nomination; and now they've put in office a foolish and corrupt con man who is ripping up every painstakingly built relationship we have around the world (Australis most recently) to no point at all.
Time to grow a spine and SPEAK OUT, DEMS! I want to hear out leaders call out the facts on the big picture. In just the few days since his inauguration, Trump has been crashing through everything on a mindless, heedless, destructive binge. Use Repub sound-bite tactics; make it so clear that even the Trump voters can't miss what's going on. Call out Ryan and McConnell, loudly and clearly. Leave them nothing to hide behind.
This is not "making America great again"—it's destroying everything that made us great to begin with, such as tolerance and the rule of law, for the sake of meanness, bluster, and shallow thinking.
And that is going too far.
Time to grow a spine and SPEAK OUT, DEMS! I want to hear out leaders call out the facts on the big picture. In just the few days since his inauguration, Trump has been crashing through everything on a mindless, heedless, destructive binge. Use Repub sound-bite tactics; make it so clear that even the Trump voters can't miss what's going on. Call out Ryan and McConnell, loudly and clearly. Leave them nothing to hide behind.
This is not "making America great again"—it's destroying everything that made us great to begin with, such as tolerance and the rule of law, for the sake of meanness, bluster, and shallow thinking.
And that is going too far.
19
Charles, a very good article, unfortunately David Leonhardt wrote the exact same op-ed article yesterday. It would have been nice and much more professional if you at least acknowledged Mr. Leonhardt's article in today's column.
6
Blow's semiweekly meltdowns should be run under the heading "This Week in Hate." The guy is scary.
25
If the Trump's order is called a Muslim ban then we have to call Germany's actions a Muslim favoritism?
5
Thank you once again for a fearless column Mr. Blow. You have written everything I have been feeling for the past several weeks. The Democrats are spineless and seem to be unaware of the fact they they are well on the way to becoming a permanent minority party. They simply seem to be unwilling or unable to take the fight to the Republicant's. It is up to us their base to force them to an ultimatum -either they start representing us or we will get rid of them. Don't grieve - organize!
8
I couldn't agree more with Mr. Blow! The Democrats have been too nice for too long and it has gotten us NOWHERE! We need to show some backbone and do what we need to in order to ensure the new alt-right Republican party does not dictate policy to those of us who treasure American values.
14
Mr. Blow,
I suggest you read the article in the WSJ this morning entitled, "The Myth of the Stolen Supreme Court Seat." You need some balance to combat your political bigotry. But alas, it won't happen.
I suggest you read the article in the WSJ this morning entitled, "The Myth of the Stolen Supreme Court Seat." You need some balance to combat your political bigotry. But alas, it won't happen.
26
The "nuclear option" argument is the most inane I've heard in a long time. You have an arm your opponents can disarm anytime they want. You don't have one. What is the point of acceding to them? Never mind it takes just three seats to flip the majority next election.
Trump's disapproval ratings have been going up and up since inauguration. What we know for sure is that he is not going to change.
Trump's disapproval ratings have been going up and up since inauguration. What we know for sure is that he is not going to change.
8
Charles Blow: I read the whole thing.
Usually I can find SOMETHING to dispute - but today you've written a column that I AGREE WITH ON EVERY WORD!
Backing up your column is the "BREAKING NEWS" caption over the masthead: Trump will utterly "DESTROY" all restrictions on the Separation of Church and State.
Yesterday he appointed Jerry Falwell, Junior, a man who makes $900,000 as the head of Liberty University - and, whose salary is paid for by us, the US Taxpayer! - to handle all higher education in the nation.
Add Falwell to DeVos, who is to handle all K-12, and that is a lock on turning out little X-ain Bots, nationwide.
We are, right now, about to become a Theocracy, under the hands of the most repressive (and greedy!) fundamentalists ever seen in this nation.
Gorsuch will be necessary for this. He is the Golden Boy of the Religious Right - the one who brought you Hobby Lobby, where a "for-profit business" was given the right of having a "religion" and all persons who work for them have to follow the tenets and dogma of that "religion".
That "religion", "Hobby-Lobbyism", dictates that contraception is evil. Whoever works there must be a pure Hobby-Lobbyist and just shut their mouth on contraception paid for by insurance companies.
Gorsuch is utterly NECESSARY to this dissolving of Separation. "Corporations are people, too!" Mitt swore, and Gorsuch agrees.
And, so does Donald Trump and Mike Pence and Ryan and McConnell and DeVos and Falwell and .......
Thanks, Charles!
Usually I can find SOMETHING to dispute - but today you've written a column that I AGREE WITH ON EVERY WORD!
Backing up your column is the "BREAKING NEWS" caption over the masthead: Trump will utterly "DESTROY" all restrictions on the Separation of Church and State.
Yesterday he appointed Jerry Falwell, Junior, a man who makes $900,000 as the head of Liberty University - and, whose salary is paid for by us, the US Taxpayer! - to handle all higher education in the nation.
Add Falwell to DeVos, who is to handle all K-12, and that is a lock on turning out little X-ain Bots, nationwide.
We are, right now, about to become a Theocracy, under the hands of the most repressive (and greedy!) fundamentalists ever seen in this nation.
Gorsuch will be necessary for this. He is the Golden Boy of the Religious Right - the one who brought you Hobby Lobby, where a "for-profit business" was given the right of having a "religion" and all persons who work for them have to follow the tenets and dogma of that "religion".
That "religion", "Hobby-Lobbyism", dictates that contraception is evil. Whoever works there must be a pure Hobby-Lobbyist and just shut their mouth on contraception paid for by insurance companies.
Gorsuch is utterly NECESSARY to this dissolving of Separation. "Corporations are people, too!" Mitt swore, and Gorsuch agrees.
And, so does Donald Trump and Mike Pence and Ryan and McConnell and DeVos and Falwell and .......
Thanks, Charles!
17
Just because someone acts poorly doesn't mean we have to. Time to get off the downward spiral. Democrats would do better to say they'll work to govern all the people to place the country first and not any Party "brand". Some may vote for something, some may not, but they won't be a "pod of trained seals" mindlessly following someone else’s whim. Diversity is a good thing.
Democrats need to point out past questionable act(s) and obstruction(s) while they take the higher road, voting with or against either ideology. Time to differentiate their party from the other. Time to not limit possibilities by limiting perspectives and begin defending country, rather than only the ones that vote for you.
Democrats need to point out past questionable act(s) and obstruction(s) while they take the higher road, voting with or against either ideology. Time to differentiate their party from the other. Time to not limit possibilities by limiting perspectives and begin defending country, rather than only the ones that vote for you.
2
Senate Democrats have sworn to uphold the Constitution and represent their constituents to the best of their ability. It's time they do so.
Acquiescing with the uncivil, callous GOP has failed miserably.
Fight for our democracy — It's being dismantled before our eyes.
Acquiescing with the uncivil, callous GOP has failed miserably.
Fight for our democracy — It's being dismantled before our eyes.
10
Once again, thank you, Mr. Blow. I could not agree more. I so look forward to your columns. The democrats absolutely need to fight tooth and nail. We may not win all the fights, but at least we will have fought for what we believe in. If everybody is fired up, we should be able to win back the Senate in 2018, which is the main goal. The democrats will need to get out and vote. There is nothing more important than the 2018 midterm elections.
12
Bravo Mr. Blow. Democrats must fight for the moral compass of this country. This administratration wants to burn down our house and we must oppose on every level. The days of playing nice are over. If they invoke the "nuclear" option, so be it. The Democratic Party is the only thing standing between the country and this man who thinks he is king.
6
Mr. Blow writes:
"...until we “figure out what the hell is going on” with threats to our national elections."
Is that a call for voter ID and proof of eligibility at registration, like most other first world countries have in place?
"...until we “figure out what the hell is going on” with threats to our national elections."
Is that a call for voter ID and proof of eligibility at registration, like most other first world countries have in place?
18
It's time for Democrats to stand their ground. Civility is not in the Republican handbook. Make them change the rules, they do not believe in truth or law anyways.
11
You convinced me.
3
Ha! Trump leave before the end of his term? Not a chance. How hard is it for him to let Bannon write policy and he signs off on it. Look at the all the perks he derives from we the tax payer - free housing, security, travels on Marine One and Air Force One, and gets to play with his own personal military to settle his scores around the world, several intelligence agencies and the FBI to do his bidding, prosecute his foes and prevent anyone from knowing what his taxes look like.
Like Putin and other autocrats - as long as he can hold on to power he is virtually untouchable and can get away with his misdeeds.
I bet he is looking to start a Trumpian dynasty, appointing Ivanka as the next POTUS and first woman POTUS while grooming Barron for POTUS too.
Like Putin and other autocrats - as long as he can hold on to power he is virtually untouchable and can get away with his misdeeds.
I bet he is looking to start a Trumpian dynasty, appointing Ivanka as the next POTUS and first woman POTUS while grooming Barron for POTUS too.
7
Amen, we democrats have been doormats for far too long.
12
"Trump would have an easy route to confirmation should another vacancy arise on the court during his tenure, a vacancy that could shift the balance of the court, unlike this one. I say let them. In fact, make them"
"because in the end, the lives of your children, and ours, just might" depend on it.
-- So, make Trump ruin the lives of your children because the lives of your children might depend on it?
"because in the end, the lives of your children, and ours, just might" depend on it.
-- So, make Trump ruin the lives of your children because the lives of your children might depend on it?
Thank you, Mr. Blow, for being a consistent voice of sanity and reason. Each day seems to bring new levels of horror, disappointment, depression, grief, and shock from these people who have hijacked our government. The Democrats must say no to all proposals of this illegitimate president and his cronies.
12
The democrats should oppose all and every Republican proposal for the next four years. Including bringing on a debt crisis. Take off the kid gloves and save our Democracy and country. Be courageous! Be strong! Be obstructionist! Stick you foot in Mitch's mouth.
13
Amen. Thank you Mr Blow.
9
Yes, Democrats taking a knife to a gun fight for far too long.
It is time to run up the Black Flag and take no prisoners.
It is time to run up the Black Flag and take no prisoners.
8
Four Democratic defectors Mark Warner of Virginia, Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota, Joe Manchin of West Virginia, and Angus King of Maine, an independent who caucuses with the Democrats, voted for Tillerson.
If the Democrats cannot learn from the Republicans how to close ranks and say NO! to Trump's efforts to destroy our nation then we are indeed doomed to become a fascist dictatorship. This is Germany 19333 - Resist!
If the Democrats cannot learn from the Republicans how to close ranks and say NO! to Trump's efforts to destroy our nation then we are indeed doomed to become a fascist dictatorship. This is Germany 19333 - Resist!
9
Yay! Circulate this essay to each Democratic member of the Senate and House.
They can't act as the Neville Chamberlain of the trump era.
They can't act as the Neville Chamberlain of the trump era.
6
The Democrats should borrow from the GOP’s playbook and insist that no SCOTUS candidates should be considered until we have a legitimately elected POTUS.
12
Go for it Charles.....could not agree with you more everyday!!!
12
I believe the GOP deserves the same respect they gave President Obama's choice of Merrick Garland in regards to the vacant Supreme Court seat. You are absolutely correct when you refer to this as the fruit of a poisonous tree.
14
Well, as someone famous said, "what have you got to lose." Yes, Democrats need to fight on this and many more ill-gotten nominees.
7
So even though you agree that this nominee is smart and qualified, you want to escalate and further polarize an already hyper-polarized Washington? Two wrongs don't make a right. THAT is principled.
10
Im afraid you are being too optimistic, Mr Blow. Trump will be around as long as the gop finds him useful or unless/until even his supprters see how he is destroying the country (aided and abetted by the republican party).
10
Totally agree. No to Gorsuch! Dems have got to get out the heavy guns, and stop hoping for Republican sensibility.
7
We cannot wait two years to engage the fight for our democracy. This tweeting tyrant and his fascist gang have determined the battle. The time to fight is now with all of our strength.
10
RESIST - comrades in Brooklyn, put down your artisanal muffins and resist; comrades in San Francisco, put down your reusable environmentally friendly shopping bags and resist; comrades in Seattle and Portland put down you joints and ride your skateboards to a rally and resist; comrades in Newport Beach, ask your life coach if it is okay to resist:; comrades in Berkeley, destroy property and resist. Just realize that the millions of people who live between New York and California think that you are ridiculous.
12
Agreed. Let them use the nuclear option. God knows it'll come in handy for the impeachment proceedings in 2019.
10
I'm shocked. Shocked the unbiased NYT would oppose this nomination.
13
Actually, I had been teetering—weighing an all-out brawl versus a tactical retreat. But I think you've convinced me that we have to fight with everything we’ve got.
I would add to the argument by saying Democrats and sane people in general have been energized like never before. If Democrats in the Senate have the spine to fight against this stolen appointment, they’ll get plenty of support. Those who don’t may well find themselves on the outs with their voters. Republicans who take ownership of the “nuclear option” are going to have to own the backlash, too—and it looks like there’s going to be plenty of that.
I would add to the argument by saying Democrats and sane people in general have been energized like never before. If Democrats in the Senate have the spine to fight against this stolen appointment, they’ll get plenty of support. Those who don’t may well find themselves on the outs with their voters. Republicans who take ownership of the “nuclear option” are going to have to own the backlash, too—and it looks like there’s going to be plenty of that.
9
Charles, the election is over. You lost. Elections have consequences. Along with this court nominee Trump has a phone and a pen and will take action in spite of Democratic opposition. Wasn't that what Barry Hussein told us and you parroted? You have no moral authority after the last 8 years and simply embarrass yourself with these tantrums.
19
Liars aka, Mitch McConnell, Paul Ryan, Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, John McCain and this Orange Aberration, and their fair and balanced media outlets managed to convince 89% of registered republicans that Obama is to blame - and heck, why not Hillary, let's just blame her for everything too - for the last 8 years of their obstruction. Don't be too sure that they will not be able to magically assign blame for the current crisis, the next 4 years of Bill of Rights' violations, the clear offenses against the Constitution, the imminent global, economic depression and the robbing of the national treasury on the Dems as well. And their supporters will believe it.
8
Of course, I would have loved Gorsuch to have given a shout out to Merrick Garland in his acceptance speech at the White House and said something like, “Merrick, this seat really belongs to you, but I’ll try to do it justice. Sorry that you had to get caught up in the political shenanigans that often afflict Washington D.C.”
But that was never going to happen. In any case, did anyone notice after Gorsuch completed his acceptance speech and turned around to look at Trump, Trump shook Gorsuch’s hand and thrice tried to pull him close with each pump of the fist – but Gorsuch stayed his ground! That piece of video spoke volumes – I don’t know if it was staged, but it looked genuine. To me it said, “OK, Mr. President, I accept your nomination but I really don’t like you, so stop trying to pull me closer!”
But that was never going to happen. In any case, did anyone notice after Gorsuch completed his acceptance speech and turned around to look at Trump, Trump shook Gorsuch’s hand and thrice tried to pull him close with each pump of the fist – but Gorsuch stayed his ground! That piece of video spoke volumes – I don’t know if it was staged, but it looked genuine. To me it said, “OK, Mr. President, I accept your nomination but I really don’t like you, so stop trying to pull me closer!”
4
Mr. Blow, you've changed at least one mind--mine. I thought Democrats might as well go along with confirmation of the judge because the Republicans would never nominate anyone more acceptable. But you're right. Fight this nomination tooth and nail.
10
Just read that he founded a Fascism Forever club in high school. He should be asked about this.
12
This column is good as far it goes, but it doesn't go far enough. Firstly, the main priority must be to work on and with Republican elected officials to remove Donald "Severe-Narcissistic-Personality-Disorder" Trump from office.
You'll recall, in his campaign, Trump alleged that he is smarter than our military generals. We now have credible information that his botched raid in Yemen was carried out without sufficient input from military and intelligence professionals and without normal backup.
Additionally, when Trump, campaigning, attempted to impugn the professionalism of Judge Curiel, he showed us all the proof we need of his contempt for an independent judiciary.
Any Trump nominee or appointment for any court thus would taint and contaminate the judiciary, for the glaringly obvious reason that Trump does not respect the independence of the judiciary -- any judge he appoints or nominates will be aware they could get the Trump Tweet treatment over a decision Trump doesn't like -- and then even face death threats from Trump's supporters.
It is time for Republicans in Congress to take the threat from Trump seriously, and take steps to remove him.
You'll recall, in his campaign, Trump alleged that he is smarter than our military generals. We now have credible information that his botched raid in Yemen was carried out without sufficient input from military and intelligence professionals and without normal backup.
Additionally, when Trump, campaigning, attempted to impugn the professionalism of Judge Curiel, he showed us all the proof we need of his contempt for an independent judiciary.
Any Trump nominee or appointment for any court thus would taint and contaminate the judiciary, for the glaringly obvious reason that Trump does not respect the independence of the judiciary -- any judge he appoints or nominates will be aware they could get the Trump Tweet treatment over a decision Trump doesn't like -- and then even face death threats from Trump's supporters.
It is time for Republicans in Congress to take the threat from Trump seriously, and take steps to remove him.
4
With the unprecedented move to ignore Obama's nominee, the Supreme Court isn't the independent, co-equal judicial branch of the government anymore (even if it had been before) and after blowing up the filibuster (which Reid should have done in 2009), the Senate isn't a moderating force anymore, either. What about impeaching Supreme Court justices via House votes once the Democrats are back in control? Let it all fall apart.
3
I agree with everything that you said, Mr. Blow. The time for playing "fair", or playing by the "rules" is over. The GOP blew up the rulebook a long time ago. Yet the Democrats continue to bring a knife to a gunfight. I believe they need to block trump wherever and whenever they can. On principle.
Trump and Bannon are stealing our Democracy and it's time for us to take it back.
Trump and Bannon are stealing our Democracy and it's time for us to take it back.
5
The democrats have gone to a knife fight without a knife.
4
Republicans refused to hold hearings for Garland supposedly because they wanted the American voters to have a say -- they did, and more of them wanted Hillary to making the pick, so in the interest of their vision of fairness, she should be making the pick.
5
The fight must be had, and each Democratic senator needs to take the fight to the Republicans. If it costs us the filibuster, then so be it. Every notion of fair play is being obliterated in the Senate (an undemocratic body which gives a Senator from North Dakota, a state with a population of 738k people, the same voice as a Senator from California, a state with a population of 38.8 million). And now the R's want us to observe fair play and cooperate after they spent the last eight years blocking everything President Obama tried to do? How quaint.
6
One thing, Mr. Blow.....Donald Trump was merely acting like the reality show emcee when he introduced his nominee for Supreme Court...any teenager with even a modicum of talent, could have done the "rollout" equally well, if not better.
2
What exactly can dems do, if the repubs can shove any candidate down their throat? Nothing that's what sure they can throw a fit, but you're wrong no one will remember or care 10 years from now. The same as the latin caucus that sold out and let immigration reform die, no one cares today or remembers.
3
The poison tree is on the farm owned by the Democrat Party. The ballot box sent workers in to peel the bark off this tree. Who are you kidding? The election exposed the DNC, their donors, elitist press and the whole of the Democratic Party for their arrogance. Who needs those low information voters? We'll America needs them, now more than ever. You are out of touch with all those red counties and red states that did make a ballot box determination. It was your corrupt manipulation that gave us the choice. Yes, you were surprised by the outcome as were all of us that were informed accurately by citizens showing up at the polls. So you now advocate for resistance and insistence you are in the right despite the election outcome which of course you wish to deny. Your tree will fall.
14
I must disagree with Mr. Blow.
Nowhere in this (or any other similar op-ed) do I find any end game. What again do Democrats get by going down this scorched earth route beyond self-satisfaction? Will the opposition turn into an educational moment for the nation where they finally -- finally! -- see how radically the GOP operates in bad faith? Almost certainly not. At this point, the answer to the question seems to be .... nothing.
So, the practical matter at hand is devising a trade. What can the GOP give Dems in return for avoiding a filibuster? (Despite their willingness to abolish the filibuster if necessary, multiple Republicans do not wish to do so if it can be avoided.) Here, the key is to identify something that divides the congressional GOP from Trump.
I think the obvious answer is the Emoluments Clause. Trump is almost certainly in violation of this and is himself, thereby, unconstitutional. The deal with McConnell should be: Trump must release his tax records and reveal all his business relationships and he and his family must fully disgorge all. The GOP knows that this is a problem, doesn't really have an answer about the Emoluments problem, and wish Trump would just do this anyway. Here is the opportunity to pass legislation - almost certainly over a veto - to require this to be addressed first.
Remember: a rightwing SC is not a threat to the Republic, Trump is. Dems cannot effectively fight on every front simultaneously. Focus on what's irreversible.
Nowhere in this (or any other similar op-ed) do I find any end game. What again do Democrats get by going down this scorched earth route beyond self-satisfaction? Will the opposition turn into an educational moment for the nation where they finally -- finally! -- see how radically the GOP operates in bad faith? Almost certainly not. At this point, the answer to the question seems to be .... nothing.
So, the practical matter at hand is devising a trade. What can the GOP give Dems in return for avoiding a filibuster? (Despite their willingness to abolish the filibuster if necessary, multiple Republicans do not wish to do so if it can be avoided.) Here, the key is to identify something that divides the congressional GOP from Trump.
I think the obvious answer is the Emoluments Clause. Trump is almost certainly in violation of this and is himself, thereby, unconstitutional. The deal with McConnell should be: Trump must release his tax records and reveal all his business relationships and he and his family must fully disgorge all. The GOP knows that this is a problem, doesn't really have an answer about the Emoluments problem, and wish Trump would just do this anyway. Here is the opportunity to pass legislation - almost certainly over a veto - to require this to be addressed first.
Remember: a rightwing SC is not a threat to the Republic, Trump is. Dems cannot effectively fight on every front simultaneously. Focus on what's irreversible.
Why are the dems in Congress trying to remain reasonable? Can't they look back on the past six or thirty years and see that reason is extinct?
Accommodation is as vile a word as compromise to the tea bag party of the GOP, the Norquist my-way-or-the-highway GOP, the NRA GOP, the evangelical GOP, the pro-corporations, pro-big oil, big pharma, big ag, the anti-gay, anti-this and anti-that slivers of the GOP.
So why not fight? Put up their dukes and fight fang with fang.
Being petty and mean-spirited hasn't hurt the GOP with its base one little bit. Quite the contrary, it brought us Trump, the quintessential mean spirit.
Shutting down the government at a cost of twenty plus billion was just wunnerful! Remember Palin and Cruz in their brand new hunting jackets applauding themselves for their stupidity when DC was a ghost town?
The dems base is as mad as any old tea bag voter ever imagined. You want to see anger, some to California where our votes never counted, weren't as despositive as those in Ohio or Utah or all those votes in Wyoming.
Try matching the fury of having your president slimed for eight years by the likes of McConnell, Trump, Gingrich, et al., denigrated, besmirched. blamed for everything. Those ultra Christians who prayed fervently for Obama's failure and crowed when things went wrong because of their obstruction.
So, dems in Congress, get your backs up. It would make a change from having to watch the fat guy in the White House lord it over us.
Accommodation is as vile a word as compromise to the tea bag party of the GOP, the Norquist my-way-or-the-highway GOP, the NRA GOP, the evangelical GOP, the pro-corporations, pro-big oil, big pharma, big ag, the anti-gay, anti-this and anti-that slivers of the GOP.
So why not fight? Put up their dukes and fight fang with fang.
Being petty and mean-spirited hasn't hurt the GOP with its base one little bit. Quite the contrary, it brought us Trump, the quintessential mean spirit.
Shutting down the government at a cost of twenty plus billion was just wunnerful! Remember Palin and Cruz in their brand new hunting jackets applauding themselves for their stupidity when DC was a ghost town?
The dems base is as mad as any old tea bag voter ever imagined. You want to see anger, some to California where our votes never counted, weren't as despositive as those in Ohio or Utah or all those votes in Wyoming.
Try matching the fury of having your president slimed for eight years by the likes of McConnell, Trump, Gingrich, et al., denigrated, besmirched. blamed for everything. Those ultra Christians who prayed fervently for Obama's failure and crowed when things went wrong because of their obstruction.
So, dems in Congress, get your backs up. It would make a change from having to watch the fat guy in the White House lord it over us.
4
This juvenile rant must feel good, but it would be equally infantile if it was coming from the right in reponse to a Hillary appointment, if she had won. What's the point? To wear berets and be a resistence? To block any SCOTUS picks until what, there are 7, 6, 5 left? To blow up the Senate, the Cabinet, SCOTUS until nothing works and the left retreats into sanctimonious barricades on the Upper East Side, Berkeley and Cambridge? A child with a mstch can burn down a home, but it takes a team of skilled people working together to build one. Now Charles has a match (the NYT), and we are left to pay the price.
15
Trump is the "devil's advocate", literally! But he is a "blessing in disguise". We, the American people are asleep at the wheel! Wake up!
==========================================================
As a nation, we have become too, ALOOF. These letters can be rearranged to form A FOOL. We have become a nation of fools who think that the country can be run by career politicians, alone.
No, we the people, have to become fulled involved in the political process, from the national to the local and personal levels, all the time. We need better, more dynamic leaders, but we all have to stay engaged to sustain democracy, with a new "birth of freedom" (Lincoln)
Donald Trump is warning us. He is demanding that we wake up, now. There is no ESCAPING Trump and his people. "We are all part of the problem or part of the solution." (Eldridge Cleaver, and others)
Wake up, America, wake up, now! We need a War on Trump ERROR!
====================================================
==========================================================
As a nation, we have become too, ALOOF. These letters can be rearranged to form A FOOL. We have become a nation of fools who think that the country can be run by career politicians, alone.
No, we the people, have to become fulled involved in the political process, from the national to the local and personal levels, all the time. We need better, more dynamic leaders, but we all have to stay engaged to sustain democracy, with a new "birth of freedom" (Lincoln)
Donald Trump is warning us. He is demanding that we wake up, now. There is no ESCAPING Trump and his people. "We are all part of the problem or part of the solution." (Eldridge Cleaver, and others)
Wake up, America, wake up, now! We need a War on Trump ERROR!
====================================================
3
Democrats have lost their spine? Seems now in hindsight, they never had one to begin with. If Democrats are represented by the likes of Charles Schumer, then forget all spirited opposition to evil and wrong unfurled by the current White House. Schumer believes in entrenchment; he is too comfortable protecting his own "seat" to upstage anything. The Democrats need to look to the near-future and harness the energy and support of the millennials, instead of hanging on to the old guard who are too weak to even earn the public's respect.
2
Wishful thinking about Comrade Trump bailing before his term is up. His primary goal as a president is to show he is better than President Obama (at least in his mind). This is not just a matter of his pathological ego but also in response to how President Obama ridiculed Trump at the WH correspondent's dinner. Comrade Trump will do everything he can to be a two term president. So, true Americans need to work hard and work fast to (1) turn the congress back to the Democrats at the mid-term elections and (2) allow the people to decide on the best Democratic candidate for president in 2020.
3
True, Charles, the Democrats have played parlor games compared to the GOP's gutter tactics, but, in all fairness, should not Pres. Obama have led the Democrats from the parlor and into the streets long ago?
1
Four years of constant Trump bashing - mass protests, resistance to policies, truth checking, name calling - versus a quick impeachment may be equivalent, in criminal justice, to a life sentence of being raped and beaten daily in prison versus a painless execution and, to my mind, is to be the preferred punishment for this hateful man. And Pence would not be immune to the effects of this well deserved hatred for Trump - hatred both for what he is and what he does - though mere complicity in evil doing may only result in getting violated every other day.
1
I don't know what is more depressing. Witnessing the end of democracy in the U.S. or hoping to die before there is no turning back.
5
Mr. Blow, you are a gift to us all. Thank you.
3
The point about Democrats growing a spine is well taken. All the Democratic Party did after the Republican Senate failed to even hold hearings was say to themselves;we don't like it but we will wait for Hillary. Guess what? Now we not only get a very conservative Supreme Court Justice, but possibly an Attorney General who fails to follow through on some of these investigations.
The group of congressmen and women who need to grow a spine also includes those Republicans who deep down really are more moderate and willing to work out issues with the Democrats. How 52 senators from one party can unite behind a proposed cabinet such as Trump has nominated, is truly amazing and quite disgusting in my mind. Those who oppose Trump right now are going to get their fair share of the 20-35 year old vote in four years.
The group of congressmen and women who need to grow a spine also includes those Republicans who deep down really are more moderate and willing to work out issues with the Democrats. How 52 senators from one party can unite behind a proposed cabinet such as Trump has nominated, is truly amazing and quite disgusting in my mind. Those who oppose Trump right now are going to get their fair share of the 20-35 year old vote in four years.
2
Mr. Blow feels duty bound to, “Never give up and never give in.” The photo illustration of a protest sign reading “OPPOSE” followed by a space to fill in the name of the Supreme Court nominee is an apt representation of the Blow political philosophy. Judge Gorsuch was approved unanimously 10 years ago for his Court of Appeals seat and only spite would require a Democratic Senator to change his or her vote now.
It seems that Mr. Blow wants the Senate to change to a 51-vote rule so none of the current Democrats are tempted to vote for a judge that seems to support life from conception until natural death. In any event, I certainly agree with Mr. Blow’s conclusion. We should all, “Fight like your lives depend on it, because in the end, the lives of your children, and ours, just might.”
It seems that Mr. Blow wants the Senate to change to a 51-vote rule so none of the current Democrats are tempted to vote for a judge that seems to support life from conception until natural death. In any event, I certainly agree with Mr. Blow’s conclusion. We should all, “Fight like your lives depend on it, because in the end, the lives of your children, and ours, just might.”
2
There's one thing that your interpretation of the liberal base's message to the Democrats is missing: "Fight this, tooth and nail. Never give up and never give in.... or else." I am not alone in my utter and abject disgust with the grandstanding, hand-wringing and overall cowardice displayed by Democrats over the past 20 years (yes, I'm going back to the cowardly response to the obviously concocted story of WMDs as an excuse to go to war) and their continued excuses as to why they refuse to grow a spine and fight Republicans as they ruin my country. The only time that I've seen them come together in any substantive way was when they railroaded Bernie Sanders out of contention for the Presidential nomination so that they could move forward with the coronation of Hillary - and we see how well that turned out.
So now, I'm finished. I, and many like me, are making our own "tea party-esque" stand. Any Democrat who in any way shape or form, regardless of reason, sides with Republicans and votes for a single nominee or law that Republicans put forth will not only lose my vote, but I will actively work towards their ouster. I will not give to the DNC ever again. But I will give my time and money to candidates who run against complicit and cowardly Democrats.
I don't want to hear speeches or sound bites. I want action. Obstruct, oppose and fight - or you will find yourselves one of the simple working class again. Grow a spine... or else.
So now, I'm finished. I, and many like me, are making our own "tea party-esque" stand. Any Democrat who in any way shape or form, regardless of reason, sides with Republicans and votes for a single nominee or law that Republicans put forth will not only lose my vote, but I will actively work towards their ouster. I will not give to the DNC ever again. But I will give my time and money to candidates who run against complicit and cowardly Democrats.
I don't want to hear speeches or sound bites. I want action. Obstruct, oppose and fight - or you will find yourselves one of the simple working class again. Grow a spine... or else.
3
I couldn't agree more with your assessment of democrats wanting to play nice while the republicans simply don't want to play at all unless they call all the shots. Rules for republicans only make sense when it favors their cause. Trump just took what republicans have been doing for 8 years to next level of crazy. The media praises Trump for every one out 10 times he doesn't do crazy uncle stuff.
3
You are right. Democrats have to toughen up. Republicans are much better street fighters. This is one reason Dems have the reputation as the "Mommy" party and why they have so much difficulty now that much of the electorate believes that the nation is under threat from without and within. The first order of business for the Dems is to develop a clear agenda with fewer items on their plate than they have had in the recent past. For now, put the social issues on the back burner and concentrate on economic issues and foreign policy. The most destructive whine Democrats utter is "It's not fair". That draws instant contempt from much of the electorate because it sounds like someone weak who is begging. The electorate doesn't want weak now. They want strong. Start using Republicans tactics. If they taunt you as "knee-jerk liberals" taunt them back as "knee-jerk conservatives". If they call you "low-information" voters, throw it right back at them. Dems: you gotta decide what you want most and what can wait, then go get hard after the most important things. Hint: spending ANY time and political capital fighting for transgender bathrooms is a bad political mistake. Believe it or not, there are many things that are higher priority.
4
What is the "principle" upon which you recommend opposition to this nominee?
You keep saying that word, Mr. Blow, but I'm not sure you know what it means.
You keep saying that word, Mr. Blow, but I'm not sure you know what it means.
8
You're absolutely right.
2
I think this column would have been a lot more persuasive had you, you know, given us a reason to oppose the nomination.
6
"If Trump can impose a Muslim ban..."
To check this, I downloaded the complete text of the Immigration Executive order and searched for the word "Muslim".
Zero Occurrences Found.
To check this, I downloaded the complete text of the Immigration Executive order and searched for the word "Muslim".
Zero Occurrences Found.
5
Thanks for the continued angry rhetoric Charles. I'm sure the brown shirts who set fires and resorted to violence on Wednesday night to silence Milo Yiannopoulos take comfort in them.
14
Mitch McConnell should be politically roasted on the fire for pulling off the obstruction of the Garland vote. Dems should first point their vitriol and protest at him, maybe aim for some sort of censure or impeachment. He may have followed the letter of the law, but not the intent. While his actions are legal, McConnell is not ethical. And we deserve ethical leaders. And he led this heist in broad daylight, right under our noses. But, Maybe I am off in my analysis...at this point do we blame him, or blame ourselves for letting him and his crew get away with it?
4
Thank you, Charles, for saying what needs to be said - and saying it with unruffled eloquence.
4
The McConnell Rule is set in stone - a Supreme Court vacancy is a tool to recruit votes. You want your person on the Supreme Court - get out and vote, fool. If you don't have the backbone to play this game, then retire or die in the Tsunami of voters looking to move forward. There's no time for minds that can't comprehend the position on the chess board. Get it, or get out of the way.
1
Thank you not only for your thoughts in this piece, but for the strong language. I wish I could agree with your belief in the likelihood that Trump will leave office, but I don't think Steve Bannon would allow that. Bannon is more dangerous and far more determined than Trump to impose his agenda on the country, and he seems to be successfully turning Trump into his puppet and mouthpiece. I don't see him letting that slip away.
4
Mr. Blow- you are fitting in quite nicely with your continuous hypocritical screeds. If Mrs. Clinton won and the Republicans decided to oppose on principle, I and others can imagine what you would be saying in your opinion pieces.
Trump is daring the Democrats to follow your advice and fight him on everything. Trump is paying rope-a-dope with the Democrats, watching them punch themselves out, sinking lower and lower into irrelevancy.
He prepared for this, like all good fighters do, Bannon being the perfect example. If Bannon was a stiff, propped against the wall in the oval office, Trump knew that you and the ultra left would be apoplectic. As predicted.
You are doing exactly what Trump wants you and the other liberals to do. Congratulations. If Trump is so bad, why don't you let him fail on his own?
Oh, I forgot. You and the ultra left wanted to crown Mr. Obama King, beyond all reproach and criticism, and in your haste gave the office of the President powers beyond what the founding fathers envisioned. Now, the Presidency is in the hands of the opposition party, and Mr. Obama is on vacation. Is this what you are now so scare of?
Trump is daring the Democrats to follow your advice and fight him on everything. Trump is paying rope-a-dope with the Democrats, watching them punch themselves out, sinking lower and lower into irrelevancy.
He prepared for this, like all good fighters do, Bannon being the perfect example. If Bannon was a stiff, propped against the wall in the oval office, Trump knew that you and the ultra left would be apoplectic. As predicted.
You are doing exactly what Trump wants you and the other liberals to do. Congratulations. If Trump is so bad, why don't you let him fail on his own?
Oh, I forgot. You and the ultra left wanted to crown Mr. Obama King, beyond all reproach and criticism, and in your haste gave the office of the President powers beyond what the founding fathers envisioned. Now, the Presidency is in the hands of the opposition party, and Mr. Obama is on vacation. Is this what you are now so scare of?
15
Mr. Blow, you are a hypocrite of the highest order.
In this very piece you argue against Republicans using the judicial process to male political points. Your answer? Use the judicial process to make a political point.
The fact that you lost this election and yes, did it to a poor candidate, has clearly driven you from any sort of moral conviction. Over the last weeks you have argued for subverting democracy, you have defended on moral grounds a totalitarian and authoritarian regime, and you have repetedly said nonsense like
"Their efforts to reach across the aisle keep being met by hands wielding machetes; their overwhelming impulse to take the high road ignores the fact that Republicans have already blown up the bridge on the high road."
Go to therapy. Get some help. This string of articles shows someone spiraling down and losing all sense of decency on the way. I will not read another of your articles until you decide to stick to some sort of moral principle that is not simply "hate trump."
In this very piece you argue against Republicans using the judicial process to male political points. Your answer? Use the judicial process to make a political point.
The fact that you lost this election and yes, did it to a poor candidate, has clearly driven you from any sort of moral conviction. Over the last weeks you have argued for subverting democracy, you have defended on moral grounds a totalitarian and authoritarian regime, and you have repetedly said nonsense like
"Their efforts to reach across the aisle keep being met by hands wielding machetes; their overwhelming impulse to take the high road ignores the fact that Republicans have already blown up the bridge on the high road."
Go to therapy. Get some help. This string of articles shows someone spiraling down and losing all sense of decency on the way. I will not read another of your articles until you decide to stick to some sort of moral principle that is not simply "hate trump."
18
Excellent analysis. Democrats and the few principled Republicans had best not bring a knife to a gunfight.
Force is the only language some people understand.
Force is the only language some people understand.
3
If you think Gorsuch is unqualified or legitimately out of the judicial mainstream, then oppose him. I don't think that the Democrats should adopt the blanket unthinking opposition to everything Republican.... though the Republicans did the same to President Obama (and decided to do so before his first inauguration). There will be plenty of opportunities to "go to the mattresses" with this President--- say, if he nominates Pryor to the Supreme Court. Don't use those tactics against someone you would, in a different context, believe to be an excellent choice.
29
"This seat on the Supreme Court was stolen from Barack Obama when Republicans refused to even hold hearings for his nominee..."
And what did Obama do?
Fold.
And what did Obama do?
Fold.
58
We are watching our country crash and burn with each new day. I can't get the image of Munch's "The Scream" out of my head.
6
Mr. Blow, your supreme court rant reads a lot like all your racist rants. A constitutionalist on the high court can hardly be considered the catastrophe you make it out to be. Would you consider writing a column that simply states that you oppose everything and then take a 4 year sabbatical?
13
What an opinion piece, Mr. Blow. Astonishing.
From the picture at the top showing a professionally, premade sign with the name hastily written in via sharpie...showing that the protesters would have been out no matter whom the president nominated.
That is followed up immediately with a passive aggressive first line with the words "president" and "elected" in quotes...as well as a few sour grapes phrases to cast dispersion on election results.
Mr. Blow then continues down the path of suggesting that the Democratic legislators must dig into the bag of tricks to derail the governing process as much as possible.
Given how Mr. Blow and others writing for liberal media outlets have been on a soap-box for 8 years complaining about the GOP practices over the last 8 years and how terribly un-American they were behaving, this opinion piece would be better titled "Hypocrisy - A Case-Study".
I get that Democrats are upset that Trump won the election and are upset at his policies...but the Obama's have been preaching "when they go low, we go high". Mr. Blow is basically advocating throwing the Obama creed in the nearest trash bin because it no longer suits his current purpose.
Shame on you.
From the picture at the top showing a professionally, premade sign with the name hastily written in via sharpie...showing that the protesters would have been out no matter whom the president nominated.
That is followed up immediately with a passive aggressive first line with the words "president" and "elected" in quotes...as well as a few sour grapes phrases to cast dispersion on election results.
Mr. Blow then continues down the path of suggesting that the Democratic legislators must dig into the bag of tricks to derail the governing process as much as possible.
Given how Mr. Blow and others writing for liberal media outlets have been on a soap-box for 8 years complaining about the GOP practices over the last 8 years and how terribly un-American they were behaving, this opinion piece would be better titled "Hypocrisy - A Case-Study".
I get that Democrats are upset that Trump won the election and are upset at his policies...but the Obama's have been preaching "when they go low, we go high". Mr. Blow is basically advocating throwing the Obama creed in the nearest trash bin because it no longer suits his current purpose.
Shame on you.
8
So, Charles, I guess the Democrats are now "the party of NO"?
8
As a Democrat, I totally agree with Charles. It's time for the Democrats to grow some balls and fight Trump tooth and nail, especially with the Supreme Court nominee. More than likely Gorsuch will still take his place on the court but at the very least the Dems will show like minded Democrats and Independents that they are going to fight for the soul of our country. The Republicans have shown time and again that they have no ethics, morals or loyalty to this country, only their quest for power and control. It's time to stand up to the bully's in the room.
1
Very interesting point: "His furious, prodigious pace of edicts also bespeaks a man who feels like he’s on a clock and his time is running out." We all saw how during the campaign Trump deflected attention from his own ethical issues by accusing his opponent of them. Remember also the obsessive harping on her supposed ill health? Was she dying of Parkinson's disease or a goiter or logus of the bogus? Didn't matter, she was a weak woman and therefore seriously ill. Does Trump know something we don't about how much time he has left?
Democrats should give Gorsuch a fair hearing and a vote, on the principle of restoring good government. Raw partisanship would erode credibility of the courts, just when we need them as a bulwark against Trump.
2
President Bannon would never let his mouthpiece step down. Don the Con is a showman and Bannon might survive on radio but if appearances are needed, he looks a bit to bleary to be acceptable. He'd have to stop drinking. So no, Trump won't step down because he's sure he's God's Gift to The World. Even if he chose to, the power behind the throne would never tolerate it. And by the way, I was NOT paid to post this.
1
Mr. Blow,
I love the visual of your words, "Pundits have been applauding like a pod of trained seals." I smiled for a second thinking about how happy seals are and the appearance of unification they possess. Unfortunately, the second is up and I'm reminded of the deep partisan divisions embedded in our country that could swallow us up like those creatures from the movie, "Tremors" if a positive change does not come.
Even Frederick Douglass would be saddened to see that his beloved party of progress is almost unrecognizable.
I love the visual of your words, "Pundits have been applauding like a pod of trained seals." I smiled for a second thinking about how happy seals are and the appearance of unification they possess. Unfortunately, the second is up and I'm reminded of the deep partisan divisions embedded in our country that could swallow us up like those creatures from the movie, "Tremors" if a positive change does not come.
Even Frederick Douglass would be saddened to see that his beloved party of progress is almost unrecognizable.
2
Amen.
1
At first I was in the camp of we Democrats shouldn't force the Republicans into using the "nuclear option." But Charles Blow has changed my mind. I say, to the battlements with our siege ladder of the filibuster. Let them go nuclear.p Their hope they will get another vacancy to fill might not come to fruition. Notorious RBG will hang in and Kennedy will want to protect his legacy. Trump will propel a sea change in 2018; we'll take back the Senate and then remake the court in the image of the will of the people, not the slim majority that elected Trump.
3
This country has largely lost its moral compass, latest since the 90s.And we can squarely attach it to the Republican politics. Concerned about people's bedroom, not concerned at all about people's and the planet's well being.
And so goes the country, downhill.
And so goes the country, downhill.
3
Sorry Charles but I am with many of those who have already commented. The Dems will cave, they always do.
2
Grow a spine is right! As godawful as the Republicans have been, the Dems' continuing fecklessness is almost as disturbing. The public is way out in front of them.
4
In my opinion, Democrats can never behave in demeaning heavy handed crass ways like the other side that fails to even hide their disturbing behavior like eight years of contrived bold faced obstructionism, hyperbole, voter suppression etc, in order to win. And that's because as Mayan Angelou wisely noted "When you know better you do better." Democrats simply "know better!!!." And when you know better you can't betray your values. Thus, "when they go low, let's go high."
Also, “Remember that all through history, there have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they seem invincible. But in the end, they always fall. Always.”--Mahatma Gandhi
Also, “Remember that all through history, there have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they seem invincible. But in the end, they always fall. Always.”--Mahatma Gandhi
2
"He seems like a man about to burn out or be kicked out — but of course that could just be my wishful thinking."
Charles, it is the normalcy in you to believe this, to protect against the realization of the true nature of the problem. But as another commenter pointed out, what we have here is a malignant narcissist. This one Is a harm to all mankind. He must be impeached.
Charles, it is the normalcy in you to believe this, to protect against the realization of the true nature of the problem. But as another commenter pointed out, what we have here is a malignant narcissist. This one Is a harm to all mankind. He must be impeached.
1
“Senate Democrats, grow a spine.”
Sums this diatribe up.
If that’s all you’ve got Blow, we are certainly in dire straits.
Looking more and more like the Midterms are light years away.
Sums this diatribe up.
If that’s all you’ve got Blow, we are certainly in dire straits.
Looking more and more like the Midterms are light years away.
4
McConnell doomed the legitimacy of the next justice with his nasty and irresponsible stunt with Obama's pick--"let the people decide"
Yes, lets let the people decide! The majority of the voters did NOT choose Trump, so he has no legitimate standing to choose the next justice.
Real patriotic Americans would respect the process, and if they don't it is our duty to oppose with all our might.
Yes, lets let the people decide! The majority of the voters did NOT choose Trump, so he has no legitimate standing to choose the next justice.
Real patriotic Americans would respect the process, and if they don't it is our duty to oppose with all our might.
2
This nomination should be granted only if it comes with McConnell's resignation. (And there wasn't one Democrat to oppose his wife?) How many years have those two been living off the system, and he refuses to even give a man a hearing? Sorry, I don't send my money in for that kind of representation!
4
Charles, news flash,Trump won the election.Conspiracy theories about the role of FBI director or Russia are just that, no less so than the various conspiracy theories promulgated by Trump and his band of zealots.Resisting nominations on principle may be OK but the energy would be better spent on finding some new leaders to take us into the midterms.There is no effective Democratic leadership ,just a bunch of geriatric old timers surrounded by sycophants who still cannot accept that November of last year was a fiasco of their own making, a lethal cocktail of candidate, lack of platform and complacency.
9
Oppose him even if the alternative would be someone far worse? While the Supreme court seat is a huge issue, to fight a pick who you COULD work with would be counterproductive; it would be as petty as the GOP and would most likely backfire to the loss of the ability to filibuster and/or worse - having the GOP install a far worse pick.
Two weeks in and we have seen the reckless way this idiot is going to "perform". Fight, yes, but pick your battles wisely. This week, for example, the House votes to end the Stream Protection Rule - a truly idiotic move that will have horrific consequences on the environment, and, Trump just watched the first American soldier that he recklessly sent into harm's way in a Yemen raid come home in a coffin. We still have no tax returns or clue to the rising pile of conflicts of interest - esp. with Russia and Putin's influence over our election process. And let's not forget healthcare for millions of Americans that is on the chopping block.
Two weeks in and we have seen the reckless way this idiot is going to "perform". Fight, yes, but pick your battles wisely. This week, for example, the House votes to end the Stream Protection Rule - a truly idiotic move that will have horrific consequences on the environment, and, Trump just watched the first American soldier that he recklessly sent into harm's way in a Yemen raid come home in a coffin. We still have no tax returns or clue to the rising pile of conflicts of interest - esp. with Russia and Putin's influence over our election process. And let's not forget healthcare for millions of Americans that is on the chopping block.
2
Charles, thank you for another insightful column. Trump is an unmitigated disaster - no one knows what chaos his latest tweet might bring. He's insulted our allies and cozied up to our enemies. His Muslim ban is a rich gift to ISIS, supplying unbelievable material for recruiting; it goes against our Constitution, and has caused disruption and heartbreak to many who need be able to depend on us. He looks for advice to a right-winger and white supremacist - Steven Bannon - which in itself tells us something about the man. Democrats should stand firm and refuse to confirm Trump's picks, and the press should not write about him as if he's a conventional POTUS.
3
I disagree, the Democrats have no weapons but "comity". The only hope at this time is that there are Republicans who recognize the danger of Trump's juggernaut and are willing to change affiliation to save the union. Mr. Gorsuch should be grilled vigorously and if he has integrity, he may be an ally not an enemy, should we have to face a "Constitutional Crisis".
Postpone Supreme Court confirmation until we have a President who has
won the popular vote of the American people!
won the popular vote of the American people!
5
Donald Trump is the President of the United States of America, not its "'president'"--because he won the election, not the "'election.'" The next justice of the Supreme Court wasn't "stolen" from former President Obama, not legally, not ethically. Postponing consideration of a lame duck's nominee doesn't even break precedent. On the other hand, opposing a nominee because your side lost the election is every bit as petty, small-minded, and intellectually corrupt a justification as readers have come to expect from this "writer."
13
There is no excuse for the cynical behavior of McConnell and the Senate Republicans. But it is worth pointing out that if they had given Judge Merrick Garland a proper hearing they would likely have voted him down, so in thrall were they then to the anti-Obama rhetoric of Trump and his minions. It would have been momentarily embarrassing for members such as Orrin Hatch, but by now it should be pretty clear that he and the rest are shameless.
Charles I like your call for Democrats to get some spine, but Trump is not losing any support. Indeed, he has galvanized his base with all the acts you (and I) find abhorrent. They will come out strong in 2 years, so don't fool yourself about Trump not staying around. Can Democrats actually figure out a way to organize a successful opposition? The opposition is well beyond the Democratic Party, so let's not make the tail of the movement into its leadership. Thirty years of neo-liberalism and sucking up to Wall Street has drained the Democrats of even knowing how to fight. That's why it took an independent like Sanders to lead the charge.
6
The Dems have dodged a bullet on this one. Gorsuch is a far more moderate and even-tempered jurist than some of the others that had been Trumpeted. Keep your powder dry for the bigger fights to come, Democrats!
30
As a Millennial it's been made painfully clear to me that I cannot trust politicians over the age of 50. I want Clinton style neo-liberalism gone. It's been a disaster for the party. No more comprises, no backing down, no corporate donors. Justice Democrats are the only way to go.
Republicans are not playing by the same rules therefore we cannot play their game. Look at what happened in NC after their Governor lost. Look what happened in SD with their anti corruption referendum passed by a majority of the people in the state. It's clear they're power drunk and will do anything to keep that power.
Republicans are not playing by the same rules therefore we cannot play their game. Look at what happened in NC after their Governor lost. Look what happened in SD with their anti corruption referendum passed by a majority of the people in the state. It's clear they're power drunk and will do anything to keep that power.
170
I just read that Gorsuch started a "Fascist Forever" club at his tony prep school, and was thrown out of an election at Columbia because he broke election rules. What a card! Where do the Republicans find these people?
1
>Fight like your lives depend on it, because in the end, the lives of your children, and ours, just might.
***Right.
And in the end, all of us may end up fighting just to protect our homes and our family, as DC implodes and those who voted for Trump become disillusioned enough to take to the streets.
I think we should come up with other possible solutions to the U.S. capital being dominated by Trump.
***Right.
And in the end, all of us may end up fighting just to protect our homes and our family, as DC implodes and those who voted for Trump become disillusioned enough to take to the streets.
I think we should come up with other possible solutions to the U.S. capital being dominated by Trump.
1
The Democrats must fight tooth and nail. Compromise has not worked. We are not spoiled babies whining because our candidate didn't win, as Trump supporters claim. We are fighting for the heart and soul of the country, their country, too. Resist.
1
Keep the fire, CB.
1
Senate Democrats - it's time to quit acting like the abused spouse! Rise up and FIGHT! Think Linda Hamilton in the Terminator! Channel ALL of our anguish. You're all we've got on the front lines.
1
Such duplicitousness.
Had let's say John McCain been President in the same situation, Democrats would've done EXACTLY the same thing to deny him a SCOTUS pick.
And Mr. Blow would be applauding the strategy.
Had let's say John McCain been President in the same situation, Democrats would've done EXACTLY the same thing to deny him a SCOTUS pick.
And Mr. Blow would be applauding the strategy.
7
Obama tacitly agreed to the theft of the SCOTUS seat. Just like he tacitly agreed to the FBI Director's letter.
He did nothing and simply let it happen. We were then left with some not very consoling words about the arc of history.
As for Ginsburg, why did it not occur to her that retiring at the beginning of Obama's 2nd term was a good thing? That a solid replacement for her by a much younger jurist was very likely. Shame on her for being self-centered.
The only resistance that Trump understands are protests that appear on the "shows." Meaning TV shows. Unless Americans take to the streets in large enough numbers to make the news it won't register with Trump.
It's that simple.
He did nothing and simply let it happen. We were then left with some not very consoling words about the arc of history.
As for Ginsburg, why did it not occur to her that retiring at the beginning of Obama's 2nd term was a good thing? That a solid replacement for her by a much younger jurist was very likely. Shame on her for being self-centered.
The only resistance that Trump understands are protests that appear on the "shows." Meaning TV shows. Unless Americans take to the streets in large enough numbers to make the news it won't register with Trump.
It's that simple.
This is my second comment in response to Blow's editorial. (In last few hours I had a blow of enlightenment) Democrats should refuse to even recognize this nomination, not because Gorsuch is unsuitable, but because there is already a nominee before the Senate - Merrick Garland.
1
Where are the protest from the Democratic side of the aisles. Yes Washington D.C. you should shutdown 1600 Pennsylvania Ave today and everyday. Let Trump employs his Gestapo and take lots of pictures while it is occurring. We can only hope FAT-SO in the White House is of short term in nature, like his attention span.
Mr Blow, I share your frustration and anger. But don't let either of them blind you to what may happen. 45 isn't going anywhere of his own accord. What other gig could he possibly get that involves the attention of the entire planet on everything he says and does, while other people do the actual work? Also, please don't confuse demonstrations with votes. Most of the people who will be voting in 2018 aren't marching in the streets. In fact, many of them are pleased, so far, with the Bannon Presidency.
3
The Republicans' treatment of Merrick Garland is comparable to a coach rescinding a team's nomination of one of its own to serve as its captain, simply because the Protestant coach doesn't like that the player nominee is Catholic.
Judge Garland was presented in good faith as a Supreme Court nominee. In bad faith, Senate Republicans unfairly denied him his GIVEN chance for a hearing in the nomination process. Republicans essentially Blackballed Judge Garland.
As a result, Judge Garland probably will never have another chance to serve on the land's Highest Court -- an honor very, very few receive, and which The Honorable Judge Garland deserved. (At the very least, he deserved a hearing.)
On a professional level, I truly cannot think of a more abominable way to treat an individual.
Judge Garland was presented in good faith as a Supreme Court nominee. In bad faith, Senate Republicans unfairly denied him his GIVEN chance for a hearing in the nomination process. Republicans essentially Blackballed Judge Garland.
As a result, Judge Garland probably will never have another chance to serve on the land's Highest Court -- an honor very, very few receive, and which The Honorable Judge Garland deserved. (At the very least, he deserved a hearing.)
On a professional level, I truly cannot think of a more abominable way to treat an individual.
2
As I read this column, all I can think of is poor Leon Trotsky. In exile, long after he ceased being relevant, he kept churning out bitter critiques of Stalin, highlighted with what he imagined were damning distinctions that laid bare the correctness of his own cause. Few read his diatribes, and those who did (W.E.B. Du Bois among them) probably did so for amusement.
And finally, SOMEBODY outran his own vocabulary again: a group of seals is a herd, not a pod.
And finally, SOMEBODY outran his own vocabulary again: a group of seals is a herd, not a pod.
7
Trump won the presidency with the help of not just the Russians and the FBI, but with the help of Congressional Republicans as well. Their refusal to allow Obama to appoint a Supreme Court justice played an enormous factor in the election. For many, many voters, the single most important issue in the election was the Supreme Court. A vote for Trump was a vote for a conservative justice who would protect their second amendment rights while opposing abortion and gay marriage.
When Trump and Republicans whine and complain about Democrats being "sore losers" and "obstructionists" because they aren't rushing to confirm Trump's nominees, I hope Democrats will rightly call out their outrageous hypocrisy!! We've suffered through eight years of Republican obstructionism. Republicans, with their obstructionism, stole not just a SCOTUS nominee but also the presidency.
When Trump and Republicans whine and complain about Democrats being "sore losers" and "obstructionists" because they aren't rushing to confirm Trump's nominees, I hope Democrats will rightly call out their outrageous hypocrisy!! We've suffered through eight years of Republican obstructionism. Republicans, with their obstructionism, stole not just a SCOTUS nominee but also the presidency.
2
I don't expect it, but if either Massachusetts Senator votes for Garland I will work and pay to have them "primaried".
Similarly, my check-book is open to support the replacement of any so-called democratic senator in any state that refuses to resist Trump.
I would even consider supporting a Republican candidate, if that candidate repudiates "rumpism".
Similarly, my check-book is open to support the replacement of any so-called democratic senator in any state that refuses to resist Trump.
I would even consider supporting a Republican candidate, if that candidate repudiates "rumpism".
2
"under the fog of Russian interference"
The only fog is in the minds of liberals who can't see why they lost, or why rigging the Democrats' nominating process to assure only Hillary Clinton could win is somehow ok.
All the Democrats had to do was to nominate Jim Webb and they would have a great man in the White House today. But no, they shouted him off stage at the first opportunity.
The only fog is in the minds of liberals who can't see why they lost, or why rigging the Democrats' nominating process to assure only Hillary Clinton could win is somehow ok.
All the Democrats had to do was to nominate Jim Webb and they would have a great man in the White House today. But no, they shouted him off stage at the first opportunity.
9
"instrument of the enemy"
The Enemy, being Satan.
The Enemy, being Satan.
I completely agree with everything you said. The Dem's better show some strength. We do not want any cooperation with a Russian puppet.
1
We now have the idiotic, vulgar version of L. Cornelius Sulla as president. Transitions from republic to empire are so painful.
Donald Trump is a saboteur who is determined to desecrate the presidency and destroy the credibility of the United States. It is incomprehensible that the United States Congress continues to allow this dangerous lunatic to occupy the White House.
Democrats, indeed every sane elected official who values America over self enrichment, need to fight for this country.
Democrats must oppose and block Gorsuch. Have a spine Democrats and show the American people that you will stand and fight for us. Trump's Supreme Court pick must be filibustered! It is about principle. Don't make it easy for the saboteurs.
Thank you Mr. Blow!
Democrats, indeed every sane elected official who values America over self enrichment, need to fight for this country.
Democrats must oppose and block Gorsuch. Have a spine Democrats and show the American people that you will stand and fight for us. Trump's Supreme Court pick must be filibustered! It is about principle. Don't make it easy for the saboteurs.
Thank you Mr. Blow!
2
The "enemy"? How can the opposition to this unprepared man-child appeal to voters you will need at the ballot box if you sound like Bannon, left wing version?
The current situation will not be corrected by making the so-called "base" happy. Instead, Democrats need to explain what they stand for in simple terms, understandable by a nation with unsophisticated tastes and a small knowledge base. If you can't make ordinary Americans feel you will keep them safe, improve their economic lot, guard their access to affordable health care, and most importantly, not look down on them, then you'll continue to be in the wilderness.
The current situation will not be corrected by making the so-called "base" happy. Instead, Democrats need to explain what they stand for in simple terms, understandable by a nation with unsophisticated tastes and a small knowledge base. If you can't make ordinary Americans feel you will keep them safe, improve their economic lot, guard their access to affordable health care, and most importantly, not look down on them, then you'll continue to be in the wilderness.
4
Agreed! No compromise. No fingerprints.
1
Look, anytime I hear Trump say "nuclear option" I get cold chills. Back in the 1950s we "normalized" "nuclear" in popular culture with ad campaigns, b-rated sic-fi films, even women's fashion. Today we "nuke" our diet dinner packages. I know this is about the Supreme Court, I am getting there. Mr. Blow continues to urge us to distinguish insanity from normalcy. Mr. T.'s cabinet and now his court nominee move us closer every day to acceptance of the republican and Steve Bannon agenda. Ergo, hold hearings and vote not on my watch. Be anxious jealous guardians of democracy.
71
The main problem is that Democrats in Congress are a bunch of wimps. They worry that some Senate Democrats from red states may lose the next election if they oppose Gorsuch for the Supreme Court. If they want to win, wherever it may be, they must stand up for principles and get across their message that they are the party of the people, by the people, and for the people and not for corporations when it comes to workers rights, clean air and water, and helping people who really need it. Democrats want to win elections, then get out your message.
Comey and the Russians need to be investigated, but so does Interstate Crosscheck.
When will the MSM look into this? The impact of Crosscheck is likely more quantifiable than the effect either Comey or the Russians had. But almost no one in the press or among prominent members of the Democratic Party is interested.
It reminds me of the shameful treatment the members of the Congressional Black Caucus received from fellow Democrats after the blatant vote suppression efforts in Florida (2000) and Ohio (2004).
Is it some sort of misplaced loyalty to the country? Do these people think the American system of government is so fragile that it couldn't withstand scrutiny?
When will the MSM look into this? The impact of Crosscheck is likely more quantifiable than the effect either Comey or the Russians had. But almost no one in the press or among prominent members of the Democratic Party is interested.
It reminds me of the shameful treatment the members of the Congressional Black Caucus received from fellow Democrats after the blatant vote suppression efforts in Florida (2000) and Ohio (2004).
Is it some sort of misplaced loyalty to the country? Do these people think the American system of government is so fragile that it couldn't withstand scrutiny?
Oh please!
"Democrats have been trying to 'reach across the aisle'..."
"Cooperation" in Congress means different things to different people:
1. When the Republicans control Congress (as they do now), "cooperation" to them means "The Democrats should vote in favor of our proposals."
2. When the Democrats control Congress (as they used to), "cooperation" to them meant "The Republicans should vote in favor of our proposals."
Needless to say, "cooperation" meant something different to the minority party, in both situations.
What the Democratic Party should do, rather than engaging in hand-wringing laments about the absence of cooperation despite its "reaching across the aisle" (please!), is try to win some elections.
"Democrats have been trying to 'reach across the aisle'..."
"Cooperation" in Congress means different things to different people:
1. When the Republicans control Congress (as they do now), "cooperation" to them means "The Democrats should vote in favor of our proposals."
2. When the Democrats control Congress (as they used to), "cooperation" to them meant "The Republicans should vote in favor of our proposals."
Needless to say, "cooperation" meant something different to the minority party, in both situations.
What the Democratic Party should do, rather than engaging in hand-wringing laments about the absence of cooperation despite its "reaching across the aisle" (please!), is try to win some elections.
6
Dig in on DeVos, not Gorsuch.
3
News bulletin (actually, three of them):
1. Merrick Garland will not be appointed to the Supreme Court.
2. Trump will not release his tax returns.
3. Gorsuch will be confirmed, and pretty quickly, despite "tough" questioning by Democratic Senators.
The Democratic Party has three choices on the Gorsuch nomination:
1. Sit back and do nothing, allowing the nomination to sail through.
2. Oppose the Gorsuch nomination tooth and nail, by filibuster if necessary, but lose and leave many observers (a) noticing that the Democratic Party, despite its strong effort, lost; and (b) wondering exactly why the Democratic Party chose the Gorsuch nomination to fight over, rather than keeping its powder dry for a fight it might actually win.
3. The one the DP will pick:
Oppose the Gorsuch nomination, but not too hard, for fear that the Republicans might retaliate (for example, by using the "nuclear option" to prevent or end a Democratic filibuster), lose, but vow to monitor carefully Gorsuch's behavior on the Court (whatever that means), and try to persuade the public that the DP could have won if it had really wanted to but that it had decided to keep its powder dry for a later fight.
1. Merrick Garland will not be appointed to the Supreme Court.
2. Trump will not release his tax returns.
3. Gorsuch will be confirmed, and pretty quickly, despite "tough" questioning by Democratic Senators.
The Democratic Party has three choices on the Gorsuch nomination:
1. Sit back and do nothing, allowing the nomination to sail through.
2. Oppose the Gorsuch nomination tooth and nail, by filibuster if necessary, but lose and leave many observers (a) noticing that the Democratic Party, despite its strong effort, lost; and (b) wondering exactly why the Democratic Party chose the Gorsuch nomination to fight over, rather than keeping its powder dry for a fight it might actually win.
3. The one the DP will pick:
Oppose the Gorsuch nomination, but not too hard, for fear that the Republicans might retaliate (for example, by using the "nuclear option" to prevent or end a Democratic filibuster), lose, but vow to monitor carefully Gorsuch's behavior on the Court (whatever that means), and try to persuade the public that the DP could have won if it had really wanted to but that it had decided to keep its powder dry for a later fight.
2
No offense. But if you honestly think this to be a "News Bulletin", you had better get out of the echo chamber you appear to be in more often.
2
Mr. Blow's "wishful thinking" may not be so far off track. 1) One can argue that Pres. Trump's breakneck pace is a result of his enthusiasm for undoing anything connected to Mr. Obama or simply to make himself look "good" by fulfilling promises, even willy-nilly, just so he can say, "See? I fulfilled my promises in the first three months. Aren't I great?" 2) On the other hand, the president may be moving frantically because he (and particularly Mr. Bannon) believes that allowing the country and Congress time to weigh in on issue after issue will insure that less gets done. 3) Not even Donald Trump can keep this pace up at age 70 for four years. He could quit after one year out of boredom, having kept "all my promises." "(So what else is there to do but that boring governing stuff? After you've changed the world, that's quite a comedown. Pence is good at that kind of stuff.") 4) He could try to keep up the pace and collapse. Will he let some distinguished US Army doctor do an annual physical and report on his condition, or hide the results, like he hides his tax forms? Something could go wrong, if he pushes himself too much, forcing him to resign, though it's likely he has the genes to withstand the abuse he is putting his body through, especially since he neither smokes nor drinks. Among his parents and grandparents, five out of six lived to 88 or more. Still, there are plausible scenarios, given his personality and lifestyle, in which he does not complete this term.
1
I concur the seat on the court simply too important.
2
" stolen from Obama"
Nothing was stolen from Obama and Blow knows it. All liberals know it as well. Blow and other liberals celebrated Biden in the early 90s when the shoe was on the other foot. Blow thinks readers are fools.
Nothing was stolen from Obama and Blow knows it. All liberals know it as well. Blow and other liberals celebrated Biden in the early 90s when the shoe was on the other foot. Blow thinks readers are fools.
9
Re the stolen Supreme Court seat and the Gorsuch nomination:
The Dems on the Senate Judiciary Committee should ask nominee Gorsuch, as a strict reader of originalist intentions behind the U.S. Constitution, for his interpretation of Article 2 Section 2 "[The President] shall have Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, shall appoint...Judges of the supreme Court..."
Did the the Senate Republicans violate the original intent of "advise and consent" by not allowing a hearing and floor vote on President Obama's nominee or was the Senate acting within their lawful powers as defined by the Constitution by refusing action on the President's selection? If he opts for the latter interpretation, then the Dems should shut down the process immediately as it is within their constitutionally defined powers. If the nominee opts for the former interpretation of the Article, then the Senate Republicans were acting unlawfully and the infraction should be addressed and corrected. "No comment" is not an option.
The Dems on the Senate Judiciary Committee should ask nominee Gorsuch, as a strict reader of originalist intentions behind the U.S. Constitution, for his interpretation of Article 2 Section 2 "[The President] shall have Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, shall appoint...Judges of the supreme Court..."
Did the the Senate Republicans violate the original intent of "advise and consent" by not allowing a hearing and floor vote on President Obama's nominee or was the Senate acting within their lawful powers as defined by the Constitution by refusing action on the President's selection? If he opts for the latter interpretation, then the Dems should shut down the process immediately as it is within their constitutionally defined powers. If the nominee opts for the former interpretation of the Article, then the Senate Republicans were acting unlawfully and the infraction should be addressed and corrected. "No comment" is not an option.
4
This is exactly right.
1
We won the popular vote, all we need to do it keep doing what we are doing and just spread more of it into the red states. I say stay the course, we will win this if we do not change.
3
Mark my words Democrats. I and many others insist that the Democrats categorically reject enmass the nomination of Gorsuch to the Supreme Court and force the Republicans to use the nuclear option. If at such a crucial time in our history Democrats cannot or will not stand up for what is right, then there is not point in the party. We will find another party that will fight just as dirty and just as nasty. I personally refuse to waste my vote on a party that doesn't have the courage or will power to do what is right and just. If that means throwing away my vote then so be it. At least I will have the knowledge that I stood up for what I believed in.
4
First: Mr. Blow, it would be well to stop blaming the election on the monolithic belief that the Russians tilted the election to Trump's advantage. The really, really important reason is voter suppression tactics, some legal, some not, that the GOP used to garner the Electoral College votes needed, despite the discrepancy of the popular vote.
Second: Whether this current group of Democrats in the Senate even have the capacity to 'grow a spine' remains to be seen. They have grown ever weaker as a result of the same corporate/financial largesse granted them so they can stay in power without ever using that power to actually represent the majority of Americans who are liberal or progressive, or even center, for godsake.
Good luck...
Second: Whether this current group of Democrats in the Senate even have the capacity to 'grow a spine' remains to be seen. They have grown ever weaker as a result of the same corporate/financial largesse granted them so they can stay in power without ever using that power to actually represent the majority of Americans who are liberal or progressive, or even center, for godsake.
Good luck...
7
Yes, Charles, this is a time for action. it is a time where Democrats must fight for the democracy and country we hold dear. We have been attacked by the Russians acting in their own interest and their actions actions are a violation of our laws. We have had leaders violate their oaths of office in terms of the FBI Director. We have people who constantly misinform and misdirect many people in this country so that they can profit at the public trough while simultaneously ridicule and sabotage the functioning of government. No one said there was only one fight to ensure Democracy, it will always be a struggle against the evil inclinations of weaker men. Hamilton once said we would not need government if "All Men were Angels". And as there are many men of means who certainly are no angels, the force of government must be restored to protect society from the ravages of crony capitalism best exhibited by the actions of this administration in these early days. Our collective failure to stand up to them now will only embolden them to do more harm as greed knows no bound. Keep up the good reporting and commentary today and forever more.
1
As usual, Democrats are trying to play by the rules while Republicans are ripping up the rules. In circumstances like that, you have to punt and make the best of a bad situation and hope the American people are smart enough to keep up.
Linda Selvia
Linda Selvia
2
Democrats must not be complicit in making the Republican Supreme Court the graveyard of social justice. The Court is now corrupt and has no more legitimacy than the Trump presidency. Disinfect the benches.
1
The seat was not "stolen" from Obama; the Constitution clearly states the President appoint nominees through "advise and consent" of the Senate. This was a blatant attempt to shift the Court's ideological center, by nominating a left-wing successor to Justice Scalia at the 11th hour. Perhaps if Obama would have sat down with Senator McConnell and come up with a nominee they both could have agreed on, the result would have been different. Regardless, the Senate wasn't derelict in their duty, since the decision to approve nominees is at their discretion. Further, the Constitution doesn't even specify a number of Justices on the SCOTUS, making the concept of a "stolen seat" sound like a crybaby lament.
7
It did not matter who Obama nominated, that nominee was not getting a hearing, a vote, or even interviews.
Would you have Obama put forward a nominee who conflicts with his beliefs and ideals and those of the Americans who voted for him? If that's the case then perhaps drumpf should sit down with Schumer and decide to re-nominate Merrick Garland? What a ridiculous statement.
Would you have Obama put forward a nominee who conflicts with his beliefs and ideals and those of the Americans who voted for him? If that's the case then perhaps drumpf should sit down with Schumer and decide to re-nominate Merrick Garland? What a ridiculous statement.
2
Thank you, Mr. Blow, for saying far more eloquently what I've been saying for a long time now. It is time for the Democrats to dig deep trenches and fight the Republican crazies with every fiber of their beings. I am sick and tired of watching the Democrats try to play by the rules and then get steamrolled every time. In "normal times" (let's say, while George H.W. Bush was president), Gorsuch would have been a shoo-in, despite the fact that he's to the right of Scalia.) But "normal times" are so far behind us you can't see them at all in today's rear-view mirror.
Garland's seat was stolen in the most brazen, disgusting, clearly unconstitutional manner imaginable. Obama should have appointed Garland to SCOTUS without Senate confirmation, because the Senate, by refusing even to hold hearings on Garland, had waived its right to advise and consent. Instead, Obama and the Senate Democrats just rolled over -- once again. The problem was that getting Garland on the Court was the most critical job they had to do -- even more important than passing the ACA, because the effects of a Garland appointment would have been felt no matter who later became president. That was the hill the Senate Democrats needed to choose to die on.
No more rolling over. No more caving. No more playing nice. No more playing by the rules. No more giving up. It is long past time for Democrats to actually be a wall against the travesties taking place in our country on a minute-by-minute basis.
Garland's seat was stolen in the most brazen, disgusting, clearly unconstitutional manner imaginable. Obama should have appointed Garland to SCOTUS without Senate confirmation, because the Senate, by refusing even to hold hearings on Garland, had waived its right to advise and consent. Instead, Obama and the Senate Democrats just rolled over -- once again. The problem was that getting Garland on the Court was the most critical job they had to do -- even more important than passing the ACA, because the effects of a Garland appointment would have been felt no matter who later became president. That was the hill the Senate Democrats needed to choose to die on.
No more rolling over. No more caving. No more playing nice. No more playing by the rules. No more giving up. It is long past time for Democrats to actually be a wall against the travesties taking place in our country on a minute-by-minute basis.
4
Charles, I feel you are a bit overly optimistic about the next four years. Trump has his solid base---let's say 35% or so---a base that has become even more passionate since Trump's executive order joy ride---so that group is locked in. Add in heavily gerrymandered districts controlled by mostly Republican legislators and governors and that is 10% advantage. Now, the Democrats, even with more numbers, have a base that is lets us say a bit disorganized, less likely to vote, and with no candidate with Obama's star power. Having said that, Trump's early governing strategy does have the potential to galvanize democrats---if Trump doesn't end the planet in the process.
If ever there was a time for Democrat Senators to make a stand against this president it's now. For too long they have been the violin section of the the "Don't Rock The Boat Band", while Republicans have been dancing in the aisles of Congress, having a wonderful Rock & Roll time of it. If Democrats continue to play the same tune over and over, the shrilling sound of protesters will drown out whatever song they attempt to perform and will not forget them in the voting booths of America. This president, who has nominated an individual “in the mold of Justice Antonin Scalia”, has actually made it easy for Democrats to oppose and defeat, and in effect, reject Trump. I say force the Republicans to use the ultimate bomb.
1
Amen! If the Democrats don't take a stand on Gorsuch they risk becoming irrelevant. They must give some hope to progressives that they have representation in the Federal government.Let the Republicans use the nuclear option. The 60 vote rule was one used exclusively by Republicans to obstruct. Let it be abolished.
2
Maybe Gorsuch is just a sacrificial lamb? I.e., maybe if not approved it simply allows the regime to then simply install its truly rightwing regressive extremist (already waiting in the wings for exactly this purpose?) to the vacant seat. I don't put any nefarious intent past this despotic regime. There is no good outcome here. Perhaps it is best to accept Gorsuch rather than wait to see what actual monster these thugs really have in mind.
2
Blow sounds more and more like Hillary Clinton. It's all a vast right wing conspiracy. Never mind that Trump was elected with over 300 Electoral College votes. Never mind that then Senator Obama participated in preventing George Bush from nominating his Supreme Court justice choice for the last 18 months of his presidency. Never mind that Democrat Senator Harry Reid changed the Senate rules when he had the power, allowing Obama's federal court judge choices to bypass Republican scrutiny and vetting. But of course, facts don't matter. It's all a vast right wing conspiracy.
13
Yes, opposing Gorsuch is a matter of principle (although Gorsuch's deference towards religious abuse in our secular constitution, via Hobby Lobby nonsense). The republicans, racist and all, refused to accept Obama as a legitimate president from the onset, further proof being their malicious and complicit silence while arrogant and lying Trump was fanning the "Birtherism" hysteria (for at least five years, mind you, catapulting him into the political arena), and refusing judge Merrick Garland even the courtesy of an interview, the legitimate candidate for the Supreme Court...denied, in spite of an excellent record of moderation and wisdom. Even if we see a candidate that is not as radical as Gorsuch, the principle stands: the republican abuse of power stole the seat from Garland in a most shameful and coward fashion. And, hypocrites as they are, trying to hide the hand that threw the deadly stone.
3
Blow: "Democrats must oppose Gorsuch on principle. Democrats have grown too soft. They are still trying to fight a gentleman’s war in the middle of a guerrilla war. Their efforts to reach across the aisle keep being met by hands wielding machetes; their overwhelming impulse to take the high road ignores the fact that Republicans have already blown up the bridge on the high road."
This happened over 20 years ago and it has been nauseating watching all the gutless mediocrities from Clinton to Obama grovel in subservience to the frothing liars of malignant intent in the GOP and American right. The Democrats have succeeded in betraying their supporters, their legacy, their souls in cowering to what Reagan started. They have squandered 20th century progress. Obama and his neo-liberal ignoramuses succeeded only in salvaging what Reagan started instead of what the country was telling him to do in 2009: reverse it.
The Democrats could not, would not beat Donald Trump. Let that level of political incompetence sink in. The establishment Democrats handed not just the White House to a rabid Bircher Republican party, but the states and local governments. Democrats are simply not credible; they champion no one.
I am through with them. There needs to be a party of the people.
This happened over 20 years ago and it has been nauseating watching all the gutless mediocrities from Clinton to Obama grovel in subservience to the frothing liars of malignant intent in the GOP and American right. The Democrats have succeeded in betraying their supporters, their legacy, their souls in cowering to what Reagan started. They have squandered 20th century progress. Obama and his neo-liberal ignoramuses succeeded only in salvaging what Reagan started instead of what the country was telling him to do in 2009: reverse it.
The Democrats could not, would not beat Donald Trump. Let that level of political incompetence sink in. The establishment Democrats handed not just the White House to a rabid Bircher Republican party, but the states and local governments. Democrats are simply not credible; they champion no one.
I am through with them. There needs to be a party of the people.
6
The Founding Fathers could have never anticipated the damage, but the lack of proportional representation in the senate is giving too much power to a minority, creating havoc.
Senator McConnell in 2014 was elected in Kentucky with about 800,000 votes out of 1,435,868 total. He will do whatever Trump wants based on few voters' desires. The majority of American voters are being terrorized by this local yokel.
Mayors of cities have more of a mandate.
Senator McConnell in 2014 was elected in Kentucky with about 800,000 votes out of 1,435,868 total. He will do whatever Trump wants based on few voters' desires. The majority of American voters are being terrorized by this local yokel.
Mayors of cities have more of a mandate.
4
I am beginning to wonder if the breach in this country is now an uncrossable chasm. Not only do opposing sides misunderstand each other, they do not care to try. Those throwing the intense vitriol at Trump voters may not understand the concerns of a family growing up in a steel mill town in Ohio - they just want their jobs to return, pay the mortgage, and send their children to school. Likewise, they may not understand the intense feelings of the changing urban demographic, who feels their rights may be trampled. In neither case is there an overarching narrative to bring the country together.
Both sides have engaged in opposition politics, pointing fingers and saying "you started it." This is how a republic can fall apart.
Both sides have engaged in opposition politics, pointing fingers and saying "you started it." This is how a republic can fall apart.
3
Trump is the Trojan Horse. Angry words, petitions, marches, editorials help us deal personally with the injustice; but there must be some stronger, bold actions we can do to defend our democracy. What are your ideas? My two senators and representative need to hear them too.
1
Block and obstruct every one of Donald's nominees, just like Republicans did to president Obama. This seems to be the only language Republicans speak and understand. But ole Puffy Cheek (President Donald) looks like he's aged 5 years just in the past week, so he may not be around too much longer. I hope he stays alive, though, because if not then we would have to deal with a malicious, clever clown (Pence) rather than a malicious, idiot clown. But maybe Pence could at least head off the coming U.S. Civil War II.
1
Gorsuch has two daughters who might teach him a thing or two. And he had a very modern mother who I seriously doubt believed women, especially young girls, should be forced to carry pregnancies against their will. Throw in the horrors of pregnancies from rape or incest, and even the most conservative father in the world might blanch.
The big question then is, "Is Gorsuch a hypocrite?" We all know the wives, daughters, and mistresses of conservative men who wield money and influence always have a choice because Dan Quayle taught us that.
Hypocrisy may be a necessary "quality" for anyone in the Trump administration. How else could a person stand the dissonance?
The big question then is, "Is Gorsuch a hypocrite?" We all know the wives, daughters, and mistresses of conservative men who wield money and influence always have a choice because Dan Quayle taught us that.
Hypocrisy may be a necessary "quality" for anyone in the Trump administration. How else could a person stand the dissonance?
1
As @Teahergal pointed out in a different comments section, no judge with proper character and judicial wisdom would even accept this nomination until Merrick Garland was first voted on. There needs to be pressure on all of the potential nominees to decline to accept , on principle.
In the meantime, I have been persuaded that Democrats do need to obstruct this nominee tooth and nail on principle.
In the meantime, I have been persuaded that Democrats do need to obstruct this nominee tooth and nail on principle.
3
The fact of the matter is that in the end Gorsucks will be installed by the republicans.
My choice of action would be to have hearings during which the Democrats first mention their outrage that Garland did not even get a hearing, and secondly question him on his views on all progressive issues to highlight the things that may come to pass in America if another regressive justice is installed.
And lastly when the Senate vote comes to pass, all Democrats should either not attend or all vote "NO."
My choice of action would be to have hearings during which the Democrats first mention their outrage that Garland did not even get a hearing, and secondly question him on his views on all progressive issues to highlight the things that may come to pass in America if another regressive justice is installed.
And lastly when the Senate vote comes to pass, all Democrats should either not attend or all vote "NO."
3
The intent of the Framers was to escape and prevent tyranny. I'm fine with an originalist who is able to perceive that Corporations and even duly elected leaders with a dictatorial style can amount to the same thing as royalty.
Any entity that places themselves above the common welfare is trying to be a king.
Any entity that places themselves above the common welfare is trying to be a king.
2
Do people really think this is about Democrats not having a spine?! We did not return enough of them to Congress to stand up against this onslaught. Non-voters and Bernie protest refusers got what they wanted, a crisis to prove they were right. The crisis does not vindicate them, it proves that voting is not an emotional expression. It's consequential. And it would not have happened without their failure to act responsibly. We can't blame officials, the Democratic party, or a "flawed" candidate, it's purely and simply a failure of the electorate.
10
I remember my high school history teacher saying that one of the reasons America managed to win its independence was the British army's civilized habit of marching and fighting in tidy, neat columns. It made them sitting ducks for the snipers and wild, chaotic charges of our forefathers.
Democrats need to take a lesson from that first war. We have to stop fighting civilized and start fighting dirty.
I don't say that lightly. Democrats are all about win-win, and in normal times I would never ask my reps in Congress to obstruct Trump and his junta at every turn. But we aren't dealing with people who believe in win-win resolutions, we're dealing with bullies who get their jollies from watching us lose.
The only way to stop a bully is to show we're smarter, meaner, and tougher than they are -- and that only happens when we start winning our fights. No more compromise -- not until the bullies are willing to work with us for a win-win.
Now is the time for snipers, wildness, and chaos.
Democrats need to take a lesson from that first war. We have to stop fighting civilized and start fighting dirty.
I don't say that lightly. Democrats are all about win-win, and in normal times I would never ask my reps in Congress to obstruct Trump and his junta at every turn. But we aren't dealing with people who believe in win-win resolutions, we're dealing with bullies who get their jollies from watching us lose.
The only way to stop a bully is to show we're smarter, meaner, and tougher than they are -- and that only happens when we start winning our fights. No more compromise -- not until the bullies are willing to work with us for a win-win.
Now is the time for snipers, wildness, and chaos.
10
Well, I'll give leftists full credit for all the rioting we've been witnessing since election day. What's the next violent step anyway?
7
In the blink of an eye, our world has been turned upside down by a sinister and aggressive cadre of the extreme right. We were asleep at the switch during the election, or were stupid enough to pout over Bernie's defeat by Hillary Clinton, so refused to vote.
Reality is here now, and Mr. Blow is absolutely right in his admonition to Democrats to "grow a spine". This administration is no longer of group of gentlemen who hold different political views--it's a group of bullies who have no rules of engagement--just a burn and slash plan of action.
While Mr. Gorsuch is not a screamingly bad nominee, he is nevertheless a conservative who will steer the Supreme Court in a rigid path of adherence to immoral and regressive policy. We must do everything in our power to block his nomination.
Reality is here now, and Mr. Blow is absolutely right in his admonition to Democrats to "grow a spine". This administration is no longer of group of gentlemen who hold different political views--it's a group of bullies who have no rules of engagement--just a burn and slash plan of action.
While Mr. Gorsuch is not a screamingly bad nominee, he is nevertheless a conservative who will steer the Supreme Court in a rigid path of adherence to immoral and regressive policy. We must do everything in our power to block his nomination.
10
" Make the asterisk president’s nominee become an asterisk jurist, the only one confirmed under an altered set of rules"
In order to protect Obamacare it was Harry Reid who, by using the nuclear option, altered the long standing rules of judicial appointments to pack the DC Court of Appeals. Should we then place an asterisk by those liberal jurists so confirmed?
In order to protect Obamacare it was Harry Reid who, by using the nuclear option, altered the long standing rules of judicial appointments to pack the DC Court of Appeals. Should we then place an asterisk by those liberal jurists so confirmed?
7
I agree the Gorsuch nomination should be resisted on principle; however, it should also be resisted because Gorsuch's views are completely unreasonable, no matter how qualified and urbane he appears. Environmental safety and regulations? Gone. Right to privacy? Gone. Another thumb in the eye to one half of the US population? Yes. Reducing gays and lesbians to second class citizens again by gutting marriage equality? Yes. Another vote for allowing big businesses to have the rights to destroy our planet and our communities? Yes. Fight, fight, fight.
2
Hey CB, another uninformed, fact free piece. Just remember, Schumer advocated not granting hearings for an Bush 43 nominees if an opening occurred in 2007; Joe Biden said in the last term of Bush 43 that the senate should not act on a SC nomination from Bush 41 in the last year until the election was over. This isn't a Republican tactic.
Remember, Obama slowly eroded his power base over time so that by the time it came to nominate Scalia's replacement the dems owned neither the house nor senate. If he had performed politically, the nomination of Merrick Garland would not have been an issue. And you can bet that Harry Reid would have used the nuke option if necessary if he had had a majority.
This is an entirely different situation vs Garland (who may have been an excellent jurist). The Repubs have a majority of the senate. Trump is in his first year, Obama was in his last. A conservative like Gorsuch going into the seat held by Scalia does not change the historic balance of the court, although Garland would have.
And here's a hint CB, stop with the half truths and lies about the election.
Remember, Obama slowly eroded his power base over time so that by the time it came to nominate Scalia's replacement the dems owned neither the house nor senate. If he had performed politically, the nomination of Merrick Garland would not have been an issue. And you can bet that Harry Reid would have used the nuke option if necessary if he had had a majority.
This is an entirely different situation vs Garland (who may have been an excellent jurist). The Repubs have a majority of the senate. Trump is in his first year, Obama was in his last. A conservative like Gorsuch going into the seat held by Scalia does not change the historic balance of the court, although Garland would have.
And here's a hint CB, stop with the half truths and lies about the election.
7
The "GOR" in GOR-such stands for "Government of Republicans". For a long time. This is the Supreme Court not a Cabinet nomination.
There is a well established legal principle that riches and advantage gained through fraudulent means are forfeit. The Republicans took away Obama's Supreme Court nomination by hook and crook. The should not be rewarded with the Democrats' nomination.
It matters not that we lose this battle. We are in this for the long run. It is an important tactical piece in what must be a campaign to win over hearts and minds. What matters is that we respond with justified righteous outrage and do it effectively so that others will understand and come over to our side. Trump's ratings and the present value of likely future ratings show that he is a losing proposition. And what matters is to show Gorsuch for what he is--an "originalist" and "textualist" that poses a risk to Roe v. Wade and who is the symbol and torch-bearer for a corrupt GoP whose values are provided by moneyed vested interests, unprincipled opportunism and what is deplorable in our cultural and ethical make-up as a country.
There is a well established legal principle that riches and advantage gained through fraudulent means are forfeit. The Republicans took away Obama's Supreme Court nomination by hook and crook. The should not be rewarded with the Democrats' nomination.
It matters not that we lose this battle. We are in this for the long run. It is an important tactical piece in what must be a campaign to win over hearts and minds. What matters is that we respond with justified righteous outrage and do it effectively so that others will understand and come over to our side. Trump's ratings and the present value of likely future ratings show that he is a losing proposition. And what matters is to show Gorsuch for what he is--an "originalist" and "textualist" that poses a risk to Roe v. Wade and who is the symbol and torch-bearer for a corrupt GoP whose values are provided by moneyed vested interests, unprincipled opportunism and what is deplorable in our cultural and ethical make-up as a country.
1
Agree in principle, but I am not sure that this is the correct strategy, tactically. I'd argue that the majority of Americans are either uninterested or do not understand the intricacies of how supreme court nominations are made. If my assumption is correct, then the only thing the masses will see is an obstructionist Democratic party trying to interfere with the new POTUS cause they are upset and immature. Dems will wear the brand, however invalid, of the bad apples, the politicians who continue to do nothing, etc. I think the Dems have no good choices here, so they should expose Gorusch and the republicans through pointed questions about civil liberties, and then do everything above board to look as ethical, honest, and willing to play by the rules so that folks in the middle of the poli spectrum come back (i.e. have one less reason not to come back). Trump will continue to self-destruct, as you say, and the Dems will not lose voters cos they took the high road.
2
Living in a cave may be safer but it has mostly bad consequences. Stepping out and living in the sunshine has mostly good consequences. We know the cost of resisting the President's nominees could lead to the use of the Nuclear Option and require only Republicans to confirm Mr. Gorsuch. That is a good thing holding the Republicans responsible for that act. The Republicans must learn that there is a political cost and risk to their past and current behaviour denying President Obama his Supreme Court nominee and allowing the President to fold, staple and mutilate the Constitution and the Bill or Rights. When that final act happens we will all be in a dark deep place with no light or hope. Thank you Mr Blow for being my neighbor in this beautiful and special country that we both love.
3
Good goal. Get Trump to resign.
A serious effort to impeach Trump could lead him to resign.
Also sitting presidents can still be sued as citizens.
So someone with an inkling of a case - step up immediately.
Begin NOW with an impeachment effort as a perpetual maneuver to keep him in line and to secure a modicum of safety for us all - worldwide.
An "Impeach Trump" declaration introduced in the House of Representatives is a tactical imperative.
Doing so on a regular basis, prompted by Trump's behavior - whatever it may be - is a strategic, never ending plan for the world's greater good.
Win or lose but build momentum is the overall plan - until finally ....
The GOP wrote the playbook on this tactic (ACA). Now it is their turn to be on stage for their close-up.
Seat Trump under a Damocles sword that hangs by a hair, over the hair on his large and swollen head, as a reminder that if he goes too far ..... another vote will be taken to remind him that we the people may have the last word on any issue he may wish to advertise, promulgate, or toss out as his latest bullying behavior.
Polls to evaluate the impeachment action can be taken immediately to publicize, verify, and maintain momentum.
Trump has no mandate. He lost the popular vote by a credible margin.
Our mandate is in our numbers.
With time Congressional Republicans, for their own and for GOP survival, will join the effort to establish reasons to impeach and the event may well take place - at long last.
A serious effort to impeach Trump could lead him to resign.
Also sitting presidents can still be sued as citizens.
So someone with an inkling of a case - step up immediately.
Begin NOW with an impeachment effort as a perpetual maneuver to keep him in line and to secure a modicum of safety for us all - worldwide.
An "Impeach Trump" declaration introduced in the House of Representatives is a tactical imperative.
Doing so on a regular basis, prompted by Trump's behavior - whatever it may be - is a strategic, never ending plan for the world's greater good.
Win or lose but build momentum is the overall plan - until finally ....
The GOP wrote the playbook on this tactic (ACA). Now it is their turn to be on stage for their close-up.
Seat Trump under a Damocles sword that hangs by a hair, over the hair on his large and swollen head, as a reminder that if he goes too far ..... another vote will be taken to remind him that we the people may have the last word on any issue he may wish to advertise, promulgate, or toss out as his latest bullying behavior.
Polls to evaluate the impeachment action can be taken immediately to publicize, verify, and maintain momentum.
Trump has no mandate. He lost the popular vote by a credible margin.
Our mandate is in our numbers.
With time Congressional Republicans, for their own and for GOP survival, will join the effort to establish reasons to impeach and the event may well take place - at long last.
3
Just a quibble regarding
“He is a singularly unpopular new president who is doing
absolutely nothing to increase his popularity and everything
to constrict it.”
I would say that Trump is doing everything that he can do to increase his popularity among his base.
I think that it has been shown that making decisions to gain the votes of independents is not a winning strategy. Doing something that fires up your base seems to be much more rewarding. Obama repeatedly put off decision near mid-term elections that may have upset the independents and was rewarded by overwhelming wins by the republicans. All he did was to depress the turn out of the democrats and increase the turnout of the republicans
One should be true to one’s beliefs. The democrats should fight the current Supreme Court nominee tooth and nail.
“He is a singularly unpopular new president who is doing
absolutely nothing to increase his popularity and everything
to constrict it.”
I would say that Trump is doing everything that he can do to increase his popularity among his base.
I think that it has been shown that making decisions to gain the votes of independents is not a winning strategy. Doing something that fires up your base seems to be much more rewarding. Obama repeatedly put off decision near mid-term elections that may have upset the independents and was rewarded by overwhelming wins by the republicans. All he did was to depress the turn out of the democrats and increase the turnout of the republicans
One should be true to one’s beliefs. The democrats should fight the current Supreme Court nominee tooth and nail.
2
I'm afraid that we might be just starting to pay the price for electing President Obama to the Oval Office in this racist country.
After all, we are still paying the price for slavery, for Native American ethnic cleansing, for the Civil Rights Act (which was only supposed to lose one generation of Southerners to the GOP and now we are in generation #2), and for the Voting Rights Act. This could take a while.
After all, we are still paying the price for slavery, for Native American ethnic cleansing, for the Civil Rights Act (which was only supposed to lose one generation of Southerners to the GOP and now we are in generation #2), and for the Voting Rights Act. This could take a while.
It was amazing to watch Senator Ben Sasse being interviewed on CNN and chiding the Democrats for trying to block the nomination of Judge Gorsuch to the Supreme Court, suggesting that the actions of the Republicans in not even Judge Garland's nomination to a hearing was in the past and that the Democrats were being obstructionist. These are the same Republicans whose do nothing Senate leader, Mitch McConnell, made it clear when President Obama was elected that their goal was to ensure that he would be a one term President. As much as I am in favor of civility in government, it is not possible with the current administration and the puppet Congress now in power. It is time to fight fire with fire. The Democrats must attempt to block every nomination made by Trump and every bill submitted to Congress. I am afraid that the failure of the Democrats to fight Trump and his toadies will result in the destruction of the America of Lincoln, Roosevelt, Kennedy, Clinton and Obama.
5
I'm sure that a seat on the Supreme Court is a dream job for many of the judges on the federal bench. And I'm sure that Judge Gorsuch is a well educated, experienced, and connected federal jurist.
What I don't understand is how anyone with an ounce of integrity would accept the nomination to the Court when the Republicans blocked the nomination of Judge Garland for 10 months during the Obama presidency. Isn't he accepting that what the Republicans did was right and just by agreeing to be nominated. Perhaps someone with more courage and integrity would have declined the offer and suggested that Judge Garland be re-nominated.
Oh wait! Put the well-being of the country ahead of personal gain? I must have been dreaming of another country. A country where the officials actually care about things like patriotism, rule of law, tradition, Constitutional responsibility, and plain old fashion fairness. That is not what my country has become.
What I don't understand is how anyone with an ounce of integrity would accept the nomination to the Court when the Republicans blocked the nomination of Judge Garland for 10 months during the Obama presidency. Isn't he accepting that what the Republicans did was right and just by agreeing to be nominated. Perhaps someone with more courage and integrity would have declined the offer and suggested that Judge Garland be re-nominated.
Oh wait! Put the well-being of the country ahead of personal gain? I must have been dreaming of another country. A country where the officials actually care about things like patriotism, rule of law, tradition, Constitutional responsibility, and plain old fashion fairness. That is not what my country has become.
3
I couldn't agree more, on all fronts. First, don't forget, the long list of things that make this "president" illegitimate includes the fact that nearly 11 Million more voters voted against him than for him, and 3 Million more voted for his closest opponent. And the Dems need to stop bringing knives to gun fights. As a life long Dem, who's put up with being pushed around by GOP bullies since St. Ronnie began destroying our country, I won't stand for it any longer. There's a time to stand up and a time to sit down, and when the illegitimately installed leader has demonstrated in less than two weeks that he'll "rule", quite literally, with an iron fist, this would be the time to stand up. And if Dems fail to do so, they'll have shown themselves not to have learned the lessons of WWII. It is clearly that dire. And even if the world survives this nightmare the reprehensible GOP have wrought on us, the people of the Democratic Party (i.e., the voters) will look elsewhere for leadership, and justifiably so. So step up, Democratic Party Senators and Congress people and governors and state legislators. Step up, before it's too late. If it means that blue states refuse to send federal tax collections to the feds until the bully in chief stops threatening to withhold the meager federal funds returned to the blue states, so be it. Trump seems to think the states are akin to the contractors he decided to stiff by withholding payments he was obligated to make, contractually. Step up.
2
My reading of history is that with any revolutionary government there is a muddled period right after a takeover in which the victors struggle to organize themselves. On the theory that we are in such a period, our only option is to create an attractive and stable path forward, and Democrats do not seem capable of creating that. Perhaps that's because many of them are under obligation to many of the same lobbyists that control the Republicans. Of course, we must resist the appointment. I'm still amazed that Obama didn't use his powers to implant Garland on the Court, but since he didn't, Democrats have only the power to say no.
1
The rubric, "stolen seat," states the wrong ground for this battle. Supreme Court seats are not the property of a Democratic or Republican president. The seat is an element of a Constitutional arm of the government. The President nominates-which President Obama did-and the Senate provides its advice and consent. McConnell refused to execute an institutional duty, putting-as is typical of him-personal power over public duty. The seat was disabled from the institutional process, violating the pact made among US citizens in the Constitution. Democrats face a choice of participating in a nomination process that Republicans have discredited or pushing the logic of the Republicans' contempt for institutional norms to its conclusion. As McConnell is faithful only to his own power, the first course will lead only to awarding the arrogance of his posturing. The second course may lead to cataclysm, with some form of rebirth from the ashes.
3
Mr. Blow hit the mark. Sadly there's not one Democrat in Congress (either side) that knows what to do nor has the fortitude to make it happen. The strategy to derail this nomination is not difficult to construct. First, identify the major components of society that will suffer from Gorsuch and the Republicans defiance of the Constitution by denying Obama's nominee his Senate hearing. Examples are: women, all non-Christians, LGBT people, people of color, naturalized citizens, students receiving their university education in a public institution, parents of children attending public schools, union members, etc. (essentially 2/3 of our population) Second, leverage existing organizational skills within each group to rally around multiple large 1 million plus demonstrations not just in Washington but in each State with spineless Republican Senators not just those up for re-election. Third, treat Gorsuch like a contestant on "The Apprentice" and embarrass him for every flaw from the time he exited his mother's womb until today. Repeat the prior steps over and over to dominate the news. Schumer, Clinton and their peers know this formula, it's how we ended the useless conflict in Viet Nam. Stop with the press conferences, hand wringing and civility. We are indeed fighting fascists. Put a picture of Bannon on your fridge to remind you everyday who is undermining the Constitution of the United States of America through a narcissistic puppet.
3
I completely agree with CB but the reality is we are staring down the abyss of a robust conservative majority on the SCOTUS for the next 25 years. Even assuming Democrats find the spine to filibuster Gorsuch, which I hope they do out of principle as CB says as anything else, Republicans can and no doubt will repeal the filibuster rule entirely for Supreme Court nominees. Gorsuch will sit on the SCOTUS. But it gets worse.
Anthony Kennedy, a more centrist conservative than the rest of them, is 80 and may now retire safe in the knowledge that the court will remain in conservative hands. He will assuredly be replaced by someone farther to the right than himself. No more swing votes.
Finally, whilst I am a keen admirer of Ruth Bader Ginsburg as a jurist, her decision to remain on the court beyond Obama's term in office given her past health issues and age will likely give Trump a shot at a third seat on the court.
Let's face it the Supreme Court is lost for a generation to anyone with progressive or even moderate views. And the consequences? No environmental law will be safe whether it protects the air we breath, the water we drink or swim in, our public lands or our endangered wildlife; no state or local restriction on firearms will be immune from being overturned; and Roe v Wade is surely doomed.
Anthony Kennedy, a more centrist conservative than the rest of them, is 80 and may now retire safe in the knowledge that the court will remain in conservative hands. He will assuredly be replaced by someone farther to the right than himself. No more swing votes.
Finally, whilst I am a keen admirer of Ruth Bader Ginsburg as a jurist, her decision to remain on the court beyond Obama's term in office given her past health issues and age will likely give Trump a shot at a third seat on the court.
Let's face it the Supreme Court is lost for a generation to anyone with progressive or even moderate views. And the consequences? No environmental law will be safe whether it protects the air we breath, the water we drink or swim in, our public lands or our endangered wildlife; no state or local restriction on firearms will be immune from being overturned; and Roe v Wade is surely doomed.
2
Mr. Blow, there's a simple reason why there are Republicans in Congress outnumber Democrats, and ditto for the same imbalance in the Senate.
Dems need to wake up and look way beyond Calif., NY and the few other Blue states.
Note, please that the SCOTUS issue is but the very tip of a looming "iceberg" of the current 100+ Federal judicial vacancies with more to come as aging jurists take senior and retired status over the next four years.
Look, too, at the basis for so many state legislatures (and governors) being Republican heavy majorities.
The two party system is still intact.
But it is very fractured when virtually half of the eligible voters (and non-registered!) choose not to participate in major national and state and local elections.
My conclusion regarding non-voting is that many of these adults are somewhat -- if not very satisfied -- with the current system and "regimes" when they choose to sit out the process.
Have our schools (and both our parties) failed to instill citizenship?
Dems need to wake up and look way beyond Calif., NY and the few other Blue states.
Note, please that the SCOTUS issue is but the very tip of a looming "iceberg" of the current 100+ Federal judicial vacancies with more to come as aging jurists take senior and retired status over the next four years.
Look, too, at the basis for so many state legislatures (and governors) being Republican heavy majorities.
The two party system is still intact.
But it is very fractured when virtually half of the eligible voters (and non-registered!) choose not to participate in major national and state and local elections.
My conclusion regarding non-voting is that many of these adults are somewhat -- if not very satisfied -- with the current system and "regimes" when they choose to sit out the process.
Have our schools (and both our parties) failed to instill citizenship?
2
I did not support President Trump’s candidacy, and I understand the disappointment that underlies Mr. Blow’s opinion. I do not think, however, that in this particular instance Mr. Blow’s counsel is sound.
If Democrats should pursue, in this and subsequent confrontations with Republicans, the policy recommended by Mr. Blow, they would relinquish in large measure that which is, at least in my opinion, the intellectual and moral high ground. Specifically, I suggest that if there should be hope for the American Republic and for the American people, that hope lies in a dedication to rationality and to analysis as the bases for action; to responsibility and to honor as the bases for national character; and to restraint and to civility as the bases for governance. To be sure, these are values that are not much in evidence these days. I understand that as clearly as does Mr. Blow, but times change. Indeed they do, and these values will return to popular favor, perhaps even sooner than one might think.
The Republicans have assigned to themselves a role in our national life that might best be described as errand boys to Sheldon Adelson. That is their prerogative, but I hope that the Democrats will establish themselves as the party of rationality and reason and that they will present themselves in this light to the electorate when the electorate tires of its own intemperance and passion, as it surely will.
If Democrats should pursue, in this and subsequent confrontations with Republicans, the policy recommended by Mr. Blow, they would relinquish in large measure that which is, at least in my opinion, the intellectual and moral high ground. Specifically, I suggest that if there should be hope for the American Republic and for the American people, that hope lies in a dedication to rationality and to analysis as the bases for action; to responsibility and to honor as the bases for national character; and to restraint and to civility as the bases for governance. To be sure, these are values that are not much in evidence these days. I understand that as clearly as does Mr. Blow, but times change. Indeed they do, and these values will return to popular favor, perhaps even sooner than one might think.
The Republicans have assigned to themselves a role in our national life that might best be described as errand boys to Sheldon Adelson. That is their prerogative, but I hope that the Democrats will establish themselves as the party of rationality and reason and that they will present themselves in this light to the electorate when the electorate tires of its own intemperance and passion, as it surely will.
3
Please don't make me laugh. No one gives a rats patootie about the moral or high ground. If Dems don't stand up for themselves enmass then they are useless. The Republicans will crush them into oblivion and laugh as they do.
4
Bad news alert. Most of you are delusional. History says Trump has a much higher likelihood of being re-elected than he has of leaving office early. He wants more than anything else to be seen as a success and validation through re-election is proof for any Pres. The Senate will not flip in 2 short years as most republicans are quite happy with recent events and independents don't care enough to vote. Face it, elections matter. Trump will most likely appoint not 1 but at least 2 justices over the next 4 or 8 years. I'm not saying throw in the towel but scorched earth tactics won't prevail and will further demoralize independent voters. At this point Republicans are just better positioned to manipulate fearful voters who want control and safety and like the even dumber version of Reagan.
7
We all suffer in varying degrees to deeply buried anxieties suffered during our early developmental period. Chief among them is an infant's concerns over how to separate his or her self from that of her or his mother. This is freaky because we begin life with no self whatsoever. This separation anxiety stays with us throughout our lives and gets triggered when we are reminded of the past by present events, especially losses! Today, the Democrats feel like they have abruptly been ripped from their mother's arms (by no coincidence, our last President's name conflated the words baby and momma)... and they are wailing like an abandoned infant who has no self.
When Gorsuch mentioned his "faith" he lost me. I don't want Justices who decide Constitutional and legal matters based on their "faith." Faith is a personal belief and has no place in the public arena. Faith is not based on science or rational thought but is, by definition, emotional and the result of cultural training. Faith is what is driving Isis; faith is what keeps one major religion locked into the 16th century on matters of reproduction; faith is what keeps women the chattel of men. We already have too many Justices who deliberate based on their "faith;" (Yes, I mean Thomas and Alito and deceased Scalia). Faith in religious edicts handed down over centuries is responsible for a lot of the killing and terror in today's world. Faith divides us. We need a Justice who is, at least, an agnostic.
375
Does the constitution mention faith? Is he suggesting Christian shariah?
2
I do agree. Yet, be mindful that th ere are those of us who see faith as Martin Malcom, Dorthy Day, Desmond Tutu, Pope Francis, Ghandi, and the Dali Lama who understood and understand faith as motivating force for liberation, justice, and equality. And truth be told, we all have "faith" in something be it ethereal or secular as I have faith in my fellow human beings of good will all backgrounds and beliefs to fight against this present tyranny and desired theocracy.
2
Like his colleague Kristoff, who bases his columns on field reporting, Charles Blow should now join the resistance nationwide and get into the meetings and on the streets. We need professionals because there will be police violence as these protests grow and law officers are pushed by this administration to get violent, and the presence of the press will help.
4
I sure hope the Democrats in Congress listen to your very-well-argued ideas about fighting the nomination. One of your sentences - "They are still trying to fight a gentleman’s war in the middle of a guerrilla war." - struck me as truly germane in that it reminded me of the Red Coats during the Revolution who marched in parade order but were struck down by rebels using guerrilla tactics: we are in the same kind of battle now against an insane monarchy.
3
Some of my paternal ancestors were members of what I sometimes refer to as "the first guerrilla army composed of men of European stock". I thought of the same thing RKD did. Every July 4 I have a little meeting in my head to report the state of the Republic to Uncle Christian Schearer who died in that fighting. I am afraid that the report this year will be a very sad one.
To paraphrase Ambassador Spock (in an episode entitled "Unification" ironically enough), "Since it is logical to conclude the Republicans are likely to confirm Gorsuch in any event, I choose not to cooperate."
I see two ways to not cooperate. First, the Dems can refuse to hold a hearing. Second, they can hold hearings, and all vote Nay regardless. The former looks petty. The latter may be the best path. Taking the latter path, they would not sink to the depths of the Repubs, and they would still voice their opposition while giving the appearance of trying to be fair. In Washington these days, it seems appearance is all that matters.
I see two ways to not cooperate. First, the Dems can refuse to hold a hearing. Second, they can hold hearings, and all vote Nay regardless. The former looks petty. The latter may be the best path. Taking the latter path, they would not sink to the depths of the Repubs, and they would still voice their opposition while giving the appearance of trying to be fair. In Washington these days, it seems appearance is all that matters.
1
"..government is broken and completely overtaken by the people who broke it." Well said!!!
3
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell should be impeached for his refusal to allow hearings on President Obama's nomination of Merrick Garland to fill a Supreme Court vacancy on March 16, 2016. McConnell's unprecedented failure to fulfill his duties of office by not responding to a Presidential appointment was the final blow to the American democracy, which has now been replaced by a plutocracy.
6
Charles Blow, keep it up! Your outrage is the best, most articulate, most heartening thing in the paper. Sometimes your column is the only thing I have the heart to read. You speak for me, and I'm sure for many.
3
Yes.
Let Gorsuch be appointed without a single Dem vote. The Repubs want control of the govt so badly, let them have it, and let everyone see what full R control really looks like.
Then watch the Rs blame the Dems. And then watch the Dems not know how to fight back.
Let Gorsuch be appointed without a single Dem vote. The Repubs want control of the govt so badly, let them have it, and let everyone see what full R control really looks like.
Then watch the Rs blame the Dems. And then watch the Dems not know how to fight back.
1
You continually try to de-legitimize Trump’s victory by saying it was the result of fake news. On January 24th, NPR radio host Robert Siegel interviewed Stanford economist Matthew Gentzhow on the influence fake news had on the election. Gentzhow and Hunt Allcott, of NYU, conducted research that came as close as possible to concluding that fake news did not affect the election outcome.
According to the Stanford News web site,
“A reader of our study could very reasonably say, based on our set of facts, that it is unlikely that fake news swayed the election,” said Gentzkow, an economics professor and senior fellow at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR).
According to the Stanford News web site,
“A reader of our study could very reasonably say, based on our set of facts, that it is unlikely that fake news swayed the election,” said Gentzkow, an economics professor and senior fellow at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR).
2
"So the “president,” who was “elected” under the fog of Russian interference (now under investigation by both houses of Congress) and with a boost from the director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (now under investigation by the Justice Department’s inspector general)..."
This is not fake news. These are facts. True facts, not alternative ones.
This is not fake news. These are facts. True facts, not alternative ones.
3
Ann -- Trump's "victory" de-legitimizes itself: he lost the popular vote by 2.8 million, under circumstances (including the Russian hacking and Comey's misfeasance) that make Trump a president that the majority does not accept.
A wiser, less truculent man than Trump would accept the reality of what mandate he does have ... but of course that's not Trump.
The Gorsuch nomination is the flash point. It is McConnell, not Trump, who created it ... but it is a stolen nomination achieved by violating the constitution. If the McConnell stunt can stand as precedent, then the constitution is effectively rewritten (without amendment) so that supreme court justices can only be seated by parties that hold both the senate and the presidency.
No "originalist" gaslighting by Neil or anybody else can possibly succeed at convincing any sane American that this is what any of the writers of the constitution intended.
We have a real constitutional crisis here, right now.
A wiser, less truculent man than Trump would accept the reality of what mandate he does have ... but of course that's not Trump.
The Gorsuch nomination is the flash point. It is McConnell, not Trump, who created it ... but it is a stolen nomination achieved by violating the constitution. If the McConnell stunt can stand as precedent, then the constitution is effectively rewritten (without amendment) so that supreme court justices can only be seated by parties that hold both the senate and the presidency.
No "originalist" gaslighting by Neil or anybody else can possibly succeed at convincing any sane American that this is what any of the writers of the constitution intended.
We have a real constitutional crisis here, right now.
3
Yikes! Who are these pundits who are calling the nomination - and the nominee - brilliant?
I say we should be fighting tooth and nail against the normalization of this president.
I say we should be fighting tooth and nail against the normalization of this president.
2
Charles Blow is one of a few standout voices to be applauded! It should not be a rarity for a journalist to speak out for the people (since the government does not) but unfortunately it is.
Democrats seem to be clueless as to how they need to fight--acting like British soldiers from the 17th century in nice neat uniformed rows while their enemies fire cannons and machine guns into their rows, then lining up for some more of the same. It is madness!
I would argue that it is crucial that Democrats show a wall of unity in blocking all cabinet nominees in addition to the Supreme Court pick. Democrats like Joe Manchin, Heidi Heitkamp and Amy Klobuchar already demonstrated that they need to go. We cannot allow wishy-washy democrats to represent us any longer.
It is time to block everything without fear! Democrats also need to learn to communicate with the public. Never let up on the message of the fraudulent election, the Republican unwillingness to consider a valid Supreme Court nominee for 10 month, and their stated goal to block President Obama's progress for eight years!
Democrats seem to be clueless as to how they need to fight--acting like British soldiers from the 17th century in nice neat uniformed rows while their enemies fire cannons and machine guns into their rows, then lining up for some more of the same. It is madness!
I would argue that it is crucial that Democrats show a wall of unity in blocking all cabinet nominees in addition to the Supreme Court pick. Democrats like Joe Manchin, Heidi Heitkamp and Amy Klobuchar already demonstrated that they need to go. We cannot allow wishy-washy democrats to represent us any longer.
It is time to block everything without fear! Democrats also need to learn to communicate with the public. Never let up on the message of the fraudulent election, the Republican unwillingness to consider a valid Supreme Court nominee for 10 month, and their stated goal to block President Obama's progress for eight years!
2
Bravo! Please Dems, grow a spine! It is easy, just say "that seat was stolen, I won't vote for anyone else until Judge Garland gets a fair hearing and a vote". Simple, and another benefit - you'll get to look at yourself in the mirror again!
4
A major concern I have about the nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch involves the EPA nominee, Oklahoma AG, Scott Pruitt, a man who has sued the EPA ten times on behalf of the energy industry in Oklahoma. He has already vowed to cut the EPA staff by two-thirds over the next four years.
So what does that have to do with Judge Gorsuch? The judge's mother, Anne Gorsuch, was Reagan's EPA secretary from 1981-83. In that time, she rolled back the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts, and slashed the EPA budget to reduce the ability of the department to carry out its mission, and then hired subordinates from the very industries the EPA was assigned to regulate. Anne Gorsuch was no friend of the environment. William Ruckelshaus had to return to the EPA (for the second time) to rescue an EPA frought with fear, anger and confusion
Since there is a strong likelihood there will be lawsuits against Pruitt, those suits may move through the legal system all the way to the SCOTUS. If Judge Gorsuch becomes a Supreme Court justice, it is a high probability of that, will he honor his mother's legacy, or the law?
So what does that have to do with Judge Gorsuch? The judge's mother, Anne Gorsuch, was Reagan's EPA secretary from 1981-83. In that time, she rolled back the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts, and slashed the EPA budget to reduce the ability of the department to carry out its mission, and then hired subordinates from the very industries the EPA was assigned to regulate. Anne Gorsuch was no friend of the environment. William Ruckelshaus had to return to the EPA (for the second time) to rescue an EPA frought with fear, anger and confusion
Since there is a strong likelihood there will be lawsuits against Pruitt, those suits may move through the legal system all the way to the SCOTUS. If Judge Gorsuch becomes a Supreme Court justice, it is a high probability of that, will he honor his mother's legacy, or the law?
3
Mr Blow is mostly right. The Democrats should show spine and they should fight, because the GOP is banking on their fear of looking bad to browbeat them.
After despicable behavior that should have resulted in his banishment from the senate, McConnell now smirks, sneers and preens himself daily while issuing moral judgments on the responsibility of others.
And they should fight because the country is on a perilous course, led by men arguably more dangerous than McConnell because of their grandiosity and paranoid interpretation of history and the world. This combination is always at the basis of war and mayhem and relies upon the acquiescence of the opposition who are invariably assailed with accusations of weakness, naivety and lack of patriotism.
But one should never underestimate one's opponent. It is foolish to dismiss Mr Trump's capability. To do so is to play into his hands. He has shown a remarkable canniness and ability to capitalize on desperation and confusion. Don't bank on a decline in a decline of enough popularity to sustain him for a dangerous while. He needs to be outthought. The Democrats need to be smart and steely.
After despicable behavior that should have resulted in his banishment from the senate, McConnell now smirks, sneers and preens himself daily while issuing moral judgments on the responsibility of others.
And they should fight because the country is on a perilous course, led by men arguably more dangerous than McConnell because of their grandiosity and paranoid interpretation of history and the world. This combination is always at the basis of war and mayhem and relies upon the acquiescence of the opposition who are invariably assailed with accusations of weakness, naivety and lack of patriotism.
But one should never underestimate one's opponent. It is foolish to dismiss Mr Trump's capability. To do so is to play into his hands. He has shown a remarkable canniness and ability to capitalize on desperation and confusion. Don't bank on a decline in a decline of enough popularity to sustain him for a dangerous while. He needs to be outthought. The Democrats need to be smart and steely.
Let the Republicans use the nuclear option. In the past, it's mainly conservatives who have benefitted from the filibuster anyway. Let them do our (liberals) work for us - they'll be shooting themselves in the foot. Then we'll be well rid of a procedure that has been used by the conservative minority to block progress.
I'll bet any money McConnell will understand this, and back off this nomination. Either way, the Dems will come out ahead.
I'll bet any money McConnell will understand this, and back off this nomination. Either way, the Dems will come out ahead.
2
As an ultimatum item the dems should propose the workable and very conciliatory option of demanding that Judge Merrick Garland be renominated & confirmed.
5
Thank you for being a standup guy here. Dems have for too long tried to play nicely with the GOP while they continually punch them in the nose. I sincerely believe we Dems have been civil for too long, and it's time to take the gloves off. We're not just talking about policy disagreements here but about the very nature of American government and society. It's the one major think I wish Pres. Obama had done more of--use the bully pulpit to explain policies and to excoriate Republican intransigence.
What I find really amusing is right-wingers' faux horror at the "hysteria" over Trump and his henchman in the WH and Congress. After all, they spent 8 years foaming at the mouth over everything Obama did, starting with McConnell's "one term president" comment. They went all out to obstruct and destroy; now is not the time to be polite in the face of further abuse of power.
What I find really amusing is right-wingers' faux horror at the "hysteria" over Trump and his henchman in the WH and Congress. After all, they spent 8 years foaming at the mouth over everything Obama did, starting with McConnell's "one term president" comment. They went all out to obstruct and destroy; now is not the time to be polite in the face of further abuse of power.
3
Democrats have been trying to "reach across the aisle," "play by the rules," and unilaterally uphold respect for our institutions of government while Republicans have been indulging in unprecedented obstructionism and working to trash our government for partisan gain, to the detriment of most of our citizens.
A major play in this destruction was GOP Senate's refusal to perform its Constitutional and historically observed dutyto advise and consent on a duly elected President's Supreme Court nominee, chosen because he was a centrist who would have been acceptable, had a vote been allowed.
It goes against Democrats' instincts, but our country is in an unprecedented crisis. Even if Gorsuch is more suited to his proposed appointment than most of Trump's other nominees (a very low bar), Democrats SHOULD NOT COLLUDE with the Republicans by pretending this is a normal situation. They should not participate in any way with allowing DJT to fill this stolen Supreme Court seat.
The GOP broke it. They own it. Let them take full credit for their dirty work, including the nuclear option, if they choose to invoke it.
A major play in this destruction was GOP Senate's refusal to perform its Constitutional and historically observed dutyto advise and consent on a duly elected President's Supreme Court nominee, chosen because he was a centrist who would have been acceptable, had a vote been allowed.
It goes against Democrats' instincts, but our country is in an unprecedented crisis. Even if Gorsuch is more suited to his proposed appointment than most of Trump's other nominees (a very low bar), Democrats SHOULD NOT COLLUDE with the Republicans by pretending this is a normal situation. They should not participate in any way with allowing DJT to fill this stolen Supreme Court seat.
The GOP broke it. They own it. Let them take full credit for their dirty work, including the nuclear option, if they choose to invoke it.
5
Trying to debate Mr. Blow on his never ending conspiracy screeds is akin to engaging the Flat Earth Society on the spherical properties of the planets. Reason will simply not work. My advice: two Valiums every six to eight hours for at least the next four years.
2
Mr. Blow, you're eloquent as always.
4
I'm an independent voter who votes for the candidate rather than his/her party affiliation. I do not believe olive branch to the Republicans at this time, or in the near future, would pacify them. They have gone too far. By giving them a dose of their medicine is the only chance, if there's any, to induce re-thinking in them.
To me even Senator Schumer seems too soft now. Democrats need leaders who can think and act with as strong passions against the Republicans as the latter have been doing in the past 8 years. Time for softness or reasonableness is gone. It's no time for the soft spoken Schumers, Keith Ellisons, or the Perezes. Democrats need in your-face-kind of leadership right now. Republicans will not rethink or change their behavior until they meet stiff oppostion from the Democrats. It's no time to go wobbly now.
To me even Senator Schumer seems too soft now. Democrats need leaders who can think and act with as strong passions against the Republicans as the latter have been doing in the past 8 years. Time for softness or reasonableness is gone. It's no time for the soft spoken Schumers, Keith Ellisons, or the Perezes. Democrats need in your-face-kind of leadership right now. Republicans will not rethink or change their behavior until they meet stiff oppostion from the Democrats. It's no time to go wobbly now.
1
The only way you can stop things now is to win the next election. I once knew an economics professor at college who told me in 1974 Nixon didn't need the CIA to overthrow Allende since the Chilean economy was in such bad shape.
In this case the electorate in red and rust belt states were ready for change, despite $1billion in campaign funds, a world class ground game and 97% approval ratings from Hollywood and Academia. You didn't need the Russians.
In this case the electorate in red and rust belt states were ready for change, despite $1billion in campaign funds, a world class ground game and 97% approval ratings from Hollywood and Academia. You didn't need the Russians.
5
"there is no guarantee ... that the Republicans will even be able to maintain control of the Senate beyond the midterms"
Yes, there is! Don't have midterms. Our "last" election was a Republican coup led by a motivated minority of Republicans who lust for a Stalin who will make the rest of us behave and stop embarrassing them. Once these people get entrenched in their power, they are not going to give it up.
Yes, there is! Don't have midterms. Our "last" election was a Republican coup led by a motivated minority of Republicans who lust for a Stalin who will make the rest of us behave and stop embarrassing them. Once these people get entrenched in their power, they are not going to give it up.
The Good News, Mr. Blow, is that The Silent Majority is Roaring and demanding that democrat lawmakers stand up to this attempted hostile takeover of OUR governments at all levels. There are constant protests and actions being taken to stop the takeover operatives and demand that democrats stand up for what WE believe in. It is up to US - WE the People to keep up the pressure on OUR lawmakers.
The Con Don treated the Australian Prime Minister with disdain and disrespect yesterday. Without any "statistics" I KNOW this outraged rational people across America.
I do not tweet, or post on facebook or other social media but realize the strength they have achieved. Those who oppose The Con Don must start a Love-reason-civility-democracy-peace network to counteract the minor players that make up the hate complex.
Today please get a viral tweet going that says,#Australia We Love You - Ignore the orange one" or something similar which publicly embarrasses the great pretender around the world.
The link below is from today's Buzzfeed and explains how the hate machine is trying to sway voters in France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, and the rest of Europe. Only constant, viral shouted protests by those of us who disagree will stop them.
https://www.buzzfeed.com/ryanhatesthis/heres-how-frances-national-front-...
The Con Don treated the Australian Prime Minister with disdain and disrespect yesterday. Without any "statistics" I KNOW this outraged rational people across America.
I do not tweet, or post on facebook or other social media but realize the strength they have achieved. Those who oppose The Con Don must start a Love-reason-civility-democracy-peace network to counteract the minor players that make up the hate complex.
Today please get a viral tweet going that says,#Australia We Love You - Ignore the orange one" or something similar which publicly embarrasses the great pretender around the world.
The link below is from today's Buzzfeed and explains how the hate machine is trying to sway voters in France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, and the rest of Europe. Only constant, viral shouted protests by those of us who disagree will stop them.
https://www.buzzfeed.com/ryanhatesthis/heres-how-frances-national-front-...
1
The nomination of the next Supreme Court Justice should be made by the next president to win the popular vote.
5
The Democrats were "forced" to hold their nominee for nearly a year, until President Obama left office. I say we put the repulsives to the same time table. No nominees until t-rump has finished destroying our country and is behind bars.
2
Nope:
"This is not some silly fight about some rules of the Senate. This is a fight for the soul of the country. We are seeing a band of criminals who believe they are above the law (Republicans)..."
What you are seeing is the election winner exploiting his victory -- just as Hillary Clinton would have done if she'd won.
The Democratic Party should have thought of all this before they nominated Hillary Clinton. Almost anyone but Clinton could have beat Trump, but the DP insisted on nominating the one person who couldn't.
"This is not some silly fight about some rules of the Senate. This is a fight for the soul of the country. We are seeing a band of criminals who believe they are above the law (Republicans)..."
What you are seeing is the election winner exploiting his victory -- just as Hillary Clinton would have done if she'd won.
The Democratic Party should have thought of all this before they nominated Hillary Clinton. Almost anyone but Clinton could have beat Trump, but the DP insisted on nominating the one person who couldn't.
3
First, let me say that I agree that the GOP should have held confirmation hearings for Mr. Garland. That was a willful disregard for the duties of the Senate and should have had consequences in the past election.
However, there is no guarantee that had the hearings taken place, Mr. Garland would have been confirmed so I do not believe that it is accurate to make the claim that the seat was stolen. As to the election, claiming that was stolen is going even farther into the Brad Thor political thriller territory. There may have been attempts to influence the election by the Russians, which is no different from what we have done in numerous other countries.
When I was raising my children, the excuse that he did it first was not sufficient to excuse bad behavior. As I believe that the current crop of politicians on both sides of the aisle are behaving very immaturely, they need to be treated like the children they emulate and I will not accept that excuse from them either.
However, there is no guarantee that had the hearings taken place, Mr. Garland would have been confirmed so I do not believe that it is accurate to make the claim that the seat was stolen. As to the election, claiming that was stolen is going even farther into the Brad Thor political thriller territory. There may have been attempts to influence the election by the Russians, which is no different from what we have done in numerous other countries.
When I was raising my children, the excuse that he did it first was not sufficient to excuse bad behavior. As I believe that the current crop of politicians on both sides of the aisle are behaving very immaturely, they need to be treated like the children they emulate and I will not accept that excuse from them either.
1
The Democrats are running scared! I love to see the would-be-dictators running running running. They created the mess this country is in, and they're the reason why the majority of the voters elected Trump. Now they have to live with it. They can cry all they want, they can create all the fake news they want, but Trump is President thanks to their miserably failed administrations of past years.
5
When I lived in another area, I used to spend the holidays with a friend's family. She had a brother-in-law whose raison d'etre was to 'stir the pot.' I'll call him Uncle Buddy. Uncle Buddy reveled in making off-color and inappropriate comments. He regarded himself as a devil's advocate; in actuality he was just the devil. He was that guy who would ask an unmarried couple he knew to be living together when they were getting married." I recall him asking an elderly unwell widow when she'd start dating again. I vividly recall the stricken look on her face.
Of course, Uncle Buddy was an expert on everything - the Bible, politics, food. If you were enjoying your piece of grilled salmon, he would go into horrific detail describing the fecal-infested ponds and horrors of fish farming. None of us should have survived any of the meals prepared with tainted ingredients obtained from poorly managed agricultural enterprises.
Of course, Uncle Buddy hated President Obama. I won't go into detail; but, let's just say I'm glad my friend's husband had an implanted defibrillator for his heart condition.
Why was Uncle Buddy tolerated? Because his wife was the actual blood relative and it would have been unkind and unthinkable to exclude her because her husband was such a boor.
So now we have our Uncle Donny here for an extended holiday. I suggest we pack his bags, call a cab and send him home. He's not going to change and Aunt Melania is not a relative, no matter how sweet she is.
Of course, Uncle Buddy was an expert on everything - the Bible, politics, food. If you were enjoying your piece of grilled salmon, he would go into horrific detail describing the fecal-infested ponds and horrors of fish farming. None of us should have survived any of the meals prepared with tainted ingredients obtained from poorly managed agricultural enterprises.
Of course, Uncle Buddy hated President Obama. I won't go into detail; but, let's just say I'm glad my friend's husband had an implanted defibrillator for his heart condition.
Why was Uncle Buddy tolerated? Because his wife was the actual blood relative and it would have been unkind and unthinkable to exclude her because her husband was such a boor.
So now we have our Uncle Donny here for an extended holiday. I suggest we pack his bags, call a cab and send him home. He's not going to change and Aunt Melania is not a relative, no matter how sweet she is.
1
This is the best thing I've yet seen written on our current situation! Right on!
I am still waiting for one, just one, member of the Democratic Party to say the magic words: "The single most important thing we want to achieve is for President Trump to be a one-term president."
2
Though I sympathize in principle, the man should be judged on his qualifications. What good will it do to prolong the process by adopting the childish tactics of the GOP? In two years you are going to want a more sober alternative to vote for. The time for the Democrats to get tough was when Obama was nominating Garland. Unfortunately that ship has sailed.
2
I empathize with Mr. Blow's opinion here. However, more and more I feel progressives need to focus on voting out enough of Congress to be an actual force to be reckoned with. I am frustrated with Democratic leadership, and crave a new progressive leadership in the model of Bernie and Warren. The old guard may not have the chops for this fight ahead.
3
It's Thursday morning, I'm having coffee, reading the NYTimes, and once again he's here in the room with me, but I turned off the sound, it's magic, he's gone. If only it were this easy.
If only we could have a hearing for Judge Garland, we might find he's perfect, but that's not a possibility. So why then should we hear from Judge Gorsuch? He knows it's not personal, but the Democrats should fight his nomination with everything they have, because what goes around, comes around, and unfortunately he's in the way. If we could just turn it all off, think how much better we'd all feel.
If only we could have a hearing for Judge Garland, we might find he's perfect, but that's not a possibility. So why then should we hear from Judge Gorsuch? He knows it's not personal, but the Democrats should fight his nomination with everything they have, because what goes around, comes around, and unfortunately he's in the way. If we could just turn it all off, think how much better we'd all feel.
FINALLY! Mr Blow thank you for stating what the majority (re: popular vote) voted for in Nov 2016. This congressional cycle is not going to end well and if the Democrats don't fight they will be collateral damage in NOV 2018. Nancy and Chuck listen up: start acting like viable and coherent opposition or move on and let the next-generation take the mantle.
1
Everything Mr. Blow says about Trump is true. Ridding ourselves of Trump, however, will lead to the accession of Pence, an arguably more despicable tool of the corporate oligarchs. So let's be careful of what we wish for and how we frame our arguments.
I wonder what principal? The Resist everything principal that they hated when they accused Republicans of doing that? The problem is that their principals are only popular in some areas of the county, they are totally opposed in others. That is how Hillary won the enumerated count and lost the actual results. Now he will be confirmed and the next one will be also. Now I think the senate is lazy, as is the house. Go back to the old version of a filibuster in the senate, and all the promises are top priority we can work much harder and smarter and get all those bills written, through committee, and voted on by say June. Work no vacations.
Each day brings new shocks. This man Trump is mentally ill and should not be allowed to kidnap our country for his own (and his Crime Family's) enrichment.
I never thought as an American that I would ever think this thought: the military might need to take over. The Republicans will not stand up to him, that is clear. The Democrats can obfuscate but cannot stop his insanity. He needs to be gone before the cataclysmic event not after!
His raid on Yemen needs to be looked at. His ties with Russia. His arrogance with both our allies and our 'enemies'. WW3 will start in less than six months if something drastic is not done. And if so, there better be a draft with no exemptions. None. Especially not for imaginary bone spurs of the coward, the illegitimate president who is now ensconced in our sacred Oval Office. A man who has never even read the Constitution, much less understands it.
I never thought as an American that I would ever think this thought: the military might need to take over. The Republicans will not stand up to him, that is clear. The Democrats can obfuscate but cannot stop his insanity. He needs to be gone before the cataclysmic event not after!
His raid on Yemen needs to be looked at. His ties with Russia. His arrogance with both our allies and our 'enemies'. WW3 will start in less than six months if something drastic is not done. And if so, there better be a draft with no exemptions. None. Especially not for imaginary bone spurs of the coward, the illegitimate president who is now ensconced in our sacred Oval Office. A man who has never even read the Constitution, much less understands it.
1
Why are Democrats so eager to preserve a filibuster, If they are never going to use it? This is something I kept. Asking during Dubbya's presidency.
While Senate Republicans were doing all sorts of bad stuff, Democrats were always afraid to filibuster, because the Republicans might do away with it.
So they preserved the filibuster so that Republicans could use it against Obama.
Now that they are in the minority again, many Democrats are arguing that this is not important enough to use the filibuster. What is more important than a stolen Supreme Court seat? What will have a longer and more powerful effect on the country?
It is increasingly impossible for me to believe that such intelligent people could be shooting themselves in the foot for so long by accident.
While Senate Republicans were doing all sorts of bad stuff, Democrats were always afraid to filibuster, because the Republicans might do away with it.
So they preserved the filibuster so that Republicans could use it against Obama.
Now that they are in the minority again, many Democrats are arguing that this is not important enough to use the filibuster. What is more important than a stolen Supreme Court seat? What will have a longer and more powerful effect on the country?
It is increasingly impossible for me to believe that such intelligent people could be shooting themselves in the foot for so long by accident.
The irony of McCain's contention that we "should let the people decide" is that it resulted in the seat being stolen from one of our most popular presidents and given to our least popular president.
So, if anyone thinks this had anything to do with the wishes of the people, then you're sorely mistaken.
So, if anyone thinks this had anything to do with the wishes of the people, then you're sorely mistaken.
7
The reason that Democrats must fight this from the get go is to actually force the Republicans to own the nuclear option. If the Republicans do not use it on this nominee, they will just do it the next time. So have at it and be honest by taking the correct stand on a stolen seat. Since the Republicans are going to get what they want anyway, why would it ever be worthwhile to entertain notions of a temporary appeasement. Really now, to what gain would that be?
7
in war; playing nice never works. only one time in modern history during WWI did that work. and they really rued that with more vigor killing each other. so I agree, if they, Rs. revoke fillabuster they will rue that day in addition to all comments about tactics you mention.
"Trump is simply not behaving like a president with an eye trained on longevity." I agree he may not be behaving that way, but he's talking that way. He constantly refers to his second term as President. Take for example the prayer breakfast, where he said he hopes to be there for 7 more of them.
I'm just hoping he gets tired of the whole thing and resigns. Like yesterday. That's wishful thinking I know, but if he gets impeached, then that leaves us with Pence, who some believe is behind Trump's actions anyway (as opposed to Bannon).
And if Pence were to get impeached as well, then that leaves us with Paul Ryan, which may not be as terrible as the other two.
The whole thing is a nightmare that I just can't seem to wake up from.
I'm just hoping he gets tired of the whole thing and resigns. Like yesterday. That's wishful thinking I know, but if he gets impeached, then that leaves us with Pence, who some believe is behind Trump's actions anyway (as opposed to Bannon).
And if Pence were to get impeached as well, then that leaves us with Paul Ryan, which may not be as terrible as the other two.
The whole thing is a nightmare that I just can't seem to wake up from.
2
Selection of a nominee and voting on that nominee must, in all fairness, be postponed until after the 2018 election, at least. Most emphatically so due to McConnell's stated opposition to holding hearings at all if HRC won the election. Fair's fair.
4
Amazing how reality continues to escape The Times. Rewind-replay Garland first. DOA after Senate in good conscience advised Obama that consent would not be forthcoming. At that point, Obama had many good choices and a singularly bad one. Among the good choices was to eat humble pie angrily i.e. resign, eat stubbornly i.e. withdraw the nomination with an angry speech, or eat humbly, which meant accept his powerless position as one of his own creation and give a good-natured speech vowing to continue as President until end of term as quietly as possible.
Resignation was urged repeatedly by this commenter on these pages but ignored roundly. Other options were never on the table. Instead, Obama went ahead and nominated his lame-duck candidate together with a toothless, laughable do-your-job twitter campaign. Laughable because he himself had never come to grips with his own seven years after the fact.
Garland too, by sticking it out as symbolic weapon, confirmed that he was the wrong man for the job. What he should have done was withdraw, either in protest for being made a lame duck, or in wisdom that allowing himself to be one automatically disqualified him.
Now forward to the present. Gorsuch is a top-notch nominee with advance informal consent of not just the Senate but also the American people (never mind that 3m populous victory, a dubious claim of no value whatsoever). It's a fruit that's being thrust on Gorsuch, one that he richly deserves. Hurry him through.
Resignation was urged repeatedly by this commenter on these pages but ignored roundly. Other options were never on the table. Instead, Obama went ahead and nominated his lame-duck candidate together with a toothless, laughable do-your-job twitter campaign. Laughable because he himself had never come to grips with his own seven years after the fact.
Garland too, by sticking it out as symbolic weapon, confirmed that he was the wrong man for the job. What he should have done was withdraw, either in protest for being made a lame duck, or in wisdom that allowing himself to be one automatically disqualified him.
Now forward to the present. Gorsuch is a top-notch nominee with advance informal consent of not just the Senate but also the American people (never mind that 3m populous victory, a dubious claim of no value whatsoever). It's a fruit that's being thrust on Gorsuch, one that he richly deserves. Hurry him through.
4
"after senate in good conscience"? The whole point of this is that there was nothing of good conscience about the senate's decision at all; it was a pure low ball political power move without regard for anything but that. To pretend anything else is to signal that you have a completely closed mind that doesn't respond to basic common sense.
1
The McConnell Rule - if you can steal a Supreme Court seat, and you are a Republican, it's OK to do so.
4
Much as I'd like to see him gone, Trump resigning in a temper tantrum or because he wants to start a new TV show, the idea of Pence in the White House is even scarier. Pence has clear agenda and it is not one that loves his fellow man of color, non conservative Christian, gay person or woman of any variety. Bannon is a threat to all civilized behavior. We can only hope someone gives Trump some grammar lessons and he finds new best friends who explain that his place in history will be the largest black spot imaginable. The only way to placate the little man is through his very large ego; right, wrong, morality or education are of little meaning to him.
8
"Political crime scene." Best phrase I've seen yet. The high road the Dems need to step onto at this point is about fearlessness, not cooperation. We all know what's going on won't lead to anything good. You don't cooperate with sociopaths, dictators, or criminals. Here, we have all three.
10
I do not agree with Mr. Blow at all. What the Democrats should go is hold a hearing and listen to what the man has to say. Ask good questions. Get him on the record for as much as you possibly can. Does he agree with Trump's castigation of the Mexican judge? Name an opinion that you wrote that you do not agree with but you had to decide that way based on the law? Does he agree with the Congress' position that they NEVER had to vote on a Supreme Court candidate at all. Yes the candidate needs their approval but McConnell said that they never had to give it. They could sit on their hands and do nothing. Does the judge agree that Congress never has to do anything and still keep their jobs and not be impeached? Then when you are done vote. If you do not like him, vote against him. Period.
3
Wrong, sorry. This is a stolen seat. So stall, stall, stall. Then at the end, when the vote comes, you will have accumulated good reasons to filibuster. Delay as long as possible, and then filibuster. If the Republicans use the nuclear option, that's all to the good - the conservative minority has mainly benefited from it in the past, so they will be hurting their own future. The Dems win at least a partial victory either way. Anything else, and they lose.
2
The Democrats have put themselves in this situation. Here in PA the eminently qualified Joe Sestak who could have beat the deplorable Pat Toomey was dissed by the establishment in favor of the ethically compromised Katie McGinty. Same thing happened with the recently convicted felon PA Attorney General Kathleen Kane. She was favored by the party apparatus over the much more qualified ex congressman Patrick Murphy, Fortunately we were able to save the AG seat with Josh Shapiro. Shapiro led the Democratic takeover of the Montgomery County government for the first time in 150 years, and brought sound fiscal responsibility to a government in Republican induced chaos.
We need more leaders like him to get the Democratic party back on track.
We need more leaders like him to get the Democratic party back on track.
5
Indeed, we do need SOMEONE with backbone and ethics in every corner of the Democratic Party. Debbie Wasserman Schultz sold out Bernie Sanders and did little to support and retain senate seats held by Dems.
While it may take a few generations to undo the gerrymandering victories created by Republican political gangsters (funded with Koch money), I agree with you. We need real leadership at every level of government in the country. Thanks for your view from PA. It is a great petry dish for the DNC to examine and use to make future adjustments for DNC victories in 2018 and 2020.
While it may take a few generations to undo the gerrymandering victories created by Republican political gangsters (funded with Koch money), I agree with you. We need real leadership at every level of government in the country. Thanks for your view from PA. It is a great petry dish for the DNC to examine and use to make future adjustments for DNC victories in 2018 and 2020.
2
Senate democrats may well lose this battle, but help win the broader war against the evil of Trumpian politics. Many of us in the democratic base fear we are led by cowards.
8
Thank you, Charles for this excellent OpEd. Just last night I laid out this exact argument for my husband on our nightly dog walk. We who are opposed to Trump -- and we're the majority -- have let our democratic senators know we want them to grow a backbone and take this stand! As the saying goes, you don't bring a knife to a gun fight. The republicans have mastered this and are in lockstep. They're going to pull the nuclear option anyway. We're going to lose this battle, but in fighting tooth and nail, I believe we will win the war. Democratic Senators, send a message to your base that your willing to fight!
6
To paraphrase Winston Churchill when our entire civilization was being attacked and was close to being destroyed:
We must fight in the halls of Congress
We must fight in the courts
We must fight in agency hearings
We must fight in the state capitols, in the county boards and city councils
We must fight in the press, online and on cable
And, if necessary,
We must fight in the fields and in the streets.
We must never surrender.
We must fight in the halls of Congress
We must fight in the courts
We must fight in agency hearings
We must fight in the state capitols, in the county boards and city councils
We must fight in the press, online and on cable
And, if necessary,
We must fight in the fields and in the streets.
We must never surrender.
10
Beautifully stated with the great Churchill for inspiration. Not only must we never surrender, we must fight to, 1) Impeach Trump and, 2) Imprison Trump, Bannon, Conway & Company for sedition and treason. Our democracy is being taken over by the alt-right/white nationalist agenda proferred by Bannon to the Boy-King Donald.
This president has a brain of Silly Putty, easily molded by Bannon and KellyAnn ConJob. Their agenda is to put absolute control of all three branches of government into the hands of a powerful group of Republican operatives working for the "one percenters." We are moving at warp speed into the Second Gilded Age while laying the groundwork for the next Great Depression. The radically conservative base of the GOP will go along with this agenda thanks to Fox and friends. After enduring enormously painful economic and social damage, right-of-center voters will edge closer to the Democrats to re-engage in the tradition of give-and-take negotiations and compromise. This is how our nation and our democracy will recover from the devastation wrought by TeamTrump.
This president has a brain of Silly Putty, easily molded by Bannon and KellyAnn ConJob. Their agenda is to put absolute control of all three branches of government into the hands of a powerful group of Republican operatives working for the "one percenters." We are moving at warp speed into the Second Gilded Age while laying the groundwork for the next Great Depression. The radically conservative base of the GOP will go along with this agenda thanks to Fox and friends. After enduring enormously painful economic and social damage, right-of-center voters will edge closer to the Democrats to re-engage in the tradition of give-and-take negotiations and compromise. This is how our nation and our democracy will recover from the devastation wrought by TeamTrump.
1
Republicans decided last year not to even consider hearings for Mr. Obama's nominee Mr. Garland. They have decided upon the rules of engagement. If they don't like the idea that Democrats may filibuster his nomination, they should have considered their path more carefully. The Democrats, in turn, must proceed with the filibuster to emphasize as publicly as possible that opposition exists.
10
Yes Charles, we are officially in a class war. The Democrats either fight this or they are going into oblivion just like the Republicans. The Republicans are blind and giddy and have no idea what is coming at them.
8
I agree 100% with Mr. Blow. To Democrats under the illusion that this is still a "Gentleman's Game", it's not. The Republicans have - through relative disunity over the last 6 years- been able to stymie and dull any Progrssive advancements. If Democrats are able to show *solid unity* and stand up together we will win in 2018 and beyond. Two things; 1) millions of people such as myself are furious and 2) the people that voted for Trump forget that the Republican Party is the party whose entire philosophy has backed the unwinding of Industry in the Rust Belt and in the South East. Our anger will not abate and the Republican Party is not going to change their core philosophy over Trump. Stonewall until he's impeached. Force the Republican hand. Then we will take to the streets in greater numbers!
7
Normally I would applaud efforts to go 'high' when they go 'low', but over the past decade it's become pretty obvious that Republicans are no longer interested in a 2-party system of government. They seek a permanent 1-party system with no need for compromise, dissent, new ideas, diversity or the hot, flat, crowded world of the 21st Century. From scorched-earth opposition to Obama to gerrymandered House districts, to no-pulse acquiescence to the Trumpocalypse, they have made plain their craving for complete dominance of our Republic. Resist!
9
Where are our Dem leaders? Crickets.....
They appear unable to effectively challenge the narrative that the Republicans are selling to the American people. He allows myths to be sold as truth and unpopular ideas to be sold as trends. And as Carville is suggesting, whatever version of failure that is -- whether it's a problem with communication, leadership, management, economic strategizing, etc. -- it's failure by somebody, and those somebodies ought to be replaced.
They appear unable to effectively challenge the narrative that the Republicans are selling to the American people. He allows myths to be sold as truth and unpopular ideas to be sold as trends. And as Carville is suggesting, whatever version of failure that is -- whether it's a problem with communication, leadership, management, economic strategizing, etc. -- it's failure by somebody, and those somebodies ought to be replaced.
3
The first rule in politics is pick the fights you can win. The Supreme court choice is not however a fight the Democrats will win. The Republicans can cancel the filibuster for Supreme Court picks if they want to and will if they have to. I don't think Mr. Blow understands if the Democrats are then able to wrest majority control of the Senate back in 2018, they is no way for them to take advantage of the absence of a filibuster for Supreme Court nominations. The filibuster only helps to obstruct, and a Democratic Senate will *still* be wanting to obstruct Trump's (or Pence's) Supreme Court picks. So in 2018 a Democratic majority will vote back in the filibuster.
C'mon, this is why the Democrats are in such terrible shape. No tactical sense and no brains.
C'mon, this is why the Democrats are in such terrible shape. No tactical sense and no brains.
3
abo:
If politics were only a matter of "picking fights you can win," then the French Résistance would never have bothered having its first meeting. But in fact, the combined forces and alliances of the French Résistance saved tens of thousands of Jews.
That is a victory.
Your opinion is not just of defeatism but of collaboration. It is immoral as it is false.
If politics were only a matter of "picking fights you can win," then the French Résistance would never have bothered having its first meeting. But in fact, the combined forces and alliances of the French Résistance saved tens of thousands of Jews.
That is a victory.
Your opinion is not just of defeatism but of collaboration. It is immoral as it is false.
No, they are in such terrible shape because they never stand on principle, they always stand on crud.
1
As a member of the bar, I find it saddening that Judge Gorsuch would even consider accepting the nomination. Or anyone, for that matter. The Judicial Branch needs to retain independence from the caustic partisanship of the other two branches. All potential nominees should have the integrity to say "no thank you, Mr. President, the Senate should first give a vote to Judge Garland, the rightful nominee." Regardless of political persuasion, all future judicial nominees will be tainted by Judge Gorsuch's irresponsible and selfish actions.
6
About the plethora of edicts: Trump is a malignant narcissist--one who must be the center of attention all the time. The endless edicts, the speed of their release, the photo ops are all attention-getting-devices driven by his insatiable hunger to be a "star"---he barely understands what the effects of his sloppy self serving demands are because his only focus is on himself.
2
multigenerational apparatchik. I don't see how he cannot be deeply shaped by seeing his Mom run out of DC 35 years ago.
Amen to the fire in your pen!
1
I got a kick out of Chuck Schumer "crying" the other day. I guess that passes for "soft" in Charles Blow's alternate universe. Where were his tears when close to 900 people were murdered in Chicago over the last year? Clearly those black lives don't matter to the democratic party(small d, small p).
One more thing. The adults are now in charge, evidenced by another rhetorical NYTimes editorial temper tantrum.
One more thing. The adults are now in charge, evidenced by another rhetorical NYTimes editorial temper tantrum.
4
I'm sympthetic to the position of standing on principal. At the same time, "having the supreme court hanging in the balance of every election" is just getting ridiculous. McConnell and Schumer are both wily veterans. They need to try and repair this process. And given Trump's only ideology is to himself, he is in a position to extend an olive branch. Therefore, the grand bargain would be: Replace Scalia's seat, with Gorsuch; if Kennedy retires, replace him with a right leaning judge; and if Bader-Ginsburg retires instead or after Kennedy, Trump would bring renominate Judge Garland. Trump get's to be the bi-partisan hero (with both Schumer and McConnell in on it) thus putting an end to this supreme court existential ping-pong match. The country needs a governing plan; not a political plan.
You suggest trusting McConnell?
1
This requires the administration to be wise and fair, which it is not. It's Lucy, Charlie Brown and the football all over again.
1
I agree 1000 percent Charles. I also believe the time is now for a Democratic Party revolution. We must reinvent ourselves in dramatic fashion. You are absolutely correct that we must fight the GOP and Trump on every turn. We are 180 degrees in opposition to all they stand for. This current president and his party endorse racism, sexism, lies, voter suppression and facism. Their only motivation is to stay in power and to make the richest richer while fooling the working class that they have their best interests at heart. We Democrats became too complacent in the last 8 years and didn't see the creeping menace that now has thrown this country into a constitutional and moral crisis. A change is going to come and let it begin with our representatives. Thank you
6
"Pundits have been applauding like a pod of trained seals...."
Harem (of trained seals) would be the preferred collective noun for anything related to Trump.
Harem (of trained seals) would be the preferred collective noun for anything related to Trump.
2
While I agree that the Republicans have fought dirty over the past eight years and are the definition of hypocrites, we shouldn't join them by repaying in like kind for something as basic as whether Judge Gorsuch should have a hearing.
I agree that Democrats and, really, everyone should be fighting tooth and nail right now, but we shouldn't spread ourselves too thinly, batting at everything that moves. The list of issues that require our undivided attention and resolve is incredibly long and seems to increase exponentially on a daily basis.
Let's not go down in the history books as equals of the hypocritical Republicans, who got so wrapped up in their political warring that they allowed the United States to be unraveled by a madman. This is not the equivalent of having no backbone, simply possessing prudence.
I agree that Democrats and, really, everyone should be fighting tooth and nail right now, but we shouldn't spread ourselves too thinly, batting at everything that moves. The list of issues that require our undivided attention and resolve is incredibly long and seems to increase exponentially on a daily basis.
Let's not go down in the history books as equals of the hypocritical Republicans, who got so wrapped up in their political warring that they allowed the United States to be unraveled by a madman. This is not the equivalent of having no backbone, simply possessing prudence.
Excellent piece, Charles Blow!
I agree with your idea to force an asterisk on to "the fruit of a poison tree" Gorsuch.
But I'm not sure why you think Trump doesnt really want the job much longer. He is already taking donations, having declared himself a 2020 Presidential candidate -- 5 hours after taking office on 1/20/2017. Trump may not want the job, but the puppetmaster, Steve Bannon, needs him.
I agree with your idea to force an asterisk on to "the fruit of a poison tree" Gorsuch.
But I'm not sure why you think Trump doesnt really want the job much longer. He is already taking donations, having declared himself a 2020 Presidential candidate -- 5 hours after taking office on 1/20/2017. Trump may not want the job, but the puppetmaster, Steve Bannon, needs him.
5
Yes. It makes no sense to capitulate now. When facing a bully you have to stand up for yourself -- and it is more than high time for Democrats to figure that out. And if the Republicans don't eliminate the filibuster this time, they will next time if they need to. Finally, just like the Blue Dog Democrats are extinct, if it means that Red State Democratic senators lose...well they are likely to anyway. I just don't see the downside of hanging tough. And besides maybe winning a fight now and then, the Democrats might win back some respect.
6
It's simple. Democrats have nothing to gain by cooperating with Republicans and everything to lose. The only power Democrats have is their base of supporters and if they cooperate, they lose that. The delusion that Democrats can get anything done right now is just that - but Republicans need Democrats. If there's no price to pay for Republican obstructionism, and Democrats keep acting like sheep, Republicans win, and Democrats continue to lose. So until Republicans yell uncle, Democrats need to obstruct, obstruct, obstruct.
4
No truer words than we are "in the middle of a guerrilla war." It's hard to wake up every day and get a dose of Donald Trump's vicious reality. This may be the worst crisis of my lifetime, worse than Viet Nam, worse than Abu Ghraib--not that our government didn't behave in horrible ways then--but now EVERYTHING is on the chopping block, environmental protection, reproductive rights, civil rights including voting rights, coherent foreign policy, support for research and the arts, support for sensible banking reform, humanitarian aid--everything. And for what? None of this has anything to do with economic populism, no, this is an out-of-control and moronic government out to create chaos, with no benefits to anyone but those creating the policy. I'm not even sure I know what their rewards will be. Attention? The wrath of every right thinking human being?
280
Too bad the guerrilla war will include the nuclear option, which will make all Dem efforts at obstruction, on Gorsuch and all else, worthless. The Republicans were much too tough for Obama, and they're certainly much too tough for poor, weepy Schumer. Fighting Trump's plans in his toady Republican Congress will be like trying to fight Huey P. Long in his Louisiana legislature. Trump is, de facto, the most powerful president in history. The Dems simply don't have the cards to defeat this guy. If they don't beat him badly in 2018, and I doubt they will, the Dems are going to be pitiful by-standers for as long as Trump is in power.
1
Dubbya got pretty much everything he wanted from Democrats. At least of they kill the filibuster (especially the all powerful threat of a filibuster which doesn't even require more than filing a piece of paper) the next time Democrats are in power they would be able to do something.
Agree completely. The Democrats should fight an unquestionably qualified appointee just like the Republicans did. Go down fighting, like the Alamo. They'll get their appointee(s), but not without a fight.
A wild theory of mine is that once Repbulicans do get much of what they want they will turn on Trump.
A wild theory of mine is that once Repbulicans do get much of what they want they will turn on Trump.
3
Democrats can't block Gorsuch on principles, they have no principles.
Oh, and are democrats now concerned about foreign countries influencing elections? That didn't seem to bother then too much when Obama tried ti influence the Brexit election in England or the Netanyahu election in Israel.
I think this is called Karma.
And it was Obama and the democrats that blew up that bipartisan bridge, remember? "Elections have consequences, I won." That was Obama.
Oh, and are democrats now concerned about foreign countries influencing elections? That didn't seem to bother then too much when Obama tried ti influence the Brexit election in England or the Netanyahu election in Israel.
I think this is called Karma.
And it was Obama and the democrats that blew up that bipartisan bridge, remember? "Elections have consequences, I won." That was Obama.
3
Elections seemed to have NO consequences when Republicans refused to consider Obama's nomination for the Supreme Court. Now you want us to act any differently than those beasts did?
2
Of course I agree that Trump's presidency is poison, but two statements here are dubious:
1) "Trump is simply not behaving like a president with an eye trained on longevity." Then, why, with such arrogant presumption, has he repeatedly referred to his upcoming tenure as "eight years?" I have never heard any president, refer, from the beginning, to his tenure in office as "eight years."
2) "His furious...pace of edicts also bespeaks a man who feels like he's on a clock and his time is running out." This might be true if Trump were a passionate idealogue, but he's not---he's strictly an opportunist who has found or helped create issues which have provided him with a path to power. He doesn't care about anything. There is nothing genuine or honorable about him. His understanding is limited, and his goals really just come down to self-love and aggrandizement---everything else, including the country, and the very planet we live on, be damned.
1) "Trump is simply not behaving like a president with an eye trained on longevity." Then, why, with such arrogant presumption, has he repeatedly referred to his upcoming tenure as "eight years?" I have never heard any president, refer, from the beginning, to his tenure in office as "eight years."
2) "His furious...pace of edicts also bespeaks a man who feels like he's on a clock and his time is running out." This might be true if Trump were a passionate idealogue, but he's not---he's strictly an opportunist who has found or helped create issues which have provided him with a path to power. He doesn't care about anything. There is nothing genuine or honorable about him. His understanding is limited, and his goals really just come down to self-love and aggrandizement---everything else, including the country, and the very planet we live on, be damned.
5
He is moving fast because he wants to steal as much as possible before the People figure out what is going on.
Too bad Obama and the Democrats didn't move this fast to pass a stimulus, create universal single payer healthcare, and prosecute the banksters that destroyed the economy.
Too bad Obama and the Democrats didn't move this fast to pass a stimulus, create universal single payer healthcare, and prosecute the banksters that destroyed the economy.
If Judge Gorsuch had any decency, ethic, or professional integrity, he would decline the nomination and insist that his colleague, Merrick Garland, to whom the seat rightly belongs, be given a hearing. This move would take the matter out of the hands of our political parties and restore some faith in the power of our judicial institutions- badly in need of repair after decades of being treated as a partisan football. Falling on his sword in the name of justice and decency would be a deeply patriotic gesture on Judge Gorsuch's part. But decency and justice are no longer the name of the game, are they?
12
Brilliant
Let them go nuclear. There is eight years worth of evidence that playing nice is hopeless. Let the Republicans completely own the next two years. Let people know that there is a strong alternative approach.
6
I have wondered about Gorsuch's own moral compass by accepting this. But I guess the status, power and privilege of the job out ways any ethical misgivings.
7
Yes if he was qualified for the Supreme Court, he would demand that Obama's nominee went first.
Obviously, Blow needs the help of one of Trump's nominees, Devos, because he cannot count. "Even if Republicans change the rules now, there is no guarantee — with the incredible amount of public oppositional energy and engagement we now see against this president — that the Republicans will even be able to maintain control of the Senate beyond the midterms." Dems are defending 25 seats (more than half their caucus) including 10 seats in states that Trump won. Rather than lose the Senate, the GOP may have a fillibuster proof majority.
And Dems want to pretend they are taking this "bridge on the high road". But the reality is that if you look at numerous senior Dems of the past (e.g. Reid who is 2005 said (In opposing George W. Bush’s nomination of Samuel Alito), "Nowhere in th[e Constitution] ... does it say the Senate has a duty to give presidential nominees a vote.”). Dems will say similar things about Republicans.
It's hard to say who threw the first stone ? But the reality is that it almost impossible to consider that Garland would be approved given the fact that Dems only had 46 votes and were unlikely to find 14 more when this would change the majority on the Court for the first time in 40 years. The further reality is that Republicans hold the WH and the Senate. As such, Gorsuch will be confirmed. If Dems force the issue, the GOP will end the filibuster. But this will remove what little leverage Dems have left.
And Dems want to pretend they are taking this "bridge on the high road". But the reality is that if you look at numerous senior Dems of the past (e.g. Reid who is 2005 said (In opposing George W. Bush’s nomination of Samuel Alito), "Nowhere in th[e Constitution] ... does it say the Senate has a duty to give presidential nominees a vote.”). Dems will say similar things about Republicans.
It's hard to say who threw the first stone ? But the reality is that it almost impossible to consider that Garland would be approved given the fact that Dems only had 46 votes and were unlikely to find 14 more when this would change the majority on the Court for the first time in 40 years. The further reality is that Republicans hold the WH and the Senate. As such, Gorsuch will be confirmed. If Dems force the issue, the GOP will end the filibuster. But this will remove what little leverage Dems have left.
1
Samuel Alito got a vote, and your education Secretary is a plagiarist.
What can the Democrats do to change this trajectory? I think it is going to depend on a few principaled and honorable republicans to do the decent and moral thing and stand up to this Coup. As a life long Democrat I hope there are some in office. I know there are.
5
"Democratic leadership" is an oxymoron. Pelosi and Schumer stood by when the Republicans steamrolled every Obama initiative and acquiesced on every Trump appointment. During the election, they vacated the center and handed it to Trump. They are the problem, not the solution. It's time for some dynamic young blood to step up and play hardball.
10
While Mr. Blow is certainly entitled to his opinion--I fail to see why the NY Times feels the need to countenance such hatred, venom, and disrespect within its pages.
Calling our new president, no matter how you feel about him, an idiot, or a "blathering half-wit"--or suggesting that he was illegitimately elected by Vladimir Putin--thereby disparaging millions of Americans who voted for him--has no place in civil society.
While it is true that certain of Obama's misguided detractors disparaged him for being a socialist, or a Muslim, or suggested he was not born here--none of those accusations were made by columnists of respectable media outlets.
Let's be clear: we value dissent in this country. We allow peaceful protests and protect freedom of the press. But we also have a tradition of respect--whereby we may not agree with the policies of the person holding office--but we still respect the office.
In the end, if we want to hang onto our democratic traditions--such as the peaceful transition of power, and have some hope of coming together as a nation, this type of incendiary hatred spewed by folks like Mr. Blow, needs to be moderated. It can do nothing--but to lead to the type of violence we witnessed in Washington D.C. on inauguration day--and ruin all chances of political accommodation.
I call on the NY times to rein in this type of disrespect for the office of the President. As for Mr. Blow, perhaps the Black Panthers have a newsletter he can edit.
Calling our new president, no matter how you feel about him, an idiot, or a "blathering half-wit"--or suggesting that he was illegitimately elected by Vladimir Putin--thereby disparaging millions of Americans who voted for him--has no place in civil society.
While it is true that certain of Obama's misguided detractors disparaged him for being a socialist, or a Muslim, or suggested he was not born here--none of those accusations were made by columnists of respectable media outlets.
Let's be clear: we value dissent in this country. We allow peaceful protests and protect freedom of the press. But we also have a tradition of respect--whereby we may not agree with the policies of the person holding office--but we still respect the office.
In the end, if we want to hang onto our democratic traditions--such as the peaceful transition of power, and have some hope of coming together as a nation, this type of incendiary hatred spewed by folks like Mr. Blow, needs to be moderated. It can do nothing--but to lead to the type of violence we witnessed in Washington D.C. on inauguration day--and ruin all chances of political accommodation.
I call on the NY times to rein in this type of disrespect for the office of the President. As for Mr. Blow, perhaps the Black Panthers have a newsletter he can edit.
6
The article ended on a raciest note, a typical Trump supporter.
4
Mr. Blow is a regular contributor to these pages - and I think printing this is called respecting free speech, and freedom of the press. As for disrespect - it's one thing to respect the office of President, it's another thing to criticize an individual who himself clearly has no respect for that office.
4
Civil society Jesse. Please describethat when You think of YOUR current President. Thanks for the high minded sermon. It's falling on deaf ears after war ching and listening to the Republicans in 2016.
2
Very simple: to reward misbehavior is to encourage and validate it. The so-called Democrats have but one choice, and that is not to affirm the so-called Republicans awful gambit with our Democracy.
14
Amen Charles! My beloved party is soft and spineless. It has been with increasing frustration and now, despair, that I have watched the GOP run rampant over President Obama, the 2016 election and now the country. We currently do not have a 2-party system, thanks in large part, to the Russians and James Comey. But there is one other individual who bears responsibility for this nightmare: President Obama. President Barack Obama who remained silent about the illegal actions of the Russians to sway this election away from the candidate who received the most votes. I will never understand why he let that situation continue until after the election. He has left us at the mercy of a vile, unstable, vindictive, stupid maniac.
8
This column and E.J. Dionne's in WaPo blow away Mitch McConnell's pompous, pluperfectly hypocritical tripe in today's WaPo. Fight! Repubs will respect a Dem surrender about as much as they did President Obama's well-intentioned but too-saintly efforts to communicate and cooperate with them for the first two years of his term.
14
Obama actually kept extending his hand only to get back a bloody stump, for an entire six years. It was only the last two years that he started signing executive orders of the type Trump is using in the first two weeks.
2
Make Mitch wait 2 years, play his game. It's only fair !
11
Yes, I know, the Times photo of the sign "Oppose Gorsuch" was a fill in the blank poster. Right Wing Hate Radio has been all over that, claiming Never Trumpers were against whomever Trump nominated. On that rare occasion, they were correct.
The Trump Resistance is just that, payback for the eight years of Republican Obstructionism against President Obama. The days of we bleeding heart Liberals being asked to "understand" those who are less educated, the good decent working class of not very sophisticated Flyover Country Folks is over, done, kaput as Herr Trump's ancestors might say.
The Trump Resistance will make McConnell's Republican Raiders attacks on President Obama appear child's play. We Blue State Elites are sick and tired of fronting the bill for the poorly educated and poor Red States whose majorities think we owe them help just because they choose to remain stupid when it comes to everything from Climate Change to Evolution.
Yes, we are sick and tired of having to pull Red States weight. It's about time they realized if they are ignorant enough to vote Trump and Republican, who have no interest in helping them, then it's time we Donor States to those Taker States learned a harsh lesson. The buck stops here.
DD
Manhattan
The Trump Resistance is just that, payback for the eight years of Republican Obstructionism against President Obama. The days of we bleeding heart Liberals being asked to "understand" those who are less educated, the good decent working class of not very sophisticated Flyover Country Folks is over, done, kaput as Herr Trump's ancestors might say.
The Trump Resistance will make McConnell's Republican Raiders attacks on President Obama appear child's play. We Blue State Elites are sick and tired of fronting the bill for the poorly educated and poor Red States whose majorities think we owe them help just because they choose to remain stupid when it comes to everything from Climate Change to Evolution.
Yes, we are sick and tired of having to pull Red States weight. It's about time they realized if they are ignorant enough to vote Trump and Republican, who have no interest in helping them, then it's time we Donor States to those Taker States learned a harsh lesson. The buck stops here.
DD
Manhattan
401
How about the return of federal dollars to the blue states? We pay out more than we get back.
2
Dennis, we are of one mind. We face a moral and Constitutional crisis, and the core of it is taxation without representation. Here in California, as it is in New York, we have 2 senators. With 38 million of the nations 312 million citizens, California should have an equal proportion of Senators - that would be 12. And across the board, all states should have an equal proportion of Presidential Electors - that would be equivalent to election by popular vote, and we know how often that doesn't happen as things stand. The only way to secure these basic rights to one-person one vote, and taxation only with equal representation, will be to threaten secession. Even partial secession by the sequestering of all tax payments to the Federal government would be an effective strategy. Only if the states that have lost so much over the decades take bold action will things be righted - little battles over an illegal Supreme Court process are important, but they will not get the job done.
2
I think Trump is in a vise. His Narcissism and ADD prevent him from ever being presidential or trusted. He is under a microscope of scrutiny. He lies reflexively. He is ill equipped for the job, as are his nominees. He has to sense all this on some survival level. It has to be a little like the dream where you have a Math final, but you haven't studied all semester.
If the hatred builds, if the crowds grow, if the name "Trump" (valued by DT at $3 billion) becomes synonymous with deceit, incompetence, venality and destruction, it WILL get to him. Narcissists cannot stand a mirror that reveals their flaws.
We need to hold up the mirror, as a people-- one that shows the Emperor is wearing no clothes. Occupy Washington?
If the hatred builds, if the crowds grow, if the name "Trump" (valued by DT at $3 billion) becomes synonymous with deceit, incompetence, venality and destruction, it WILL get to him. Narcissists cannot stand a mirror that reveals their flaws.
We need to hold up the mirror, as a people-- one that shows the Emperor is wearing no clothes. Occupy Washington?
10
Those of us not born white land-owning males (and thus unable to vote in the early days of the Republic) are far less likely to be fans of the "originalist" movement than the Republicans (mostly white land-owning males). What is so attractive about trying to fashion a legal system for a world where the fastest way to communicate was to jump on your horse, ride like mad, and then tell your listener the news after you catch your breath? And why should we feel comfortable with a compromise that left the system of slavery in place for large swaths of the country?
I see no magic and little value in being true to the set of conditions that existed at the time of the founding of the Republic. We have grown and developed as a society and as individuals, and we know better now than they did then. So to try to keep flesh and blood people today bound to a 1700s view of the world is ridiculous and mean.
Thomas Jefferson met with Alexander von Humbolt, the explorer and scientist who began the scientific discovery of the interconnectedness of the natural world. Unlike Trump, Jefferson wanted to know more about the real world. Can we count on Justice Gorsuch to support Republican efforts to gut the EPA and its regulations because no one in 1700 knew that climate could be affected by the actions of humans? Indeed, that was one of von Humbolt's key discoveries. Time for Republicans to wake up and smell the coffee.
I see no magic and little value in being true to the set of conditions that existed at the time of the founding of the Republic. We have grown and developed as a society and as individuals, and we know better now than they did then. So to try to keep flesh and blood people today bound to a 1700s view of the world is ridiculous and mean.
Thomas Jefferson met with Alexander von Humbolt, the explorer and scientist who began the scientific discovery of the interconnectedness of the natural world. Unlike Trump, Jefferson wanted to know more about the real world. Can we count on Justice Gorsuch to support Republican efforts to gut the EPA and its regulations because no one in 1700 knew that climate could be affected by the actions of humans? Indeed, that was one of von Humbolt's key discoveries. Time for Republicans to wake up and smell the coffee.
10
Blow's columns all seem to believe that planting the seeds of hate will somehow be rained in fairy dust and somehow be vindiccated as championing good. That's not the way to right the ship; it's a way to put a double asterisk on the next nominee and a triple asterisk on the one after that.
Robert Caro once said (speaking about Robert Moses) that power is a difficult sword: the tighter you grasp it the more it cuts your hand. That goes for both sides. I hope less hateful minds will see a different path to resolution to make the same point.
I've never read a columnist as dedicated to undiluted hate as this one. Shakespearean overtones aside, it's like the three witches rolled into one columnist's pen. Doesn't persuade me the way more reasoned discourse might.
Robert Caro once said (speaking about Robert Moses) that power is a difficult sword: the tighter you grasp it the more it cuts your hand. That goes for both sides. I hope less hateful minds will see a different path to resolution to make the same point.
I've never read a columnist as dedicated to undiluted hate as this one. Shakespearean overtones aside, it's like the three witches rolled into one columnist's pen. Doesn't persuade me the way more reasoned discourse might.
9
Sorry Charly, too little too late. Abortion will be criminalized, followed by birth control and physician assisted suicide. Oh and Charly, go to the back of the bus. The moral minority now have their form of Christian sharia law firmly in power. I'm fine with it, we deserve to be punished. I could care less if our population explodes, poverty increases and our air and water is polluted beyond repair. Maybe someday in the far future people will remember how stupid the American electorate behaved and will hold us in contempt. Stupid is as stupid does, are we great yet?
2
If there are people in the far future, who have survived pollution and global warming.
An appeasement strategy in the name of civility evokes memories of Neville Chamberlain and the Munich Agreement. Being able to play nicely in the sandbox does not work when you are dealing with individuals who are greedily gathering and exerting power. It is time for Democrats to "grow a spine." Your political base will thank you.
6
I can't count the number of times I've heard people here in WV sneeringly describe democrats as wimps. Maybe if democrats started to fight back, that perception would change. What do we have to lose? I say "Fight!"
2
I smell a theocracy continuing. Religion seems to be the central justification of the United States exceptionalism. There appears to be no separation of Church and State anymore. Hard to see the difference between the Iranian Ayatollahs, Suadi's Wahabbism, Putin's Orthodox Christianity or American Evangelism of the Protestant, Catholic and Jewish apocalypse variety to justify wealth transfer.
The The United States Supreme Court is a corporate court assembled to justify an oligarchy and to continue the Civil War. After all no civilized nation interprets its laws from the 17th century.
The The United States Supreme Court is a corporate court assembled to justify an oligarchy and to continue the Civil War. After all no civilized nation interprets its laws from the 17th century.
2
Tell me that the next time the Queen comes to visit Canada
1
Also, there's nothing like a fight to energize your base. If the Democrats in the Senate refuse to take this fight seriously, it will be immensely demoralizing to the people who turned out last weekend and the weekend before that to oppose Trump.
4
"This seat on the Supreme Court was stolen from Barack Obama".... Stolen my eye! If a president can''t get the consent or a vote from Congress, any appointments he makes are worth so much spit. This argument akin to saying: That Mercedes Benz I was eyeing was "stolen" from me because I couldn't get the advice and consent of the loan company..
5
"Democrats have grown too soft..." Actually, Democrats have been too soft since at least 2000 when Republicans raced down to Florida to show they meant business. And in 2004 when John Kerry's reputation was soiled by the Swift Boat ads, Kerry being too much of a "gentleman" to contest them. Or Obama for years not stooping to respond to absurd birther accusation (from Trump among many others) which as a result dragged on, burying itself deeper and deeper into the American heartland's psyche. And then came the 2016 presidential elections, stolen not so much by "Russians" or James Comey (that was too late) as by ongoing voter suppression engineered by the Republicans themselves (see Crosscheck) at the state and local level. And once Trump wins, he rubs it into the faces of the Democrats with cabinet appointments that are a travesty on so many fronts. So will the Democrats discover their spine and stand up in any real way against this grievous onslaught by billionaire me-firsters, Big Oil, industrial agriculture and knee-jerk jingoism? If history is anything to go by, don't hold your breath.
4
Love your essays Charles Blow, you are a beacon and a man whose principles I admire constantly. Resist!
3
It's people like Blow, with their constant vitriol, who are tearing this country apart. What does he hope to accomplish with his hatred and hysteria? Does he expect a better, saner country to result? Does riling up the folks into a frenzy lead to anything positive? Blow is the problem, not the solution.
6
Charles, I too would not be surprised if Trump does not serve out his full term by his own choice. Given his mercurial nature, he will get bored by the job sooner rather than later, declare "victory" for himself claiming that he achieved what he wanted to achieve, whether he did or not, and will walk away. It's not a certainty, and some might say that this is wishful thinking, but I think it is really possible. One can only hope.
2
Trouble is, any Supreme Court nominee who is fine with Trump will be fine with Pence. Democrats will have to fight tooth and nail for the entire four years and beyond.
1
The Dems holding a vigil in front of the supreme court as the roll out of Gorsuch. They sang This Land is Your Land.... really? We need you spineless cowards to take action not sing a ditty.I want to see Bernie on top of a car screaming " THIS IS OUR COUNTY" not the 90 year old white lady Pelosi worth hundreds of millions of dollars tapping on the mic over and over saying" is this thing on". It infuiates me to see how guttless these privileged cowards are.
The Justice Democrats are going to eat your lunch.
The Justice Democrats are going to eat your lunch.
2
I share Mr. Blow's hope that the Democratic Party as a whole, and not just in the Senate, will buck up and discover its spine. But I do not expect it. The Party lost its base years ago when it determined to becomes part of the problem of cash-crazed democracy-hijacking rather than confronting it in the name of democratic representation.
Such fecklessness is now coded into the Party's DNA. Any doubt about this ia abundantly evident in its cynically systemic rejection of the only presidential candidate with his ear truly tuned to "what the hell was really going on" in America.
The Party is far less a cancer on the constitutional democracy we call America than the falange of fascists who have now staged multiple coups to seize the levers of power today, but this hardy makes the Party cancer-free.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
Such fecklessness is now coded into the Party's DNA. Any doubt about this ia abundantly evident in its cynically systemic rejection of the only presidential candidate with his ear truly tuned to "what the hell was really going on" in America.
The Party is far less a cancer on the constitutional democracy we call America than the falange of fascists who have now staged multiple coups to seize the levers of power today, but this hardy makes the Party cancer-free.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
2
I come at it from a different angle. We call judges "Your Honor," but there is no honor in usurping the position of a colleague. The previous President gave the job of Supreme Court Justice to a qualified, respected person, and the position should have been, legally and ethically, his. To my mind, if there is any integrity among judges, every judge in America, should abstain from taking this position. Doing otherwise is a betrayal to their profession. It reveals a person that is blind to justice, easily seduced by temptation, and motivated by base politics. Not the sort of person you'd expect to become a member of the Supreme Court. Mr. Gorsuch, and every other nominee, should say, "Thank you, but I cannot in good conscience take this offer since I would be usurping a position that rightfully belongs to someone else." Otherwise how can we truthfully call him honorable.
6
Mr. Blow. I couldn't agree more. What a spot on assessment of the course of action the Democrats and constituents must follow! Will you please run for the Senate???
3
Yes! Thank you, Charles. Democrats in Washington need to listen to their voters out here across the nation. We are fed up! This is not a delicate dance, Senators. Say no. Say it now. Say it later. Stand up for us! And I agree that Trump sure isn't acting like a man with longevity on his mind. Interesting.
7
Democrats should oppose ALL of Trump's appointments. No exceptions.
10
Let's attack this, individually. The Temporary travel ban effects only 12.52% of the world's Muslims, leaving over 1 Billion free to visit the US, so if it was a "ban' on Muslims, President Trump did a poor job. Gorsuch is going to be the 9th Justice, and no amount of crying, or wishful thinking is going to change that. People have witnessed the liberal playbook, and don't care anymore. Schumer cries for the travel ban, but not at 911, which people see as a snowflake melting, not genuine concern. Pelosi tells the black policeman at a rally "tell them you're a Muslim" before handing him the mic, and he does a great impersonation of a puppet.
Filibuster, don't filibuster; show up, don't show up; vote, don't vote. What Mr. Blow still doesn't get, you lost (the opposite of Obama's "I won) and nobody is interested in the histrionics of the left anymore. But gee, maybe Ashley Judd, Madonna and Jane Fonda can wax poetic some more, I'm sure that will move the middle to the dwindling left.
Filibuster, don't filibuster; show up, don't show up; vote, don't vote. What Mr. Blow still doesn't get, you lost (the opposite of Obama's "I won) and nobody is interested in the histrionics of the left anymore. But gee, maybe Ashley Judd, Madonna and Jane Fonda can wax poetic some more, I'm sure that will move the middle to the dwindling left.
2
Naturally Ms. Underfoot, which is I guess exactly where you are, you fail to mention that none of the nations which have been banned have produced terrorists that have attacked the U.S. He left out those countries. Very rational of him! And why? You know why, but won't say it or see it I guess, and if you see it it doesn't matter, which reveals that you really don't care about security at all. You're just following your leader over the cliff. Why? Because he does business with those countries. What does it reveal? That he cares as little about security as you! It's just grandstanding for hatred. WE SEE YOU!
1
Yes, Constance Underfoot, in this case Trump was right: Clinton lost because the election was rigged --by the Electoral College! Sure, she made mistakes & had some baggage, but 3,000,000 voters were disenfranchised by arcane, unfair rules. And don't give me this garbage about 'massive voter fraud' and 'alternative facts'.
Fact: Liberals will now fight as fiercely for our Republic as the Tea Party has fought for one-party rule.
Fact: Liberals will now fight as fiercely for our Republic as the Tea Party has fought for one-party rule.
There is nothing in the constitution that says we need nine Supreme Court justices (as many republicans pointed out last year.) Five will be enough. The most unpopular "president" ever shouldn't be allowed to meddle with the Supreme Court. Fight the nomination(s)!!! The worst thing that could happen if we fight it is the same thing that will happen if we don't. I don't expect my representatives in Washington to hide under the bed. Anyone cowed by "fear of the 'nuclear' option" is not doing their job.
267
Democrat Senator Joe Manchin was on the news last night sprouting such nonsense as we can't do what the Republicans did to Garland, two wrongs don't make a right, they go low we go high, that that kind of attitude won't get us anywhere, in spite of the fact that that strategy/attitude allowed the Republicans to now control the presidency, the House and the Senate, and now possibly the Supreme Court
This is a war, yet somehow the Neville Chamberlains of the Democratic Party still haven't figured that out, or gotten a clue.
Finally, after two moms started a movement called What the f*ck Chuck, which organizes weekly protests outside of Chuck Schumer's house telling him to grow a spine, he has:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1325709684156082/
This is war. Gorsuch is taking a stolen seat from Democrats.
Fight. Resist.
This is a war, yet somehow the Neville Chamberlains of the Democratic Party still haven't figured that out, or gotten a clue.
Finally, after two moms started a movement called What the f*ck Chuck, which organizes weekly protests outside of Chuck Schumer's house telling him to grow a spine, he has:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1325709684156082/
This is war. Gorsuch is taking a stolen seat from Democrats.
Fight. Resist.
6
Senator McConnell believes the voice of the American people as reflected in election results must be respected when the election result is a Republican victory. There really is no gray area here.
2
"Furthermore, and this is just a wild theory of mine, it is not clear to me that Trump will hang around for a full term, not so much because he might do something to spark an impeachment proceeding, but because it’s not clear to me that he wants to serve out the term."
Mr. Blow, you've been the most clear eyed of the op-ed columnists in terms of seeing Trump for what he is, but I could not disagree more strongly with that statement.
I'm much more concerned about the possibility that he may not willingly vacate the White House if he loses the election in 4 years.
He sees himself as an emperor with absolutely no constraints on his power.
You see a man's furious pace as a somebody "on the clock". I see a man who's just broken into the coolest store ever and simply can't decide what to steal first.
In terms of Gorsuch, the Dems best play is to try and extract a price for it, like leaving the ACA intact. The GOP seems to have lost a bit of interest in it over the last few weeks, especially after they started digging in and realizing there is no realistic way to unwind it.
Mr. Blow, you've been the most clear eyed of the op-ed columnists in terms of seeing Trump for what he is, but I could not disagree more strongly with that statement.
I'm much more concerned about the possibility that he may not willingly vacate the White House if he loses the election in 4 years.
He sees himself as an emperor with absolutely no constraints on his power.
You see a man's furious pace as a somebody "on the clock". I see a man who's just broken into the coolest store ever and simply can't decide what to steal first.
In terms of Gorsuch, the Dems best play is to try and extract a price for it, like leaving the ACA intact. The GOP seems to have lost a bit of interest in it over the last few weeks, especially after they started digging in and realizing there is no realistic way to unwind it.
Do the Democrats in Congress have the discipline to mount a campaign against Gorsuch? They can build on the success of the Women’s March or they can go home, tails tucked in! Win or lose, they have to make the effort and then build from there toward 2018.
The likes of Tim Kaine have to atone for voting for ALL Cabinet candidates. All Dems must remember that Gorsuch is more conservative than Scalia. Minorities and immigrants will not attract his vote on the Court. The unborn will face the coat hanger and the old will face undiluted pain with him on the Court.
4
I'm not sure who sounds more psychotic, Charles or the sheep whoo follow him on this board.
Your buddy Obama was a disaster. Your Harry Reid was never civil and did indeed use the nuclear option to get what he wanted.
What I see here are whining and whinging. Which is fine because it seems that is pretty much all that Liberals are now capable of. Pity it took so long.
As for resistance you all couldn't handle a 5 year old.
Your buddy Obama was a disaster. Your Harry Reid was never civil and did indeed use the nuclear option to get what he wanted.
What I see here are whining and whinging. Which is fine because it seems that is pretty much all that Liberals are now capable of. Pity it took so long.
As for resistance you all couldn't handle a 5 year old.
5
You guys keep saying Obama was a disaster, but you never say how so? The country was certainly in better shape when he left than when he got there, wasn't it? What is the "disaster", again? 9/11? No, that was Bush. The Iraq war? No, that was Bush.
And you all just voted for a Bush on steroids, a Bush even the actual Bush thinks should not be president.
You want to see disaster? Just wait. It's coming, in spades.
And you all just voted for a Bush on steroids, a Bush even the actual Bush thinks should not be president.
You want to see disaster? Just wait. It's coming, in spades.
4
Today's editorial has it absolutely right. Democrats are indeed in a guerilla war largely without recognizing it,or fighting it with even trying to fight it with appropriate weapons. The advice to progressive citizens has been: appeal directly, if possible in person--but pretty much only to your own particular representatives. WRONG! Effective action will be to make it clear you are fully prepared to support and fund challengers--anywhere--to representatives who foolishly vacillate and temporize while, as you say, a "machete" is already striking into our backs!
1
Yes. This nomination was stolen, an aberration, and pretending otherwise gives succor to those who are destroying a tradition of cooperation. This was a naked political power grab, and should be opposed by every Democrat. No quarter, no "giving him a chance."
4
"and this is just a wild theory of mine."
That seems to be about all you have.
That seems to be about all you have.
6
Like the right wing saying Obama is not an American citizen and that he is a Muslim and that refugees are terrorists and all Muslims are terrorists....?
1
Gorsuch is a "religiously deferential judge."
That's like accepting Alfred E. Neuman, the fictitious cartoon mascot of MAD magazine, as "a friend of the court." America's idea of "God" has been converted into a political cartoon, mere ink on paper, primary colors on a computer screen, closed-eyed noise and gesticulation from a politically manipulative pulpit.
For a Supreme Court judge to believe in and defer to such things is a danger not just to democracy but to humanity.
America should be deeply ashamed of and angry at how the idea of our "God" has been so deliberately minimized into a mere tool for political coercion.
That's like accepting Alfred E. Neuman, the fictitious cartoon mascot of MAD magazine, as "a friend of the court." America's idea of "God" has been converted into a political cartoon, mere ink on paper, primary colors on a computer screen, closed-eyed noise and gesticulation from a politically manipulative pulpit.
For a Supreme Court judge to believe in and defer to such things is a danger not just to democracy but to humanity.
America should be deeply ashamed of and angry at how the idea of our "God" has been so deliberately minimized into a mere tool for political coercion.
2
I agree. I've been writing and calling my CT senators since the inauguration telling them to JUST SAY NO to any nominees or policies promoted by republicans. It now seems many others have done the same. We cannot wait two years to change people in government. We need to 'play dirty-act like a republican' NOW and stymie Trump in any way possible.
Senate Democrats must unite and take a stand against Trump/Bannon Presidency now. Make McConnell go nuclear -may as well as he will threaten it for next nominee or any legislation Trump/Bannon want. Appeasement is a very slippery slope with this White House. They will accept only total obedience. Democracy calls for dissent and compromise in which ALL parties yield something to each other.
TAlking of poison, readers should check out the serious mental side effects of Finasteride, a hair growth hormone we learned on today's front page that Trump has been on for years. The more you know...
1
Mr. Blow's position is admirable but the way he makes this an ad hominem attack on the nominee (para 5, "This nominee is the fruit of a poison tree....") is not up to his, nor the Times', usual standards. His use of the phrase "asterisk jurist," later, gives me no pause, but para 5 badly needs editing.
A change to "(t)his nomination is the fruit...." would cure the problem, nicely.
A change to "(t)his nomination is the fruit...." would cure the problem, nicely.
2
*They* stole two elections, impeached a president for spurious reasons, suppressed voting by minorities in every state they control, spit on the Constitution by refusing to do their sacred duty with Garland, etc. etc. etc.:
What else do the Dems need before you wake up and realize we are in the middle of a coup d'etat [my apologies for missing accents].
They are being boiled in a pot like the proverbial frog, at higher and higher temperatures.
When are the Dems going to jump out of the pot and start fighting?
What else do the Dems need before you wake up and realize we are in the middle of a coup d'etat [my apologies for missing accents].
They are being boiled in a pot like the proverbial frog, at higher and higher temperatures.
When are the Dems going to jump out of the pot and start fighting?
3
Charles Blow has fast become my favorite editorial writer on the scene. However, I disagree with one aspect of this particular piece. With no leverage, Dems need to marshal their energy for key fights so as not to appear to a cynical populace to be willfully obstructionist in a series of futile causes. Democratic leadership should identify a precious few issues worth fighting over that have at least SOME support from across the aisle (conflicts of interest for example) and focus their limited influence there. This appointment isn't one of those.
1
Mr. Blow, you are 100% correct, however, sad-to-say, the national Democratic Party leadership of Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi are the definition of milquetoast.
Numerous polls and millions of people in the streets show that American citizens, even many who voted for Trump, have awakened from their apathetic stupor with rage, as they realize that the POTUS is a hollow man and a joker, who is an international embarrassment— and who lied to them about 'draining the swamp'. Trump's "teapot dome"cabinet is the antithesis of what he pledged during the campaign. You beat a lying bully by consistently exposing his lies & punching him in the nose when he repeats the "alternative facts". Then you rally the resistance with a cogent message that swells & unifies the opposition and gets them to the polls. Looking at this video from the weekend, Pelosi & Schumer have no clue - https://youtu.be/YSPE6QvhYMc -
Numerous polls and millions of people in the streets show that American citizens, even many who voted for Trump, have awakened from their apathetic stupor with rage, as they realize that the POTUS is a hollow man and a joker, who is an international embarrassment— and who lied to them about 'draining the swamp'. Trump's "teapot dome"cabinet is the antithesis of what he pledged during the campaign. You beat a lying bully by consistently exposing his lies & punching him in the nose when he repeats the "alternative facts". Then you rally the resistance with a cogent message that swells & unifies the opposition and gets them to the polls. Looking at this video from the weekend, Pelosi & Schumer have no clue - https://youtu.be/YSPE6QvhYMc -
2
I don't know about Pelosi, but Sen. Schumer is finally growing a spine. Let's encourage him.
Each day I become more and more disheartened, as the Republicans become more and more dishonest, which I didn't think was possible, but they "truly" follow the leader (no matter who the leader is). What has truly been shocking is that no one seems to care about the millions and millions of people who did not vote for Mr. Trump -- we're all expected to go along with the ugly partisanship that they have been practicing for years now. When Berkley students protest the racists editor from Breitbart speaking on their campus last night, violence broke out (I predict Mr. Trump is filling people with such fear that we are going to see more and more violence), Mr. Trump tweets that if free speech is not allowed (meaning the Breitbart editor Mr. Yiannopoulos's speech on campus) that he will cut Federal Funds -- what??? Yiannopoulos is a man (and I use that word lightly) who has been banned from twitter for life because of hateful, racist comments against the actress Leslie Jones was spouting catchy and disgusting things like: "It's a fact that an ugly woman is more likely to be a feminist than a hot one".... I shudder every day when I hear Mr. Trump call CNN and mainstream media fake news and praise the KING of FAKE News FOX as a hero because they are his own personal "state" run station. The man needs to be stopped and stopped quickly, so yes Democrats need to buck up and get on with it and never back down.
3
No honorable human should cooperate with the Scapegoater and Chief as long as he keeps a white supremacist at his right hand in the White House. Case closed.
1
Go Charles M., go. I sincerely hope Senator Schemer reads your column before he has his morning coffee
3
Congress has full authority to change the number of justices. There is no Constitutional requirement for nine, and given the issues surrounding the court perhaps now is the time to take a moment, allow the issues to settle.
1
Charles, there is nothing new under the sun:
Soviet interference in U.S. elections:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2016/07/26/why-would-ru...
Joe Biden arguing for delaying Supreme Court pick:
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/02/23/us/politics/joe-biden-argued-for-dela...
What might be new, though, is viewing a Supreme Court nominee as "an instrument of the enemy."
But keep your blinders on, Charles, but do so knowing your rhetoric contributes to the deepening divide.
Soviet interference in U.S. elections:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2016/07/26/why-would-ru...
Joe Biden arguing for delaying Supreme Court pick:
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/02/23/us/politics/joe-biden-argued-for-dela...
What might be new, though, is viewing a Supreme Court nominee as "an instrument of the enemy."
But keep your blinders on, Charles, but do so knowing your rhetoric contributes to the deepening divide.
2
We should agree to interview and consider Gorsuch but not until the next election.
1
Its a shame. A well qualified candidate. Poisened by the treatment of another. There is no reason for the treatment of Garland for the position. None at all.
Trump is so low that reasonable people don't know how to react. I don't. I suppose giving up isn't an option, but these folks are so low.
A Queens real estate developer? How low can you get?
Trump is so low that reasonable people don't know how to react. I don't. I suppose giving up isn't an option, but these folks are so low.
A Queens real estate developer? How low can you get?
2
Just an interesting tidbit. Trump's Supreme Court pick founded club called "Fascism Forever" when he was in prep school: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4182852/Trump-s-SCOTUS-pick-foun...
I guess we can chalk this up to his wild youth?
I guess we can chalk this up to his wild youth?
2
Thank you mr. blow. I fear the numbers willing to speak out as you do are dwindling.
3
Republicans and Democrats, its all a charade fronting for the "money-ed" (corporate) 1% over all the rest of us. Always has been. Always will?
2
Do I ever agree. This is a fight for the survival of the country as we have known it. Courtly rules of decorum are as anachronistic as sling shots against an enemy with the nuclear codes. The Democrats either get a backbone big time, or they will be served up on platters with apples in their mouths. The rest of us will be the side dishes.
3
The trouble with Progressives is that we are, ummm.......progressive. We are thoughtful, measured, unselfish and rely on expert opinions to inform our own opinions, that is to say, by nature we take the high road. Modern Republicans love a mud fight. Progressives must be convinced, by expert opinion, that this is not merely a political battle, one that might be won another day, but literally a battle for survival - for the planet, for liberal democracy, for truth itself.
5
Now Mr Blow has gotten to the lynch pin of the battle at hand - "Democrats, grow a spine. Buck up! Fight!"
Democrats must find a way to keep the Trumps at bay until the cavalry arrives either in the form of the mid-terms or (as I hope) the real Republicans decide that enough is enough and join the Resistance.
Democrats must find a way to keep the Trumps at bay until the cavalry arrives either in the form of the mid-terms or (as I hope) the real Republicans decide that enough is enough and join the Resistance.
6
Everyone within the sphere of influence of the White House is now embroiled in a conflict of one kind or another, instigated, encouraged and fed by the current resident. If you can grasp the extent of the turmoil he is creating on the outside you have some indication of the state of chaos and pain that resides within that creature.
Maybe the best way to begin nullifying his effect of the world is to never use his name. Like now.
Maybe the best way to begin nullifying his effect of the world is to never use his name. Like now.
5
Liberals are behaving like 4 yr olds who just dropped their ice cream comes. McConnell's maneuver with Garland not only saved the conservative court for generations but it also probably won Trump the Presdidency. Harry Reid's move on filibusters cost Dems any power they might wield as the minority. One side is playing chess and the other is playing checkers.
4
So it is okay for Republicans to obstruct and deny President Obama his right to fill an open Supreme Court seat and fight him at every turn and not seek compormise, but Democrats are in the wrong to fight back.
The rate of Cognitive Dissonance among republicans is astounding.
The rate of Cognitive Dissonance among republicans is astounding.
4
The only one acting like a four-year-old is the president. How many temper tantrums has he had today?
2
My blood boils 24/7 at each outrageous act of this "president." I participated on Jan. 21st on my first march since the seventies and have called my representatives to be recorded as an activist against Trump. Right now, I have tunnel vision that is focusing on ridding our country of this despot. Thank you, Charles, and please add a chunk of coal for me.
6
Oh - horrors - some one who does not agree with Blow and his cocktail-circuit elitist progressives may be appointed to the Supreme Court...
Funny, when left wing ideologues like Bryer and Ginsburg landed there, we were all smiles at the N Y Times.
The underlying and fundamentally fascist nature of collectivist progressivism didn't take long to rear its ugly head.
Funny, when left wing ideologues like Bryer and Ginsburg landed there, we were all smiles at the N Y Times.
The underlying and fundamentally fascist nature of collectivist progressivism didn't take long to rear its ugly head.
4
The Senate did not “steal” a Supreme Court seat from President Obama. Seats on the court do not “belong” to presidents. President Obama exercise the power granted him by the Constitution to nominate a jurist to the Supreme Court and the Senate exercised the power granted it by the Constitution to withhold consent. If Obama had nominated a conservative jurists instead of a liberal jurist to replace a conservative justice, the Senate would have granted consent.
5
Oh... you are dreaming. You know as we all do that NO candidate put forward by President Obama would have been confirmed, no matter even if he'd (and of course, it would be a "he") been of the extreme right. The issue was never conservative vs liberal. It was unyielding opposition to Obama whenever at all possible. THIS is the action which must be opposed. The precedent that it sets is as damaging for the Right (ultimately) as it is for the Left. The senate has the power to withhold consent, but not to refuse even to hold hearings on a candidate duly put forward according to procedure.
Perhaps Mr. Blow and most of his readers might want to look at the list of Senators and then-Senators who voted to confirm Judge Gorsuch to the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals. Actually, you could just look at who served in the Senate in 2006 - because the Senate vote to confirm Gorsuch was unanimous. This short list is a few of the most prominent Democrats in the Senate who voted for Gorsuch in 2006:
Barack Obama
Joe Biden
John Kerry
Hillary Clinton
Chuck Schumer and every other Senator, whether D or R.
What we are seeing now in print today and on television for two days is political posturing, playing for the cameras, and ignoring history. You are being played, people.......played like a fiddle.
Check Snopes: CLAIM: Judge Neil Gorsuch was unanimously confirmed to the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in 2006. TRUE. http://www.snopes.com/gorsuch-unanimously-confirmed-2006/
Barack Obama
Joe Biden
John Kerry
Hillary Clinton
Chuck Schumer and every other Senator, whether D or R.
What we are seeing now in print today and on television for two days is political posturing, playing for the cameras, and ignoring history. You are being played, people.......played like a fiddle.
Check Snopes: CLAIM: Judge Neil Gorsuch was unanimously confirmed to the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in 2006. TRUE. http://www.snopes.com/gorsuch-unanimously-confirmed-2006/
10
Political posturing was the reprehensible GOP obstruction of Judge Garland's nomination. Did you forget that history? This SCOTUS seat was stolen and should be met with opposition.
1
Yes, just as the Republican senators along with Democrats voted unanimously (97-0) for Merrick Garland for the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. An acclaimed Judge and a good man was purposely kept from being heard in consideration for the Supreme Court for strictly political reasons. An open display of obstructionism orchestrated by Mitch McConnell. The hypocrisy from you and Republicans accusing Democrats of obstructing Judge Gorsuch is unbelievable and outrageous.
1
Charles, the clock is running indeed, however as opposed to playing golf immediately after telling the American public about beheadings, this president continues to work on what the American public voted him into office to do. You are a master of words and soliloquy and good on you for being such, but don't you think your time would be better spent joining your cronies in knocking off Trump hats from heads, lighting fires at universities, and attempting to stifle free speech?...no?
4
The American public? A MINORITY of the American public.
2
Ahem, the American public voted overwhelmingly for Hillary. Trump got in due to an election rigged on his behalf by Putin and Comey and by Republican voter suppression. He is an illegitimate President. He is merely acting on behalf of his benefactors to implement the chaos that Putin wants.
Mr. Blow and his media colleagues have reached hysteria in reaction to each Administrative move by the newly elected President. Opposition without reason or forethought is the modus operandi while objectivity and honest journalism are discarded. The NY Times has quickly degenerated into a partisan rag and is now toxic as a news resource.
For eight years, no criticism was uttered in print by Mr. Blow regarding the President and now nothing but venom is spewed. Thus, in a mere twelve days, Mr. Blow has come unhinged, demonstrating a hatred and contempt that is unprecedented and perhaps unrepairable, as his credibility is now forever lost. He has become a primary generator of agenda-driven false news with each reference to Russia and F.B I. Director Comey. Consequently, Mr. Blow has become irrelevant, merely inciting the mob with his polarizing, divisive, incessant rant. Amusingly, he speaks of principle when he has demonstrated none.
For eight years, no criticism was uttered in print by Mr. Blow regarding the President and now nothing but venom is spewed. Thus, in a mere twelve days, Mr. Blow has come unhinged, demonstrating a hatred and contempt that is unprecedented and perhaps unrepairable, as his credibility is now forever lost. He has become a primary generator of agenda-driven false news with each reference to Russia and F.B I. Director Comey. Consequently, Mr. Blow has become irrelevant, merely inciting the mob with his polarizing, divisive, incessant rant. Amusingly, he speaks of principle when he has demonstrated none.
11
Grant,
You almost had an argument until you used a straw man argument yourself to base your opposition to Mr. Blow's comments. It is not "false news" that there are congressional investigations of the Russian hacking of the DNC and the RNC, for which they did not leak anything yet. The FBI Director is being investigated and he may have very well violated the Hatch Act, we will see. But as far as polarizing, divisive and incisive rants, please remember that Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity have made careers of doing just that. And so has Bill "Can't Control My Libido" O'Reilly who luckily has an employer that pays for his unwanted sexual advances and harassment at his place of employment. We have the National Enquirer and the Daily Globe purporting nonsensical headlines everyday. The NYT has not lost objectivity, it reports the facts and should you ever find out otherwise, please let us know. By the way, FOX only a few days ago said the murderer in Canada was a Muslim, except he isn't. The Daily Globe says Hillary has fled the country to avoid jail, except she hasn't. People on the right need to understand we can disagree on policy but we all must live by one set of facts. Only in that way, will we make the right decisions for our country. I am a new kind of Democrat, and many like me are just not going to go quietly into the good night while the minority loots and ruins the country for the benefit of a few. Nor will I allow others to spew nonsense without commenting if able.
You almost had an argument until you used a straw man argument yourself to base your opposition to Mr. Blow's comments. It is not "false news" that there are congressional investigations of the Russian hacking of the DNC and the RNC, for which they did not leak anything yet. The FBI Director is being investigated and he may have very well violated the Hatch Act, we will see. But as far as polarizing, divisive and incisive rants, please remember that Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity have made careers of doing just that. And so has Bill "Can't Control My Libido" O'Reilly who luckily has an employer that pays for his unwanted sexual advances and harassment at his place of employment. We have the National Enquirer and the Daily Globe purporting nonsensical headlines everyday. The NYT has not lost objectivity, it reports the facts and should you ever find out otherwise, please let us know. By the way, FOX only a few days ago said the murderer in Canada was a Muslim, except he isn't. The Daily Globe says Hillary has fled the country to avoid jail, except she hasn't. People on the right need to understand we can disagree on policy but we all must live by one set of facts. Only in that way, will we make the right decisions for our country. I am a new kind of Democrat, and many like me are just not going to go quietly into the good night while the minority loots and ruins the country for the benefit of a few. Nor will I allow others to spew nonsense without commenting if able.
1
For the first time in my solid blue Democratic Party life (raised in MD and now live in MA), I am hoping for leaders with chutzpah to step up and start a third party.
Perhaps it's a pipe dream, but it was never even a thought in my head before.
Perhaps it's a pipe dream, but it was never even a thought in my head before.
4
Changing the existing Dem party is much more realistic. Hope the Times in its silence is pleased with its self after what it did to Bernie Sanders. If it had an ounce of courage it would address its nearly unforgivable treatment of Sanders and his supporters. Fact is Sanders had a better shot.
2
Hear, hear. Grow a spine Dems and maybe you'll find some Republicans with a conscience who will actually help you end this lunacy.
15
Blow is the greatest projector on the Times roster (a high bar indeed). All of the attributes he ascribes to Trump are self referential. The Democrats are hardly "soft" or travelers of the high road. They are as closed minded, vindictive, condesending, and yes, hate filled as any Republican out there. More so.
3
The column by Charles Blow pretty much captures my feelings.
In criminal law if you accept property that you know is stolen you are a party to the crime and can be charged with theft.
Does Gorsuch understand what he is accepting? Stories speak of the credentials of Gorsuch as a strict interpreter of the American constitution. His nomination is without precedent. What interpretation of the American Constitution will he take if he steps forward to take the oath.
If he has any integrity and respect for the Constitution of the United States, he will refuse to be sworn in as a Supreme Court justice and go back to Denver. He will understand that his nomination is not legitimate.
If his nomination goes forward and he takes the oath he takes the role of being a willful lackey and coconspirator in the latest episode of the republicans hijacking the American Constitution for blatant partisan political purposes. The republicans went nuclear a long time ago. This will go along side voter suppression, the abrogation of voting rights and gerrymandering which now are the hallmarks of the republicans. This is the path that Hitler and the Nazis used to take power in Germany.
In criminal law if you accept property that you know is stolen you are a party to the crime and can be charged with theft.
Does Gorsuch understand what he is accepting? Stories speak of the credentials of Gorsuch as a strict interpreter of the American constitution. His nomination is without precedent. What interpretation of the American Constitution will he take if he steps forward to take the oath.
If he has any integrity and respect for the Constitution of the United States, he will refuse to be sworn in as a Supreme Court justice and go back to Denver. He will understand that his nomination is not legitimate.
If his nomination goes forward and he takes the oath he takes the role of being a willful lackey and coconspirator in the latest episode of the republicans hijacking the American Constitution for blatant partisan political purposes. The republicans went nuclear a long time ago. This will go along side voter suppression, the abrogation of voting rights and gerrymandering which now are the hallmarks of the republicans. This is the path that Hitler and the Nazis used to take power in Germany.
2
Al Trumpone "a man about to burn out or to be kicked out?" From your mouth to God's ear, Charles.
Good article. After Trump's insulting remarks about Senator Schumer, I don't think the Democrats owe this man anything. Trump is a functional illiterate barely able to speak the language, and he is dangerously intemperate.
3
More foolishness from Mr. Blow. At least this time it wasn't about race.
8
Mr. Blow lives in a fantasy world. Not sure why the Times continues to let this guy write for them, I guess that is another discussion. If you want to be entertained go back and read Mr. Blow's columns from the past year or so. It's amazing how one person can be wrong this much on a consistent basis. If democrats were smart they would ignore this guy.
6
Yeah, you're right. By writing a column like this, Blow is pretending he is a Republican, by using Republican tactics of seeing the other side as the enemy. But we all know he belongs to the wimpy Party that wants to be friends and get along. Pure fantasy to pretend otherwise.
1
Could not have said it better. Thank you.
1
It's infuriating. The Democrats seem to think this is business as usual, when it's anything but.
Trump is a mad man, an unstable lunatic, with the support of a Republican party who are so entrenched in their desperation they're willing to destroy their own country for another 6 months in power.
Well, all their grand plans for the nation will be entirely useless when Trump has destroyed the country from the inside out.
It's about time the Democrats started fighting fire with fire. It would be great to see Michelle Obama getting back on a stage and saying "I was naive, I was wrong. Take the high ground, but only because it gives you a better angle of attack against these sociopaths".
Democrats, get off your behinds, get out of your office, stop looking through the rule books and precedents past. This is an entirely different animal and you need to fight with everything you have.
Trump is a mad man, an unstable lunatic, with the support of a Republican party who are so entrenched in their desperation they're willing to destroy their own country for another 6 months in power.
Well, all their grand plans for the nation will be entirely useless when Trump has destroyed the country from the inside out.
It's about time the Democrats started fighting fire with fire. It would be great to see Michelle Obama getting back on a stage and saying "I was naive, I was wrong. Take the high ground, but only because it gives you a better angle of attack against these sociopaths".
Democrats, get off your behinds, get out of your office, stop looking through the rule books and precedents past. This is an entirely different animal and you need to fight with everything you have.
3
Yes!! But the thought of Pence as president may be as much or more terrifying
2
Folks, you gotta love the opposition these days! Of course, it's no longer who it used to be. Those poor slobs are now trying to run the government, and even the Supreme Court.
In their place stands a group of malcontents that would put the Stormers of the Bastille to shame....in other words, the Les Nouveaux Miserables. Being unable to distinguish anything they oppose everything.
Take Mr. Blow for example, please. We all know he doesn't choose the photo captions for his diatribes, as his puerile, fit-throwing columns slump on their own merit. But today there's a photo of an opposition sign-holder with "OPPOSE" on top, and hand-printed below: "GORSUCH."
Of course, all these malcontents do is OPPOSE, so we have to give them credit for savng big money on signs. Yet, I remain stunned by Blow's errancy for his own causes, as he closes his column today with: "Senate Democrats, grow a spine. Buck up! Fight like your lives depend on it, because in the end, the lives of your children, and ours, just might."
The irony of the lost million lives of unborn children is already the fruit of a poison tree of abortions. Gorsuch can't be approved soon enough.
In their place stands a group of malcontents that would put the Stormers of the Bastille to shame....in other words, the Les Nouveaux Miserables. Being unable to distinguish anything they oppose everything.
Take Mr. Blow for example, please. We all know he doesn't choose the photo captions for his diatribes, as his puerile, fit-throwing columns slump on their own merit. But today there's a photo of an opposition sign-holder with "OPPOSE" on top, and hand-printed below: "GORSUCH."
Of course, all these malcontents do is OPPOSE, so we have to give them credit for savng big money on signs. Yet, I remain stunned by Blow's errancy for his own causes, as he closes his column today with: "Senate Democrats, grow a spine. Buck up! Fight like your lives depend on it, because in the end, the lives of your children, and ours, just might."
The irony of the lost million lives of unborn children is already the fruit of a poison tree of abortions. Gorsuch can't be approved soon enough.
6
Charles, you're overdoing it. You remind me of Condoleezza Rice.
3
This is no longer about "Republicans and Democrats," two different competing approaches to democracy. It is about the slow death of democracy by a thousand cuts. I don't care if Gorsuch is God himself. We cannot condone with our assent the complete abdication of our democratic process by a fascist insurrection operating under cover of what formerly was a "Republican" party.
4
I don't understand why avoiding the "nuclear option" now would protect us from facing it if a second Justice dies during Trump's term. Why wouldn't Republicans simply change the rules then, before holding a vote on their chosen replacement?
2
This is stolen seat democrats- fight because it's the right thing to do. We want our government back and accepting this fraud will not get is there. Who cares if the nominee is good- it's the balance of powers and the system we have to stand up for at this point.
If in the end he gets appointed- at least we fought for the right cause and didn't lie down and be steam rolled. The criticism towards us is were weak, and we've shown in the first few weeks that it isn't in our nature to not make nice but thanks to phone calls and marches and push back our representatives are starting to get the message. It's bigger than this guys appointment, it's the whole system, fighting is the only patriotic thing to do at this point.
If in the end he gets appointed- at least we fought for the right cause and didn't lie down and be steam rolled. The criticism towards us is were weak, and we've shown in the first few weeks that it isn't in our nature to not make nice but thanks to phone calls and marches and push back our representatives are starting to get the message. It's bigger than this guys appointment, it's the whole system, fighting is the only patriotic thing to do at this point.
5
This country is officially going to hell. Poor American education and general stupidity has finally reared its head and the idiots have taken over. Please God something changes somehow before it reaches some awful conclusion.
5
stupidity? Really? All of a sudden this year? Weird you'd say that.
2
Excellent column. I don't have more to add
3
I would like to add:
Whatever the Dems do, somehow they must make the point TO THE AMERICAN PUBLIC that the "conservative" judicial philosophy espoused by scalia and Gorsuch et al is new---originalism being an invented ideology by the Federallist Society etc with the intended EFFECT (AND actual effect) of furthering conservative political agenda. We have had an activist S CT with these "originalists" in the majority.
Meanwhile the so-called Liberal judicial philosophy is no such thing---it is not a single philosophy, it was mainstream up until 1987, and it is still moderate and indeed CONSERVATIVE---not radical or activist at all.
In addition to considering "judicial philosophy" I would advise examining background/experience. Gorsuch seems to have had no exposure to Americans of the middle or working class---his background appears to be a bubble of economic privilege. This will surely affect his ability to understand the impact of his decisions on the bench.
Finally, we cannot equate Dem-nominated justices as being just as Liberal as Rebub-nominated justices are Conservative. False equivalence, again. Just not the case.
Also, Repubs seem to think that "Scalia's seat" belong to them, and shuld be preserved by a like-minded justice. That is just nonsense.
Whatever the Dems do, somehow they must make the point TO THE AMERICAN PUBLIC that the "conservative" judicial philosophy espoused by scalia and Gorsuch et al is new---originalism being an invented ideology by the Federallist Society etc with the intended EFFECT (AND actual effect) of furthering conservative political agenda. We have had an activist S CT with these "originalists" in the majority.
Meanwhile the so-called Liberal judicial philosophy is no such thing---it is not a single philosophy, it was mainstream up until 1987, and it is still moderate and indeed CONSERVATIVE---not radical or activist at all.
In addition to considering "judicial philosophy" I would advise examining background/experience. Gorsuch seems to have had no exposure to Americans of the middle or working class---his background appears to be a bubble of economic privilege. This will surely affect his ability to understand the impact of his decisions on the bench.
Finally, we cannot equate Dem-nominated justices as being just as Liberal as Rebub-nominated justices are Conservative. False equivalence, again. Just not the case.
Also, Repubs seem to think that "Scalia's seat" belong to them, and shuld be preserved by a like-minded justice. That is just nonsense.
The longest any nominee had to wait between nomination and confirmation was 125 days, at least until Judge Garland shattered that record with plenty of days to spare. Judge Brandeis held that record. Judge Garland was nominated on March 16, 2016.
Obama nominated Judge Garland, despite Sen. Orrin Hatch, saying early in 2016 that the President wouldn't nominate Garland. He said,"The President told me several times he’s going to name a moderate but I don’t believe him," Sen. Hatch went to say, the President Obama "could easily name Merrick Garland, who is a fine man." The Senator said Obama would instead nominate someone to please the liberal Democrats.
President Obama called the Senator's bluff and nominated Garland only to see the GOP insult Judge Garland and the president by not even holding a hearing.
What Republicans did to Judge Garland and President Obama is unforgivable.
What's more, Senator McCain, allegedly a "reasonable" Republican, even said, ""I promise you that we will be united against any Supreme Court nominee that Hillary Clinton, if she were president, would put up."
Other GOP Senators agreed with McCain. So the strategy was clear, only GOP could nominate a Supreme Court judge.
The Democrats should oppose that strategy by any means necessary.
Obama nominated Judge Garland, despite Sen. Orrin Hatch, saying early in 2016 that the President wouldn't nominate Garland. He said,"The President told me several times he’s going to name a moderate but I don’t believe him," Sen. Hatch went to say, the President Obama "could easily name Merrick Garland, who is a fine man." The Senator said Obama would instead nominate someone to please the liberal Democrats.
President Obama called the Senator's bluff and nominated Garland only to see the GOP insult Judge Garland and the president by not even holding a hearing.
What Republicans did to Judge Garland and President Obama is unforgivable.
What's more, Senator McCain, allegedly a "reasonable" Republican, even said, ""I promise you that we will be united against any Supreme Court nominee that Hillary Clinton, if she were president, would put up."
Other GOP Senators agreed with McCain. So the strategy was clear, only GOP could nominate a Supreme Court judge.
The Democrats should oppose that strategy by any means necessary.
458
It's surprising that Democrats have ceased to support Judge Gorsuch. His history shows strong support by Democrats: chosen as law clerk by a Justice who was state chair for John F. Kennedy in 1960, and supported as Federal Court judge by Barack Obama, Joe Biden, John Kerry, and Hillary Clinton et al in 2006.
Judge Gorsuch was approved by the Senate for the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in 2006. Voting in favor were these Senators, Democrats, members of the 109th Congress,: Barack Obama, John Kerry, Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton, Chuck Schumer, Patrick Leahy, Dianne Feinstein, Patty Murray, Ron Wyden, Richard Durbin, Jack Reed, Bill Nelson, Tom Carper, Debbie Stabenow, Maria Cantwell, Bob Menendez
Judge Gorsuch was chosen as law clerk by Byron Raymond "Whizzer" White (June 8, 1917 – April 15, 2002) won fame both as an American football halfback and as an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States.[2] Born and raised in Colorado, White played in the National Football League for three seasons and practiced law for 15 years before his Supreme Court appointment. White was the Colorado state chair of John F. Kennedy's 1960 presidential campaign. White was appointed to the Supreme Court by Kennedy in 1962.
What are we to think is the reason for this sea change? Political posturing?
Judge Gorsuch was approved by the Senate for the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in 2006. Voting in favor were these Senators, Democrats, members of the 109th Congress,: Barack Obama, John Kerry, Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton, Chuck Schumer, Patrick Leahy, Dianne Feinstein, Patty Murray, Ron Wyden, Richard Durbin, Jack Reed, Bill Nelson, Tom Carper, Debbie Stabenow, Maria Cantwell, Bob Menendez
Judge Gorsuch was chosen as law clerk by Byron Raymond "Whizzer" White (June 8, 1917 – April 15, 2002) won fame both as an American football halfback and as an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States.[2] Born and raised in Colorado, White played in the National Football League for three seasons and practiced law for 15 years before his Supreme Court appointment. White was the Colorado state chair of John F. Kennedy's 1960 presidential campaign. White was appointed to the Supreme Court by Kennedy in 1962.
What are we to think is the reason for this sea change? Political posturing?
2
BTW: the Senate's approval of Judge Gorsuch in 2006 referenced above was unanimous.
1
Oh Mr. Blow. Where was your resolve back in July when the DNC and your fellow writers on the Op-Ed page studiously ignored Sanders and promoted HRC as the only credible candidate? Oh right... you were with them/her. And now you promote a futile effort for revenge? The Dems don't play the mean, schoolyard bully game very well. Why start now? If not Gorsuch it will be some other religious conservative "originalist." It's going to happen. And I put some of the blame on you and your editorial-page peers. Sure. Dems should oppose his nomination. Fine. It's symbolic and necessary. But put your focus on opposition that has teeth and on motivations that are not petty and beneath our dignity. Revenge for revenge's sake is beneath us. Don't let the fascists take that from us.
Take some time off... write a book... clear your head. You mean well, but you screwed up. Let a Reich or an Ellison, or a Subcommandante or a Taibi write in your place for a few months.
Take some time off... write a book... clear your head. You mean well, but you screwed up. Let a Reich or an Ellison, or a Subcommandante or a Taibi write in your place for a few months.
3
Funny, I could blame all the people who were more concerned with shadow and innuendo and Comey's nonsense than they were with the Supreme Court, ACA, social security, Medicare/Medicaid and world stability. Now I guess we can all see what a real 'flawed candidate" really looks like. Isn't it time to quit the blame game and move on? Divided we have everything to lose, if we haven't already.
This is the main reason the spineless Congressional Republicans put up with the Donald's humiliation all through the campaign, so they could change America back to the 1950's.
This nominee wrote a book outlining why he would find a way to stop Oregon's "death with dignity" law. He also showed how he could use that legal reasoning to defeat laws already on the books, and it doesn't take a legal genius to know he was writing of Roe V. Wade.
Hugh Massengill, Eugene Oregon
This nominee wrote a book outlining why he would find a way to stop Oregon's "death with dignity" law. He also showed how he could use that legal reasoning to defeat laws already on the books, and it doesn't take a legal genius to know he was writing of Roe V. Wade.
Hugh Massengill, Eugene Oregon
2
Possibly some democrats will cross the isle and vote for Gorsuch if not, do what the liberals did and change the rules. Election have consequences. The GOP had a great strategy and it worked the USSC will go conservative and possible stay conservative for a very long time I knew from the start it was going to be the liberals who will be responsible for post election violence,riots and will be the party of no!. Fortunately the GOP can steam role right over the democrats.
1
If it's a crime to accept stolen property, and Mr. Gorsuch accepts the stolen seat, doesn't that make him a criminal?
2
Even Gorsuch called Merrick to explain himself. If Gorsuch was a person of ANY character he would have refused the nomination just on principle, but we know that Republicans will stop at nothing to gain absolute power. Sorry children, it ain't happening- calling Schumer's office NOW! & I & everyone I know will march in protest to the death!
2
Finally someone is bringing this issue into focus. Thank you!
1
Hail and amen, Charles! I am a lifelong Democrat whose disgust with my party literally knows no bounds. Were it possible for me to register as an Independent in NJ, I would do so. Democrats would be well advised to read John Dean's books, Conservatives Without Conscience and Broken Government, and just for added emphasis, his book Worse Than Watergate. This party bears no resemblance to the former GOP - with whose ideas I never agreed, but they, at least, were generally prepared to engage with comity and civility, and to put the welfare of the nation ahead of party. That is long gone, and the Democrats are still carrying a torch for what has been trashed and gutted by an entire party populated by poisonous, power-mad nihilists and thugs, who had no compunction about denigrating our President for 8 solid years and obstructing everything he tried to do for the nation. They have no interest in helping struggling workers, the poor, the elderly, or anyone else, and their reckless disregard for our fragile planet threatens everyone and every creature on earth. Their only goal is absolute power and as much lucre as they can get their grubby hands on. The GOTP is utterly amoral, and it is long past time for Democrats to fight, rather than timidly tiptoe around, which is why they have lost so much ground. That spine, Charles, needs to be forged in American steel, and fast. 2/2, 7:41 AM
2
When you vote down qualified, people of integrity, you are damaging our republic. This goes for both sides.
Challenge the crazy decisions, orders and moves that don't align with our American values, but when you rail against everything , you then become a lemming of destruction.
We'll win back our country when people of integrity step up and do the honorable thing... those people will win a futrer worth fighting for.
Challenge the crazy decisions, orders and moves that don't align with our American values, but when you rail against everything , you then become a lemming of destruction.
We'll win back our country when people of integrity step up and do the honorable thing... those people will win a futrer worth fighting for.
2
YES!!!!! Block, block block!!!! Thieves should not be rewarded. I have written and called my Democratic Senators and I hope everyone else does also. Stop worrying about the old rules and fight under the new rules. It's like the Continental Army against the British. They lost because the Americans wouldn't fight under the old rules, nor should Democrats. At this point we have nothing to lose. The majority is on our side yet we have lost power. Block, block, block!,,,,
1
The seat is stolen goods. if you accept stolen goods, you go to jail.
Gorsuch is a right wing vending machine. pull the lever and you
get anti gay anti union anti environment rulings.
He was all in for Hobby Lobby, which give Corporations the
green light to impose their religious views on their employees
was member of Fascists Forever when in prep school
Gorsuch is a right wing vending machine. pull the lever and you
get anti gay anti union anti environment rulings.
He was all in for Hobby Lobby, which give Corporations the
green light to impose their religious views on their employees
was member of Fascists Forever when in prep school
1
America's a republic in name only now. A full auto-golpe is in progress, leading to the coronation of your alt-right emperor.
2
Blow's Opinions should be published in "The Week in Hate" section.
His demagogic rhetoric is destructive.
His demagogic rhetoric is destructive.
4
Poison words from a poison pen. When is Charles Blow going to write an interesting column about something other than Trump?
4
On target as usual. Grow a spine and fight it Democrats and become a force to be reckoned with.
Look at the Gorsuch track record. Do you want his religion to rule your life? Aren't we getting tired of that?
Look at the Gorsuch track record. Do you want his religion to rule your life? Aren't we getting tired of that?
3
President Obama had ten months left in his term, but the Republicans refused to give his Supreme Court nominee a hearing. There should be no problem with Democrats refusing to acknowledge any of Trump's nominees for at least that period of time. Failure to do so will only be viewed as Republicans being rewarded for their obstructionism. Michelle Obama was great, but her phrase "when they go low, we go high" was, in retrospect, ill-advised. In order for Democrats to succeed, when Republicans go low, they have to go lower.
196
Dear Democrats in Congress, don't cooperate with your own execution. If your executioners are going to execute you regardless of what you do, then make them sweat and suffer as they do it. We expect you to fight as a matter of principle, or we'll replace you with someone who will. Any conciliation on your part in this crisis is suspected collusion.
9
Once Trump has milked all the profit he can from this country and pretty well wrecked it along with his loathsome aids, I agree he will most likely resign as the job of being president is really, really hard and Trump isn't really, really smart.
2
More Gorsuch Disqualifications
1) Willingness to accept the "stolen" seat fully knowing how that maneuver has further politicized the Court and weakened its authority and reputation.
2) Willingness to cast a shadow over every 5-4 decision during his tenure.
3) Willingness to debase the Court and abase himself by taking part in a
reality show parody of the choice of a nominee.
4) Accepting a nomination from a President who everyone knows publicly attacked a judge because of his Mexican heritage.
1) Willingness to accept the "stolen" seat fully knowing how that maneuver has further politicized the Court and weakened its authority and reputation.
2) Willingness to cast a shadow over every 5-4 decision during his tenure.
3) Willingness to debase the Court and abase himself by taking part in a
reality show parody of the choice of a nominee.
4) Accepting a nomination from a President who everyone knows publicly attacked a judge because of his Mexican heritage.
2
No self-respecting judge should be accepting a nomination to the Supreme Court unless and until Merrick Garland gets a full and fair vote. Period.
2
You are very correct Charles; Democrats must grow a spine. They have absolutely nothing to lose. Eight Supreme Court Justices isn't the end of the world- as opined by Justice Breyer. Can we forget how Republicans pledged to obstruct any Supreme Court nominee if "any" Democrat held the office of President? Per Sen. Richard Burr (R-N.C.); “If Hillary Clinton becomes president, I am going to do everything I can do to make sure four years from now, we still got an opening on the Supreme Court.” Which begs the question; when will Democrats in Congress acknowledge their constituents as "The People" with a voice in deciding who becomes a Supreme Court justice?
Hear, hear! Yet another great column, Charles. The Democrats HAVE become "too soft". It's time for some traffic problems in Congress.
2
100% agree with Mr. Blow and he is absolutely right. Democrats need to be UNIFIED in obstructing Gorsuch. This seat was stolen from President Obama. They should never let the public forget that. And I will personally refuse to vote for any Democrats that confirm this man to the bench.
3
I just wish Trump would get serious as I, for one, am getting extremely tired and annoyed with his daily reality show reruns. He treated the appointment of a Judge to SCOTUS as a finally to The Apprentice. Shame on him for doing so, but shame on the media for failing to point out these daily reruns.
I can recall every POTUS since Eisenhower and I can never recall one that is as incompetent, self centered, narcissistic and nasty as TRump, and that includes Nixon.
The press needs to begin reporting the fact after each one of his lies. The press needs to stop being his camera crew on his reality show. The press needs to report, not promote his staged events, the press needs to grow a spine.
I can recall every POTUS since Eisenhower and I can never recall one that is as incompetent, self centered, narcissistic and nasty as TRump, and that includes Nixon.
The press needs to begin reporting the fact after each one of his lies. The press needs to stop being his camera crew on his reality show. The press needs to report, not promote his staged events, the press needs to grow a spine.
2
You are engaging in wishful thinking.
Trump's not in a hurry, as you suggest.
He just wants and needs the attention every day.
He's like a child that ate way to much candy.
He needs a timeout, but not even his children have the nerve to tell him that.
Trump's not in a hurry, as you suggest.
He just wants and needs the attention every day.
He's like a child that ate way to much candy.
He needs a timeout, but not even his children have the nerve to tell him that.
1
Gemli for Congress. Some of the best written and clear eyed thinking
I am reading lately is coming from a reader. Hey NYT have you thought
about giving this guy his own column? Well done and please keep it up!
I am reading lately is coming from a reader. Hey NYT have you thought
about giving this guy his own column? Well done and please keep it up!
1
Ugh. How tiresome these screeds and rants are becoming from Blow.
Blow's anti-Trump-all-the time columns have become like temper tantrums of a man who didn't get his way. Shades of the man he's so opposed to. The difference being that Trump actually did get elected and is governing - as galling as Blow may find that.
Charles, resistance is futile. How about coming up with some concrete suggestions for actually transforming the way America is governed instead of just howling at the wind?
Blow's anti-Trump-all-the time columns have become like temper tantrums of a man who didn't get his way. Shades of the man he's so opposed to. The difference being that Trump actually did get elected and is governing - as galling as Blow may find that.
Charles, resistance is futile. How about coming up with some concrete suggestions for actually transforming the way America is governed instead of just howling at the wind?
4
You know what? I'm a life long, dedicated, hardened Democrat. I stood and marched with the crowds for 6 hours on Saturday Jan 21 on 2nd Ave during the Million womens march and I'll march again. I have been watching in horror ever since the Republican nomination.
BUT, I love Trump's nomination of Gorsuch. Why? He's a Columbia graduate. Barack was a Columbia graduate. I'm a Columbia graduate. Gorsuch and Barack, both Harvard Law. Gorsuch and Bill Clinton, both Oxford. A left of center bent is in his soul, and he'll shift left once nominated. A cuckoo's egg if ever there was one.
BUT, I love Trump's nomination of Gorsuch. Why? He's a Columbia graduate. Barack was a Columbia graduate. I'm a Columbia graduate. Gorsuch and Barack, both Harvard Law. Gorsuch and Bill Clinton, both Oxford. A left of center bent is in his soul, and he'll shift left once nominated. A cuckoo's egg if ever there was one.
Dear Mr. Blow,
I have a bet with a good friend of mine that Trump won't be able to "handle" the office of president as it also involves, well, dealing with other people who seem to just get in the way of this gigantic, ego driven narcissist.
I bet that within the year, he will resign due to whatever reason he chooses to come up with. So far, I'm sticking to that bet.
As for the SCOTUS nominee, I'm just thankful that one of his variety of "string pullers" whispered in his ear,
"Listen, nominate a sitting judge; your son Barron isn't old enough for the position".
I have a bet with a good friend of mine that Trump won't be able to "handle" the office of president as it also involves, well, dealing with other people who seem to just get in the way of this gigantic, ego driven narcissist.
I bet that within the year, he will resign due to whatever reason he chooses to come up with. So far, I'm sticking to that bet.
As for the SCOTUS nominee, I'm just thankful that one of his variety of "string pullers" whispered in his ear,
"Listen, nominate a sitting judge; your son Barron isn't old enough for the position".
Please Charles, write your column several times a week calling for protest and vitriol on everything Trump does or says. Fill in the voids with calling out things he might do. It is working! The news this morning is filled with images of Democratic brown shirts violently attacking at UC Berkley last night. We need to replay old grievances over and over, work in some dog whistle comments like the Republicans stole a Supreme Court from President Obama. This is what the Democrats need to retake hearts of the American people.
4
Thank you yet again Mr. Blow for saying exactly what I have been thinking. I am so frustrated with the Democrats and their talk of always taking the "high road." While I believe that we should try and behave in a principled manner, there is nothing principled about what is going on in the government today. The Republican are fighting hard and dirty. And have been for the past 8 years. It is said that you don't take a knife to a gunfight. Well, the Democrats have been taking snowballs to a hell fight. I wish they would, as Mr. Blow here so rightly puts it, "grow a spine" and "buck up". We desperately need them to do that. And they need to leave the tears home. No matter how justified.
7
By calling Gorsuch, Scalia 2.0, his supporters themselves have labeled him as a toxic poison.
2
I love starting the day with your editorials!!!
4
I agree with much of what Mr. Blow says, but it's not just the Democrats that need to grow a spine it's the sitting Republican House and Senate members. It's their party that's being hijacked right under their noses. They need to stand up and reject Trump's poor cabinet choices and they need to put the country before their political fears of not being reelected. They probably cannot stop his Supreme Court picks but if united they sure can try.
Any fool can see that Trump is not up to the job of being President if he can't even have a civil phone conversation with one of our long time ally.
This is no surprise, Trump is acting like 65 million of us thought he would and that's why we didn't vote for him.
The Republican's and Democrats must get together and contain Trump or find a way to get rid of him. If the the first two weeks of his administration is any indication of what the next four years will be this country and the world will be in serious trouble.
Any fool can see that Trump is not up to the job of being President if he can't even have a civil phone conversation with one of our long time ally.
This is no surprise, Trump is acting like 65 million of us thought he would and that's why we didn't vote for him.
The Republican's and Democrats must get together and contain Trump or find a way to get rid of him. If the the first two weeks of his administration is any indication of what the next four years will be this country and the world will be in serious trouble.
5
Being an Independent senior citizen, I will muddle through the remaining time I have on this planet [which appears to be shorter with each passing day]. However, I fear for my kids and grand children and the world they will inherit because of the following -
o The Democrats ran ineffective and/or flawed candidates;
o People just do not take the time to vote these days, and those that do are uninformed or live in a world of alternate facts.
o This election had many important issues, but SCOTUS screamed for attention and few listened or understood the ramifications.
o The Twitler-in-Chief leveraged that giant red hole formerly known as fly-over country;
o Republicans methodically spent years, first at the local level, then gerrymandering 'red' districts, and finally gaining control of all three branches of the federal government, and few paid any attention.
o The Democrats of today are on the way to being a super minority party with little bench strength, and the same old same old running it, doing the same thing and somehow expecting a different result.
o Drain the swamp actually meant get rid of all the civil servants and career diplomats that have toiled for years to make this a better country.
o And climate change will eventually swamp those pesky bookend blue states, but not in my lifetime.
So wax factually all you want if it makes you feel better; however, bottom line, we get the government we deserve, and I'm scared!
o The Democrats ran ineffective and/or flawed candidates;
o People just do not take the time to vote these days, and those that do are uninformed or live in a world of alternate facts.
o This election had many important issues, but SCOTUS screamed for attention and few listened or understood the ramifications.
o The Twitler-in-Chief leveraged that giant red hole formerly known as fly-over country;
o Republicans methodically spent years, first at the local level, then gerrymandering 'red' districts, and finally gaining control of all three branches of the federal government, and few paid any attention.
o The Democrats of today are on the way to being a super minority party with little bench strength, and the same old same old running it, doing the same thing and somehow expecting a different result.
o Drain the swamp actually meant get rid of all the civil servants and career diplomats that have toiled for years to make this a better country.
o And climate change will eventually swamp those pesky bookend blue states, but not in my lifetime.
So wax factually all you want if it makes you feel better; however, bottom line, we get the government we deserve, and I'm scared!
11
thank you. i completely agree with everything you said. it's quite ironic that the punditry were loudly proclaiming that the dems had a permanent national "lock"
on elections, even while most of the state legislatures and governors were being taken over by republicans.
i'm also scared, but more for the next generations. we have been taken over by a
very evil group of people who will destroy what's left of my country and its wonderful constitution.
on elections, even while most of the state legislatures and governors were being taken over by republicans.
i'm also scared, but more for the next generations. we have been taken over by a
very evil group of people who will destroy what's left of my country and its wonderful constitution.
1
Fight them tooth and nail absolutely! FIght dirty and without any respect or understanding or concern for the rules you bet, they have proven rules do not matter when applied to the GOP and Trump. But in terms of Trump stepping down Charles, you are deluding yourself. He is addicted to the attention and power and he and his family are cashing in like never before because he is making the rules and no one can stop him. You are also wrong regarding Trump's popularity or lack thereof. Yes, here on the east coast and in California he is immensely unpopular , even despised. But his supporters couldn't be happier! Unlike other RINO's Trump has kept his crazy campaign promises to our horror but to their delight. Fox News hails him as a hero, a savior and a visionary. THat's what they are all watching and until we get into those states, register voters and get them involved and to the polls to vote for candidates with the gumption to stand up and stop these power hungry neo fascists and vote them out of office we will will not accomplish anything.
5
That's right!! The Democrats need to grow a spine. They need to become progressive!! The USA has been ruined irreparably.
7
Couldn't agree more. We now live in a world where the majority of Americans didn't vote for the President or the Congress (thanks to Gerrymandering and the non-democratic way we select the Senate) that we have. We need to put up a fight on the third branch of government. This was a stolen seat and no amount of arguments that Biden or Obama suggested that we block Bush's nominees changes the fact that the Republicans actually DID IT; and in doing so, blatantly ignored the constitution. The greatest irony in all of this is that the fruit from the poison tree is an originalist. I wonder how the framers of a constitution would feel about the legitimacy of Mr. Gorsuch's nomination. I think I know and I think that Mr. Gorsuch's commitment to the constitution is conditional on whether or not ignoring it benefits him personally.
10
"...and the election was stolen from the American public by maleficent figures, foul of motive and moving in shadows."
Wow. What exactly was stolen? Our opportunity to install a consummately establishment candidate who might at best pay lip service to the domestic issues affecting 99% of the population? We could have had four more years of foreign policy that includes endless wars for unknown purposes, if we hadn't been mugged.
Charles blow and others might feel their election was stolen, but the 55% voter turnout proves that 45% of the electorate abandoned their "property", and abandoned property can't be stolen. Abandoned, by the way, because it was already pretty worthless. The maleficent and shadowy figures, moving in the shadows up and down K street stole my vote a long time ago.
Maybe that should have been addressed by now. Maybe the press should think about doing their job instead of blaming the Russians and the FBI for this.
You're not fooling anyone, NYT.
Wow. What exactly was stolen? Our opportunity to install a consummately establishment candidate who might at best pay lip service to the domestic issues affecting 99% of the population? We could have had four more years of foreign policy that includes endless wars for unknown purposes, if we hadn't been mugged.
Charles blow and others might feel their election was stolen, but the 55% voter turnout proves that 45% of the electorate abandoned their "property", and abandoned property can't be stolen. Abandoned, by the way, because it was already pretty worthless. The maleficent and shadowy figures, moving in the shadows up and down K street stole my vote a long time ago.
Maybe that should have been addressed by now. Maybe the press should think about doing their job instead of blaming the Russians and the FBI for this.
You're not fooling anyone, NYT.
3
Let's not forget that Obama's reelection in 2012 was aided by IRS, which illegally targeted hundreds of conservative groups in an attempt to silence the opposition. This undeniably had a major influence on the elections, unlike the alleged Russian attempt to disclose the dnc correspondence.
All obama's executive orders and decisions in his second term are fruits if the tree poisoned by his IRS.
All obama's executive orders and decisions in his second term are fruits if the tree poisoned by his IRS.
5
Nonsense.
As was well documented at the time (although not in the alternative fact world of Breitbart and Fox), the IRS did its job by looking at lots of non-profits, across the spectrum, to see which, fi any, were violating the law.
Some non-conservative ones were caught.
But the fact-free universe only went berserk (well, more berserk) over the conservative ones that were caught out.
Keep trying.
As was well documented at the time (although not in the alternative fact world of Breitbart and Fox), the IRS did its job by looking at lots of non-profits, across the spectrum, to see which, fi any, were violating the law.
Some non-conservative ones were caught.
But the fact-free universe only went berserk (well, more berserk) over the conservative ones that were caught out.
Keep trying.
1
Donnie tells Mitch to go nuclear before the fight in congress has actually started and before the Democrats have even decided what to do.
What are the chances Donnie, impulsively tells Jimmy-Bad at the DOD to go nuclear with Iran who is already on notice, or any other country who does not bend over backwards to the Great-One's will?
Besides, I am not sure what good the Supreme Court will be "under" Trump. He will still do what he likes even if the court disagrees with him. They may just go along like that other spineless branch of government.
What are the chances Donnie, impulsively tells Jimmy-Bad at the DOD to go nuclear with Iran who is already on notice, or any other country who does not bend over backwards to the Great-One's will?
Besides, I am not sure what good the Supreme Court will be "under" Trump. He will still do what he likes even if the court disagrees with him. They may just go along like that other spineless branch of government.
3
it was not a "solid rollout."
Trump misspoke and introduced Gorsuch as a current SCOTUS judge.
Trump misspoke and introduced Gorsuch as a current SCOTUS judge.
2
Gorsuch's pedigree is the poison you speak of; white, male, privilege. It is quite frankly, beyond the pale. When will there be an American Indian on The Court, for example? Why not? Or, more simply, a judge educated not at an Ivy League university. Talk about limited vision and bias. A court educated by each other to think and reason like each other. Shame on us for not demanding more of our court which is, by the way, a branch of our government no less than the president. We should expect, no, demand, a more representative Supreme Court when it comes to diversity.
3
I'd suggest that if Gorsuch is confirmed that he forever be referred to as occupying the Merrick Garland chair on the SCOTUS.
4
Interesting that Mr. Blow asks Democrats in Congress to grow a spine. Most of us have been asking the Republicans to do the same thing and stand up to Trump. Is there a skeleton in the entire Congress?
4
The Dems owe the GOP a "Merrick Garland" experience, with all the flourishes.
5
The entire federal government is a gerrymandered, Russian and FBI influenced illegitimate mess. The Democrats, to redeem themselves from the Clinton Incorporated, "me above the country" mess, must resist every move by this administration. If they don't, many of us will forever with hold our financial support and votes from them. They own this disaster and it's their responsibility to save the country.
1
Your 'wild theory' conjured up images of some future announcement by Trump in which he leaves public office to 'spend more time with his family,' as the trope goes (when more likely he'll want to spend more time with his enhanced pile of money, Scrooge McDuck style).
Meanwhile, your article is convincing, particularly with regard to making trump's nominee the 'asterisk jurist.' Even then, as you say, we would be stuck with him (and perhaps another one or two) for at least another generation.
Meanwhile, your article is convincing, particularly with regard to making trump's nominee the 'asterisk jurist.' Even then, as you say, we would be stuck with him (and perhaps another one or two) for at least another generation.
1
Charles Blowhard refuses to let it go. The Democrats lost the election. Not because of Russian hacking, because the party is dominated by aging leftists from both coasts who are completely out of the mainstream. The practice of blocking Supreme Court nominations during an election started with democrats. It was Joe Biden who first declared that the Senate shouldn't consider a nominee during a campaign. Of course its ridiculous, but spare me the partisan outrage. Both sides act in the same selfish manner. Harry Reid gutted the filibuster, Democrats are about to pay the price for his foolishness.
5
Baloney.
Another very smart, sharply observed column from an agile mind. Charles Blow, thank you for keeping your eye on things as they are now; too many of your colleagues are still trapped in old assumptions about how politics works. Democrats in the Senate are only just beginning to notice that, hey, there go the people--I gotta run ahead so that I can lead! They should absolutely make Republicans set up a special set of rules for their "asterisk jurist" and keep pointing out those asterisks as they mount up. People out here in non-bubble reality are organizing and protesting and speaking out in ways I've never seen before. They don't like politicians who steal, lie and self-deal.
7
I agree. Once again, Mr. Blow, thank you for saying what needs to be said.
Serving as President of the United States is not the same thing as living as a Trust-fund Kid who evolved into a Real Estate Tycoon/Bully. The President of the United States SERVES the People... ALL of the People... which includes the Majority who did not vote for him. As a Real Estate Tycoon, Mr. Trump has supposedly made a fortune by bullying adversaries and driving businesses into bankruptcy. Viewing life as a "game" he rarely appears to accept accountability for the chaos he creates. Trump's narcissism is a dangerous trait. For that reason alone, ALL of his decisions need to be Vetted rigorously, especially decisions connected to Supreme Court nominees. Democrats can "have a spine" and not act behave like adolescents on a sugar high. I agree with you Charles, the lives of the next generation, especially the lives of young women of depend on it.
5
We need to get OFF our butts and fight! FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT! The future of America and what we leave behind for the future generations is at stake. If America crumbles and we let it, the history books will scorch us, as well as, those mired in the fecal matter we left them to swim in. We must stop this now. NOW. Can we do it? YES WE CAN!
7
Two wrongs don't make a right but on the other hand we must insist that both sides play by the same rules, especially on something as crucially important as the Supreme Court.
Block Gorsuch, Republicans must pay a price for what they did to Obama. Then establish a rule stating that if the Senate does not hold a timely hearing, the nominee is automatically confirmed.
Block Gorsuch, Republicans must pay a price for what they did to Obama. Then establish a rule stating that if the Senate does not hold a timely hearing, the nominee is automatically confirmed.
5
Charles, what you are proposing is four more years of rancor and dissention in our already flawed and faltering Congress. I wish there were other options. This is continuing disaster with no end in sight.
As for Trump's potential longevity as President, it means Pence would stand in? How much worse to have a moderately intelligent conservative with his views.
I hope our Democratic leaders have the chops to fight to your standard.
As for Trump's potential longevity as President, it means Pence would stand in? How much worse to have a moderately intelligent conservative with his views.
I hope our Democratic leaders have the chops to fight to your standard.
2
There are, individually, a lot of intelligent decent people in both Houses off Congress. But they all take money from people, for their re-elections and thus, the culture of the two Houses corrupts all who are elected.
We need to elect a whole new House of Representatives. All must go. The best would offer to stay as members of the replacements staff. The majority would be seeking lobbyist jobs.
Then we impeach the President and the rubber-stamp Vice-president and call for a special election—peacefully.
Can you take an oath not to accept any money from anyone? On that alone you will win. When CNN had a debate they sold 30 seconds ads for $200,000. The segregation of political speech from the rest of TV is washed by the marketplace.
Here is what you do. Make a list of all the local advertisers. Dress for success and visit each one. You are going to be given the time by the local station, or, you are going to purchase 30 minutes of the 7:00—8:00 PM time at the lowest unit rate and pass the savings on to the advertisers.
Then contact the local stations and book the time. Start tomorrow. FCC does not enforce the access law, and they will shaft you but there is plenty time to get into the DC Court of Appeals.
Freedom of Speech means your speech is free. Confetti, balloons and ads you pay for.
I’m writing a platform of supreme talking points for all 435 of you that you can rewrite in your own words. You will be elected.
http://michaelslevinson.com
We need to elect a whole new House of Representatives. All must go. The best would offer to stay as members of the replacements staff. The majority would be seeking lobbyist jobs.
Then we impeach the President and the rubber-stamp Vice-president and call for a special election—peacefully.
Can you take an oath not to accept any money from anyone? On that alone you will win. When CNN had a debate they sold 30 seconds ads for $200,000. The segregation of political speech from the rest of TV is washed by the marketplace.
Here is what you do. Make a list of all the local advertisers. Dress for success and visit each one. You are going to be given the time by the local station, or, you are going to purchase 30 minutes of the 7:00—8:00 PM time at the lowest unit rate and pass the savings on to the advertisers.
Then contact the local stations and book the time. Start tomorrow. FCC does not enforce the access law, and they will shaft you but there is plenty time to get into the DC Court of Appeals.
Freedom of Speech means your speech is free. Confetti, balloons and ads you pay for.
I’m writing a platform of supreme talking points for all 435 of you that you can rewrite in your own words. You will be elected.
http://michaelslevinson.com
1
I agree with you Charles, just let them, it is about the get worse.
The elected Democrats have plenty of backbones but have outnumbered by Republicans and hence have less power.
The Republicans on the other hand have no backbones or personality to oppose Trump in fear of wrath.
Donald Trump have done impeachable offence by firing Acting Attorney General Sally Yates within ten days of his Presidency by breaking all rules.
There will be more offence to come.
The elected Democrats have plenty of backbones but have outnumbered by Republicans and hence have less power.
The Republicans on the other hand have no backbones or personality to oppose Trump in fear of wrath.
Donald Trump have done impeachable offence by firing Acting Attorney General Sally Yates within ten days of his Presidency by breaking all rules.
There will be more offence to come.
2
Come on Chuckie, about the only thing your Lightworker hero did during his brief and unremarkable tenure in the Senate was to impede a vote on a Bush nominee for SCOTUS (see the Biden Rule) and vote for Trump's SCOTUS nominee for a appellate court seat. Get your alternative facts correct.
What a perrenially lame and repetitive column. Very appropriate for Ground High Day!
What a perrenially lame and repetitive column. Very appropriate for Ground High Day!
2
McConnell said "let the people have a voice in their next supreme court justice" they did by 3 million votes. Trump should not get to pick.
4
Any Democrat that goes along will be facing serious primary challenges.
Mad amounts of money are being raised. Fear your cushy seat Senator.
Comity went out the window some time ago. He is a righting corporatist sympathetic to theocracy.
Much like the Greenpeace banner flown earlier this week, "Resist".
Mad amounts of money are being raised. Fear your cushy seat Senator.
Comity went out the window some time ago. He is a righting corporatist sympathetic to theocracy.
Much like the Greenpeace banner flown earlier this week, "Resist".
4
I thought Charles was smarter than this. It's no a Muslim ban; it's an immigration pause from the countries identified by Obama as breeding terror. And the Republicans were just following Joe Biden's preference in 1992 to delay any Supreme Court justice nominees, if there a vacancy, until after the election. I guess a good idea for the Democrats but a bad idea for Republicans? I also believe every Senator voted for Gorsuch when he was appointed to his current post in Denver; including Schumer and all of the rest of the Democrat Senators going ballistic.
3
Write Gorsuch and tell him to decline the nomination on ethical grounds. He could tell the Republicans to apologize to the American people for their lapse of moral judgment. Here is his email: https://www.ca10.uscourts.gov/contact/clerk
Say it again, Charles: The Democrats have grown too soft. If they give in on this, the Republicans will have the proof they need/want that liberals are spineless. There is no choice but to resist, resist, resist and resist again.
3
AMEN!
From your mouth to Schumer's ears!!
From your mouth to Schumer's ears!!
2
Charles -- dinosaurs like Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi aren't inspiring a whole lot confidence within an already fractured and demoralized Democratic party. The Democrats are hopelessly split between their mainstream and the more radical Bernie Sanders/Elizabeth Warren splinter group. A divided party has no hope of blocking a Supreme Court nomination. I also blame aging liberal court justices like Ruth Bader Ginsberg and Stephen Breyer who are determined to hang to their seats at all costs. I bet Merrick Garland would be on the Supreme Court right now if Ruth Bader Ginsberg had retired when Obama still had a reasonable chance of having a moderate liberal voice on the Court. Now it's too late.
62
TO Sharon5101: Your disrespectful and ageist use of the term "dinosaur" turned me off to anything else you had to say.
1
Age discrimination is not going to help Democrats.
2
The dinosaurs are beholden to the Clintons. People in mid America have Clinton fatigue because their promises were never delivered. The blacks in the south were made to believe by the black Congressional caucus that the Clintons have their back, when history is witness to Bill Clinton's awful welfare policies that decimated blacks https://www.thenation.com/article/hillary-clinton-does-not-deserve-black...
1
I heard an astute observation the other day on sports talk radio, of all places. Given the venomous tit for tat surrounding the confirmation of Supreme Court nominees, it's quite possible that we'll never see another justice confirmed in our lifetime. Each party will block the other's nominee, and sitting justices will die or retire until we're down to just one. Now that's power! And when that lone justice is finally gone, what then? No Supreme Court? Yikes! This is exhausting. Isn't it obvious that the "United" States of America is in desperate need of downsizing to allow different regions of southern North America with diametrically opposed world views to govern themselves as they see fit?
1
The only question is how long it will be before the democrats roll over. We are on our own.
2
The next justices needs to be Merrick Garland, period.
Every republican senator is guilty of sedition.
Every republican senator is guilty of sedition.
3
"This nominee is the fruit of a poison tree and no amount of educational pedigree or persuasive elocution can cleanse him of that contamination."
Great thought in a brilliantly constructed sentence!
Great thought in a brilliantly constructed sentence!
60
And nothing can cleanse Mr. Blow from the contamination of his arrogance, poliitcal bigotry, hypocrisy and hatred.
1
It is reported that nominee Judge Neil Gorsuch called President Obama's nominee Judge Merrick Garland. Now, wouldn't it have been a class act if Gorsuch stated that he had decided to tell Congress that he'll accept this nomination AFTER they have hearings for Garland and vote on Garland for the Supreme Court vacancy. However, nothing about this present administration is classy. And yes, there will always be a taint affecting Gorsuch in whatever he does in the future.
24
That's class from a time now lost to us. Perhaps in distant future we'll regain that kind of civility.
I don't know how Mr. Blow can manage this level of vitriol over a four year period.
6
I hope he does not stop.
2
It's easy when you have a den of imbeciles trying to ruin the country.
3
Those of us who agree wholeheartedly with Mr. Blow have enough energy to fight this tooth and nail for as long as it takes for Trump to cause his own self destruction. Trump's world is one of chaos and armageddon and we of sane mind and who are supporters of preservation of the Constitution have limitless energy and vitriol.
1
Air Force General (and mass killer) Curtis LeMay once corrected a subordinate who called the Soviet Union the enemy by saying, "No, the Soviets are our adversary, our enemy is the Navy." Back in 94 when the Gingrich Repbulicans took the house, old Newt made the declaration that the enemy was the Democrats and they had to be fought tooth and nail, clean and mostly dirty. Why it's taken the Democrats a quarter century or more to start to realize that the biggest threat to civilization is an internal one, and its malignancy is metastisizing out of the modern GOP. Blow is exactly right on what needs to be done. And if it isn't, i.e. the Dems cave again, they become the first line of the enemy we have to take out.
34
Why is it taking Democrats so long?
Maybe because they are not socialists with ideological zeal to run on? American Democrats and progressives are just pragmatic folks that want to take rational action, and freaquently give the opposition the benefit of the doubt. They have little ideological underpinnings in their approach to governing. Real solutions for the real world. That's why conservatives had to create a version of ideological philosophy based on alternative reality to fight them. And apparently, with the help of right wing propaganda, which has no equivalent on the left, they have been very succesful at it.
How to oppose the fake reality conservatives opperate in? Explain the real world in rational terms? Good luck with that, short slogans and one-liners are way more persuasive than rational, and by definition more detailed, explanation of the real world. Trade is the example, once free trade became a scapegoat for the suffering of rural Americans, every politician who dared to dissent was immediatelly, and succesfully, labelled globalist and an enemy of the working class.
Ideologically liberals and progressives are in a tough spot. Is there enough of sane Americans to figure that out and support the realistic, and devoid of fear and hatred, policy solutions? I don't think so. It will take a lot of suffering for the middle class to shake off the conservative disease they are inflicted with now.
Maybe because they are not socialists with ideological zeal to run on? American Democrats and progressives are just pragmatic folks that want to take rational action, and freaquently give the opposition the benefit of the doubt. They have little ideological underpinnings in their approach to governing. Real solutions for the real world. That's why conservatives had to create a version of ideological philosophy based on alternative reality to fight them. And apparently, with the help of right wing propaganda, which has no equivalent on the left, they have been very succesful at it.
How to oppose the fake reality conservatives opperate in? Explain the real world in rational terms? Good luck with that, short slogans and one-liners are way more persuasive than rational, and by definition more detailed, explanation of the real world. Trade is the example, once free trade became a scapegoat for the suffering of rural Americans, every politician who dared to dissent was immediatelly, and succesfully, labelled globalist and an enemy of the working class.
Ideologically liberals and progressives are in a tough spot. Is there enough of sane Americans to figure that out and support the realistic, and devoid of fear and hatred, policy solutions? I don't think so. It will take a lot of suffering for the middle class to shake off the conservative disease they are inflicted with now.
The Democrats' message should be this: no Supreme Court nominees from a president who failed to win even a plurality of the popular vote. The majority of voters did not want this person picking Supreme Court justices. Just Say No.
62
Bill Clinton never won a plurality of the vote, and in 1992 he got only 43%.
1
Good theory--but this would have kept Clinton from nominating any justices--since he did not win a plurality for his first term.
First, remember:
Trump is a Fascist. So are his henchmen.
Like the National Socialists who found themselves asked to participate in forming a government on 30 January 1933, Trump is surprised by his position, enormously pleased, and moving to take over all aspects of the governing structures, including destroying large portions of it as fast as he can.
By purging the voter rolls, he will insure his next election.
When you realize the danger we are in, you will respond accordingly. Or you will disappear, like the Social Democrats.
I carried a large sign at the Inauguration. It said, "Trump is a Fascist." I could not believe how many of his supporters agreed: "We need a strong leader" was their common refrain.
Trump is a Fascist. So are his henchmen.
Like the National Socialists who found themselves asked to participate in forming a government on 30 January 1933, Trump is surprised by his position, enormously pleased, and moving to take over all aspects of the governing structures, including destroying large portions of it as fast as he can.
By purging the voter rolls, he will insure his next election.
When you realize the danger we are in, you will respond accordingly. Or you will disappear, like the Social Democrats.
I carried a large sign at the Inauguration. It said, "Trump is a Fascist." I could not believe how many of his supporters agreed: "We need a strong leader" was their common refrain.
38
Trump did not use IRS against the dissenters, Obama did.
2
You are so right and it is scary. Most of Trump's supporters actually seem to want a dictator. When one reads about fascism and previous fascist governments it is obvious how perilously close we are. If no one fights back we will be in a fascist system. This isn't alarmist, it is reality. To ignore the danger and be complacent and think "it will never happen here" will be our downfall. We are not exceptional. Our country is just as vulnerable as any other.
"Senate Democrats, grow a spine. Buck up! Fight like your lives depend on it, because in the end, the lives of your children, and ours, just might."
Yes, Mr. Blow- this must happen. No more 'go along to get along.' The GOP has been the party of 'NO' for nearly a decade, while the dems have tried to maintain normal political decorum. This has been a loosing strategy and so we find ourselves here today watching our democracy unravel.
The GOP's refusal to consider Judge Merrick's nomination was a travesty. McConnell says the dems are obstructing trump's nominee(s) and that they should treat trump's nominee(s) the same way the GOP treated President Obama's! Yes, he really said that. I guess senility has set in and McConnell doesn't remember how he refused to consider Judge Garland's nomination.
O.K.- game on! Listen up dems...the answer to every nominee, every lamebrain policy must be a resounding NO!
Yes, Mr. Blow- this must happen. No more 'go along to get along.' The GOP has been the party of 'NO' for nearly a decade, while the dems have tried to maintain normal political decorum. This has been a loosing strategy and so we find ourselves here today watching our democracy unravel.
The GOP's refusal to consider Judge Merrick's nomination was a travesty. McConnell says the dems are obstructing trump's nominee(s) and that they should treat trump's nominee(s) the same way the GOP treated President Obama's! Yes, he really said that. I guess senility has set in and McConnell doesn't remember how he refused to consider Judge Garland's nomination.
O.K.- game on! Listen up dems...the answer to every nominee, every lamebrain policy must be a resounding NO!
37
The Republicans haven't maintained normal political decorum since the Eisenhower administration.
Senate Democrats have to be at least a little rattled at how many calls and emails are streaming in demanding resistance to the Trump regime!
21
Yes, yes, and yes again, Mr. Blow. And thank you for your Siren Song /Battle Cry to rouse all those from despair, or those who have acquiesced in the face of defeat.
Of course, Republicans have Democrats outnumbered -- that has been the crux of their nefarious takeover plan all along -- but that doen't mean it's time to simply roll over.
Of course, Master-puppeteer Steve Bannon has taken over control of Trump's brain and is pursuing his hateful plan to ban everyone, sooner or later.
And of course Mitch McConnell has suddenly spring back to life now that his wife has been confirmed, and is in old form doing what he does best -- blaming and berating Democrats who do not immediately succumb to the Republican edict, which this time, happens to be a nominee for the Supreme Court who is the splitting image of the late Judge Scalia....what a surprise!
While one can only hope you are correct in thinking Mr. Trump will only last one-term (if, that!), that's still enough time for him to do great damage to this country, which is why we must RESIST! -- And be like the proud Americans who converged at Airports, in front of the White House, and out on the streets to to oppose the yoke of insanity now cast upon us!
Democrats in the Senate should do no less.
Of course, Republicans have Democrats outnumbered -- that has been the crux of their nefarious takeover plan all along -- but that doen't mean it's time to simply roll over.
Of course, Master-puppeteer Steve Bannon has taken over control of Trump's brain and is pursuing his hateful plan to ban everyone, sooner or later.
And of course Mitch McConnell has suddenly spring back to life now that his wife has been confirmed, and is in old form doing what he does best -- blaming and berating Democrats who do not immediately succumb to the Republican edict, which this time, happens to be a nominee for the Supreme Court who is the splitting image of the late Judge Scalia....what a surprise!
While one can only hope you are correct in thinking Mr. Trump will only last one-term (if, that!), that's still enough time for him to do great damage to this country, which is why we must RESIST! -- And be like the proud Americans who converged at Airports, in front of the White House, and out on the streets to to oppose the yoke of insanity now cast upon us!
Democrats in the Senate should do no less.
19
By all reports so far, Neil Gorsuch is a highly intelligent, principled jurist who puts the law above politics. The country needs a smart, principled conservative capable of standing up to Trump more than it needs another panicky liberal commentator like Charles Blow. Moreover, it would be extremely short-sighted for the Democrats to block a worthy Supreme Court nominee purely out of political spite, which would serve only to perpetuate a destructive cycle.
7
Short-sighted to block a qualified and worthy nominee? You're joking, right? Mitch McConnell and the entire Republican Party did that exact thing when they refused, solely on political partisanship and spite, to even hold a hearing on President Obama's nominee, Judge Garland. The hypocrisy that these individuals andcrhis party operate under is treasonous. They have no desire to do the right thing, especially if it requires hat they do the job for which they were elected. They want to now ask Democratic Senators to be cooperative when they have, on principle and in deed, acted like spoiled, little children. They disgust me.
1
A principled jurist would refuse a seat stolen from a colleague by a power-mad party.
1
Delay! Delay! Delay! We will protest this and demand justice for all Americans- women, children, voters, criminal justice reform. Conservative judges with their bigoted religious ideology do not represent us. Enough of McConnell and his quest for and abuse of power against Americans.,
16
Yes, yes, yes to all that you have said. But, what about Mr. Gorsuch, himself. We expect our judges, from the Supreme Court to the local magistrate to hold themselves as exemplars of the law, and even more so to the traditions and precedents that their positions demand. So, what are we to think of a man - or any woman for that matter - who obviously qualified for the position of SCJ - ignored the blatant and wholly unconstitutional way in which the system was manipulated to allow his name to be considered for the job in the first place. This is the issue that most concerns me. He and all others who would be nominated for this position, has a duty to the nation to respectfully decline such consideration unless and until the original nominee, Merrick Garland is given a hearing for the job.
16
I think Gorsuch's nomination can and should be opposed based simply on his own philosophy. Gorsuch is an 'originalist' which means he believes in ruling based on what he thinks the Founding Fathers intended when they wrote the Constitution. There are two problems with that. First, which Founder? Even a cursory reading of history will show that the Founders disagreed a great deal and our Constitution is the result of compromises that many were not happy with. Second, anyone appointed to the Supreme Court today will surely be faced with cases that debate issues the Founding Fathers could never have anticipated, such as artificial intelligence, drone strikes, DNA modification, etc. Science will continue to push the boundaries of the possible, and our Court needs a mind that can look forward, not just backwards, to answer the question, "We can, but should we?'
13
The danger of Trump's court pick is that Gorsuch seems so reasonable, so congenial and "smart". But he must be seen as a symbol, an object in the right-wing putsch, and therefore Democrats must make a symbolic effort and reply, "No". Absolutely. Whether they win or lose we must stop with the "high road" chess strategy because we are dealing with low-minded people in Trump, etc. Thank you Charles for being one of the few thinkers giving no quarter to this madness. Please remain our voice!!!
14
We are Swimming in the Swill of the Poison of the Presence of this Pretence
"President". Sometime the sanest reaction to an insane situation is Insanity.
We are dwelling in a society being Ruled by a Malevalent human being who is totally "Unvetted" in this position and has been allowed to Slither into Power, which His only Desired Design. Meanwhile, the "Man of the Hour", the CEO, is
Having Fun, at Our expense, as the COA (Center of Attention). He has the Power....the People have the Puke. Sorry, but in Despair, I can only hang my Black Flag. With the Purchase of the Presidency, I see the diminution of
Democracy.
"President". Sometime the sanest reaction to an insane situation is Insanity.
We are dwelling in a society being Ruled by a Malevalent human being who is totally "Unvetted" in this position and has been allowed to Slither into Power, which His only Desired Design. Meanwhile, the "Man of the Hour", the CEO, is
Having Fun, at Our expense, as the COA (Center of Attention). He has the Power....the People have the Puke. Sorry, but in Despair, I can only hang my Black Flag. With the Purchase of the Presidency, I see the diminution of
Democracy.
6
In German, nouns are capitalized; it's interesting to see how English looks when verbs are capitalized.
It's a pipe dream to think that Congress, the Justice dept., the General Inspector, or anyone else will fully & faithfully investigate #notmypresident and the circumstances surrounding his "election." Resist and to take the edge off put something else in that pipe.
5
Hiram Mann " No man survives when freedom fails, the best men rot in filthy jails. And those who cry appease appease are hanged by those they tried to please." Lt Colonial Tuskegee Airmen 332 Fighter Group WW11
12
Thanks Hazel.
Your language and opinions are now at the point of hysteria. You write as if it's 1861. Your *asterisks* are offensive and absurd. The left is positively unhinged.
Can you IMAGINE if the other side were behaving in this fashion. You'd suggest they hadn't discovered the wheel yet.
Can you IMAGINE if the other side were behaving in this fashion. You'd suggest they hadn't discovered the wheel yet.
7
Sorry, Ken. "Hysteria" is not the correct word to describe Charles Blow's outstanding commentaries about the warped, decrepit Trump administration.
Rather, next time, consider using the more apt word: RESISTANCE.
Thank you.
Rather, next time, consider using the more apt word: RESISTANCE.
Thank you.
1
The "other side" has behaved in this fashion, time and time again, culminating in its refusal to honor our constitutional principals by advising and consenting to President Obama's nominee to the Supreme Court. What's the matter? Don't like what went around coming around? Too darned bad. Get over it, and get used to it. Just like the kid who finally stands up to the bully and reveals him to be what he is -- a sniveling coward who feels powerful by preying on those he perceives to be weaker or unlikely to retaliate -- the GOP has slain the goose that lays the golden egg of economic activity and tax collections that are redistributed from blue states to red. Hallelujah. Bring. It. On.
2
Ken, we don't have to "imagine" anything...we've been witness to the biggest GOP obstruction-fest for the last 8 years. And the only person/people who are unhinged here is President Bannon and his little puppet trump
Fighting tooth and nail isn't actually the most helpful thing. Fighting intelligently and strategically is, and given that Republicans in the Senate can and will steamroll even the most determined opposition, it's not obvious a complete wall of opposition is better in any sense other than being more self-satisfying.
The most important thing for Democrats is to win back undecided voters in 2018 and 2020, and it's not obvious to me they care much about the grave injustice of the Garland boycott, and I think it's likely many of them will be turned off by Democrats filibustering against what we'll have a hard time arguing is a terrible choice for the Supreme Court.
Bannon and Trump may be terrible at a governing, but they're frightening good at taunting liberals into making themselves look bad to people on the fence (see also violent protests at UC Berkeley about alt-right speakers).
The most important thing for Democrats is to win back undecided voters in 2018 and 2020, and it's not obvious to me they care much about the grave injustice of the Garland boycott, and I think it's likely many of them will be turned off by Democrats filibustering against what we'll have a hard time arguing is a terrible choice for the Supreme Court.
Bannon and Trump may be terrible at a governing, but they're frightening good at taunting liberals into making themselves look bad to people on the fence (see also violent protests at UC Berkeley about alt-right speakers).
6
Mr. Blow, Will you please become a policy advisor to the Democratic Party? Or, maybe it's time you ran for office. I'm serious!
I don't see one congressional representative speaking with the clarity, courage, and integrity that you have been consistently doing in your columns about so many issues.
Thank you for giving me voice!
I don't see one congressional representative speaking with the clarity, courage, and integrity that you have been consistently doing in your columns about so many issues.
Thank you for giving me voice!
18
Mitch McConnell said that they would not have hearings for Merrick Garland so that the people could decide. They have. The majority of US citizens voted to seat Hilliary Clinton in the White House. So, Democrats should only accept Merrick Garland as a Supreme Court candidate.
77
Wholeheartedly agree Charlie, but the way I felt at the time and still feel now, is that We, the People had already spoken when we elected President Obama who was President at the time of Scalia's Death. If the Repubs won't fill the Supreme Court seat with the People's Chioce of the President at the time of the vacancy with Merrick Garland, then that just makes any of their further choices illegitimate.
So you think the team with the most hit wins the game, not the team with the most runs?
Presidential elections are decided by electoral vote which Trump won in a landslide. Read the Constitution.
1
This is an appointment - along with that of Justice Thomas - that can never, ever work out well for the US and for Mr. Gorsuch.
18
I think the Democrats should fight. There is no such thing as a Jewish seat, an African American seat, a woman's seat, or conservative or liberal seats on the Supreme Court. The nine judges are supposed to be non-partisan, free of monetary conflicts when it comes to decisions, and qualified to make decisions that affect an entire nation. They should decide on the basis of the laws and on the basis of what is humane. The Constitution has been amended since it was ratified. Times change, people change, ideas change. Where is there space for an originalist view of the Constitution on a court in a country that changes? Such a thing implies that change has no place in our country.
The GOP, in its inept way, is showing us precisely how a party ought not to behave. We should not be mired in a fight over what the original framers meant when the Constitution was written or ratified. We should be fighting about how to make America a better place for everyone who lives here now. We can look to the past for how decisions were made and why there were changes. However, we shouldn't be stuck on the past as a way to avoid the issues we're facing now. So yes, the Democrats should fight this nomination on the grounds that an originalist is the last thing we need.
The GOP, in its inept way, is showing us precisely how a party ought not to behave. We should not be mired in a fight over what the original framers meant when the Constitution was written or ratified. We should be fighting about how to make America a better place for everyone who lives here now. We can look to the past for how decisions were made and why there were changes. However, we shouldn't be stuck on the past as a way to avoid the issues we're facing now. So yes, the Democrats should fight this nomination on the grounds that an originalist is the last thing we need.
28
"There is no such thing as a Jewish seat, an African American seat, a woman's seat, or conservative or liberal seats on the Supreme Court."
Nonsense. For each and every one of those, a president or presidential candidate has said just that. (Well, maybe not liberal.)
Nonsense. For each and every one of those, a president or presidential candidate has said just that. (Well, maybe not liberal.)
1
Precisely. Write exactly this opinion in every website. Thank you.
Sober up Chuckie. Like other hysterical anarchists, I mean democrats, you've gotten the rules for cloture all muddled up with the rules for winning a vote in the Senate. Pitiful.
7
Every day you people crank up another provocation. You're just arsonists.
1
KayDayJay You should wake up and smell the coffee. You are being lied to and you don't even understand that you voted for and support people who do not care about you. They, the Republicans are hateful fear mongers.
Judge Garland should be the one approved to sit on the Supreme Court. Anyone else is not suitable.
Judge Garland should be the one approved to sit on the Supreme Court. Anyone else is not suitable.
2
Why is it always the personal attacks?
3
To argue that the Democrats should use the techniques that you harshly criticize when used by the Republicans appears quite hypocritical. Further, such an approach gives the Republicans the chance to fairly claim that Democrats are two-faced; angered when Obama's choice is denied but feel it's OK to do the same to Trump's choice. The middle ground, the only location where both sides will serve the people, is inherently a compromise but both sides must abide by the same rules to get there.
4
But the republicans broke the faith by refusing to consider Obama's more than qualified choice. When bullies punch the best thing to do is punch back.
2
@Dr B "both sides must abide by the same rules to get there"
Charles Blow quite accurately makes the point that the Republicans already stopped abiding by those rules. The 'rules' that everyone must now abide by are the 'rules' that the Republicans created by breaking the old rules.
Democrats needn't "feel it's OK", but we must recognise the fact that the Republicans have forced them.
Charles Blow quite accurately makes the point that the Republicans already stopped abiding by those rules. The 'rules' that everyone must now abide by are the 'rules' that the Republicans created by breaking the old rules.
Democrats needn't "feel it's OK", but we must recognise the fact that the Republicans have forced them.
1
To resolve that hypocrisy, look at the timeline. Democrats called foul when the move was in process, in an attempt to prevent the cheat from working. But the thieves got away with the goods; now the Democrats realize that this is a new and successful way of doing business. The successful thieves changed the rules, and the new rules are there for all to see.
1
I agree. Democrats need to get tough. And they should put up every obstacle imaginable until the midterm elections.
34
The hearings should be delayed until the investigation of hacking is complete and until Trump's issues with conflicts of interest are resolved by his divesting himself of his international and domestic conflicts of interest.
The same goes for his cabinet.
The same goes for his cabinet.
35
Not to mention showing his taxes. Let's not forget that.
1
The seeds for the human and civil rights violating trainwreck in Washington were sown in 1980 with the election of Ronald Reagan and the smearing of the mensch Jimmy Carter as a weak President by the same malignant types who now occupy the White House.
It's worse than that though as far as the Democrats are concerned, the orange troll knows the hypocrisy and corruption of the Democratic Party well as they took his campaign contributions freely, and he knows that they are not in a position to stop him. When allegedly Progressive Supreme Court members with names like Ginsburg call human rights champions like Colin Kaepernick misguided for taking a stand against unjustified violence and human rights violations in America and by America including those perpetrated against children like Tamir Rice, Trayvon Martin and Andy Lopez etc., when the Supreme Court backs unjustified state sanctioned violence against unarmed American citizens like Walter Scott and John Crawford etc., it's obvious something is not only rotten in Denmark.
It's worse than that though as far as the Democrats are concerned, the orange troll knows the hypocrisy and corruption of the Democratic Party well as they took his campaign contributions freely, and he knows that they are not in a position to stop him. When allegedly Progressive Supreme Court members with names like Ginsburg call human rights champions like Colin Kaepernick misguided for taking a stand against unjustified violence and human rights violations in America and by America including those perpetrated against children like Tamir Rice, Trayvon Martin and Andy Lopez etc., when the Supreme Court backs unjustified state sanctioned violence against unarmed American citizens like Walter Scott and John Crawford etc., it's obvious something is not only rotten in Denmark.
20
Yes, it started with Ronald Reagan. The Democrats never countered his influence in an effective manner. Sadly the winners in a shouting contest are not the ones who use reason or logic. The winners are those who shout the loudest and have the most memorable phrases. Welfare queens anyone?
4
Scary, Mr. Blow, to think that Donald Trump will step down. I don't think he will; I don't think President Bannon will allow it. But if he does, we go from the wild man to the smooth operator, to the equally dangerous but so much more presentable Mr. Pence.
33
Double recommend.
Trump will not step down.
Narcissists refuse to recognize their own inadequacy in any situation; it's part of the definition to believe they're superior all the time.
Trump does not believe he's making a mess. He thinks the protestors are wrong to challenge him. He's not going to work hard. Bannon and his other buddies will kindly relieve him of that and simply bring him things to sign. When he rips up another painstakingly-built relationship with another country, Bannon will pat his head and tell him how "tough" he is.
Their stances on these things is part of their authoritarian worldview—that might makes right, that America is the big dog and doesn't need to even be polite to others (much less consider their needs and interests), and that all the rest of us (the ordinary citizens, the other countries, etc.) should "shut up and listen". That's their ethic. That's what they admire. That's how they think the world works, and how they think it should work.
The question is, are we going to sit around and let them do this?
Narcissists refuse to recognize their own inadequacy in any situation; it's part of the definition to believe they're superior all the time.
Trump does not believe he's making a mess. He thinks the protestors are wrong to challenge him. He's not going to work hard. Bannon and his other buddies will kindly relieve him of that and simply bring him things to sign. When he rips up another painstakingly-built relationship with another country, Bannon will pat his head and tell him how "tough" he is.
Their stances on these things is part of their authoritarian worldview—that might makes right, that America is the big dog and doesn't need to even be polite to others (much less consider their needs and interests), and that all the rest of us (the ordinary citizens, the other countries, etc.) should "shut up and listen". That's their ethic. That's what they admire. That's how they think the world works, and how they think it should work.
The question is, are we going to sit around and let them do this?
McConnell is already so far gone in his mind that he is unable to see that destroying the Senate is what Trump has in mind.
And no, Trump will not resign. A malignant narcissist always self destructs as well as taking down as many as he can on his way.
Charles, you are not an optimist, you simply have no real personal experience with a malignant narcissist, and can't imagine why they go against their own self interest. You should be grateful that you cannot imagine this, because it means you are normal.
I unfortunately have such personal experience, and had to learn how to survivie it. The first step is to block and isolate the Problem.
Calm, firm, bipartisan impeachment is the only answer that will solve this Problem. McConnell's constituents need to start getting rid of him too, because he has become a full-fledged collaborator, and there is no hope for him either.
And no, Trump will not resign. A malignant narcissist always self destructs as well as taking down as many as he can on his way.
Charles, you are not an optimist, you simply have no real personal experience with a malignant narcissist, and can't imagine why they go against their own self interest. You should be grateful that you cannot imagine this, because it means you are normal.
I unfortunately have such personal experience, and had to learn how to survivie it. The first step is to block and isolate the Problem.
Calm, firm, bipartisan impeachment is the only answer that will solve this Problem. McConnell's constituents need to start getting rid of him too, because he has become a full-fledged collaborator, and there is no hope for him either.
78
Brava! And to add to your excellent comment, we can't repeat too often what the Pope said recently about Hitler. Hitler, he said, was legally elected by his people and, having secured power, immediately began to destroy them.
Trump is gunning for the whole planet.
It's a war of attrition with the Dems losing on every major issue.
I remember the Dems voting in Clarence Thomas, the worst judge in history. They were in the majority, and still caved.
Fighting is not in the Dems DNA. Trump is the final proof of this.
I remember the Dems voting in Clarence Thomas, the worst judge in history. They were in the majority, and still caved.
Fighting is not in the Dems DNA. Trump is the final proof of this.
22
You must be a racist, David. Just like every Republican who ever opposed Obama.
Give it up Blow. Come to the dark side.. Feel your anger... and besides, we have cookies....
12
Take it to Fox News, dude.
1. My very good father, arrested on a street in Berlin on Kristallnacht and sent to Buchenwald, instructed me to accept my losses in life and move on; and I always have tried to do just that. But this one I am having a very hard time with.
2. If Melania and Ivanka and Jared were willing
to go on television and tell what they know, this tragic farce would be over in a few days. But ….
2. If Melania and Ivanka and Jared were willing
to go on television and tell what they know, this tragic farce would be over in a few days. But ….
42
Who could believe them, even if they could speak the actual truth?
4
Mr. Stanton, I don't believe this is a loss your father would accept given his experiences in life. I think he probably meant losses in life one can do nothing about. This is not one of those losses.
1
The only way to prevent confirmation of Gorsuch is to covert at three GOP senators.
Pressure from voters can possibly convert these senators.
The Dems must make clear what the Trump /Ryan economic policies [that Gorsuch would support] would do to the Trump supporters.
In 2005-2007 the GOP had the Presidency, Senate and House but public pressure on the Congress blocked Bush's Social Security privatization scheme.
Trump's supporters do not care about Mr. Blow's well written arguments.
They will care about economic issues.
Pressure from voters can possibly convert these senators.
The Dems must make clear what the Trump /Ryan economic policies [that Gorsuch would support] would do to the Trump supporters.
In 2005-2007 the GOP had the Presidency, Senate and House but public pressure on the Congress blocked Bush's Social Security privatization scheme.
Trump's supporters do not care about Mr. Blow's well written arguments.
They will care about economic issues.
12
The only legitimate nominee to fill this SCOTUS vacancy is Merrick Garland. Period.
Finally, the media, the public and what appears to be most of the democrats have awakened to the crime that was committed a year ago when the constitutional duties of the senate were cast aside. Scant attention was paid to it at the time, and there was a sense that complacency was obfuscating the dangerous reality of the situation, probably because we believed that no winnable candidate on the GOP side had emerged and the Dems would win the election.
At the time, the line was something like this from McConnell: "Let the American people decide.". What a total crock of you-know-what!
The American people DID decide when they re-elected Obama to a second term. And the American people decided again when they overwhelmingly voted for Hillary Clinton in the popular vote in this past election. There is zero evidence that a majority of Americans want a hard right judge on the Supreme Court..that they want the court to overturn Roe vs. Wade or side with big corporations against individual citizens.
A year ago the Senate hurled the biggest insult in American history onto a sitting president, a hyper-qualified centrist SCOTUS nominee and to a coma-stricken electorate. It was beyond belief that they got away with it. There was also a sense of bewilderment as to why Obama wasn't resisting more aggressively.
The GOP grotesquely abused power and broke the system. Shouldn't they be made to pay?
Finally, the media, the public and what appears to be most of the democrats have awakened to the crime that was committed a year ago when the constitutional duties of the senate were cast aside. Scant attention was paid to it at the time, and there was a sense that complacency was obfuscating the dangerous reality of the situation, probably because we believed that no winnable candidate on the GOP side had emerged and the Dems would win the election.
At the time, the line was something like this from McConnell: "Let the American people decide.". What a total crock of you-know-what!
The American people DID decide when they re-elected Obama to a second term. And the American people decided again when they overwhelmingly voted for Hillary Clinton in the popular vote in this past election. There is zero evidence that a majority of Americans want a hard right judge on the Supreme Court..that they want the court to overturn Roe vs. Wade or side with big corporations against individual citizens.
A year ago the Senate hurled the biggest insult in American history onto a sitting president, a hyper-qualified centrist SCOTUS nominee and to a coma-stricken electorate. It was beyond belief that they got away with it. There was also a sense of bewilderment as to why Obama wasn't resisting more aggressively.
The GOP grotesquely abused power and broke the system. Shouldn't they be made to pay?
60
Did you say same thing about judge Bork?
Charles- how could you leave out Mitch McConnell's official Washington Post Op-Ed whining; explaining "it all".
12
Charles, I've joined The Resistance and shall do what I can on my end, for, who knows, my life depends on it. I live in Transylvania and, as Sarah Palin would have it, I can see Putin's dacha from my attic. And now that he is meeting with Orban of Hungary to perfect the "illiberal" democracy with the likes of Turkey's Erdogan, and all like Trumpf, I feel surrounded by "bad hombres" who might bring calamity upon our sorry existence in these lost woods of Transylvania... Therefore, in the proud tradition of my forebears, I shall start sharpening a few stakes, and welcome the "illiberals" with pointed intent!
22
You've got the right idea. We're faced with a Vampire in the White House. Sucking the blood out of everything!
If Merrick Garland's treatment at Republican hands is brazenly unlawful, then this nominee is illegitimate. He should be treated as such.
19
How unlawful? Which law?
Good job, Charles, agree 100%.
Lets not forget how relentless Trump was in disrespecting Obama in the high office while crying birther. Trump was loud and obnoxious, distracting and such a nuisance. Obama had inherited a terrible economy, two wars, high security issues and this clueless guy just kept repeating birther, show me your birth certificate. He needed to be publicly humiliated at the correspondent's dinner, in the most gentle and subtle way, with the spot light on him, to finally accept that Obama was indeed an American born President (didn't matter that his mother was American to begin with). History books should never forget Trump's role in creating and fanning confusion just because the President was "half black" with Kenyan roots.
Lets not forget how relentless Trump was in disrespecting Obama in the high office while crying birther. Trump was loud and obnoxious, distracting and such a nuisance. Obama had inherited a terrible economy, two wars, high security issues and this clueless guy just kept repeating birther, show me your birth certificate. He needed to be publicly humiliated at the correspondent's dinner, in the most gentle and subtle way, with the spot light on him, to finally accept that Obama was indeed an American born President (didn't matter that his mother was American to begin with). History books should never forget Trump's role in creating and fanning confusion just because the President was "half black" with Kenyan roots.
21
THE DEMOCRATS Need to bring a gun to the gun fight going on in the national arena with TRUMPZILLA climbing the Washington Monument the bellow and rage--the spotlight shining on his orange hair, face and peabrain. Make that pee-brain. Gorsuch on the Supreme Court would be just another nail in the coffin of the rule of law under the Constitution.
7
And of course, if someone on the other side had suggested bringing 'a gun to the gun fight' you'd have stamped the opinion MORON and wouldn't have printed it. Your bias is, to use one of your highfalutin phrases, risible.
1
Gorsuch may be strong enough to rebel. Let us pray.
1
Thank you again, Charles, for telling it like it is. The Senate is going to invoke the "nuclear option" sooner or later (as long as they have control) whether it's Gorsuch or the next one (Kennedy is talking of retiring, RBS is 83, and Breyer is 78). The Dems need to draw a line in the sand and draw it now. It's bad enough that some Dems fell in line with the confirmation of Tillerson (and Carson, but hey, he's probably harmless and we'll be lucky if he lasts a year; or when his Ambience runs out), but let this Justice (and I really don't care at this point how qualified he is) go into the history books as the Justice who replaced the "stolen Justice" from the previous administration. No more going high, no more Mr./Ms. Nice Guy. Time to play the republican's game and at least try to beat them at it.
14
Charles once again you get it so right! If the Democrats just had half of the fight in them that Republicans do, perhaps we would have President Hillary Clinton now instead of the nut case Trump! Why are they such wimps?
After the Republicans fought Obama tooth and nail how can any one of them say, as Sanders recently did, that they will try to work with President Trump where they can?! And where would that be? AS Trump turns the United States into a white male supremacist fascist state, Democrats who stand by like shrinking violets will be just as culpable as Republicans!
After the Republicans fought Obama tooth and nail how can any one of them say, as Sanders recently did, that they will try to work with President Trump where they can?! And where would that be? AS Trump turns the United States into a white male supremacist fascist state, Democrats who stand by like shrinking violets will be just as culpable as Republicans!
22
Sean Spocer repeated Mcconnell's line that the people have spoken on their preference for a Scalia type justice by electing trump. Actually, the people voted for Clinton, although the electoral college voted for trump. There is no mandate for this choice, in fact, quite the opposite. Democrats, fight this nominee tooth and nail.
26
I know, right? A minority elected trump. We have to pound that fact from now until forever.
1
So Democrats should oppose "on principle."
What's the principle?
To oppose.
Nine Republicans voted for Sotomayor. Intolerance thrives on both sides. But thankfully there are exceptions.
Here 's hoping (against hope) that Gorsuch is confirmed.
Here's hoping (against hope) that if Trump replaces a liberal Justice, he nominates Garland.
What's the principle?
To oppose.
Nine Republicans voted for Sotomayor. Intolerance thrives on both sides. But thankfully there are exceptions.
Here 's hoping (against hope) that Gorsuch is confirmed.
Here's hoping (against hope) that if Trump replaces a liberal Justice, he nominates Garland.
2
What kind of dope are you taking? trump nominating a moderate? Really? I think you're putin us on.
I always refer to it as "the Garland seat". Anything Trump and the GOP touches seems anti democratic. Just wrong.
There should be a legal review for GOP double speak. Can Gorsuch justify outright lies as legal precedents?
There should be a legal review for GOP double speak. Can Gorsuch justify outright lies as legal precedents?
15
"There should be a legal review for GOP double speak. Can Gorsuch justify outright lies as legal precedents?"
And if he ends up in office, Dems should take the case to the Supreme Court: Is it unconstitutional for Repubs to have deprived a Dem president of a Supreme Court pick?
In fact, why have they NOT done that already?
And if he ends up in office, Dems should take the case to the Supreme Court: Is it unconstitutional for Repubs to have deprived a Dem president of a Supreme Court pick?
In fact, why have they NOT done that already?
We're getting a look at how corporations are run. His voters thought putting a businessman in charge of the country would be a good idea. Never mind that if you sit down to talk with any given white working-class person, they'll tell you that their own CEO is an insulated idiot.
Trump took over the hated US government thinking - Now they all work for ME and they have to do what I say! He's finding out it's not like that. Wait till the Joint Chiefs and NSC regroup from the insult of having the rummy Bannon with his ideological cudgel foisted upon their sensitive deliberations.
The meltdown will be sooner rather than later. Yes we'll have President Pence, but the damage to the GOP brand will be done.
Trump took over the hated US government thinking - Now they all work for ME and they have to do what I say! He's finding out it's not like that. Wait till the Joint Chiefs and NSC regroup from the insult of having the rummy Bannon with his ideological cudgel foisted upon their sensitive deliberations.
The meltdown will be sooner rather than later. Yes we'll have President Pence, but the damage to the GOP brand will be done.
25
But Nancy--haven't you noticed that Mr. Pence can not maintain a steady gaze? Watch his eyes on TV. This is a very bad sign.
6
Once again, Blow gets it right--Democrats have grown too soft. It's not the way to deal with our Bully in Chief, until he gets impeached and removed from office. Why is there so little talk of impeachment, when Trump represents a clear and present danger to our freedom, our democracy, and our safety? And when there's every indication that he was not legitimately elected?
66
Charles; yes, we all have a right to be upset that Judge Garland did not have the opportunity to be considered for the Supreme Court.
When you cannot win a battle, is it better to marshall your forces for a future battle?
We will have a long list of situations to do battle.
When you cannot win a battle, is it better to marshall your forces for a future battle?
We will have a long list of situations to do battle.
5
When the next battle comes along after this one is lost by default, will we be reading the same comment from this commenter? And the next? And the next? Until the GOP (already at an advantage in 2018) increases its majority in the Senate and retains it in the House simply because things, good or bad, are getting done, the "elites" are being put in their place, and gridlock is being overcome? Until Pres. Trump is reelected or VP Pence wins by virtue of facing a bumbling or geriatric candidate who managed to survive 2018? At what point, then, does the Democratic Party cease to matter and become like the disorganized and spineless opposition here in Japan? Will that make our country and world a better place?
But, this is the most crucial one. A Supreme Court Justice is a lifetime appointment, while all other government appointments have term limits. The Supreme Court makes permanent change to wrongfull laws, and also cements rightful laws that are challenged.
1
Expecting senate democrats to "buck up" is wishful thinking. They are a failed party with very little power, or spine.
6
Of course We, the People are shocked.
In exchange for a known huckster's promise of riches and power over their fellow citizens, a would-be Dictator has been given the Highest authority over
our entire Nation.
In exchange for a known huckster's promise of riches and power over their fellow citizens, a would-be Dictator has been given the Highest authority over
our entire Nation.
5
Remember before the election when all the pundits were calling the GOP the failed party. And after the election, the same pundits then turned around and decided that the Democrats are now the lost or failed party. The fragmented GOP is still fragmented, except that they are now trying to figure out how principle could be rationalized with deception. The big test will come with DeVos. Will at least one more defector vote against her and block the need for Pence to break the tie? Or will they sit tight as this President undoes all of the progress of the last 70 years. But Mr. Blow is right, the Democrats have to start playing hard ball, or the party will self destruct. The party of the people needs to be reminded of that over and over again.
Or, they are repubs in Democrats clothing, like Virginia's Warner. He proves time and again that he is not a Democrat and yet he is allowed to continue. Why? Surely, there are real Democrats who could win against him.
I agree that the Gorsuch nomination is the fruit of a poisoned tree: President Obama's nomination of Merrick Garland should have been acted upon by the Senate in 2016. It is unfortunate that Democrats did not fight the GOP's action then.
I recommend that the Democrats treat the Gorsuch nomination as an opening skirmish for the 2018 and 2020 elections. This is a "minds and hearts" issue: how should the Gorsuch nomination be handled so as to maximize Democratic support in the next two election cycles? I don't pretend to have the answer, but my guess would be that opposition is needed, rather than acquiescence.
As for hopes that the GOP will accept a future Democratic filibuster on a future Supreme Court nominee if Gorsuch is seated without a Senate fight: there is no evidence to support this thesis, and much evidence to suggest that it is wishful thinking.
Perhaps the best way forward for Senate Democrats is the WWMMD Plan: What would Mitch McConnell do?
I recommend that the Democrats treat the Gorsuch nomination as an opening skirmish for the 2018 and 2020 elections. This is a "minds and hearts" issue: how should the Gorsuch nomination be handled so as to maximize Democratic support in the next two election cycles? I don't pretend to have the answer, but my guess would be that opposition is needed, rather than acquiescence.
As for hopes that the GOP will accept a future Democratic filibuster on a future Supreme Court nominee if Gorsuch is seated without a Senate fight: there is no evidence to support this thesis, and much evidence to suggest that it is wishful thinking.
Perhaps the best way forward for Senate Democrats is the WWMMD Plan: What would Mitch McConnell do?
32
I hate to say it, but two wrongs do not make a right. As a democrat, I think we should follow the advice - when they go low we go high. Lead by example. The republicans have shown in any event they are willing to trample on Senate rules. So this very well-qualified jurist should receive a proper fair hearing in the Senate as we would have wished other nominees had received.
Time for Democrats to channel a little Churchill:
We have before us an ordeal of the most grievous kind. We have before us many, many long months of struggle and of suffering. You ask, what is our policy? We can say: It is to oppose... with all our might and with all the strength that God can give us; to oppose an incipient tyranny, never surpassed in the history of our nation. That is our policy. You ask, what is our aim? We can answer in one word: It is our democracy, democracy at all costs, democracy in spite of all bullying, democracy, however long and hard the road may be; for without democracy, there is no survival. Let that be realized; no survival for the United States, no survival for all that the United States has stood for, no survival for the urge and impulse of the ages, that mankind will move forward towards its goal. Let's take up this task with buoyancy and hope. Let us feel sure that our cause will not be suffered to fail among men and women. Let is claim the aid of all and say, "come then, let us go forward together with our united strength."
We have before us an ordeal of the most grievous kind. We have before us many, many long months of struggle and of suffering. You ask, what is our policy? We can say: It is to oppose... with all our might and with all the strength that God can give us; to oppose an incipient tyranny, never surpassed in the history of our nation. That is our policy. You ask, what is our aim? We can answer in one word: It is our democracy, democracy at all costs, democracy in spite of all bullying, democracy, however long and hard the road may be; for without democracy, there is no survival. Let that be realized; no survival for the United States, no survival for all that the United States has stood for, no survival for the urge and impulse of the ages, that mankind will move forward towards its goal. Let's take up this task with buoyancy and hope. Let us feel sure that our cause will not be suffered to fail among men and women. Let is claim the aid of all and say, "come then, let us go forward together with our united strength."
11
So the Republicans' second President Asterisk of the 21st century, the first having been appointed not elected by the Supreme Court, appoints a justice who will fill a vacancy that only exists because of another Republican abuse of power. I don't know that stonewalling this appointment will be effective but I DO believe the Democrats should use the hearings to remind the man that the Court has power only insofar as it maintains its legitimacy in the eyes of the nation--that's the way it was designed--and he is joining the court as Justice Double Asterisk.
12
In other words, Blow says use Gorsuch as a poliitical ping-pong ball, in retribution for the Republicans' dirty tricks. Make a show of liberal strength. Punish the Republicans. They did it first.
It's been clear for some months that Blow is enraged, has lost his perspective, and is now blindly devoted to opposing all things Trump, and maybe all things Republican. Sorry, but I can't support either party playing this way, and I don't want my representatives doing so. I want them doing their jobs, even if they had a bad election.
It looks especially petty to keep blaming the election outcome on the Russians. Early in the election, polls showed Hillary could not beat Trump (though Bernie could). Dem superdelegates and Debbie Wasserman Shultz chose this candidate for us, and short-circuited the primaries.
Let's get back to governing, and let the Republicans be known as the party of nasty tricks. Ultimately, they will be rejected.
It's been clear for some months that Blow is enraged, has lost his perspective, and is now blindly devoted to opposing all things Trump, and maybe all things Republican. Sorry, but I can't support either party playing this way, and I don't want my representatives doing so. I want them doing their jobs, even if they had a bad election.
It looks especially petty to keep blaming the election outcome on the Russians. Early in the election, polls showed Hillary could not beat Trump (though Bernie could). Dem superdelegates and Debbie Wasserman Shultz chose this candidate for us, and short-circuited the primaries.
Let's get back to governing, and let the Republicans be known as the party of nasty tricks. Ultimately, they will be rejected.
8
You are forgetting the election of "Trick Dick" who turned out to be nothing but a common criminal. And to think that he ran on a ticket of "Law and Order" just as this president did.I can only hope that he will similarly disgrace the office of the presidency and be "trumped" out of office.
I disagree. The standard is review and consent. Yes, the Republicans misused the process for their own gains and the Democrats should extract a price, but not obstruct the nomination of an otherwise qualified justice.
But the key is what Gorsuch does. I think he should roundly criticize the politicalization of Supreme Court nominees in his opening statement. Say that he accepts the nomination but that if Merrick Garland isn't nominated for the next seat under this administration that he will resign. That would be consistent with his position and settle this issue and bring back some civility to this process. But calling the other side "enemies" is something we could leave to President Bannon and Mr. Trump.
But the key is what Gorsuch does. I think he should roundly criticize the politicalization of Supreme Court nominees in his opening statement. Say that he accepts the nomination but that if Merrick Garland isn't nominated for the next seat under this administration that he will resign. That would be consistent with his position and settle this issue and bring back some civility to this process. But calling the other side "enemies" is something we could leave to President Bannon and Mr. Trump.
7
You’re right: the extremist left will fight the nomination of any JUDGE, because they don’t want a Court compose of judges, but a Central Committee composed of commissars. The left passionately rejects the notion of a judiciary independent of politics, demanding, instead, an expressly politicized body which arrives at foreordained, hard-left results.
Judging, done right, is inherently conservative; it involves applying the facts of a particular case to the existing law, given to the judges – often a very long time ago – by the people or their representatives.
The left will have none of that. It demands, instead, that the judiciary impose leftist dogma, simply making up the law as it goes along, ala RBG.
Ideally, the politics and ideology of a judge ought not to matter, as the language of the law should mean the same thing to everyone. But, alas, the left simply ignores the text and history of the law when it precludes leftist results. And results are all that matter.
So, for instance, when a judge looks at the language of the Constitution, and asks, “where do you find abortion”, the left responds, “who cares? No Constitution which fails to protect abortion is worth having, so it MUST be there."
The left demands a judiciary which imposes leftist results by ukase. And the law be damned.
Which is why no leftist ought ever be permitted anywhere near a black robe. They simply don’t understand the job description.
Judging, done right, is inherently conservative; it involves applying the facts of a particular case to the existing law, given to the judges – often a very long time ago – by the people or their representatives.
The left will have none of that. It demands, instead, that the judiciary impose leftist dogma, simply making up the law as it goes along, ala RBG.
Ideally, the politics and ideology of a judge ought not to matter, as the language of the law should mean the same thing to everyone. But, alas, the left simply ignores the text and history of the law when it precludes leftist results. And results are all that matter.
So, for instance, when a judge looks at the language of the Constitution, and asks, “where do you find abortion”, the left responds, “who cares? No Constitution which fails to protect abortion is worth having, so it MUST be there."
The left demands a judiciary which imposes leftist results by ukase. And the law be damned.
Which is why no leftist ought ever be permitted anywhere near a black robe. They simply don’t understand the job description.
9
Ideally, this wouldn't be an issue. Ideally, Judge Garland would be sitting on the bench. Ideally, the GOP would have done something in the last 6 years besides obstruct, obstruct, obstruct. Ideally, the US voters in the failed rust belt and deep south (you would think they would wise up after voting in GOP year after year in their state houses and STILL being failed states.. but NO, not enough sense to do that!!!) would realize that simplistic answers to complicated questions and bellicose bloviating is not leadership but showmanship.
4
The ukase was not issued by the comissars, and the comissars were not on the Central Committee.
The ukase was a decree of the Tsar, an absolute monarch in the strictest sense, unrestrained by the powerless Duma, and unburdened by any excess of intelligence or human decency. In fact, if you look at old photos, you will see he was uncommonly interested the coiffure of his hair and beard. His wife was a foreigner who did as she was told, no Eleanor Roosevelt of Jackie Kennedy. She did have an expensive wardrobe.
Now who does that sound like?
The ukase was a decree of the Tsar, an absolute monarch in the strictest sense, unrestrained by the powerless Duma, and unburdened by any excess of intelligence or human decency. In fact, if you look at old photos, you will see he was uncommonly interested the coiffure of his hair and beard. His wife was a foreigner who did as she was told, no Eleanor Roosevelt of Jackie Kennedy. She did have an expensive wardrobe.
Now who does that sound like?
Michael:
So much to say, but I will just make one comment. You end your comments with the following: "Which is why no leftist ought ever be permitted anywhere near a black robe. They simply don’t understand the job description."
No, it is the new president who doesn't understand the job description.
So much to say, but I will just make one comment. You end your comments with the following: "Which is why no leftist ought ever be permitted anywhere near a black robe. They simply don’t understand the job description."
No, it is the new president who doesn't understand the job description.
I agree with Mr. Blow. I am a Democrat who wants my Congress men and women to get tough and oppose this nomination and every nomination and bill from what is possibly an illegitimately elected president. Russian hacking is just the tip of the ice berg in this ridiculous situation. It is possible that this election was bogus on a number of levels, but we won't know that unless the Democrats demand and get the investigation that will actually bring to light just how corrupt this election really was. To get that investigation, Democrats will have to be as obstructionist, unrelenting, and demanding as the Republicans have been for the last eight years. Now is the time to get started.
28
Yes, Charles Blow, the seat on the Supreme Court was stolen from President Barack Obama 9 months before he left office two weeks ago. Antonin Scalia died in February 2016, one year ago, and the Republicans refused to hold hearings for Justice Merrick Garland for nine months. We understand but don't agree with you that Justice Neil Gorsuch nominated by Trump is "an "instrument of the enemy". He is just the unlucky but brilliant justice who is now waiting for Trump's majority advise and consent of the Senate to affirm his nomination to the Supreme Court Bench. Opposition by Democrats to Justice Gorsuch's nomination won't be tit for tat as the Republicans, by using the "nuclear option" can ram through any of Trump's nominees they choose to. Gorsuch was the "Hobby Lobby" Justice. So much for his conservative extremism. This is the way the cards lay, even if we the people don't like the hand we've been dealt by a TV showman millionaire con-artist and narcissistic 45th President and his pit-bull attack dog, Steve Bannon. The mid-term elections are the only chance the Democratic Party has to even the score. And by mid-term elections, maybe President Trump will decide to move on to more financially fruitful fields of endeavor. Trump is the "Fruit of the Poison Tree". Your wishful thinking - that Trump's frantic pace indicates a man whose time is running out - may be prescient. How long can a 70 year old man (with physical and psychological ills) keep up the frenzied pace?
12
I agree with everything you said, except I do believe that Bannon is not at all an attack dog. He's the angry paranoid bleary eyed drunken brain behind the throne. Keeps me up at night.. just thinking about it. Sickening.
3
Too long.
Eight years. Eight years.
How I long for the days when it was the Republicans who were commonly regarded as longing for the past and attempting to turn the clock back. Now it's the Democrats who seem unable, save for a few like media magnet Chuck Schumer, to simply see what time it is.