Ross, Converts like you to Catholicism are stuck in a 1950's time warp. You won't display your hand but you really like Billionaire Betsy 'cause she wants Jesus schools which for you mean Sister Mary Ellen in every voucher paying classroom. Sorry, the sisters have largely gone and we live in a secular nation. But I hear Bannon, ex Cardinal Burke and a few others need your help taming Pope Francis.
36
Ross, the only troubled times we have right now are the troubles engendered by the left, who are so focused on re-litigating the election that they can't think straight -- which of course is a hallmark of today's liberalism.
Good point re the fact that the feds can't do a lot about education and, perhaps other than a small group of analysts to monitor how things are going and maybe shift fed money in one direction or the other, not sure why we need ed dept.
Nonetheless, the left is happy with the status quo of failing schools and failing students and don't want that cradle rocked. Keep the teacher's union happy. Keep the poor locked in poverty and a solid part of the dem base. That's the only guiding principle the lefties have.
You would think that any constituency, seeing the mess that's been made of public ed, would be eager to try something new. But not the left. Not if it threatens their base.
And it is also true that, despite the ideals of Obama and others who lack critical thinking, college for everyone is a non starter. However you measure it, half of our population has a less than average IQ. Not everyone can get into college or succeed in HS taking a college prep curriculum. However, virtually everyone can be taught the basics and learn a marketable skill. We need a much more pragmatic approach to ed in grades 1-12, better teachers, fewer educational geegaws that do nothing but cost $$$. If vouchers and charter schools help, let's do it.
Good point re the fact that the feds can't do a lot about education and, perhaps other than a small group of analysts to monitor how things are going and maybe shift fed money in one direction or the other, not sure why we need ed dept.
Nonetheless, the left is happy with the status quo of failing schools and failing students and don't want that cradle rocked. Keep the teacher's union happy. Keep the poor locked in poverty and a solid part of the dem base. That's the only guiding principle the lefties have.
You would think that any constituency, seeing the mess that's been made of public ed, would be eager to try something new. But not the left. Not if it threatens their base.
And it is also true that, despite the ideals of Obama and others who lack critical thinking, college for everyone is a non starter. However you measure it, half of our population has a less than average IQ. Not everyone can get into college or succeed in HS taking a college prep curriculum. However, virtually everyone can be taught the basics and learn a marketable skill. We need a much more pragmatic approach to ed in grades 1-12, better teachers, fewer educational geegaws that do nothing but cost $$$. If vouchers and charter schools help, let's do it.
6
Mr. Douthat,
"Normalcy?" "Normality" please. I do not wish for NYT columnists to emulate Warren G. Harding.
"Normalcy?" "Normality" please. I do not wish for NYT columnists to emulate Warren G. Harding.
6
"..............wave the cape of looming theocracy, and suddenly it’s 2004 all over again.
Actually it's the 16th century all over again when Catholics burned innocent people alive over differences of opinion.
Poor Ross. He always reminds me of a famous quote by Sam Harris. "Religion allows people by the billions to believe things only a lunatic could believe on his own."
Actually it's the 16th century all over again when Catholics burned innocent people alive over differences of opinion.
Poor Ross. He always reminds me of a famous quote by Sam Harris. "Religion allows people by the billions to believe things only a lunatic could believe on his own."
28
She doesn’t just "err" too much on choice!
the Devos crusade im Michigan is to eliminate public schools, push tax money to fund private and religious schools and reward for-profit cronies like JCHuizenga's charter system. All the while actually protecting from accountability of these charters and private institutions.
A Devos school system would be the balkanization of education ... though I am sure any private Muslim school would be attacked as a terrorist training ground as we ignore the Christian madrasses in our midst
the Devos crusade im Michigan is to eliminate public schools, push tax money to fund private and religious schools and reward for-profit cronies like JCHuizenga's charter system. All the while actually protecting from accountability of these charters and private institutions.
A Devos school system would be the balkanization of education ... though I am sure any private Muslim school would be attacked as a terrorist training ground as we ignore the Christian madrasses in our midst
23
The Republican party has a lock on government that is unstoppable. Even a poorly qualified candidate cannot be undone. This in a country where we have a 50/50 split. 50% of the American people voted against Mr. Trump and now the Republicans are being triumphalist. However, Mr. Trump is not a traditional Republican so why are the Republicans giving him singular fealty? So that they can get their agenda, not deliberated, but passed over the other 50%. They are not helping, they have sold their souls to a white supremacist.
16
Wave the cape of looming theocracy, and suddenly it's 2004 all over again? Yesterday, this newspaper, the one your work for, published an article entitled "Steve Bannon Carries Battles to Another Influential Hub: The Vatican" by Jason Horowitz. Did you miss that one? Horowitz wrote about Bannon's close relationship with Cardinal Raymond Burke. You yourself wrote about Burke on November 26, 2017 and given your history of criticism for Pope Francis, it's not to hard to speculate that you favor Cardinal Burke in your discussion of his "dubia." You must have known too of the relationship between Bannon and the Cardinal. So, what's it going to be, Mr. Douthat? You dismiss our worries for another wall that perhaps Bannon has in mind, that "wall of separation between church and state" and that he'd like to take down. You like to make predictions. Here's mine. You're going to come around to Trump because you like what Bannon is doing with the traditionalists in the Church of Rome more than you're persuaded that incompetence will be Trump's ruin here. You're more of a "civilizationalist" like Bannon, so it wouldn't be a stretch to see you embrace his ideas about total war with Islam being inevitable, and that we need to restore our religious heritage as a moral society. Why don't you write a column about that and let us know how you feel?
15
I am not religious, but I had always thought I didn't much care about religion in the schools. That was until I went to Germany for a year, where religious education (protestant, probably Lutheran in Bonn) is part of the curriculum. When my children were made to speak the smarmy stuff about "baby Jesus" for a Christmas play, made to repeat the revolting texts about St Martin, and so forth, I realized that I REALLY didn't want religion in the schools.In the US, I fervently hope that the courts will support separation of church and state and prevent the use of vouchers, which are public funds, in any schools with a religious curriculum.
23
Douthat seems to be mimicking his so called President with this tweet of a column to divert attention from the fact that these are his people, his ideology, his Republicans, and his best hope for the Republic.
Sorry it's not working.
Must be galling to have your twisted Lutheran view of the Catholic Church in the scary guise of Steve Torquemada Bannon whispering into your so called President's ear.
Everything you espouse however subtle and disguised is represented by this End Days cabal that convenes in the darkness, thwarted by arcane light switch technology that even a Syrian terrorist reject can figure out.
This has got to be among your most inauthentic and cynical columns, and there are so many an entire section is devoted to them at the troglodyte flea market.
You either don't have children, or if you do, they're in private or parochial schools, safe from the machinations of Erik Prince's evil sister. Erik's little start up, Blackwater, got $4 billion during Cheney's war to supply rent-a-mercernaries to slaughter innocent Iraqis while providing "security" for US functionaries. Apparently Republicans aren't curious why a massive US military occupation needed private security guards to keep Americans safe and make Prince the first Iraqi war billionaire. Can't have anything to do with $200 million in GOP donations, can it?
The pertinent issue isn't why Democrats oppose DeVos...the real issue is why you don't.
Sorry it's not working.
Must be galling to have your twisted Lutheran view of the Catholic Church in the scary guise of Steve Torquemada Bannon whispering into your so called President's ear.
Everything you espouse however subtle and disguised is represented by this End Days cabal that convenes in the darkness, thwarted by arcane light switch technology that even a Syrian terrorist reject can figure out.
This has got to be among your most inauthentic and cynical columns, and there are so many an entire section is devoted to them at the troglodyte flea market.
You either don't have children, or if you do, they're in private or parochial schools, safe from the machinations of Erik Prince's evil sister. Erik's little start up, Blackwater, got $4 billion during Cheney's war to supply rent-a-mercernaries to slaughter innocent Iraqis while providing "security" for US functionaries. Apparently Republicans aren't curious why a massive US military occupation needed private security guards to keep Americans safe and make Prince the first Iraqi war billionaire. Can't have anything to do with $200 million in GOP donations, can it?
The pertinent issue isn't why Democrats oppose DeVos...the real issue is why you don't.
38
In the 1990s, I interviewed a circle of women, staunch NRA members, who were convinced that The Government (Bill Clinton) was spreading fake news to hide what was had truly happened in Waco, at Randy Weaver's cabin, and in Oklahoma City. One of them had a safe at home where she stored handguns ... future gifts for her grandkids.
Many of these women homeschooled their kids because they considered public schools to be ideological, "politically correct" (they didn't use that term, but if the interview took place today, they would). They hated the globalist "New World Order" and didn't want their children being fed liberal public school propaganda that taught homosexuals were natural, not abhorrent, and that Scandinavia is a great place to live.
Betsy DeVos drinks from the same stream ... a pro-independence, pro-Christian-America, anti-government ideology. So does Trump.
Here's what puzzles me ... how did Mr. Douthat and gilded Donald Trump ever find this stream, pick up this story line, and learn to snake-charm these American citizens? I doubt the rich guys and the committed gun-owners attend the same dinner parties.
For two decades, rich conservatives seeking to lower their own taxes, cut important government services, and gut federal regulatory agencies have influenced the electorate. The NRA helps out. American resistance! It's a political windfall for the top 1%. And it lets small towners buy defensive semi-automatics without submitting to background checks.
Many of these women homeschooled their kids because they considered public schools to be ideological, "politically correct" (they didn't use that term, but if the interview took place today, they would). They hated the globalist "New World Order" and didn't want their children being fed liberal public school propaganda that taught homosexuals were natural, not abhorrent, and that Scandinavia is a great place to live.
Betsy DeVos drinks from the same stream ... a pro-independence, pro-Christian-America, anti-government ideology. So does Trump.
Here's what puzzles me ... how did Mr. Douthat and gilded Donald Trump ever find this stream, pick up this story line, and learn to snake-charm these American citizens? I doubt the rich guys and the committed gun-owners attend the same dinner parties.
For two decades, rich conservatives seeking to lower their own taxes, cut important government services, and gut federal regulatory agencies have influenced the electorate. The NRA helps out. American resistance! It's a political windfall for the top 1%. And it lets small towners buy defensive semi-automatics without submitting to background checks.
20
You forgot to mention one YUGE reason parents are extremely worried about DeVos: The IDEA Law and Ms. DeVos' obvious lack of knowledge about it. This guarantees FAPE for ALL children with any kind of disability. Ms. DeVos suggested this would be up to the states. That would be illegal (civil rights). Special Needs kids, btw, are non partisan. And their mammas are bears who can devour a billionaire in one bite if their baby bears are in jeopardy.
16
Why does clever Mr. Douthat ever have anything to say to his fellow Republicans or "conservatives"? Are they just too perfect to need to listen to any of his sermons? It's sad to be disowned aint it Ross? Liberal readership is all you got.
4
Anyone with the experience or memory of the state of public primary education knows that things were much better - for students, parents, teachers and administrators - thirty-eight years ago. That is, before this department was created in 1979 and then staffed by a Republican administration that at the time was called a threat to the survival of mankind. As the genius Yogi said, "you could look it up". The Republicans of that day saw the department as a jobs spoil for the victorious, and it has been staffed with hacks from both parties ever since. Other than as a money sluice, it has absolutely no positive effect on the provision of locally administered school systems. Indeed, its often asinine demands and proclamations are fought tooth and nail with regularity. Its departure simply saves a taxpayer dollar and puts the incompetents back on the street. If your schools stink, start with your school boards - likely staffed heavily with teacher union members. Bar them. Serve a stint yourself. Take back local control from unions whose interests are not that of your kids, despite their hollow rhetoric. And stop being a victim looking for a lazy way out.
2
You people are profoundly disingenuous about your nonstop efforts to meld your crackpot religion with the state, Ross. I think you don't even know what honesty is.
16
Public education has been a cornerstone of the American dream because it enables all intelligent, hard-working students to excel and go on to make more of a contribution to society than they could or would with an inferior education. The key word in the above sentence is "all." With non-public education, the rich will get the bettter education, the poor won't be able to afford it even with vouchers because the rich don't really care about lower classes and their dreams. The rich will do this by giving insufficient voucher amounts and then blame the victim. We used to say, "the mind is a terrible thing to waste." Now, that bromide only holds if it's a rich child's brain.
12
In the end, the education of our children is one of the most long term concerns anyone could have. DeVos can and will try to destroy our public school system and she cannot and will not create a better one. The result is clear for any halfwit to see, if they weren't using alternate facts. In her case it is no facts at all. Why cloud the issue. She is quite likely to damage generations and send our country into a downward spiral. Sorry, but this is far more important than you believe. SAD!
11
This column is absolutely spot on. I've been through the school experience from all sides - inside as a student, then a parent, then an board member, at suburban public, urban public, urban charter and parochial private ... pretty much everything the US has to offer except home schooling. And I have never fully understood the hysterical opposition to charters. Douthat, however, nails it. The battleground for all things education is urban public schools. Everywhere else - suburbs, rural, private schools - parents are generally satisfied and there is no crisis. Suburbanites fear charters because they might lead to unwanted change or worse, vouchers which then leads to urban blacks enrolling in their suburban schools. They don't want or need "reform," so DeVos is anathema. For teacher unions, charters are an existential threat. These two powerful interests are the defenders of the status quo, which suits them fine. DeVos may very well be an incompetent administrator, but the policies she will promote are a threat to the status quo. While that is exactly what politically ossified urban systems need, it sure isn't what the rest of the education establishment wants,
1
Hold on there, Mr. Douthat. You are the one making this about the religiosity of Ms. Devos. Do you think that this was why two female Republican senators voted against her? The whole opposition to her was founded on her lack of knowledge of the most basic concepts in the field she is going to be a leader in. If people opposed me being appointed as the President of Harvard, I would not be so smug about arguing that it had nothing to do with my lack of qualifications.
6
This is a ridiculous argument, even for the fervently Catholic, dogmatically Republican Mr. Douthat. Mrs. DeVos was not only laughably unqualified but an egregious example of patronage over patriotism. Taking a stand against her exposed not only her ignorance and lack of qualification but the cowardice and hypocrisy of Senate Republicans. Admittedly, if I could eliminate only one of Trump's rogues gallery of nominees, I would have preferred Tillerson or Sessions or Price. But even Mr. Douthat would have to admit there is no way his party is going to let that happen, though there are more than enough reasons to disqualify all three. Yes, the DeVos resistance may have been largely symbolic. But when Republicans have the votes to cram through any outrage, symbolism may be the only weapon the Democrats can wield. For now...
18
Ms. DeVos is totally incompetent for her Cabinet position. So, why should that not be a reason for partisan opposition? Unfortunately, she is one of other Cabinet appointees who have significant disqualifications. The Democrats have no standing to oppose these other nominees, given the Senate. The attack by McConnell on Senator Warren today is quite discomforting. Her statements and reading of the letter from Mrs. King were not an attack on a Senator, which is prohibited by rule, but rather a Cabinet nominee which is a distinguishing feature. McConnell is, therefore, out of line.
11
Once again Ross, you are completely missing the point. Anyone who has worked international development will tell you the surest path to economic stability is access to relevant education. Those Red state jobs are never coming back, and Trump has missed an opportunity to install someone who actually cares about making sure the next generation is adequately prepared and educated to compete in our new global economy. Instead the DeVos appointment dooms us to sliding farther backwards. Sad!
7
She isn't qualified. Wow that was easy. Next!
13
DeVos is an affront to the very idea of competence. That's what drives the opposition. Too bad Douthat thinks that isn't important.
5
Ross, the Democrats are also fighting other cabinet level wars. Have the worst of Trump's other nominees (Price, Sessions, Pruitt) been confirmed yet? Do you think there might be a reason for them to still be awaiting the consent of the Senate?
Ms. DeVos was terribly unprepared at her confirmation hearing, and did not uphold tenets of the LAWS governing education in this country, which generally speak to fairness and equality of opportunity to succeed. To promote guns in schools to help with grizzly bear attacks? Really? Perhaps the Democrats made this the first fight because they thought that with that woeful performance they could peel more Republicans and start to collapse the wall. They failed, but the fights are not over, and there are others of much more consequence to come. This is not about the unions, it is about principle and fighting for the people.
Ms. DeVos was terribly unprepared at her confirmation hearing, and did not uphold tenets of the LAWS governing education in this country, which generally speak to fairness and equality of opportunity to succeed. To promote guns in schools to help with grizzly bear attacks? Really? Perhaps the Democrats made this the first fight because they thought that with that woeful performance they could peel more Republicans and start to collapse the wall. They failed, but the fights are not over, and there are others of much more consequence to come. This is not about the unions, it is about principle and fighting for the people.
5
I want a Muslim ban on my tax dollars going to teach Islam in a religious school. We used to have a constitution that guaranteed a separation of church and state. But now we will guarantee that my taxes will teach children religious dogma. Who needs chemistry,physics, calculus or other sciences when we can teach our children about creationism,Noah's ark, the Torah and the Koran. Putin and the Chinese are laughing at our collective ignorance with glee.
1
Easy to try to make it sound as if all of this was just "politics", the rest of us actually have children, and care whether they will have access to public schools or not. Morevover, did the author of this article NOT listen to the hearings by himself and take notes? Contrary to the balance the author tries to cast on this horror chapter, there was absolutely nothing measured or balanced about the extent of DeVos' unfamiliarity with the educational system and legislation. In terms of deVos' convictions, de-funding an entire school system (and implied therein, instead channeling funds to private school businesses owned by ... ?) is the opposite of creating choices. Topping the cake, clearly, the author is not very familiar with the struggles parents throughout the US face to find and enroll children with disabilities in adapted and affordable school programs, and nor is DeVos. IDEA legislation was created to improve that situation. DeVos' ignorance about IDEA , and subsequent lack of commitment to support IDEA is plain and simple disgraceful.
5
I suppose it's not right to blame someone for their family, but it bothers me that hers is one of the richest in America, and her brother Erik Prince is the founder of the mercenary company Blackwater. It changed its name after its employees massacred civilians in Iraq in 2007, and Blackwater mercenaries appeared in New Orleans right after Hurricane Katrina and "confronted criminals," which should bother any libertarian with a pulse. Ms. DeVos herself appears ignorant of education and solicitous of for-profit schools to a degree that is unrelated to evidence on their performance. When asked in the hearings if she would hold public and private schools to the same standards, she answered "No." I think Mr. Douthat is correct that Democrats are acting reflexively, but on the other hand, Republicans could have offered a qualified nominee who didn't have business conflicts of interest--what a novel idea that would be!
1
The Democratic party really needs to fight a lot smarter and a lot harder - and soon. Our democracy is crumbling and may morph into fascism. Activism and protests in the streets will take us only that far. Bernie Sanders is the only man really fighting for an alternative. Where is everybody else? We are running from Trump but who do we have to run to?
Conspicuously missing from this formulaic screed against "liberals" is the rancid stench of corruption, of pay-to-play quid pro quo politics that Mr Douthat is either unaware of or working to avoid. If education is about adults modeling for kids how they should be in the world, Devos' party-line display of power sends a good message to the kids.
Kids, study hard and get good grades. If you want to understand something, learn about it; if you want to make that your profession, do as much schooling as is possible to master that body of knowledge.
Then, when you get out into a world over-determined by money, privilege and power, none of that knowledge will matter. People with connections will get the big jobs because they know the right people. In the end, the unqualified church lady with the big check book will get to be Sec of Education because the world was shaved by a drunken barber. And apparatchik enablers like Mr. Douthat will tell you that you are foolish to say otherwise.
Kids, study hard and get good grades. If you want to understand something, learn about it; if you want to make that your profession, do as much schooling as is possible to master that body of knowledge.
Then, when you get out into a world over-determined by money, privilege and power, none of that knowledge will matter. People with connections will get the big jobs because they know the right people. In the end, the unqualified church lady with the big check book will get to be Sec of Education because the world was shaved by a drunken barber. And apparatchik enablers like Mr. Douthat will tell you that you are foolish to say otherwise.
5
Ah, Mr. Douthat-- hard, isn't it, to find a defensible position among the slurry of Trumpist half-truths, lies, and fabrications? So here, on very thin ground, you fabricate one: you attack those who attack one of the most unqualified cabinet picks ever and accuse them of catering to their constituency (teacher's unions) which is somehow less savory to you than catering to Franklin Graham or James Dobson or the Koch Brothers. These are desperate times, indeed, for conservatives with self-respect.
4
There we have what's wrong with right-wing pundits in one Douthat column. Liberals are whining because they oppose someone who is completely unqualified. He is mocking them (even though he says he's not) for their stand. It doesn't matter how unqualified or corrupt nominees or candidates may be, if they spout conservative catch phrases, no one should oppose them in Mr Douthat's world.
2
The arguments here are rather cogent. Yes Betsy DeVos may not be what the education department needs. However Jeff Sessions, Rex Tillerson, Flynn, Bannon, Minuchin are far more portent and important fights. I have tried to participate in Democratic Party Politics and the Professionals have little urgency or at least it appears to me. Gratified about increased participation by the public but clueless and having no idea of what do do with the excess participation indeed they are not all that happy about it. I can understand why Hitler overthrew the Democracy so easily in Weimar Germany, the Democratic Parties opposition might not be aware of the threats when if lead democrats are thrown into internment camps. I hope it takes something less than this an earlier in the rise of an authoritarian regime before this happens. I am glad the Judiciary at least is pushing back but what they can do is impose consistency to prior law at best and the state has to be willing to obey. Let hope it doesn't get a lot more authoritarian fast.
I'm struggling to understand what Mr. Douthat has been watching or reading on which he based this opinion. It's almost as though you've been willfully closed off to listening to the arguments of those opposed to DeVos. Opposition to DeVos has absolutely nothing to do with a defense of bureaucracy, and everything to do with a defense of maintaining a modicum of standards. "Causes near and dear to the upper class" rather than those of the poor? Surely you must be kidding. It wasn't parents of children tucked away in private schools who were fervently calling their senators; it was parents of those most on the fringes of society. Those of us calling our senators were terrified about children with disabilities receiving a few and appropriate public education and having a Secretary of Ed who doesn't understand federal disability law. Those of us calling our senators were parents of (and allies of) children who are desperate for a high quality public education, but aren't receiving one and who deserve to have an advocate for them in the cabinet.
In case you have zero familiarity with the state of segregation in public education in this country, the vast majority of children in public schools (outside of suburbs) are those from poor or lower-middle class families. They are the ones this fight was about.
In case you have zero familiarity with the state of segregation in public education in this country, the vast majority of children in public schools (outside of suburbs) are those from poor or lower-middle class families. They are the ones this fight was about.
4
I see that Mr. Douthat attended a private high school. I wonder how much time he has spent in public schools.
Many of us owe any success we have achieved in a career to a public education, and have sent our children to public schools. We have seen how a school can be the heart of a small town or neighborhood.
Perhaps Mr. Douthat could join Ms. Devos to visit some actual schools. Then he might better appreciate the passion that underscored this effort to derail such an unqualified nominee.
As an author of books for young readers, I get the opportunity to visit dozens of schools in many states each year. I meet teachers who model civility, integrity, and respect for others, qualities sadly lacking in this administration. I see people working together to build thriving, inclusive learning communities, often in challenging circumstances. Most of all I see children and teens who deserve exceptional, extraordinary leaders. And that is worth fighting for.
Many of us owe any success we have achieved in a career to a public education, and have sent our children to public schools. We have seen how a school can be the heart of a small town or neighborhood.
Perhaps Mr. Douthat could join Ms. Devos to visit some actual schools. Then he might better appreciate the passion that underscored this effort to derail such an unqualified nominee.
As an author of books for young readers, I get the opportunity to visit dozens of schools in many states each year. I meet teachers who model civility, integrity, and respect for others, qualities sadly lacking in this administration. I see people working together to build thriving, inclusive learning communities, often in challenging circumstances. Most of all I see children and teens who deserve exceptional, extraordinary leaders. And that is worth fighting for.
4
Money trumps integrity, ethics for the republicans. The Orwellian double speak and hypocrisy is in full display. The republicans and fellow travellers have set a high bar for their mendacity with no overt regrets for the examples they are setting for children and future generations.
How is that the party faithful who believe in the term" thou shall not lie" swallow the obvious torrent of lies, aka alternative facts, emanating from the party leaders and their chosen consigliere.
How is that the party faithful who believe in the term" thou shall not lie" swallow the obvious torrent of lies, aka alternative facts, emanating from the party leaders and their chosen consigliere.
1
This was a test that the majority of Republican Senators failed miserably.
Weighted down by her many disqualifications (very real conflicts of interest and disdain for public education, to name just two), DeVos was a nominee just begging to be rejected as unfit. A true no-brainer.
Alas, true to form, the No Brain Party marched in lockstep to approve her.
F for Failure, Republicans.
Weighted down by her many disqualifications (very real conflicts of interest and disdain for public education, to name just two), DeVos was a nominee just begging to be rejected as unfit. A true no-brainer.
Alas, true to form, the No Brain Party marched in lockstep to approve her.
F for Failure, Republicans.
4
"a liberal holy war..."
Just for the record, liberals aren't the ones suggesting 'holiness' is the way to go in the public sphere. That's your dog in the fight.
And one more thing.
She sets a bad example. Anyone else in the classroom (student or teacher) or in the workplace is expected to prepare for an exam (lecture, debate, presentation). Ms. DeVos's obvious lack of preparation and subsequent confirmation in spite of it sets a poor example. After all, it is the department of 'education.'
Remember the Aesop's fable in which the mother crab admonished the child crab to walk forward, rather than in an ungainly sideways manner, as he advanced along the sand? To which the child crab replied, "Pray, mother, do but set the example and I will follow you."
Just for the record, liberals aren't the ones suggesting 'holiness' is the way to go in the public sphere. That's your dog in the fight.
And one more thing.
She sets a bad example. Anyone else in the classroom (student or teacher) or in the workplace is expected to prepare for an exam (lecture, debate, presentation). Ms. DeVos's obvious lack of preparation and subsequent confirmation in spite of it sets a poor example. After all, it is the department of 'education.'
Remember the Aesop's fable in which the mother crab admonished the child crab to walk forward, rather than in an ungainly sideways manner, as he advanced along the sand? To which the child crab replied, "Pray, mother, do but set the example and I will follow you."
3
Oh brother Ross. Bashing the evil teachers unions......again. And strong opposition from the Democrats is nothing more than "the present Democratic Party at its worst" Indeed in these troubled times your piece today is predictable and stale.
Seems to me that just last summer and into the fall you had little good to say about these fellow travelers of yours, now in power. Did someone suggest to you that its time to get on board?
Seems to me that just last summer and into the fall you had little good to say about these fellow travelers of yours, now in power. Did someone suggest to you that its time to get on board?
2
I can only conclude that Douthat does not understand what standing on principle means. Nor is he clear on the concept of "go down fighting" when one knows they will lose the fight but are doing what is right nevertheless. What transpired yesterday was shameful; as a country we just failed our children.
Keep piling on the subtle derision and scorn. With each letter it stirs anger over Trump and his administration in great numbers and this charade of a democracy that's in place will be swept away.
Keep piling on the subtle derision and scorn. With each letter it stirs anger over Trump and his administration in great numbers and this charade of a democracy that's in place will be swept away.
Douthat's rhetoric far outstrips his empiricism.
"There’s no evidence that DeVos-backed charters actually visited disaster" says Douthat's. By his own admission there is only modest evidence (not replicable) that charters make much, if any, improvement.
And so, distilled, Douthat's argument is, "you have no evidence" but neither do I, and therefore Democrats are hacks.
Yes, Republicans want Democrats to let them ruin the democratic spirit of our nation AND blame Democrats for being opposed to a women who spent millions of dollars of public money for outcomes which are not measurable. Well now I see the wisdom of the Republican: government institutions are bad because Republicans don't know how to run government but they know how to blame Democrats while wasting public money while pretending piety will solve all problems.
I wonder... was Douthat was educated in a charter school. The evidence may be in.
"There’s no evidence that DeVos-backed charters actually visited disaster" says Douthat's. By his own admission there is only modest evidence (not replicable) that charters make much, if any, improvement.
And so, distilled, Douthat's argument is, "you have no evidence" but neither do I, and therefore Democrats are hacks.
Yes, Republicans want Democrats to let them ruin the democratic spirit of our nation AND blame Democrats for being opposed to a women who spent millions of dollars of public money for outcomes which are not measurable. Well now I see the wisdom of the Republican: government institutions are bad because Republicans don't know how to run government but they know how to blame Democrats while wasting public money while pretending piety will solve all problems.
I wonder... was Douthat was educated in a charter school. The evidence may be in.
1
DeVos favored for-profit charter schools without oversight or regulation. Making profit generation an important part of education is anathema as it emphasizes the absolute worst method of delivering quality education.
The experience with for-profit colleges and the debts they have left behind should educate us that using for-profit charter schools for K-12 classes can only lead to a worse educational outcome as it has in Michigan.
The experience with for-profit colleges and the debts they have left behind should educate us that using for-profit charter schools for K-12 classes can only lead to a worse educational outcome as it has in Michigan.
2
The problem with DeVos and her supporters is that their long term goal is to eliminate public schools, which they deride as "government" schools. That's the crux of the problem. They want to provide vouchers instead - so that the relatively well off can add their own funds and buy admission to the best schools, while the poor, not being able to supplement their vouchers, will be stuck with less-expensive, bargain-basement schools. Its all about furthering inequality of opportunity.
That said, I'm no fan of teacher's unions. But not because they are expensive. Because they lock in mediocrity. But it would do no good to eliminate them unless we simultaneously raised public school teacher pay significantly - very significantly - to attract the best people to the profession. Pay high salaries and you don't need unions. We need to put teachers on a par with doctors and lawyers in terms of how we value their contribution to society. This is what some other countries do, with good results.
This is the contradiction of the conservatives - they believe pay should be tied to performance, but they are not willing to pay what's required. Instead they just want to beat up on teachers.
That said, I'm no fan of teacher's unions. But not because they are expensive. Because they lock in mediocrity. But it would do no good to eliminate them unless we simultaneously raised public school teacher pay significantly - very significantly - to attract the best people to the profession. Pay high salaries and you don't need unions. We need to put teachers on a par with doctors and lawyers in terms of how we value their contribution to society. This is what some other countries do, with good results.
This is the contradiction of the conservatives - they believe pay should be tied to performance, but they are not willing to pay what's required. Instead they just want to beat up on teachers.
1
Shirley Hufstedler, first Secretary of Education, appointed by Democrat Jimmy Carter.. No relevant experience, just like Betsy DeVos.
Read all about her in the NYT:
http://www.nytimes.com/1979/10/31/archives/the-new-secretary-of-educatio...
Read all about her in the NYT:
http://www.nytimes.com/1979/10/31/archives/the-new-secretary-of-educatio...
Mr. Douthat, maybe you should have spoken to some teachers before you wrote an article insulting all of us. As a public school teacher of 16 years (12 in SoCal and 4 in CT), putting Betsy DeVos in as Secretary of Education was a demeaning slap-in-the-face to all of us teachers, who might I add, must be highly qualified to teach. Why shouldn't she be qualified, let alone highly qualified, as we must be to educate the nation's children?
Her lack of experience, plagiarism during her hearing, and ignorance of educational practice and law was a clear message to teachers (and parents, which I also am as well) that special interests and money take priority over sound educational policy. There is not a single teacher I have met or spoken with throughout the country that thought that her nomination and confirmation was a good idea. I cannot tell you how demoralizing this was to all of us educators who put in so much of ourselves into this profession. You might not have wanted to make a mockery of all of us who were rightly opposed to her nomination, but you sir did indeed do just that.
Her lack of experience, plagiarism during her hearing, and ignorance of educational practice and law was a clear message to teachers (and parents, which I also am as well) that special interests and money take priority over sound educational policy. There is not a single teacher I have met or spoken with throughout the country that thought that her nomination and confirmation was a good idea. I cannot tell you how demoralizing this was to all of us educators who put in so much of ourselves into this profession. You might not have wanted to make a mockery of all of us who were rightly opposed to her nomination, but you sir did indeed do just that.
2
Right Ross, it wasn't in the least bit about decently educating our children.
Which is something we haven't done for decades, I might add.
Dream on, Ross.
Which is something we haven't done for decades, I might add.
Dream on, Ross.
"That she’s actually linked her policy views to her Christian piety?"
Try Luke 18:22 in regard to this quote about "her Christian piety".
Try Luke 18:22 in regard to this quote about "her Christian piety".
Ross, once again your talking points Unions Bad ! Teachers Bad ! Educational professionals Bad !!! We get it you are a true believer in private Charter or Catholic schools and we tax payers should pay for it....
Funny thing the majority of the American public do not support this and our laws prohibit tax money going to fund religious schools or private corporations.. Really get over it !
You and your fellow pirates wanting American tax payers to fund your vision of a religious American schools or to fill your pockets with our tax dollars to support private charter schools will be fought every step of the way...
Funny thing the majority of the American public do not support this and our laws prohibit tax money going to fund religious schools or private corporations.. Really get over it !
You and your fellow pirates wanting American tax payers to fund your vision of a religious American schools or to fill your pockets with our tax dollars to support private charter schools will be fought every step of the way...
1
Betsy DeVos is in favor of ignorance. That's the problem, Mr. Douthat. She is a creationist. She disputes climate science. She thinks the Big Bang never happened. She refuses to acknowledge that non-European cultures have value and that the U.S. has not always acted in a noble manner.
Worse, Ms. DeVos wants to use our tax dollars to support religious schools. But that is a non-starter for anyone who truly cares about liberty because, once the clerics get their hands on power - financial or otherwise - freedom of thought, open inquiry, and a critical culture become much harder to find. And religious zealots like DeVos want to use public schools to recruit kids to their cults . . . another completely dangerous notion that is fundamentally inconsistent with a government that is and must be entirely neutral at all times and in all cases on matters of religion.
Then there's the money. Ms. DeVos bought a cabinet seat. It's that simple. By approving her, Senate Republicans - every one of whom received money from DeVos - sanctioned influence peddling and corruption. Cabinet appointments should be based, at least in large part, on merit. Not financial contributions to the President's political party and its legislators.
Her confirmation is a good indicator of everything wrong with Republicans.
Worse, Ms. DeVos wants to use our tax dollars to support religious schools. But that is a non-starter for anyone who truly cares about liberty because, once the clerics get their hands on power - financial or otherwise - freedom of thought, open inquiry, and a critical culture become much harder to find. And religious zealots like DeVos want to use public schools to recruit kids to their cults . . . another completely dangerous notion that is fundamentally inconsistent with a government that is and must be entirely neutral at all times and in all cases on matters of religion.
Then there's the money. Ms. DeVos bought a cabinet seat. It's that simple. By approving her, Senate Republicans - every one of whom received money from DeVos - sanctioned influence peddling and corruption. Cabinet appointments should be based, at least in large part, on merit. Not financial contributions to the President's political party and its legislators.
Her confirmation is a good indicator of everything wrong with Republicans.
1
I am surprised that NYT would publish an article so full unsubstantiated by any sort of logic or fact. But then again I guess we live in a world where facts are optional.
Douthat seems to look for ways to attack Democrats to distract from the fact that all but 2 Republican Senators voted for Betsy Devos, perhaps the most unqualified Education Secretary pick in US history. I am not a Democrat, but we all saw the videos of Devos' confirmation hearing. Did Douthat not watch them? She didn't answer sufficiently any of the questions, parroting back statements about "leaving it to the states."
Douthat attacks Dems as only caring about upper middle class interests, about swaying to what the "powerful interest groups" want. Well, I'd rather support politicians that sway to the teacher lobby rather than the coal lobby. And maybe, just maybe, a lot of Americans - myself included - exercised our right to participate in American democracy and called our Senators when we saw a person with zero education credentials (except donating up to $200 million to the Republican party) get nominated for Education secretary.
Douthat, I think it's time to leave partisan politics aside and think about what's best for our country. And putting somebody like Devos, who has zero public school experience, zero education policy experience, zero student loan experience, really zero experience at all - in charge of our education department is really not a recipe for "making America great again."
Douthat seems to look for ways to attack Democrats to distract from the fact that all but 2 Republican Senators voted for Betsy Devos, perhaps the most unqualified Education Secretary pick in US history. I am not a Democrat, but we all saw the videos of Devos' confirmation hearing. Did Douthat not watch them? She didn't answer sufficiently any of the questions, parroting back statements about "leaving it to the states."
Douthat attacks Dems as only caring about upper middle class interests, about swaying to what the "powerful interest groups" want. Well, I'd rather support politicians that sway to the teacher lobby rather than the coal lobby. And maybe, just maybe, a lot of Americans - myself included - exercised our right to participate in American democracy and called our Senators when we saw a person with zero education credentials (except donating up to $200 million to the Republican party) get nominated for Education secretary.
Douthat, I think it's time to leave partisan politics aside and think about what's best for our country. And putting somebody like Devos, who has zero public school experience, zero education policy experience, zero student loan experience, really zero experience at all - in charge of our education department is really not a recipe for "making America great again."
1
The a priori assumption that teacher's unions are a bunch of self-dealing bureaucrats concerned only with their own pay and benefits is a foundational argument for Republicans that deserves challenging.
Republicans hate unions and have always blamed unions for the ills of capitalism--and always will because higher wages and benefits for workers hurt profits.
If only schools could be run for profit, they say, the genius corporate managers in charge could squeeze greater efficiencies out of their workers, rewarding high-performers and dismissing the low-performers. The market would reward them by choosing to send their kids to these successful schools and the everyone would live happily ever after.
In practice, however, charter schools weed out the low-performing students, and resource-draining students with special needs, cutting costs and showing improving test-results while dumping these kids into the public school system (and lowering those schools' test scores.)
Teachers' unions have opposed this corporatizing of education and have provided uncomfortable evidence that challenges the charter school fairy-tale. Teacher's unions and public schools were never stronger than in the 50's and 60's, and educational standards were never higher.
The weakening of teachers' unions and rise of charter schools have not resulted in significant gains in education. Stop blaming the people who teach our kids.
Republicans hate unions and have always blamed unions for the ills of capitalism--and always will because higher wages and benefits for workers hurt profits.
If only schools could be run for profit, they say, the genius corporate managers in charge could squeeze greater efficiencies out of their workers, rewarding high-performers and dismissing the low-performers. The market would reward them by choosing to send their kids to these successful schools and the everyone would live happily ever after.
In practice, however, charter schools weed out the low-performing students, and resource-draining students with special needs, cutting costs and showing improving test-results while dumping these kids into the public school system (and lowering those schools' test scores.)
Teachers' unions have opposed this corporatizing of education and have provided uncomfortable evidence that challenges the charter school fairy-tale. Teacher's unions and public schools were never stronger than in the 50's and 60's, and educational standards were never higher.
The weakening of teachers' unions and rise of charter schools have not resulted in significant gains in education. Stop blaming the people who teach our kids.
1
She didn't APPEAR unprepared and foolish, she was actually unprepared and foolish. In addition, she showed herself to be tone deaf and very aware that she had already purchased her seat and didn't need to be bothered with these peons.
Her lack of knowledge from important education issues like students with special needs to very basic vocabulary showed her to be uniquely unqualified. Her very tasteless answer about guns in schools to the Senator from Connecticut (you remember Sandy Hook) showed a tone deafness only a detached billionaire could possess.
You just can't bring yourself to say anything unequivocally against Republicans. Your children ensconced in a conservative Catholic school?
Her lack of knowledge from important education issues like students with special needs to very basic vocabulary showed her to be uniquely unqualified. Her very tasteless answer about guns in schools to the Senator from Connecticut (you remember Sandy Hook) showed a tone deafness only a detached billionaire could possess.
You just can't bring yourself to say anything unequivocally against Republicans. Your children ensconced in a conservative Catholic school?
2
I attended eight years of Catholic grade school, four years of Catholic High School, and four years of Catholic college. I am appalled by DeVos. She wants to further the religious right's beliefs at the expense of the taxpayer. And what are some of these beliefs, for which there is no evidence?
1. Creationism, including the earth being 6000 years old.
2. The Constitution being based on the Bible.
3. Noah Webster reforming spelling so the Bible would be easier to read
4. The Constitution does not separate Church and State.
Is this what you want taught with your tax dollars?
1. Creationism, including the earth being 6000 years old.
2. The Constitution being based on the Bible.
3. Noah Webster reforming spelling so the Bible would be easier to read
4. The Constitution does not separate Church and State.
Is this what you want taught with your tax dollars?
2
"I don’t want to make mock of all DeVos opposition."
And yet you do. You might want to dial back the smarmy condescension, Mr. Douthat.
The strong opposition to DeVos was based on several factors. She was a) the most spectacularly unqualified of Trump's Cabinet picks, b) the most hilariously, outrageously hostile to the Department she was chosen to lead, and c) the most cynically blatant about the fact that her wealth (and her family's) OUGHT to grant her outsized influence over the political process -- and over the elected officials to whose campaigns she has contributed.
In short, she was the poster child for all the very worst charcteristics of the Trump administration. Opposing her nomination could have been a golden opportunity for those GOP Senators with some semblance of a spine to demonstrate that they would not rubber-stamp any nominee, however insulting, put before them by their Dear Leader. Only two Republicans seized that opportunity. The rest, we now know, are invertebrates.
And yet you do. You might want to dial back the smarmy condescension, Mr. Douthat.
The strong opposition to DeVos was based on several factors. She was a) the most spectacularly unqualified of Trump's Cabinet picks, b) the most hilariously, outrageously hostile to the Department she was chosen to lead, and c) the most cynically blatant about the fact that her wealth (and her family's) OUGHT to grant her outsized influence over the political process -- and over the elected officials to whose campaigns she has contributed.
In short, she was the poster child for all the very worst charcteristics of the Trump administration. Opposing her nomination could have been a golden opportunity for those GOP Senators with some semblance of a spine to demonstrate that they would not rubber-stamp any nominee, however insulting, put before them by their Dear Leader. Only two Republicans seized that opportunity. The rest, we now know, are invertebrates.
The truth is that the democrats have had a stranglehold on education for decades, and are desperate to maintain an iron fist around the next generation of voters. Since the DNC sold us out, it is absolutely crucial that they use our schools to maintain mindshare and a voting base.
I teach in public schools. Our public schools are failing catastrophically. More money has merely made the entrenched interests dig and fight bitterly to maintain power. I doubt DeVos is a good candidate, but more of the same is certainly worse.
I teach in public schools. Our public schools are failing catastrophically. More money has merely made the entrenched interests dig and fight bitterly to maintain power. I doubt DeVos is a good candidate, but more of the same is certainly worse.
We lost the election and can't get over it. And we are so used to getting our way that now we're going to throw tantrums and hissy-fits!
Boo Hoo!
Boo Hoo!
It's impossible that Mr. Douthat fails to see that America, and humanity collectively, are moving through a transition period from lack of knowledge of one another to an inter-connected, conscious commonality.
That the civics of living collectively would not be a foremost educational objective tears humanity apart precisely when it needs to be taught to live together.
How can learning to live together cooperatively be achieved with an educational disparity that rivals our economic inequalities?
That the civics of living collectively would not be a foremost educational objective tears humanity apart precisely when it needs to be taught to live together.
How can learning to live together cooperatively be achieved with an educational disparity that rivals our economic inequalities?
1
The US ranks around 20 for education depending on the survey.
The top countries like Denmark and Germany and Switzerland, etc. all do it with public education.
Same for health care.
The top countries like Denmark and Germany and Switzerland, etc. all do it with public education.
Same for health care.
"Why did the Democrats fight so hard?"
Because this was the only one of mostly very poor cabinet appointments that stood a change of being defeated. Mr. Douthat knows this but prefers to muddy the waters. And I am not opposed to all conservative voices being given a platform at the NYT, just those with deceit.
Because this was the only one of mostly very poor cabinet appointments that stood a change of being defeated. Mr. Douthat knows this but prefers to muddy the waters. And I am not opposed to all conservative voices being given a platform at the NYT, just those with deceit.
1
Ross, as long as you profess to represent reality and data based politics, let me ask you something. Why is your discussion only inclusive of, apparently, secular charter schools?
The voucher program is being offered up by Republicans as payoff to the religious right more than it is about the powers of capitalism over government run schools. Let's not pretend about political motivations if you want fact based politics.
The most important political and cultural ramification of a voucher system, by far, is that is is a run-around of the separation of church and state.
Religious fundamentalists wish to be compensated for the cost of religious indoctrination of their children, and believe that secularism is the enemy. The exclusion of their churches from the tax rolls is inadequate because the weekends, mornings and evenings just aren't enough to insure adequate molding of young brains.
They must keep their children behind the walls of their own medieval belief system 24-7 to be assured they aren't drawn to the dark side- you know, the age of reason- where science leads religious belief, instead of the reverse. And they are tired of paying for their walls- we will build a wall and the secularists will pay for it!
The voucher program is being offered up by Republicans as payoff to the religious right more than it is about the powers of capitalism over government run schools. Let's not pretend about political motivations if you want fact based politics.
The most important political and cultural ramification of a voucher system, by far, is that is is a run-around of the separation of church and state.
Religious fundamentalists wish to be compensated for the cost of religious indoctrination of their children, and believe that secularism is the enemy. The exclusion of their churches from the tax rolls is inadequate because the weekends, mornings and evenings just aren't enough to insure adequate molding of young brains.
They must keep their children behind the walls of their own medieval belief system 24-7 to be assured they aren't drawn to the dark side- you know, the age of reason- where science leads religious belief, instead of the reverse. And they are tired of paying for their walls- we will build a wall and the secularists will pay for it!
1
As usual, Ross is painting us liberals with a very broad brush. It's the *media* that has decided that the DeVos nomination is somehow the singular issue we are fighting against. Everyone I know on my "side of the aisle" is energetically opposed to every single cabinet nomination, save, perhaps for Mattis (DOD). But it is true that the policies that DeVos embraces and certainly promises to champion are a poison to public education. That is clearly evident in her past and certainly in her largely vacuous testimony before the committee.
Here are the facts:
1. She is astoundingly unqualified for the position. She has no experience as an educator, and as revealed in her testimony, she is ignorant of the most basic protections for students with disabilities, among other issues.
2. She opposes public education in favor of an unbridled free-market approach to education. This flies in the face of over a century of public education. While recent experience indicates that we need to do better in educating our children, there is absolutely no evidence that her educational philosophy (as it were) has any merit whatsoever. A well-supported, *back-to-basics* approach to education is what will save us. Not some hyper-capitalist approach that is all about competition- at the expense of quality.
3. while some charter schools do seem to work well, the majority of those I've seen are mediocre at best, and thievery at worst.
4. Betsy DeVos is astoundingly unqualified for the position.
Here are the facts:
1. She is astoundingly unqualified for the position. She has no experience as an educator, and as revealed in her testimony, she is ignorant of the most basic protections for students with disabilities, among other issues.
2. She opposes public education in favor of an unbridled free-market approach to education. This flies in the face of over a century of public education. While recent experience indicates that we need to do better in educating our children, there is absolutely no evidence that her educational philosophy (as it were) has any merit whatsoever. A well-supported, *back-to-basics* approach to education is what will save us. Not some hyper-capitalist approach that is all about competition- at the expense of quality.
3. while some charter schools do seem to work well, the majority of those I've seen are mediocre at best, and thievery at worst.
4. Betsy DeVos is astoundingly unqualified for the position.
1
Ross, "I don't want to make mock of all DeVos opposition. Senator had every right to vote against he if they felt her under qualified or uninformed." Hmm... I worry that you are uninformed my friend. Check out " Betsey DeVos Wants to Use America's Schools to Build God's Kingdom" by Kristin Rizga that is posted on the Mother Jones Website. Key issues like Separation of Church and State, Basic Human Rights & Equality and Freedom of Speech are no small matter when trying to protect the American Democracy. So WHY did the Democrats & 2 Republicans fight so hard? Trump did not anoint Ms. DeVos with this Cabinet Position. She bought the position. (Since the election, it appears that many of the basic foundations of the American Democratic Experience are for sale to the highest bidder if you are a billionaire and have some extra money to throw around.) 2. One of the responsibilities of our U.S. Senators is to provide voices for their constituents who do not have the resources, tools and support staff that suburbanites and billionaires have... its easier for them to activate and rally... as you so aptly put it. Have you even heard of James Dobson? Are you aware of the perspectives cultivated by his followers... and yes... since Ms. Dobson has personally donated over 11 million dollars directly to his organization, I think it's fair to say that she is a follower? 3. Review History, Destroy Access to Impactful Public Education = Getting Over One's fear of the Bogeyman.
1
Russ, Lack of access to a proper educarion is arguably the root all poverty. And the cause of lack of upward mobility and the persistence of income inequality.
These were not as you say nysterically politicized Democratic Senators but also multitudes of good, dedicated and wise mothers who were most vociferous about opposing Betsy.
Now that we have a policy know-nothing in charge of Education what could go wrong? Well, a democracy cannot function without an educated society. If we cannot teach students to discriminate wisely in readng research, let alone the STEM fields, where I hope you don't wish us to be left behind as we already maybe starting to by Japan and China with their robotics and AI, then it is not a healthy demos. And Putin will call the shots in this nabe, nabe meaning these United States. I agree with Nancy Pelosi in asking the FBI but not to hold your breath, What does Russia have on Trump?
These were not as you say nysterically politicized Democratic Senators but also multitudes of good, dedicated and wise mothers who were most vociferous about opposing Betsy.
Now that we have a policy know-nothing in charge of Education what could go wrong? Well, a democracy cannot function without an educated society. If we cannot teach students to discriminate wisely in readng research, let alone the STEM fields, where I hope you don't wish us to be left behind as we already maybe starting to by Japan and China with their robotics and AI, then it is not a healthy demos. And Putin will call the shots in this nabe, nabe meaning these United States. I agree with Nancy Pelosi in asking the FBI but not to hold your breath, What does Russia have on Trump?
1
While there is no doubt that Ms. DeVos is completely unqualified and holds a number of views, including those about grizzly bears menacing schools, that make her seem just a bit insane, it is my hope that she will also be completely incompetent in executing the duties of her post, since I believe she is being brought on board to wreak havoc and destruction on public education.
Another person, equally if not more hostile to public education, named Michelle Rhee, was interviewed for the job. Unlike Ms. DeVos, Ms. Rhee has been the head of a large urban school district, that of the District of Columbia. Ms. Rhee hates teachers' unions, loves for-profit charter schools, and would have been, in my opinion, infinitely more dangerous than the clueless Ms. DeVos.
Had Ms. DeVos not been confirmed, Ms. Rhee would have been public education's worst nightmare.
Another person, equally if not more hostile to public education, named Michelle Rhee, was interviewed for the job. Unlike Ms. DeVos, Ms. Rhee has been the head of a large urban school district, that of the District of Columbia. Ms. Rhee hates teachers' unions, loves for-profit charter schools, and would have been, in my opinion, infinitely more dangerous than the clueless Ms. DeVos.
Had Ms. DeVos not been confirmed, Ms. Rhee would have been public education's worst nightmare.
1
Mr. Douthat knows not of what he speaks.
In the stunning array of ill-prepared' unqualified, and flat-out-wrong-for-America cabinet nominees that Trump sent to the Hill, billionaire Betsy DeVos stood out.
The Democrats were savvy to focus on DeVos's not even barely disguised purchase of the nomination (10 of 12 GOP Senators on the hearings committee benefited from her largesse); and on her total absence of credentials, experience or even familiarity with public education other than her visceral distaste for it.
In their exhaustive, methodical exposure of DeVos' unsuitability to be Secretary of Education the Democrats showed America just how careless and barren the the nascent Trump presidency is.
So, yes Mr. Douthat, the Dems lost the DeVos battle, but...
The Democrats were savvy to focus on DeVos's not even barely disguised purchase of the nomination (10 of 12 GOP Senators on the hearings committee benefited from her largesse); and on her total absence of credentials, experience or even familiarity with public education other than her visceral distaste for it.
In their exhaustive, methodical exposure of DeVos' unsuitability to be Secretary of Education the Democrats showed America just how careless and barren the the nascent Trump presidency is.
So, yes Mr. Douthat, the Dems lost the DeVos battle, but...
Mr. Douthat, you completely miss the point as you minimize the damage of a Betsy DeVos and pull out that favorite GOP bugaboo, the teachers' union.
I live in Georgia, a "right to work" state where unions are illegal. I attended public school in NYC, and sent my children to public school in Atlanta until their personal safety forced me to put them in private school for high school. I have done everything from room parent to Board of Ed consultant, with stints as president of the PTAs and neighborhood education groups. I now tutor at a school adjacent to the MKL memorial center where the annual family income is $4,000. And no, there is no zero missing there.
That school has poor achievement grades but is at the 92nd percentile in growth in the state, success that DeVos doesn't even understand. It means students happy to be in a safe, stable, positive environment where respect is demanded and given. Children learning elementary skills that their parents do not have and cannot support. A group of over 100 neighbors volunteering to work with individual students for one on one help. New accelerated programs for achievers who are modelling success for others.
DeVos' push for "choice" and "vouchers" will siphon off students who can leave, break up the community support and draw down public dollars. The effect will be devastating at schools like this. But she won't know because she hasn't been to such schools. And clearly neither have you.
I live in Georgia, a "right to work" state where unions are illegal. I attended public school in NYC, and sent my children to public school in Atlanta until their personal safety forced me to put them in private school for high school. I have done everything from room parent to Board of Ed consultant, with stints as president of the PTAs and neighborhood education groups. I now tutor at a school adjacent to the MKL memorial center where the annual family income is $4,000. And no, there is no zero missing there.
That school has poor achievement grades but is at the 92nd percentile in growth in the state, success that DeVos doesn't even understand. It means students happy to be in a safe, stable, positive environment where respect is demanded and given. Children learning elementary skills that their parents do not have and cannot support. A group of over 100 neighbors volunteering to work with individual students for one on one help. New accelerated programs for achievers who are modelling success for others.
DeVos' push for "choice" and "vouchers" will siphon off students who can leave, break up the community support and draw down public dollars. The effect will be devastating at schools like this. But she won't know because she hasn't been to such schools. And clearly neither have you.
3
As in all of his worst arguments, Mr. Douthat here proceeds by attributing motives to those with whom he disagrees. And once again he totally mischaracterizes those motives.
She was a terrible nominee. Period.
She was a terrible nominee. Period.
2
Douthout attempts to shame the opposition for his perception that they care more about schools than "the specter of creeping Putinism". I care about both and do not feel ashamed for speaking out about one.
Douthat also seeks explanation for the unprecedented opposition to DeVos. Perhaps it is not as complicated as his tired argument about "powerful" teacher unions or his reductive assessment of school privatization. Perhaps people simply care deeply about children and education, and he underestimates the length to which educators and human beings will go to protect both.
Finally, DeVos did not simply "look unprepared", she is, in fact, unprepared. As a unionized teacher I am less concerned that she did not go to or send her children to a public school, and more concerned that, while she professes to care deeply about education, she has never taken the time to learn more about it.
This is typical of the Trump attitude, in which ignorance of your ignorance allows you to move forward on instinct. It shows great disrespect for the very institution of education, but more importantly, for the children working hard in school every day to learn and grow. They grasp the value of education. We should expect nothing less of DeVos and those who confirmed her.
Douthat also seeks explanation for the unprecedented opposition to DeVos. Perhaps it is not as complicated as his tired argument about "powerful" teacher unions or his reductive assessment of school privatization. Perhaps people simply care deeply about children and education, and he underestimates the length to which educators and human beings will go to protect both.
Finally, DeVos did not simply "look unprepared", she is, in fact, unprepared. As a unionized teacher I am less concerned that she did not go to or send her children to a public school, and more concerned that, while she professes to care deeply about education, she has never taken the time to learn more about it.
This is typical of the Trump attitude, in which ignorance of your ignorance allows you to move forward on instinct. It shows great disrespect for the very institution of education, but more importantly, for the children working hard in school every day to learn and grow. They grasp the value of education. We should expect nothing less of DeVos and those who confirmed her.
2
Ross, speaking as a lifelong Calvinist and follower of Jesus, as well as the spouse of a retired Christian school teacher,
I do not object to Betsy DeVos because of her religious beliefs. I object to her because she is TOTALLY unqualified. Witness the latest set of errors in her response to the Senate - citation omissions which would earn most high-school students an "F" on a paper. And that's just a small part of it.
I think the Democrats are right to make a lot of noise about this one. That way, they have at least gone on the record about how bad DeVos really is.
I do not object to Betsy DeVos because of her religious beliefs. I object to her because she is TOTALLY unqualified. Witness the latest set of errors in her response to the Senate - citation omissions which would earn most high-school students an "F" on a paper. And that's just a small part of it.
I think the Democrats are right to make a lot of noise about this one. That way, they have at least gone on the record about how bad DeVos really is.
3
As a person who actually taught in the New York City Public Schools I can vouch for the absolute incompetence of the system and the upper management's inability to come up with a curriculum that will not only increase student success but turn out graduates who actually learn something.
Upon my first week, I was warned by my supervisor that it was "too late" to teach the kids how to read, write, spell (and yes, they were freshman in high school!). Imagine that. In all their years in school they did not even know the fundamentals. How is this possible?
I myself am a product of the New York City school system and I have no recollection of any students who couldn't read (spelling and writing are very different).
I went into the job handicapped without the ability to teach them what they needed to know to succeed. The problem wasn't money. The education system is well-funded but the mis-management of these funds is criminal. The Unions (Randi Weingarten for example) rule. No changes are ever made. The outcome expected is to "teach to the test" and when Regents time came the two teachers assigned to grade must agree on a passing or failing score. If not a 3rd teacher was brought in to "break the tie."
Is it any wonder the system is under assault?
Upon my first week, I was warned by my supervisor that it was "too late" to teach the kids how to read, write, spell (and yes, they were freshman in high school!). Imagine that. In all their years in school they did not even know the fundamentals. How is this possible?
I myself am a product of the New York City school system and I have no recollection of any students who couldn't read (spelling and writing are very different).
I went into the job handicapped without the ability to teach them what they needed to know to succeed. The problem wasn't money. The education system is well-funded but the mis-management of these funds is criminal. The Unions (Randi Weingarten for example) rule. No changes are ever made. The outcome expected is to "teach to the test" and when Regents time came the two teachers assigned to grade must agree on a passing or failing score. If not a 3rd teacher was brought in to "break the tie."
Is it any wonder the system is under assault?
Ross, you seem to think Trumpism is a philosophy that comes from nowhere.
But it comes from ignorance and the worship of ignorance. The antidote to Trumpism is education.
And a four-year term in a child's formation is longer than four years in an adult's.
So yes, education is the most important national resource currently under attack.
But it comes from ignorance and the worship of ignorance. The antidote to Trumpism is education.
And a four-year term in a child's formation is longer than four years in an adult's.
So yes, education is the most important national resource currently under attack.
3
Mr Douthat has, once again, not been paying attention. Perhaps he has been off plotting with Steve Bannon over who gets to be Pope when the current infidel is overthrown and a real medieval Catholicism can be restored.
Part of the war against the monumentally incompetent religious fanatic pyramid-scheme heiress DeVos is that it appeared winnable. The grossly inappropriate racist Jeff Sessions was never going to get any 'no' votes from a GOP that harbours and enables racists. (Note that I did not say that all Republicans are racists, but anyone who votes Republican in the current era is either racist or does not find racism bothersome enough to do ANYTHING to oppose it. Ditto for misogyny.)
Madame Amway, even with a $200 pile of cash thrown at GOP candidates, was a possible defeat for this so-called administration.
That she is now Secretary Amway is a disgrace. McCain, Graham, Alexander and a handful of others have occasionally shown they had spines and consciences in the past, but clearly no more. They should be ashamed for their support of this incompetent and unqualified purveyor of ignorance.
American crumbles and the Goons On Parade just count their money.
Lincoln weeps.
Part of the war against the monumentally incompetent religious fanatic pyramid-scheme heiress DeVos is that it appeared winnable. The grossly inappropriate racist Jeff Sessions was never going to get any 'no' votes from a GOP that harbours and enables racists. (Note that I did not say that all Republicans are racists, but anyone who votes Republican in the current era is either racist or does not find racism bothersome enough to do ANYTHING to oppose it. Ditto for misogyny.)
Madame Amway, even with a $200 pile of cash thrown at GOP candidates, was a possible defeat for this so-called administration.
That she is now Secretary Amway is a disgrace. McCain, Graham, Alexander and a handful of others have occasionally shown they had spines and consciences in the past, but clearly no more. They should be ashamed for their support of this incompetent and unqualified purveyor of ignorance.
American crumbles and the Goons On Parade just count their money.
Lincoln weeps.
The Democrats need to regroup around Bernie fast. If that isn't possible, then Bernie needs to form a new party and name his successor(s).
When confidence in Trump collapses, Bernie Sanders will be America's most trusted politician.
Do something with it.
When confidence in Trump collapses, Bernie Sanders will be America's most trusted politician.
Do something with it.
1
Choice has nothing to do with education and everything to do with ideology, namely Christian conservative ideology.
School choice is a euphemism for property tax cuts, breaking up teachers unions, a means to privatize one of our largest public functions and most importantly to the right, reintroduce religious instruction in public school using federal dollars.
Statistic show that as a whole, charters perform as well as public schools in many, but not all, areas and slight better in some higher income neighborhoods. Its a wash, not the great redeemer of American education as promised.
School choice is a euphemism for property tax cuts, breaking up teachers unions, a means to privatize one of our largest public functions and most importantly to the right, reintroduce religious instruction in public school using federal dollars.
Statistic show that as a whole, charters perform as well as public schools in many, but not all, areas and slight better in some higher income neighborhoods. Its a wash, not the great redeemer of American education as promised.
1
I'm getting so tired of hearing about how "school choice" is so great. Anyone who preaches about that lives in a large city. There are many, many places where there is no school choice. In addition these places are too small and remote to suddenly have lots of school choices popping up around them. What good is some sort of charter school/voucher system to all of these millions of children? Shall we just throw them to the wind and continue to waste more of our talent by ignoring them?
And what if there is a choice but your kid doesn't get admitted because other people already chose all the spots in that school? Or maybe that private school "chooses" not to have your child as a student? It is one thing to show up at a store and find they are sold out of the jacket you wanted to buy, but our children's education? Forget this phony school choice ruse. Good public education for all is fundemental to any decent country. Other countries do it with less resources. We can too.
And what if there is a choice but your kid doesn't get admitted because other people already chose all the spots in that school? Or maybe that private school "chooses" not to have your child as a student? It is one thing to show up at a store and find they are sold out of the jacket you wanted to buy, but our children's education? Forget this phony school choice ruse. Good public education for all is fundemental to any decent country. Other countries do it with less resources. We can too.
I don't remember reading a single story criticising President Obama for appointing his longtime billionaire donor Penny Pritzerk as his Commerce Secretary
This Wikipedia:
"Pritzker's friendship with Barack Obama and his family dates back to the 1990s when he was a professor at the University of Chicago. Obama and his family were frequent guests at Pritzker's Lake Michigan vacation home. Pritzker became a major fundraiser for Obama during the 2008 democratic primary and raised millions overall for his White House bid.[1] She served as the national finance chair of President Obama's 2008 presidential campaign"
Betsy DeVos may have been appointed because of her longtime fundraising for the GOP. She also may be unqualified.
I just want to see this newspaper play it down the middle
This Wikipedia:
"Pritzker's friendship with Barack Obama and his family dates back to the 1990s when he was a professor at the University of Chicago. Obama and his family were frequent guests at Pritzker's Lake Michigan vacation home. Pritzker became a major fundraiser for Obama during the 2008 democratic primary and raised millions overall for his White House bid.[1] She served as the national finance chair of President Obama's 2008 presidential campaign"
Betsy DeVos may have been appointed because of her longtime fundraising for the GOP. She also may be unqualified.
I just want to see this newspaper play it down the middle
1
Suppose what happened between Democrats and Devos is not the result of the usual liberal blather, but something else.... that she comes off as a nincompoop.
I am an old fashioned moderate Republican and Betsy's comments suggest that she is utterly unqualified.
Tell us Ross - weren't you embarrassed when you heard her? Please admit it.
I am an old fashioned moderate Republican and Betsy's comments suggest that she is utterly unqualified.
Tell us Ross - weren't you embarrassed when you heard her? Please admit it.
1
No Ross, I am not now nor have I ever been a member of a teachers union or even a teacher but I contacted my ever so bribable Senator Rob Portman every day to urge him to develop some integrity and vote against DeVos. He decided that he does not represent the thousands of his constituents who called or emailed his office; he represents his party, and only his party, instead. We'd probably have gotten better results had we pooled our money and offered him $52K instead of the $51K he got from DeVos.
My objection is not just that she is supremely unqualified and has demonstrated her desire to destroy the very department she now "leads." It's that she has been quoted as saying that it is her life's mission to spread "God's kingdom," a mission that I find abhorrent and offensive. This woman will not only allow religion to metastasize to public education, she will encourage it. And she will use my tax dollars to do so.
It's also the fact that her appointment is the best example I've seen yet of the need for campaign finance reform. If DeVos was an American of average net worth she would never have been considered for this post. She bought this appointment.
There are two toxic substances that we need to get out of politics and government if our democratic system is to survive -- money and religion. DeVos is the poster child for both.
My objection is not just that she is supremely unqualified and has demonstrated her desire to destroy the very department she now "leads." It's that she has been quoted as saying that it is her life's mission to spread "God's kingdom," a mission that I find abhorrent and offensive. This woman will not only allow religion to metastasize to public education, she will encourage it. And she will use my tax dollars to do so.
It's also the fact that her appointment is the best example I've seen yet of the need for campaign finance reform. If DeVos was an American of average net worth she would never have been considered for this post. She bought this appointment.
There are two toxic substances that we need to get out of politics and government if our democratic system is to survive -- money and religion. DeVos is the poster child for both.
3
Ross, Ross, you poor man. The underlying reason for the opposition to DeVos is her total ignorance of public education. Are there areas needing vast improvement? WIthout doubt. Or would that be Douthat? But has public education been the engine of progress for tens if not hundreds of millions of Americans over our history? Undoubtedly.
The GOP of today is totally anti-education and anti-intellectual. It wants a dumb, malleable electorate capable of handling 140-character information, nothing more.
But here's the thing. If they kill public education, what's to prevent unbanned Saudi Arabia, under Citizens United, from flooding dark money to groups that will set up Wahhabist madrassas in, say, Memphis? Or Baton Rouge? Be careful what you wish for, young man.
The GOP of today is totally anti-education and anti-intellectual. It wants a dumb, malleable electorate capable of handling 140-character information, nothing more.
But here's the thing. If they kill public education, what's to prevent unbanned Saudi Arabia, under Citizens United, from flooding dark money to groups that will set up Wahhabist madrassas in, say, Memphis? Or Baton Rouge? Be careful what you wish for, young man.
1
Embarrassing: "Decades of experiments suggest that choice can save money, improve outcomes for very poor kids whose public options are disastrous, and increase parental satisfaction. (The last is no small thing!)"
The record is clear that, on average, charter schools do slightly worse than public schools. Moreover, vouchers would serve only a few of the better public school students up to the building capacity of private schools, and leave behind the poorest students at fortune's alms.
In this column, Douthat shows a greater concern for private industry than public education, for profits than people. Who needs such inhumane advice from someone who purports to be a sincere Catholic?
The record is clear that, on average, charter schools do slightly worse than public schools. Moreover, vouchers would serve only a few of the better public school students up to the building capacity of private schools, and leave behind the poorest students at fortune's alms.
In this column, Douthat shows a greater concern for private industry than public education, for profits than people. Who needs such inhumane advice from someone who purports to be a sincere Catholic?
1
It was the right thing to do.
In many ways, despite the volume up to 11, when you look at some of the candidates - Like Tillerson, there are smart, qualified, and serious people in the mix. I'm willing to give them a chance and not be so vocal in my disapproval to my congressman. However, in spite of my reservations of most of the slate of candidates, putting on the logic hat and removing the emotional and political 'big government vs. small government' voices in my head for just a wee minute...and thinking seriously about DeVos. Then I come to the same conclusion. Her confirmation is an outrage.
It was right to fight her so fiercely, merely based on her resume, and her interview (it is a job interview after all) In fact I'm very disappointed in the Republican Senate for looking the other way and NOT putting on their logic hats. How can we be a 'shining beacon to the rest of the world" when we can't even allow logic to prevail on the most basic of qualifications for our public employees and allow a well connected donor with zero qualifications to run an important department, ESPECIALLY at a time when things do need creative ideas for reform. "so-called" president included.
In many ways, despite the volume up to 11, when you look at some of the candidates - Like Tillerson, there are smart, qualified, and serious people in the mix. I'm willing to give them a chance and not be so vocal in my disapproval to my congressman. However, in spite of my reservations of most of the slate of candidates, putting on the logic hat and removing the emotional and political 'big government vs. small government' voices in my head for just a wee minute...and thinking seriously about DeVos. Then I come to the same conclusion. Her confirmation is an outrage.
It was right to fight her so fiercely, merely based on her resume, and her interview (it is a job interview after all) In fact I'm very disappointed in the Republican Senate for looking the other way and NOT putting on their logic hats. How can we be a 'shining beacon to the rest of the world" when we can't even allow logic to prevail on the most basic of qualifications for our public employees and allow a well connected donor with zero qualifications to run an important department, ESPECIALLY at a time when things do need creative ideas for reform. "so-called" president included.
3
The U.S. Department of Education has little or nothing to do with the local and state taxes that support American public school education. Zip code by zip code and penny by penny and color by colored you can determine the quality of American public school education. Neither the kids of Betsy DeVos nor Donald Trump nor Arne Duncan nor Barack Obama nor their parents and grandparents ever had to mingle in a public school with the great American peasant masses.
The Republican Party is the political party of, by and for the the 57%, 59% and 58% of white Americans who voted McCain/Palin in 2008, Romney/Ryan in 2012 and Trump/Pence in 2016. While the Democratic Party is the political party of a minority of white American voters and a majority of all colored American voters.
Evangelical white Christians worship separate and apart from fundamentalist black Christians. Mormons are mostly white. Roman Catholics are divided by ethnicity and color and national origin. Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant Christians are divided by scripture and theology. Jews are mostly white. Muslims are mostly Middle/Eastern Asian and African. Liberals and conservatives are all members of the one and only human race species.
Conservatives comfort the inflicters who are their brothers and sisters while afflicting the many who are neither. Liberals comfort the inflicted who are their brothers and sisters and afflict the few who are neither.
The Republican Party is the political party of, by and for the the 57%, 59% and 58% of white Americans who voted McCain/Palin in 2008, Romney/Ryan in 2012 and Trump/Pence in 2016. While the Democratic Party is the political party of a minority of white American voters and a majority of all colored American voters.
Evangelical white Christians worship separate and apart from fundamentalist black Christians. Mormons are mostly white. Roman Catholics are divided by ethnicity and color and national origin. Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant Christians are divided by scripture and theology. Jews are mostly white. Muslims are mostly Middle/Eastern Asian and African. Liberals and conservatives are all members of the one and only human race species.
Conservatives comfort the inflicters who are their brothers and sisters while afflicting the many who are neither. Liberals comfort the inflicted who are their brothers and sisters and afflict the few who are neither.
1
The vaunted education system in Finland is fully unionized. Educational achievement has little to do with unions.
Surely a nation that can send a man to the moon can operate a labor union, too.
Surely a nation that can send a man to the moon can operate a labor union, too.
2
Love Mr. Douthat defending conservatism and the evangelical protestant movement to brainwash an entire generation of Americans. Those of us that are really paying attention have been watching the evangelicals try to use the Federal Government to mount a takeover of the Federal Government for the last 30 years. They are getting better at it. Neutering the gigantic budget allocation for education is a ferocious leap forward.
Mr. Douthat, as a Catholic, doesn't see them coming. But they'll come for you too, Ross. Much like their lip service to Israel, you're for the rack in the end. I can't wait to watch you 'take the soup'. What a day that will be, choking on it like we've done on your bromides.
Mr. Douthat, as a Catholic, doesn't see them coming. But they'll come for you too, Ross. Much like their lip service to Israel, you're for the rack in the end. I can't wait to watch you 'take the soup'. What a day that will be, choking on it like we've done on your bromides.
1
Ross, my wife taught at one of those charters for a year in between public school jobs, and let me tell you some of what the lack of regulation wrought:
* Short supply of textbooks
* Lack of experienced teachers
* Teacher hiring outsourced to a temp agency, who also managed payroll.
* Paychecks were often late, sometimes by weeks
* Failure to adhere to rules for special education students
I'd like to point out that the real opposition to Betsy DeVos is from those of us in Michigan, who've seen what her work has done. I'd also like to point out that last year, when our Republican legislature was on the verge of passing legislation to start regulating charters more closely after this report (http://midwest.edtrust.org/resource/accountability-for-all/), DeVos dropped $500,000 in campaign donations into the accounts of those who were going to vote yes. They flipped. The measure failed by three votes. The fact that she spent that much money to prevent basic regulation and oversight demonstrates her lack of fitness for this job.
This isn't about teachers unions, or about suburbia trying to hurt urban choices. This is about how many of these charters, without regulation, rip off the poor and prey on their desperation for better education. This is about how charters, by doubling the cost of education & stripping money from public schools, will kill public schools. Be honest about it, at least.
* Short supply of textbooks
* Lack of experienced teachers
* Teacher hiring outsourced to a temp agency, who also managed payroll.
* Paychecks were often late, sometimes by weeks
* Failure to adhere to rules for special education students
I'd like to point out that the real opposition to Betsy DeVos is from those of us in Michigan, who've seen what her work has done. I'd also like to point out that last year, when our Republican legislature was on the verge of passing legislation to start regulating charters more closely after this report (http://midwest.edtrust.org/resource/accountability-for-all/), DeVos dropped $500,000 in campaign donations into the accounts of those who were going to vote yes. They flipped. The measure failed by three votes. The fact that she spent that much money to prevent basic regulation and oversight demonstrates her lack of fitness for this job.
This isn't about teachers unions, or about suburbia trying to hurt urban choices. This is about how many of these charters, without regulation, rip off the poor and prey on their desperation for better education. This is about how charters, by doubling the cost of education & stripping money from public schools, will kill public schools. Be honest about it, at least.
3
He Ross - how about you throwing some questions about the spineless, hypocritical, lying republicans in congress who voted for this trainwreck of a department head? Why, if they cared about the American public - particularly about school kids - did they vote for her? Because a jellyfish has more spine than they do? Because, as you stated, they didn't want to reap the ire of 45 (I refuse to use his name) - even though they are paid to do the right thing (which of course they haven't done in years)? Because many of them received money from this totally ignorant person?
You are directing your questions and condescending attitude towards the wrong group. The republicans - who want to destroy and do away with stuff vice fixing them - are gutless wonders and I have nothing but contempt for them. And sadly, my grandkids will feel the brunt of their cowardice.
You are directing your questions and condescending attitude towards the wrong group. The republicans - who want to destroy and do away with stuff vice fixing them - are gutless wonders and I have nothing but contempt for them. And sadly, my grandkids will feel the brunt of their cowardice.
What is going on here?
Is this a subliminal message that the Vatican should be running our public schools?
Is this a subliminal message that the Vatican should be running our public schools?
1
The vitriol of the comments show that Mr. Douthat has nailed this one. Whatever you think of Ms. DeVos' qualifications, the extent of the opposition for a third rate cabinet position with little authority over schools (that's a state responsibility) shows how much the interests of the teachers' unions dominate the Democratic party. School choice is a threat to union power, which is why Ms. DeVos had to be opposed.
If Medicare were run the way we run schools, patients would be assigned a hospital based on where they live, and would have no choice of doctors. (Sort of like how the VA system works, and we know how satisfied patients are with that system.) If Medicare patients can use tax dollars to obtain services from any doctor or hospital (including religiously affiliated ones) why can't students and their parents have the same rights?
If Medicare were run the way we run schools, patients would be assigned a hospital based on where they live, and would have no choice of doctors. (Sort of like how the VA system works, and we know how satisfied patients are with that system.) If Medicare patients can use tax dollars to obtain services from any doctor or hospital (including religiously affiliated ones) why can't students and their parents have the same rights?
12
At 65, born to factory-working, uneducated children of the 1890s immigration waves, having taught in the public schools of New Haven, Los Angeles, and Long Beach, at UCLA, in a private all-Armenian school, in an all-boys' Catholic school, having subbed and done field work from Massachusetts to Catalina Island, my opinion differs from the young Mr. Douthat, product of Hamden Hall, and Harvard.
Charter schools' record across the country is quite mixed. Its advocates include young teachers full of mission, idealism and zeal, and politicians who want to break teachers' unions, one of the last standing voices of the middle class, which, along with the entire enterprise of education, staffed to this day largely by women, Mr. Douthat sees fit to mock and dismiss. If he were a parent, as I also am, perhaps he'd understand better the concern.
Charters have younger staff who earn less money, have fewer masters degrees, higher turnover rates, have a greater failure rate. I fail to understand at all why they need to operate outside the protections and benefits of the teachers' unions—for fast and easy firing without recourse?
Douthat's condescending, mocking tone proves again a large part of the reason education is a political football is because this is a women's profession, and women in this society are treated like large children who are incapable of controlling their own bodies. We need to be chided by Mr. Douthat for caring about children and teaching.
Charter schools' record across the country is quite mixed. Its advocates include young teachers full of mission, idealism and zeal, and politicians who want to break teachers' unions, one of the last standing voices of the middle class, which, along with the entire enterprise of education, staffed to this day largely by women, Mr. Douthat sees fit to mock and dismiss. If he were a parent, as I also am, perhaps he'd understand better the concern.
Charters have younger staff who earn less money, have fewer masters degrees, higher turnover rates, have a greater failure rate. I fail to understand at all why they need to operate outside the protections and benefits of the teachers' unions—for fast and easy firing without recourse?
Douthat's condescending, mocking tone proves again a large part of the reason education is a political football is because this is a women's profession, and women in this society are treated like large children who are incapable of controlling their own bodies. We need to be chided by Mr. Douthat for caring about children and teaching.
3
For anyone who is wondering what all the fuss is regarding Ms. DeVos, I recommend watching the confirmation hearing ( https://www.c-span.org/video/?421224-1/education-secretary-nominee-betsy... ). It's not necessary to watch the whole thing, but at least look at the difference in interaction between taking questions from the left and right.
There is a clear difference between how the Republicans and Democrats view these hearings. The Republicans treat it as a formality and pony show whereas the Democrats try to get as much information as possible within their 1 set of 5 minutes - only to be given a bunch of wrong answers or avoided answers.
Her responses to actual questions are empty -- mostly thanking everyone for the opportunity to work with everyone and is looking forward to exploring options. It's the way a corporate manager talks down to employees using fluffy words rather than actually taking a firm stand and having a real discussion. If I responded to questions the way she did at my interviews, they would've thought I was full of it.
I also had to roll my eyes at the token black student she brought in. I thought the last time I'd see that sort of stuff in Washington was when Bush Jr. signed No Child Left Behind.
The only saving grace with this candidate is the hope that she won't have a sizable impact in the next 4 years.
There is a clear difference between how the Republicans and Democrats view these hearings. The Republicans treat it as a formality and pony show whereas the Democrats try to get as much information as possible within their 1 set of 5 minutes - only to be given a bunch of wrong answers or avoided answers.
Her responses to actual questions are empty -- mostly thanking everyone for the opportunity to work with everyone and is looking forward to exploring options. It's the way a corporate manager talks down to employees using fluffy words rather than actually taking a firm stand and having a real discussion. If I responded to questions the way she did at my interviews, they would've thought I was full of it.
I also had to roll my eyes at the token black student she brought in. I thought the last time I'd see that sort of stuff in Washington was when Bush Jr. signed No Child Left Behind.
The only saving grace with this candidate is the hope that she won't have a sizable impact in the next 4 years.
1
I am not the brightest bulb in the box, but all you had to do was listen to DeVos answer questions and you knew she was not knowledgeable or qualified for the position. This was an exercise in partisanship. There were many more Republican Senators who were against, but stayed quiet - male wimps. Two females exhibited "Profiles in Courage".
Bernie Sanders had it right. DeVos would to not have been sitting there if she were not a billionaire. Her money enabled her crusade path. Her money paid off all the Republicans on the confirmation panel.
The Dept. of Education may be about 3% of the federal budget, but the entity of education is woven into the fabric of America. An educated public keeps our Democracy strong and the Public Education system must remain strong and viable. That is why the Democrats and two Republicans made such a fuss over DeVos.
Bernie Sanders had it right. DeVos would to not have been sitting there if she were not a billionaire. Her money enabled her crusade path. Her money paid off all the Republicans on the confirmation panel.
The Dept. of Education may be about 3% of the federal budget, but the entity of education is woven into the fabric of America. An educated public keeps our Democracy strong and the Public Education system must remain strong and viable. That is why the Democrats and two Republicans made such a fuss over DeVos.
3
I think Mr. Douthat should probably ask then what is the point of a confirmation process when even he admits that Mrs. Devos' only qualifications for the position appear to be the size of her paycheck and her ideology. If even someone as minimally or ill qualified as Mrs. Devos is granted the presumed cloak of competency, then why bother with any kind of process for such positions?
I think the larger critique that Mr. Douthat also missed is that Mrs. Devos a frightening lack of knowledge about the parts of education that Federal govt does play an outsized role in. Namely, securing education for underserved and discriminated groups. Anyone who saw her response to questions about the IDEA would be hard pressed to then argue she had a firm grasp of what her job would entail. I understand that Ambassador positions are often used as rewards for campaign supporters but this appears to be the first time a cabinet position is used as one.
I think the larger critique that Mr. Douthat also missed is that Mrs. Devos a frightening lack of knowledge about the parts of education that Federal govt does play an outsized role in. Namely, securing education for underserved and discriminated groups. Anyone who saw her response to questions about the IDEA would be hard pressed to then argue she had a firm grasp of what her job would entail. I understand that Ambassador positions are often used as rewards for campaign supporters but this appears to be the first time a cabinet position is used as one.
1
Both sides of the aisle can agree that our educational system should get better. Whether that is through improvements in the public education system, or the creation of more charter schools should be determined by student performance in real world metrics, not simply standardized tests that indirectly test competence. Can a student read and write a common standard English no matter what their heritage to work in a world where less is spoken and more is written? Our schools are failing this test a great deal of the time.
The main point of contention is that the charter schools are surrogates for faith-based teaching that may or may not be based in actual fact, or fails to present alternatives. Why not teach evolution and creationism together? That may not happen in DeVos world, where the narrow minded of many stripes will be funded and encouraged.
Our future greatly depends upon reading, writing and critical thinking. The alt-right false truth wing nuts would not be so persuasive if the public questions more critically and vociferously. Such a skill, vital for survival in today's and tomorrow's world will be more enduring than any lying president and his minions who crave power at any cost.
Let us not let our children be lost in this bickering. Let us improve their reading, writing and critical thinking so that such a travesty does not infuse our government again with lying crooks in their lifetime.
The main point of contention is that the charter schools are surrogates for faith-based teaching that may or may not be based in actual fact, or fails to present alternatives. Why not teach evolution and creationism together? That may not happen in DeVos world, where the narrow minded of many stripes will be funded and encouraged.
Our future greatly depends upon reading, writing and critical thinking. The alt-right false truth wing nuts would not be so persuasive if the public questions more critically and vociferously. Such a skill, vital for survival in today's and tomorrow's world will be more enduring than any lying president and his minions who crave power at any cost.
Let us not let our children be lost in this bickering. Let us improve their reading, writing and critical thinking so that such a travesty does not infuse our government again with lying crooks in their lifetime.
1
America's future lies in education.
We now have an educational leader who has little faith in the present system.
Rather than repairing the deficiencies in the American educational system, which got us to where we are today, she wants to degrade it and design a new model. One that is theologically based. One that can select or reject students, thereby propping up 'favorable' statistics. One that is profit driven.
Prologue: I ask my adult students, "If schools are so unproductive, how come everybody is so smart?"
Let's see how the alt-right reacts when the unwashed kids decide to use their educational vouchers by attending the wealthy and white schools.
We now have an educational leader who has little faith in the present system.
Rather than repairing the deficiencies in the American educational system, which got us to where we are today, she wants to degrade it and design a new model. One that is theologically based. One that can select or reject students, thereby propping up 'favorable' statistics. One that is profit driven.
Prologue: I ask my adult students, "If schools are so unproductive, how come everybody is so smart?"
Let's see how the alt-right reacts when the unwashed kids decide to use their educational vouchers by attending the wealthy and white schools.
1
Mr. Douthat is wrong about liberal opposition to Betsy DeVos, who not only "did look unprepared and even foolish at times during her confirmation hearings" but actually was unprepared and foolish.
Mr. Trump's other cabinet choices are strongly ideological, with obvious conflicts of interest...but Democrats acknowledge that a Tom Price, Jeff Sessions, or Steve Mnuchin - despite their odious policy choices and questionable ethics - have brains, and, government experience of no, have ability to reason and capability to execute.
Ms. DeVos, by contrast, didn't even make a pretense of "preparing" for her hearings - a proposed head of "education" with no interest in educating herself. Money was her education, her key, her alpha and her omega.
It may seem a small thing to Mr. Douthat that Ms. Devos' true wish is to "advance the kingdom of Christ" - Mr. Douthat seems to poo-poo liberal opposition to this - but liberals believe in the Constitution's separation of church and state. Government is not, or at least should not be, in the business of "advancing the kingdom of Christ" or any other kingdom.
The (GOP) elephant in the room, however, is the biggest problem liberals have with entrusting education to Betsy DeVos. Conservatives know as well as liberals that, once you have shared your values with your children, those values usually stick - DeVos promoting God's kingdom would mean more GOP voters in 15-20 years; Douthat and the GOP know this, but don't wish to say it aloud.
Mr. Trump's other cabinet choices are strongly ideological, with obvious conflicts of interest...but Democrats acknowledge that a Tom Price, Jeff Sessions, or Steve Mnuchin - despite their odious policy choices and questionable ethics - have brains, and, government experience of no, have ability to reason and capability to execute.
Ms. DeVos, by contrast, didn't even make a pretense of "preparing" for her hearings - a proposed head of "education" with no interest in educating herself. Money was her education, her key, her alpha and her omega.
It may seem a small thing to Mr. Douthat that Ms. Devos' true wish is to "advance the kingdom of Christ" - Mr. Douthat seems to poo-poo liberal opposition to this - but liberals believe in the Constitution's separation of church and state. Government is not, or at least should not be, in the business of "advancing the kingdom of Christ" or any other kingdom.
The (GOP) elephant in the room, however, is the biggest problem liberals have with entrusting education to Betsy DeVos. Conservatives know as well as liberals that, once you have shared your values with your children, those values usually stick - DeVos promoting God's kingdom would mean more GOP voters in 15-20 years; Douthat and the GOP know this, but don't wish to say it aloud.
Compared to the GOP led opposition in Congress to Obama during most of his presidency, the reaction of Democrats to Devos does not compare.
The GOP led House of Representatives shut down the federal goverment in 2013 in opposition to funding Obamacare.
What about the refusal of the GOP led Senate to even consider Merrick Garland for the Supreme Court?
To criticize the Democrats' opposition to Devos is hypocritical.
The GOP led House of Representatives shut down the federal goverment in 2013 in opposition to funding Obamacare.
What about the refusal of the GOP led Senate to even consider Merrick Garland for the Supreme Court?
To criticize the Democrats' opposition to Devos is hypocritical.
1
Ignorance is not bliss it is just ignorant. Cash cow President well that was always obvious NY Times that would be the case.
Sure, although your newspaper's editorial says Betsy DeVos "has never run, taught in, attended or sent a child to an American public school, and her confirmation hearings laid bare her ignorance of education policy and scorn for public education itself," but this fight was all about lobbyist money.
Never mind that the lobbyists you're referring to are the teacher's unions, made up of the very teachers who would attempt to do their job under a Secretary, who paid for her position and holds contempt for the institution they've devoted their lives to. But, yeah, it's politics as usual, even though you've pointed out that DeVos' politics were more in keeping with the Democrats than the Republicans. This would lead a more logical person to believe that they were more afraid of her incompetence than her politics.
It's weird that you'd try to make DeVos seem more qualified for Sec of Education than Ben Carson for Sec of Health and Human Services, although he's an incredibly educated man and as one growing up in inner city poverty, has utilized countless programs of the Department. There are still far better options for the position out there, but he's more qualified for every other available position than DeVos.
Betsy DeVos' nomination was an easy target, one that united quite a few Republicans with the resistance. Next stop, Session, then Pruitt, and the rest.
Never mind that the lobbyists you're referring to are the teacher's unions, made up of the very teachers who would attempt to do their job under a Secretary, who paid for her position and holds contempt for the institution they've devoted their lives to. But, yeah, it's politics as usual, even though you've pointed out that DeVos' politics were more in keeping with the Democrats than the Republicans. This would lead a more logical person to believe that they were more afraid of her incompetence than her politics.
It's weird that you'd try to make DeVos seem more qualified for Sec of Education than Ben Carson for Sec of Health and Human Services, although he's an incredibly educated man and as one growing up in inner city poverty, has utilized countless programs of the Department. There are still far better options for the position out there, but he's more qualified for every other available position than DeVos.
Betsy DeVos' nomination was an easy target, one that united quite a few Republicans with the resistance. Next stop, Session, then Pruitt, and the rest.
Ross you criticize liberals/Democrats in the following way toward the end of your article:
"...and always girding for the battle with the Real Enemy, religious conservatives,..."
I think that liberals/Democrats are correct to do this. Religious influence is like rising damp or a metastasizing cancer. It will take root wherever is sees an opportunity to spread its malignancy.
"...and always girding for the battle with the Real Enemy, religious conservatives,..."
I think that liberals/Democrats are correct to do this. Religious influence is like rising damp or a metastasizing cancer. It will take root wherever is sees an opportunity to spread its malignancy.
1
She was chosen to "go to war" with instead of the other nominees you mention because she was the most obviously unqualified, and you can't go to war with every nominee.
It's impossible to make a legitimate case for her other than for reasons of partisan checkbook patronage.
That comment about the grizzly bears would have been National Lampoon level farce if it weren't meant to be take seriously. That's a disqualifying statement just by itself.
Yes, Democrats have a weakness, we believe people should have real qualifications for jobs, we're funny like that.
It's impossible to make a legitimate case for her other than for reasons of partisan checkbook patronage.
That comment about the grizzly bears would have been National Lampoon level farce if it weren't meant to be take seriously. That's a disqualifying statement just by itself.
Yes, Democrats have a weakness, we believe people should have real qualifications for jobs, we're funny like that.
Ah, Ross, you're back. You can take comfort in talking about Liberals again.
For the record, there are a lot of us who oppose Jeff Sessions and Tom Price, and Rex Tillerson. We feel that they are terrible picks and will likely do a great deal of damage before they leave office. But we can't call them totally unqualified. Tillerson, for instance has at least dealt on a global scale.
Many of us are appalled at the EPA and FCC picks.
BUT - DeVos is totally unqualified, and she has been put in charge of a department that directly affects our children. She both supports sucking public tax money into private coffers - Blackwater is a family enterprise, and has shown her the way - and she supports siphoning money out of public and into private schools, including religious schools. (Right up to the point when a Muslim community wants Federal funding for their own school.)
So yes, DeVos was the place to take a stand, and to show that the President prefers form over substance. But was there ever any doubt?
For the record, there are a lot of us who oppose Jeff Sessions and Tom Price, and Rex Tillerson. We feel that they are terrible picks and will likely do a great deal of damage before they leave office. But we can't call them totally unqualified. Tillerson, for instance has at least dealt on a global scale.
Many of us are appalled at the EPA and FCC picks.
BUT - DeVos is totally unqualified, and she has been put in charge of a department that directly affects our children. She both supports sucking public tax money into private coffers - Blackwater is a family enterprise, and has shown her the way - and she supports siphoning money out of public and into private schools, including religious schools. (Right up to the point when a Muslim community wants Federal funding for their own school.)
So yes, DeVos was the place to take a stand, and to show that the President prefers form over substance. But was there ever any doubt?
2
Thank you for this piece. So much uproar, yet at the end of the day, it is basically special interests and "selection" (or should I say, "non-election") against a Calvinist? I guess then, it was predestined... and she was "elected" (with a tie breaker).
Meanwhile, we pretend the elephant in the room is not there.
Meanwhile, we pretend the elephant in the room is not there.
1
Two brief points:
1. Sometimes you engage where you might have a chance to prevail. Especially in an area where our country as a whole performs so miserably on the international scene.
2. I don't think the Dems "dragged" Collins and Murkowski along with them. The candidate gave them a big push.
1. Sometimes you engage where you might have a chance to prevail. Especially in an area where our country as a whole performs so miserably on the international scene.
2. I don't think the Dems "dragged" Collins and Murkowski along with them. The candidate gave them a big push.
2
Douthat makes the mistake all Republicans make. He is thinking only about the immediate future, not about long-term effects on our children and on our nation. A nation of ignoramuses, schooled in creationism and right-wing ideology, is hardly a nation prepared for the post-modern world.
Republicans are working to set our great country back about 100 years. There is a second Great Depression looming as robber barons, a corrupt Congress, and a fake president adopt policies so damaging to ordinary people, especially children.
Republicans are working to set our great country back about 100 years. There is a second Great Depression looming as robber barons, a corrupt Congress, and a fake president adopt policies so damaging to ordinary people, especially children.
1
What good is a $2,000 voucher to a poor or eccentric person for a charter school if the annual tuition is $7,000?
All that becomes is a give away to the rich, a transfer of public money for private use that even the president boast is not against the law when he does it.
All that becomes is a give away to the rich, a transfer of public money for private use that even the president boast is not against the law when he does it.
2
The real opposition to DeVos based on the fact that she is a not very bright rich person who inherited wealth and made a name for herself by donating money. She is not qualified and is probably not capable of growing into the job.
She is a lot like our Republican president.
She is a lot like our Republican president.
2
Huh, what?
Douthat writes that Democrats are "... more excited about causes dear to the upper middle class than the interests of the poor,..."
It's the poor that suffer the most when public schools are not supported. The upper middle class is doing just fine, in both both public schools and private schools. The idea that the objection to Devos is some sort of "liberal elite" thing is without any merit.
Douthat writes that Democrats are "... more excited about causes dear to the upper middle class than the interests of the poor,..."
It's the poor that suffer the most when public schools are not supported. The upper middle class is doing just fine, in both both public schools and private schools. The idea that the objection to Devos is some sort of "liberal elite" thing is without any merit.
2
DeVos as Education Secretary is equivalent to my being chosen to head the AMA. I'm an English teacher, by the way. It's not her policies, per se, that I'm against (though, truth be told, I am). Rather, it's the fact that she knows nothing about public education. Literally nothing. She did not even go to public school. She has no concept of what's involved in public education. She's got a ton of experience with private school (religious ones in particular). That's a problem for me. How can you advocate for children in public schools if you don't have any idea what they go through or what they gain? Private isn't the answer. It's an answer.
Additionally, I am appalled that she did not, during the course of her nomination, even offer to meet with some of the teachers opposed to her. This, coupled with her lack of actual insight into public education, indicate to me that she doesn't want to know or understand. This is the worst possible kind of person to sit in a chair that is supposed to be the beacon of education. How do we explain to our students that someone completely ill prepared could get a job they are so thoroughly unqualified for? How do we deal with the hypocrisy? How do I convince my students that they need to study when they see leaders in the White House who don't believe in facts?
You want to understand why DeVos' nomination got so many calls? Maybe stop theorizing and start asking the people making those calls.
Additionally, I am appalled that she did not, during the course of her nomination, even offer to meet with some of the teachers opposed to her. This, coupled with her lack of actual insight into public education, indicate to me that she doesn't want to know or understand. This is the worst possible kind of person to sit in a chair that is supposed to be the beacon of education. How do we explain to our students that someone completely ill prepared could get a job they are so thoroughly unqualified for? How do we deal with the hypocrisy? How do I convince my students that they need to study when they see leaders in the White House who don't believe in facts?
You want to understand why DeVos' nomination got so many calls? Maybe stop theorizing and start asking the people making those calls.
1
Mr. Douthat, you are at risk of falling into the category of educated coastal elite here. This is not about suburban moms who like their public schools. And those two Republican senators were not just any senators. Choice and vouchers don't work in rural areas where population density is too low to create sufficient demand for other schools to offset the cost, where population density is so low that there is no supply of great teachers waiting to be tapped with competitive salaries. The conditions are not right to create economies of scale. And the infrastructure costs are crushing.
In WV children ride buses so long each day to go to school that the big concern is making sure the routes meet the state requirement that children not sit on the bus for more than two hours EACH WAY. Research show that parent involvement is critical to the academic success of a school, but when families live in poverty, they may not have the transportation to get there to be involved.
People spoke up because they depend upon those schools, they are part of the fabric of their communities. Senator Capito should have had the political courage to follow the lead of Senators Collins and Murkowski.
In WV children ride buses so long each day to go to school that the big concern is making sure the routes meet the state requirement that children not sit on the bus for more than two hours EACH WAY. Research show that parent involvement is critical to the academic success of a school, but when families live in poverty, they may not have the transportation to get there to be involved.
People spoke up because they depend upon those schools, they are part of the fabric of their communities. Senator Capito should have had the political courage to follow the lead of Senators Collins and Murkowski.
The Republican Party:
Tough on Education - Tough on the Causes of Education
Tough on Education - Tough on the Causes of Education
Let's think on this for a minute or two. Bathos is worse than pathos which is worse than comedic, right? So there's still room to become more ridiculous.
What's funny, you ask? The previous president didn't have a clue about K12 either, and his so-called "experienced" Sec Ed Duncan didn't have a clue between them on what to do will all their Federal money to lavish on the states.
So they spent billions on the standardized testing of our non-standard students, and tossed another hundred millions into Races to the Top of a needle, where no entity sits for very long.
The truth is we don't need a Sec Ed. Our founders left K12 to the states and to local control. Put some sensibile restrictions on how to spend it and step aside. The local schools know what they need to compete with or surpass Charter schools: money!
Duncan and Obama did a lot of harm to K12 by doing nothing that helped. Parents and kids choose Charters. Give them all a better option of remaining in better public schools. Let's create a rising tide of resources that better floats all boats.
What's funny, you ask? The previous president didn't have a clue about K12 either, and his so-called "experienced" Sec Ed Duncan didn't have a clue between them on what to do will all their Federal money to lavish on the states.
So they spent billions on the standardized testing of our non-standard students, and tossed another hundred millions into Races to the Top of a needle, where no entity sits for very long.
The truth is we don't need a Sec Ed. Our founders left K12 to the states and to local control. Put some sensibile restrictions on how to spend it and step aside. The local schools know what they need to compete with or surpass Charter schools: money!
Duncan and Obama did a lot of harm to K12 by doing nothing that helped. Parents and kids choose Charters. Give them all a better option of remaining in better public schools. Let's create a rising tide of resources that better floats all boats.
1
So even though A) public education is the institution that built the American middle class, B) De Vos demonstrated an obvious and appalling lack of competence, and C) her appointment and support cannot be separated from her deep pockets as a GOP donor––nevertheless, Mr. Douthat is certain that the *real* reason Democrats have fought to so hard is just teachers' unions and overblown qualms about religion in public education?
Mr. Douthat seems to have missed the fact that, from Bush's "No Child Left Behind" to "Common Core," ordinary people on both the right and the left have been following education issues passionately. When Trump appointed an obviously uninformed GOP donor to oversee one of the sectors people have been following closely for years, it ignited those passions anew. The Democrats are just responding accordingly.
Mr. Douthat seems to have missed the fact that, from Bush's "No Child Left Behind" to "Common Core," ordinary people on both the right and the left have been following education issues passionately. When Trump appointed an obviously uninformed GOP donor to oversee one of the sectors people have been following closely for years, it ignited those passions anew. The Democrats are just responding accordingly.
1
I still don't get what Mr. Douthat's game is (and the same for David Brooks).
Every one of their columns is targeted to liberals, often in a scolding and patronizing tone, as if we are somehow still in charge of the process and can influence the outcome.
What is the point of these columns? Talk about barking up the wrong tree!
Liberals have absolutely no control over Donald Trump's appointments and the GOP's confirmation process. What difference is it to conservatives such as Douthat and Brooks whether we oppose the appointments or not? Our attitudes ultimately have no impact on the outcome of the process.
Why doesn't Mr. Douthat use his considerable power as a conservative Republican to try to influence the process from the inside and address his comments to Trump and the GOP instead of wasting his time chastising the Democrats who are powerless to stop anything in this era of one-party government?
Every one of their columns is targeted to liberals, often in a scolding and patronizing tone, as if we are somehow still in charge of the process and can influence the outcome.
What is the point of these columns? Talk about barking up the wrong tree!
Liberals have absolutely no control over Donald Trump's appointments and the GOP's confirmation process. What difference is it to conservatives such as Douthat and Brooks whether we oppose the appointments or not? Our attitudes ultimately have no impact on the outcome of the process.
Why doesn't Mr. Douthat use his considerable power as a conservative Republican to try to influence the process from the inside and address his comments to Trump and the GOP instead of wasting his time chastising the Democrats who are powerless to stop anything in this era of one-party government?
Interesting the picture of Elizabeth Warren speaking. Unlike today with Silencio imposed on her when the Republicans led by Mitch McConnell shut her up last night over Coretta Scott King, no less.
I am ashamed of America today. This article is supposed to what? Soothe us?
I am ashamed of America today. This article is supposed to what? Soothe us?
The fix was in from the get go. ( by republicans )
Of course, it was all spectacle, because republicans worked it out that way. The two senators that voted no are not going to be rebuked. This administration doesn't care if the Vice President had to cast the deciding vote. They treat it as a spotlight for him, instead of some history making ( bad ) exercise.
Just more effort to raise his profile and rail against Democrats.
C'mon Ross, refute me.
Of course, it was all spectacle, because republicans worked it out that way. The two senators that voted no are not going to be rebuked. This administration doesn't care if the Vice President had to cast the deciding vote. They treat it as a spotlight for him, instead of some history making ( bad ) exercise.
Just more effort to raise his profile and rail against Democrats.
C'mon Ross, refute me.
1
This article is insulting to everybody who opposed Devos by labeling it "a liberal holy war". Public Education is at the core of American values and a necessity in a successful democracy. We need an educated public now more than ever.
Yet Douthat seems to minimize the resistance to an unqualified candidate to the deep pockets of the teachers union, a less than subtle swipe at teachers. One reason the teachers unions have deep pockets is that education provides more jobs than any other profession in this country, except financial services. Charter school teachers do not make a salary that one can raise a family on. It is not a stable career for somebody required to complete and spend the money on a Masters' degree. School choice is fine, but why does it have to come with private run for profit schools that underpay highly educated professionals?
Finally, I watched the same democratic senators pull another all nighter last night against the nomination of Jeff Sessions. I watched Mitch McConnell silence Elizabeth Warren as she quoted Coretta Scott King. McConnell claimed she was impugning a sitting senator. Never mind, that sitting senator is the nominee under review. So now apparently, it is not allowed to say bad things about said nominee.
The dems don't have the numbers, but seem ready to fight all remaining nominees. It is an ignorant position to chalk this up to "a liberal holy war" at whim of the deep pocketed teachers union. The fight continues today.
Yet Douthat seems to minimize the resistance to an unqualified candidate to the deep pockets of the teachers union, a less than subtle swipe at teachers. One reason the teachers unions have deep pockets is that education provides more jobs than any other profession in this country, except financial services. Charter school teachers do not make a salary that one can raise a family on. It is not a stable career for somebody required to complete and spend the money on a Masters' degree. School choice is fine, but why does it have to come with private run for profit schools that underpay highly educated professionals?
Finally, I watched the same democratic senators pull another all nighter last night against the nomination of Jeff Sessions. I watched Mitch McConnell silence Elizabeth Warren as she quoted Coretta Scott King. McConnell claimed she was impugning a sitting senator. Never mind, that sitting senator is the nominee under review. So now apparently, it is not allowed to say bad things about said nominee.
The dems don't have the numbers, but seem ready to fight all remaining nominees. It is an ignorant position to chalk this up to "a liberal holy war" at whim of the deep pocketed teachers union. The fight continues today.
1
But Ross, fighting against religious conservatives who want to break down the separation of church and state is exactly what Democrats (and Republicans as well) should be doing.
And Betsy DeVos was the best target because frankly, she came across as being utterly unprepared, ill informed, and frankly, not very smart.
My wife, a grammar school teacher was once told by a parent of one of her students, when she mentioned that the boy needed support and tutoring because in 5th grade, he still had trouble reading - "He doesn't need to know how to read. We'll pay someone to read for him."
Which seems to be the attitude of all these Trump nominees.
Very out of touch with normal un-millionaire Americans. Bad.
And Betsy DeVos was the best target because frankly, she came across as being utterly unprepared, ill informed, and frankly, not very smart.
My wife, a grammar school teacher was once told by a parent of one of her students, when she mentioned that the boy needed support and tutoring because in 5th grade, he still had trouble reading - "He doesn't need to know how to read. We'll pay someone to read for him."
Which seems to be the attitude of all these Trump nominees.
Very out of touch with normal un-millionaire Americans. Bad.
Douthat, who thinks the present Pope is a radical leftist for his concerns about global warming and income inequality is having one of his little rants here. His tonsure gets easily heated up. Democrats are now going to be the party of "No" Mr. D. Get used to it.
Like so much in this age, it's both astonishing and not surprising that Douthat writes so much about "liberals" and "the left" (and uses them interchangeably, and thus incorrectly) while understanding so little--and showing no particular interest in changing that.
DeVos is far from the most harmful within Trump's Cabinet of horrors. But she's probably the most offensive. Even her defenders tacitly acknowledge she's not qualified, and were it not for the enormous sums of money she's dumped into Republican campaign coffers, she wouldn't be at the table. She holds views that are offensive to a majority of Americans, not just "liberals," and certainly not just teachers unions--reliable bugaboo that they are. (Speaking of which, the same reason her powers are limited is why unions aren't particularly threatened, and thus Douthat's pat and lazy view of special interest politics is invalid.)
Because of her ignorance and corruption, DeVos was an almost perfect test case for just how depraved and contemptuous of the electorate the Republicans have become. That they nonetheless confirmed her in near lockstep might be the clearest signal yet that the old norms and rules are gone across the board.
We who resist have taken note, and will respond accordingly.
DeVos is far from the most harmful within Trump's Cabinet of horrors. But she's probably the most offensive. Even her defenders tacitly acknowledge she's not qualified, and were it not for the enormous sums of money she's dumped into Republican campaign coffers, she wouldn't be at the table. She holds views that are offensive to a majority of Americans, not just "liberals," and certainly not just teachers unions--reliable bugaboo that they are. (Speaking of which, the same reason her powers are limited is why unions aren't particularly threatened, and thus Douthat's pat and lazy view of special interest politics is invalid.)
Because of her ignorance and corruption, DeVos was an almost perfect test case for just how depraved and contemptuous of the electorate the Republicans have become. That they nonetheless confirmed her in near lockstep might be the clearest signal yet that the old norms and rules are gone across the board.
We who resist have taken note, and will respond accordingly.
1
Close to Cory Booker??? That is one inaccurate, less than tangential interpretation.
Federal initiatives have a tremendous impact on public schools despite local control. You wouldn't remember any of that since you never attended public schools.
Federal initiatives have a tremendous impact on public schools despite local control. You wouldn't remember any of that since you never attended public schools.
She's the worst kind of incompetent who can use inherited wealth to buy a position that allows her to immediately threaten the wellbeing of all of our children. This is a more dangerous appointment than the clowns on the NSC. It is axiomatic that Pruitt at EPA won't be able to poison us as quickly as Betsy DeVos will be able to ruin our children's futures, setting them up to be uneducated drones with no career choices at all.
Sadly, she didn't even spread enough money around the senate to get a decent ambassadorship if she only wanted to spend a lot of time in a nice foreign capital, it takes less money to be a present danger to our children's future.
Sadly, she didn't even spread enough money around the senate to get a decent ambassadorship if she only wanted to spend a lot of time in a nice foreign capital, it takes less money to be a present danger to our children's future.
It's ironic that Douthat accuses the Left of getting exercised over "the older culture-war bogeyman...of looming theocracy" in a column where he trots out the Right's usual Red Scare (the teachers' unions) and tosses in the usual charges of elitism and atheism for good measure.
But more disconcerting is that Douthat seems to think he has set the education empiricists straight by citing the analysis of Education Next, the National Review, and National Affairs, all partisan, none of which would ever publish a word in opposition to the gospel of the education privatizers. Would Douthat take seriously the argument of a public school teacher referencing the standard talking points of the NEA and AFT? I seriously doubt it.
And let's not play coy. The privatizers and education free-marketers are, to use Douthat's pejorative for the unions, an interest group of their own.
But more disconcerting is that Douthat seems to think he has set the education empiricists straight by citing the analysis of Education Next, the National Review, and National Affairs, all partisan, none of which would ever publish a word in opposition to the gospel of the education privatizers. Would Douthat take seriously the argument of a public school teacher referencing the standard talking points of the NEA and AFT? I seriously doubt it.
And let's not play coy. The privatizers and education free-marketers are, to use Douthat's pejorative for the unions, an interest group of their own.
1
DeVos is almost illiterate, ignorant about public education, crazy about guns, insensitive to the issues of children with special needs, and in favor of taxpayer subsidies for the religious indoctrination of children (and, if the Johnson Amendment is repealed, their political indoctrination as well). A nightmare and a national embarrassment. No businessman - and I am one - would ever make such a hire. Democrats were doing their job and centrist Republicans were apparently intimidated because some of them surely know better.
Teachers' unions are the classic Republican bogeymen. Apparently our majority party finds it intolerable that teachers- and perhaps workers in general - have decent pay (in some but not all states) and job security.
Public schools teach civics, expose children to diverse peers, and help build bridges and mutual empathy our nation so desperately needs. Widespread diversion of tax monies into vouchers and charters can undermine this critical mission - one recognized for over 200 years of American history.
Welcome to dystopia American style; may your religion give you comfort and solace.
Teachers' unions are the classic Republican bogeymen. Apparently our majority party finds it intolerable that teachers- and perhaps workers in general - have decent pay (in some but not all states) and job security.
Public schools teach civics, expose children to diverse peers, and help build bridges and mutual empathy our nation so desperately needs. Widespread diversion of tax monies into vouchers and charters can undermine this critical mission - one recognized for over 200 years of American history.
Welcome to dystopia American style; may your religion give you comfort and solace.
The concern is for the most important thing in many people's lives: their children. And the concern is for our nation's future which is, since none of live forever, our children. The policies of ignorance festered by the Republicans give us much to fear for our country's future. The replacement of facts and science with religious dogma in our children mean a population that cannot cope with reality. The call to return to a time of superstition for the masses and a population ruled by a few wealthy lords and bishops seems a powerful lure for Republicans bent on power and control of people. DeVos is a foothold in the door of those "who dream of turning the United States into a Christian republic subject to “biblical laws".' https://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/13/opinion/betsy-devos-and-gods-plan-for...
Ironically in this case Douthat of dismissing Democrats as alarmists with dismissive ridicule and liberal use of "liberal" wants to dismiss and belittle DeVos's opposition with ...but wave the cape of looming theocracy... when in fact she has argued for religion in schools and government. And of course, it would be her religion. Her God for whom she wants to advance the kingdom of.
The Constitution allows for the freedom of religion. Not the inclusion of religion as a means of governing. There was every good reason to stand up to DeVos and before the Trojan House on the threshold of the slippery slope.
Ironically in this case Douthat of dismissing Democrats as alarmists with dismissive ridicule and liberal use of "liberal" wants to dismiss and belittle DeVos's opposition with ...but wave the cape of looming theocracy... when in fact she has argued for religion in schools and government. And of course, it would be her religion. Her God for whom she wants to advance the kingdom of.
The Constitution allows for the freedom of religion. Not the inclusion of religion as a means of governing. There was every good reason to stand up to DeVos and before the Trojan House on the threshold of the slippery slope.
Ross, I actually agree with you that this position was small potatoes. However, if someone like Devos gets confirmed after demonstrating exactly ZERO competence, then what is the point of having Senate confirmation hearings at all? The Senate under Mitch should simply do away with with the hearings altogether. Simply approve Trump's cabinet all at once. Why bother?
It used to be the Senate's job to vet the cabinet. Based on the totality of incompetence of the entire cabinet and their lack of vetting points to the fact that Republicans are terrified of Trump's wrath, or perhaps Republican Senators themselves are also incompetent. They are simply showing the world their cowardice or idocy.
It used to be the Senate's job to vet the cabinet. Based on the totality of incompetence of the entire cabinet and their lack of vetting points to the fact that Republicans are terrified of Trump's wrath, or perhaps Republican Senators themselves are also incompetent. They are simply showing the world their cowardice or idocy.
Yes, Ross, we support our public school teachers. Yes, we do support their unions, and we want them well-paid, and well-benefitted. We want the best and the brightest to be on the front lines of educating our children, and we want them to have the best tools and buildings and textbooks our tax dollars can buy. Is that wrong?
What we don't want is our tax dollars diverted to buy Bibles for your church school, or to teach creationism or any of that other religious right nonsense. We don't want our public schools starved of funds while your charter schools "save money" by diverting it into private pockets.
Privatized, for profit prisons save money by buying the cheapest food available, and the owners pocket the difference while prisoners suffer. Privatized for profit schools will do the same with every aspect of your child's classroom experience. Have to keep those shareholders happy!
What we don't want is our tax dollars diverted to buy Bibles for your church school, or to teach creationism or any of that other religious right nonsense. We don't want our public schools starved of funds while your charter schools "save money" by diverting it into private pockets.
Privatized, for profit prisons save money by buying the cheapest food available, and the owners pocket the difference while prisoners suffer. Privatized for profit schools will do the same with every aspect of your child's classroom experience. Have to keep those shareholders happy!
"So why did the Democrats fight so hard? Because in this particular case, the rules of normal pre-Trump politics still apply."
Silly me and I thought it was because she knew nothing about education and was a plagiarist to boot.
Conservatives: What a role model!
Silly me and I thought it was because she knew nothing about education and was a plagiarist to boot.
Conservatives: What a role model!
1
I don't want my tax dollars going to schools who teach creationism.
Not to mention, it is not good for the children nor the competitiveness of the US.
Not to mention, it is not good for the children nor the competitiveness of the US.
Dear Ross,
DeVos is particularly unfit to be Secretary of Education. Sure, the Democrats were in high dungeon over this -- they should have been. Was it politics as usual? Sure, but this does not erase the fact that she represented the worst of the worst -- no matter how much you try to gloss over her obvious shortcomings. Elections have consequences, and DeVos represents just how terrible these consequences can be. One can only hope that the bureaucratic inertia that makes any change difficult will turn out to be a blessing in disguise in this instance.
You spent all too much of your time with peculiar comments about the Obama administration. It appears that this trend will continue for Trump and cronies, but this time, the peculiarities will be artful attempts to ignore problems rather than serve as artful ways of inventing or interpreting them.
You are much more intelligent than this.
With respect,
John Nezlek
DeVos is particularly unfit to be Secretary of Education. Sure, the Democrats were in high dungeon over this -- they should have been. Was it politics as usual? Sure, but this does not erase the fact that she represented the worst of the worst -- no matter how much you try to gloss over her obvious shortcomings. Elections have consequences, and DeVos represents just how terrible these consequences can be. One can only hope that the bureaucratic inertia that makes any change difficult will turn out to be a blessing in disguise in this instance.
You spent all too much of your time with peculiar comments about the Obama administration. It appears that this trend will continue for Trump and cronies, but this time, the peculiarities will be artful attempts to ignore problems rather than serve as artful ways of inventing or interpreting them.
You are much more intelligent than this.
With respect,
John Nezlek
The opposition to DeVos is misunderstood by Douthat.
It is because she is talking about the lives of our children. It is about our children, our grandchildren.
We have grandchildren in public schools. To have someone as Secretary of Education who had no "idea" what IDEA was is frightening. That level of incompetence "at the top" brings out the protective instincts of adults.
It is because she is talking about the lives of our children. It is about our children, our grandchildren.
We have grandchildren in public schools. To have someone as Secretary of Education who had no "idea" what IDEA was is frightening. That level of incompetence "at the top" brings out the protective instincts of adults.
3
You're right Ross. It doesn't matter. This is all just a game.
Some of us still have kids in public school, or would like the next generation to have and benefit from public schools. You know, the way others did for us.
Some of us also have kids that will come of age during this administration - and they might need to apply for things like Stafford loans, something the new Secretary gives not a whit about.
You also complete discount context. This is but one nomination of many that are purposefully belligerent, anointing people dedicated to dismantling that which they are now charged with. Nevermind that this ideology, in virtually every case, is paired with a complete lack of professional qualification. Teachers themselves have to demonstrate more competence for their jobs than DeVos, who was revealed to be a complete dunderhead in her hearings, not even up to the challenge of putting on airs about her competence for the role.
Christian madrasas for everyone. Glad you find comfort in it. This vision for America is in keeping with our best values.
Some of us still have kids in public school, or would like the next generation to have and benefit from public schools. You know, the way others did for us.
Some of us also have kids that will come of age during this administration - and they might need to apply for things like Stafford loans, something the new Secretary gives not a whit about.
You also complete discount context. This is but one nomination of many that are purposefully belligerent, anointing people dedicated to dismantling that which they are now charged with. Nevermind that this ideology, in virtually every case, is paired with a complete lack of professional qualification. Teachers themselves have to demonstrate more competence for their jobs than DeVos, who was revealed to be a complete dunderhead in her hearings, not even up to the challenge of putting on airs about her competence for the role.
Christian madrasas for everyone. Glad you find comfort in it. This vision for America is in keeping with our best values.
An example of the fallacy that the responsibilities of government can be turned to profit is Nassau County's disastrous experience with the health care provider for the Nassau County jail, Armor Correctional Health Services.
"The state Commission of Correction has found Armor provided deficient care in connection with five inmate deaths since first winning a county contract in mid-2011. The families of four of those inmates are suing Armor and the county in federal court..." (Newsday, 9/29/2016)
"The state Commission of Correction has found Armor provided deficient care in connection with five inmate deaths since first winning a county contract in mid-2011. The families of four of those inmates are suing Armor and the county in federal court..." (Newsday, 9/29/2016)
Ross tells us that Senate Democrats are "more excited about causes dear to the upper middle class than the interests of the poor."
Actually, the suburban upper middle class don't have much to worry about from DeVos--their public schools are generally pretty good because for some bizarre reason in this country public school funding is determined by local tax base.
Poor people--in Chicago, for example--on the other hand, have a lot to worry about, since public schools are in deep need of more federal assistance to provide decent educations for their kids. And Betsy DeVos wants to take money away from those schools to allow folks to send their kids to private religious schools (through vouchers) or unproven charter schools (which aren't obligated to follow the same standards as public schools).
So actually, in complete contradistinction to what Ross has hypocritically said here, this fight has everything to do with protecting poor families, especially those in urban communities that serve African American and Latino students. But why would Ross care about those people?
Actually, the suburban upper middle class don't have much to worry about from DeVos--their public schools are generally pretty good because for some bizarre reason in this country public school funding is determined by local tax base.
Poor people--in Chicago, for example--on the other hand, have a lot to worry about, since public schools are in deep need of more federal assistance to provide decent educations for their kids. And Betsy DeVos wants to take money away from those schools to allow folks to send their kids to private religious schools (through vouchers) or unproven charter schools (which aren't obligated to follow the same standards as public schools).
So actually, in complete contradistinction to what Ross has hypocritically said here, this fight has everything to do with protecting poor families, especially those in urban communities that serve African American and Latino students. But why would Ross care about those people?
Ross, you seem to have no capacity for deep thought so YOU crawl back into some familiar place, trying to spin this as a liberal/conservative debate. Amazing that you can't take what you write and apply it to yourself!
In my town I talked to many parents concerned about DeVos's nomination. All had their children's interests at heart and none were teachers or steered by unions. The resistance to DeVos was for two simple reasons, and for the life of me I can't see why you don't get it: her incompetence matched with a will to end public education.
In my town I talked to many parents concerned about DeVos's nomination. All had their children's interests at heart and none were teachers or steered by unions. The resistance to DeVos was for two simple reasons, and for the life of me I can't see why you don't get it: her incompetence matched with a will to end public education.
Now schools are just another way for the "free-markets" to get rich off of the government they decry.
At the same time, Ms. DeVos would not say charter schools should meet the same standards of public schools.
She was asked many times and would not say yes. Such a simple idea.
At the same time, Ms. DeVos would not say charter schools should meet the same standards of public schools.
She was asked many times and would not say yes. Such a simple idea.
This article shows a misunderstanding of liberals and progressives.
For us, the absolute silver bullet, the answer to everything is education.
She is notable only for her money, her vacant stare, and her zealotry. To conservatives, that makes her fit for high office, such as the Secretary of Education, or perhaps a co-host on Fox news.
Appointing an unqualified, ill-informed billionaire to the post of Secretary of Education suits the current trend of know-nothingism in today's Republican party to an absolute T.
Of course we fought her. Why didn't you?
For us, the absolute silver bullet, the answer to everything is education.
She is notable only for her money, her vacant stare, and her zealotry. To conservatives, that makes her fit for high office, such as the Secretary of Education, or perhaps a co-host on Fox news.
Appointing an unqualified, ill-informed billionaire to the post of Secretary of Education suits the current trend of know-nothingism in today's Republican party to an absolute T.
Of course we fought her. Why didn't you?
Sen. Cory Booker, who voted Tuesday against confirming Betsy DeVos as education secretary, speaking in 2012 at a conference of the American Federation for Children, the advocacy group chaired at the time by Mrs. DeVos:
"I cannot ever stand up and stand against a parent having options, because I benefited from my parents having options. And when people tell me they’re against school choice, whether it’s the Opportunity Scholarship Act or charter schools, I look at them and say: “As soon as you’re telling me you’re willing to send your kid to a failing school in my city [Newark, N.J.], or in Camden or Trenton, then I’ll be with you.” . . . I’m going to be out there fighting for my president, but he does not send his kids to Washington, D.C., public schools. I got a governor in the statehouse, he does not send his kids to Trenton public schools. I could go all the way down to city council people in Newark, that do not send their kids—so what have we created? A system that if you’re connected, elected, have wealth and privilege, you get freedom in this country? And now you want to deny that to my community? No. I am going to fight for the freedom and the liberty and the choice and the options of my people, in the same way you will defend that right for yourself."
"I cannot ever stand up and stand against a parent having options, because I benefited from my parents having options. And when people tell me they’re against school choice, whether it’s the Opportunity Scholarship Act or charter schools, I look at them and say: “As soon as you’re telling me you’re willing to send your kid to a failing school in my city [Newark, N.J.], or in Camden or Trenton, then I’ll be with you.” . . . I’m going to be out there fighting for my president, but he does not send his kids to Washington, D.C., public schools. I got a governor in the statehouse, he does not send his kids to Trenton public schools. I could go all the way down to city council people in Newark, that do not send their kids—so what have we created? A system that if you’re connected, elected, have wealth and privilege, you get freedom in this country? And now you want to deny that to my community? No. I am going to fight for the freedom and the liberty and the choice and the options of my people, in the same way you will defend that right for yourself."
The losers in this Dept. of Education win for the GOP will be the very people who voted for Trump. Many school districts in lower and working. class areas of the country are losing their tax base to fund their schools. DeVos plans will expedite their demise in full wherein Corporate for profit schools will be established in order to progress the GOP agenda of indoctrinating children to the GOP version of America which is by all accounts white and Christian. DeVos of course will also kill the teachers unions currently under attack in all GOP red states and even in some blue states. If any of that sounds familiar it's just a coincidence. The GOP boasted that President Obama's progressive agenda would be greeted and resisted by the smartest "guys in the room" in Congress. We have seen how that's working out so far.
I see a population shift coming for red state families moving to more progressive blue states likely because jobs requiring technical skills will have moved away from less educated communities.
The dumbing down of America will be in safe hands with Mrs. DeVos. Well done members of the GOP controlled Congress and you wonder why Americans have a low opinion of you.
I see a population shift coming for red state families moving to more progressive blue states likely because jobs requiring technical skills will have moved away from less educated communities.
The dumbing down of America will be in safe hands with Mrs. DeVos. Well done members of the GOP controlled Congress and you wonder why Americans have a low opinion of you.
Charters and vouchers are most appealing to the poor, the religious and the eccentric — to low-income families locked into failing schools and religious conservatives and bohemians with ideological doubts about the content of the public-school curriculum.
Dear Ross,
You forgot one major category, those who want to re-segregate America's public schools.
Dear Ross,
You forgot one major category, those who want to re-segregate America's public schools.
"Decades of experiments suggest that choice can save money, improve outcomes for very poor kids whose public options are disastrous, and increase parental satisfaction. (The last is no small thing!)"
If only you were talking about abortion rights, sir.
If only you were talking about abortion rights, sir.
1
This isn't about religious conservatism. This isn't about unions, or suburban versus urban school patrons. Nor is it about choice. This is about educating American's children from preschool through college and how Betsy DeVos will lead that effort. By the evidence, the leadership will be based on dogma. Nothing more.
Ms. DeVos is uniquely unqualified in a cabinet being built of persons whose qualifications are highly questionable. But her lack of background and understanding of the position she has now been granted were no problem for Republicans. She solidly reflects the GOP position that public education costs too much and would be so much better as a for-profit, quasi-religious business.
I defy Mr. Douthat to name one previous administration that would have nominated Ms. DeVos, let alone have found anything close to fifty votes for confirmation in any Senate in American history.
The only thing predictable about this battle is that the current Republican leadership put dogma first, evidence and qualifications last - if they were considered at all.
Ms. DeVos is uniquely unqualified in a cabinet being built of persons whose qualifications are highly questionable. But her lack of background and understanding of the position she has now been granted were no problem for Republicans. She solidly reflects the GOP position that public education costs too much and would be so much better as a for-profit, quasi-religious business.
I defy Mr. Douthat to name one previous administration that would have nominated Ms. DeVos, let alone have found anything close to fifty votes for confirmation in any Senate in American history.
The only thing predictable about this battle is that the current Republican leadership put dogma first, evidence and qualifications last - if they were considered at all.
1
If thousands of plumbers told you the new boss knew nothing about plumbing, promoted policies that would be harmful to your home, and thought religious plumbers should be less accountable for getting the job done than other plumbers, would we be reading a smirking column like this one?
I'm guessing not.
Here for your edification is the conservative knee-jerk response to the words, "teachers' unions."
I'm guessing not.
Here for your edification is the conservative knee-jerk response to the words, "teachers' unions."
4
Ross, I'm Christian & we home schooled our kids up to high school. Their high school is an excellent charter school, with a high percentage of students for whom the school is a "last chance" because they've failed everywhere else. That mission is central to the charter.
The school quality attracts academically gifted students. It's racially, economically and academically mixed. I could wax poetic about the small class sizes, teacher dedication, parental involvement and the benefits to all from the mixture of students.
But make no mistake, Betty DeVos and "school choice" is not going to help our nation's schools. It's part of a larger Republican effort to gut educational funding. The very worst idea is funneling public dollars into "tax credits" that would end up in private schools.
Dems picked the battle because they had a hope of winning. She deserved opposition because, like most of Trump's nominees, she's unqualified and opposed to the mission of the department she will now supposedly lead.
Bash unions if you wish, but what we pay K-12 teachers in this country is a disgrace. We need massive funding of K-12 education in this country, so class sizes are 10-15 kids, tops. I paid my taxes without complaint when we home schooled and I've never voted against education on the ballot.
We made our choices based on what we deemed best for our children. But a lot of people in this country don't have that option. We need great schools for everyone.
The school quality attracts academically gifted students. It's racially, economically and academically mixed. I could wax poetic about the small class sizes, teacher dedication, parental involvement and the benefits to all from the mixture of students.
But make no mistake, Betty DeVos and "school choice" is not going to help our nation's schools. It's part of a larger Republican effort to gut educational funding. The very worst idea is funneling public dollars into "tax credits" that would end up in private schools.
Dems picked the battle because they had a hope of winning. She deserved opposition because, like most of Trump's nominees, she's unqualified and opposed to the mission of the department she will now supposedly lead.
Bash unions if you wish, but what we pay K-12 teachers in this country is a disgrace. We need massive funding of K-12 education in this country, so class sizes are 10-15 kids, tops. I paid my taxes without complaint when we home schooled and I've never voted against education on the ballot.
We made our choices based on what we deemed best for our children. But a lot of people in this country don't have that option. We need great schools for everyone.
78
Hmmm lets see. Devos is completely ignorant of anything having to do with public education except that she knows she doesn't like it. She is a billionaire who uses her fortune to deliberately undermine public education. She has contributed millions to Republicans thus explaining this obvious pay to play appointment. Had she not given millions to the GOP she would not have a prayer of being where she is right now. Devos wants to transform our public secular schools into private religious ones. Devos supports vouchers and charter schools but her hideous performance implementing these ideas in Michigan have the state's failing education system in far worse shape than it was before Devos took the job. Oh and Devos wants guns in the classroom to protect against grizzlies. Am i missing anything?
Perhaps instead of being comforted by Democrats you should be alarmed by Republicans who are attempting to destroy our open free republic and turn it into an theocratic dictatorship run by a team of white supremacists. How exactly do you think this little experiment in fascism is going to work out for the GOP? Is it really springtime for Herr Drumpf? Now that column might actually be worth reading.
Perhaps instead of being comforted by Democrats you should be alarmed by Republicans who are attempting to destroy our open free republic and turn it into an theocratic dictatorship run by a team of white supremacists. How exactly do you think this little experiment in fascism is going to work out for the GOP? Is it really springtime for Herr Drumpf? Now that column might actually be worth reading.
Democrats are under the impression that all these hysterics will get them back in power in 2018. But, nothing could be further from the truth. The outrage over the outrage of anything-Trump has already gotten tiresome and Democrats are only shooting themselves in the foot.
The "crusade" against DeVos is nothing more than a spectacle. Reading the comments here on NY Times one would think that public education has been washed away with all the faux outrage and weepy eyes. Yet the Department of Education didn't even exist 40 years ago and yet somehow generations of students across the country were educated up until the Carter administration.
What has the Dept. of Education done since then? US students have fallen behind most of the developed world in math and science. University tuition rates have skyrocketed because the geniuses on the left thought it would be great if the government handed out subsidized loans to anyone and everyone so the colleges naturally jacked up their rates because Uncle Sam would be covering the costs anyway with a limitless check-book.
Perhaps it's for the best that DeVos knows nothing about public schools or education because she will approach the dismal system with a skeptical eye. So, then it's up to the entrenched insiders and public interest groups to make persuasive arguments for her to consider rather count on the status quo year after year.
The "crusade" against DeVos is nothing more than a spectacle. Reading the comments here on NY Times one would think that public education has been washed away with all the faux outrage and weepy eyes. Yet the Department of Education didn't even exist 40 years ago and yet somehow generations of students across the country were educated up until the Carter administration.
What has the Dept. of Education done since then? US students have fallen behind most of the developed world in math and science. University tuition rates have skyrocketed because the geniuses on the left thought it would be great if the government handed out subsidized loans to anyone and everyone so the colleges naturally jacked up their rates because Uncle Sam would be covering the costs anyway with a limitless check-book.
Perhaps it's for the best that DeVos knows nothing about public schools or education because she will approach the dismal system with a skeptical eye. So, then it's up to the entrenched insiders and public interest groups to make persuasive arguments for her to consider rather count on the status quo year after year.
Separate this twit from her pyramid-scheme billions and $200 million 'contribution' and of course she would be the first to be named as the most qualified for this position, right Ross?
The hypocrisy is overwhelming and the difference now in these degraded times is that the backdrop of utter corruption is so ingrained as to not even be questioned anymore. Disgusting.
The hypocrisy is overwhelming and the difference now in these degraded times is that the backdrop of utter corruption is so ingrained as to not even be questioned anymore. Disgusting.
DeVos has no qualifications for the job. That's why Democrats opposed her.
In fact, she is anti-qualified. Everything she has ever said or done indicates that she opposes public education and apparently has little idea why it exists.
The bright side: it is now clear that the GOP is utterly shameless in its efforts to prevent greatness in America.
In fact, she is anti-qualified. Everything she has ever said or done indicates that she opposes public education and apparently has little idea why it exists.
The bright side: it is now clear that the GOP is utterly shameless in its efforts to prevent greatness in America.
You've made some good points and some bad ones here, Ross.
First of all, you are correct that there are more dangerous nominees out there this season. Jeff Sessions and his track record should disqualify him from standing as Attorney General for our nation. But look where reading a quote from Coretta Scott King got Warren in that struggle. Invoking a rule that has been ignored (particularly in the past decade by the GOP), McConnell showed the Dems that truth will not be tolerated.
However, the lack of understanding of federal education law disqualifies DeVos as a capable Secretary. While much of education is state-specific and local, we need an education leader who has mastered the language of IDEA and other landmark federal laws. Unless the INTENT is to dismantle all federal oversight of education and civil rights for students (ahem), DeVos should have been the simplest nomination to bring down based on lack of experience.
The politics and character of candidates like Sessions does not endear him to me as a moderate citizen. However, he has experience and an understanding of the position. He also has allies from his years on the Hill. DeVos' only recommendation was her pocketbook.
First of all, you are correct that there are more dangerous nominees out there this season. Jeff Sessions and his track record should disqualify him from standing as Attorney General for our nation. But look where reading a quote from Coretta Scott King got Warren in that struggle. Invoking a rule that has been ignored (particularly in the past decade by the GOP), McConnell showed the Dems that truth will not be tolerated.
However, the lack of understanding of federal education law disqualifies DeVos as a capable Secretary. While much of education is state-specific and local, we need an education leader who has mastered the language of IDEA and other landmark federal laws. Unless the INTENT is to dismantle all federal oversight of education and civil rights for students (ahem), DeVos should have been the simplest nomination to bring down based on lack of experience.
The politics and character of candidates like Sessions does not endear him to me as a moderate citizen. However, he has experience and an understanding of the position. He also has allies from his years on the Hill. DeVos' only recommendation was her pocketbook.
"I don’t want to make mock of all DeVos opposition."
Actually, I was so engrossed by Mr. Douthat's splendid indictment of the Trump administration that I missed the mockery.
Actually, I was so engrossed by Mr. Douthat's splendid indictment of the Trump administration that I missed the mockery.
Ah yes, the teacher unions as the bogeyman...again, as always.
How predictable Ross!
How predictable Ross!
A determined fanatic minority have seized our government. This cannot end well.
Those senators voting for DeVos represent 44 percent of the people in the United States (using the 2010 census numbers). Those voting against 56 percent.
DeVos was nominated by a president who lost the popular vote.
There is a pattern here, and it is not representative democracy with a respect for minority rights.
Surely, in a nation with over 300 million people, it was possible to find someone to be the Secretary of Education who had experience with education and could make a thoughtful reasoned argument for charter schools and vouchers.
The well being of the nation is no longer the point. Seizing power is.
Those senators voting for DeVos represent 44 percent of the people in the United States (using the 2010 census numbers). Those voting against 56 percent.
DeVos was nominated by a president who lost the popular vote.
There is a pattern here, and it is not representative democracy with a respect for minority rights.
Surely, in a nation with over 300 million people, it was possible to find someone to be the Secretary of Education who had experience with education and could make a thoughtful reasoned argument for charter schools and vouchers.
The well being of the nation is no longer the point. Seizing power is.
"Just look at what happened in her native Michigan, her critics charged, where the influence of her philanthropic dollars helped flood Detroit’s school system with unsupervised charters run by incompetents and hacks."
The Detroit public schools were hardly the pinnacle of public education. Or Chicago, DC, NY, LA or virtually any large city in America. Yet, this is what the Democrats defend -- a demonstrably failed system that dooms the poor to remain poor .... and wards of the Democrat welfare state.
But it's sure good for the unions isn't it?
The Detroit public schools were hardly the pinnacle of public education. Or Chicago, DC, NY, LA or virtually any large city in America. Yet, this is what the Democrats defend -- a demonstrably failed system that dooms the poor to remain poor .... and wards of the Democrat welfare state.
But it's sure good for the unions isn't it?
The GOP is going to great lengths to ignore the incompetence of their newly elected President. They are following him blindly over the cliff rather than allowing impartial discussions about his decisions. Ok, really nothing new there(see W's reign), but the DeVos nomination may be the most glaring example of the GOP lemming behavior. She got the nod because of her donations and her brother,period. This administration will eventually go down as the most corrupt in history. Let's hope the voters remember all these actions in two years.
Ross is going to have to do a lot of explaining here in his columns in the coming months. Good luck with that.
Ross is going to have to do a lot of explaining here in his columns in the coming months. Good luck with that.
1
So many things you could write about; but this is the article you choose to write. Are you claiming deVos is qualified? Are you saying Sessions is a racist who shouldn't be confirmed?
How come Republican senators aren't expected to vote with a modicum of conscience or judgement on this ship of fools and anarchists that will be the Trump cabinet? What about Republican columnists?
How come Republican senators aren't expected to vote with a modicum of conscience or judgement on this ship of fools and anarchists that will be the Trump cabinet? What about Republican columnists?
Ross,
I don't want my taxed dollars used to pay for religious education. That is a clear violation of the Constitution.
Moreover, do we want an educated "public" or not? I say yes, but the GOP seems to want a dumbed-down general electorate.
(And as for your gratuitous swipe at the issue of climate change, just you wait.)
I don't want my taxed dollars used to pay for religious education. That is a clear violation of the Constitution.
Moreover, do we want an educated "public" or not? I say yes, but the GOP seems to want a dumbed-down general electorate.
(And as for your gratuitous swipe at the issue of climate change, just you wait.)
It's about DNC Politburo support for public unions--not much more. They know public education is marginal too often and fails students even more often, especially those who live in the inner-cities.
College Board added 100 points in 1996 due to so many low scores. It has only gotten worse--save with a few groups like Asians.
Doesn't matter who ostensibly runs Department of Education--another failed Federal bureaucracy.
College Board added 100 points in 1996 due to so many low scores. It has only gotten worse--save with a few groups like Asians.
Doesn't matter who ostensibly runs Department of Education--another failed Federal bureaucracy.
Did you not watch the confirmation hearings, Ross? Betsy Devos's sheer incompetence, as demonstrated during those hearings, was simply unbelievable. I have never applied for an been appointed to a job for which I was not qualified, but then, again, I am not a billionaire who could have bought my way into any governmental position in the Trump administration, for which the only criterion is that one must BE a billionaire.
My daughter is a bone fide teacher with three master's degrees, six certifications, including special education, and 15 years of teaching in the inner city. Betsy DeVos wouldn't last one minute in any of the classrooms my daughter has devoted her life to. Not one minute. And my daughter and her colleagues have spent their money clothing and feeding the children in poverty, as well as educating them. But I guess that's why teachers will never be billionaires and people in Trump's cabinet are.
And yes, teachers know the special education regulations, the difference between growth and proficiency--simple things Betsy DeVos COULD have learned prior to her confirmation hearings but was simply too lazy to look up. Surely she has an assistant who could have discovered those things for her; she refused to do even the most rudimentary of homework assignments. Perhaps, Ross, her incompetence is why Democrats fought the good fight against her. She is completely unqualified to run ANY federal department, much less one that will determine the future of education.
My daughter is a bone fide teacher with three master's degrees, six certifications, including special education, and 15 years of teaching in the inner city. Betsy DeVos wouldn't last one minute in any of the classrooms my daughter has devoted her life to. Not one minute. And my daughter and her colleagues have spent their money clothing and feeding the children in poverty, as well as educating them. But I guess that's why teachers will never be billionaires and people in Trump's cabinet are.
And yes, teachers know the special education regulations, the difference between growth and proficiency--simple things Betsy DeVos COULD have learned prior to her confirmation hearings but was simply too lazy to look up. Surely she has an assistant who could have discovered those things for her; she refused to do even the most rudimentary of homework assignments. Perhaps, Ross, her incompetence is why Democrats fought the good fight against her. She is completely unqualified to run ANY federal department, much less one that will determine the future of education.
This article started out well, but then maybe Mr. Douthat needed to fill space. This is not complicated. It's the money, man. The money. Teachers pay $500 to a $1000 dollars in union dues. That can get used for a lot. Look at this indictment in France today, where Sarkozy is accused of spending more than 22 million Euros permitted for his campaign in 2012. Are we kidding? The NYC teacher's union probably collects four times that amount every year in union dues. This attack on the Catholic Fillon is of the same order. They say his wife got all this money. How much did Chelsea Clinton get at NBC? Or Bill or Hillary for their speeches? Or per the NYPost Elaine Chao, wife of the Republican speaker? It's the money, man. Ideology matters. But money is essential.
Dear fellow commenters, we are spinning our wheels trying to teach Mr. Douthat about the dangers of this adminstration: the outright lies, the rising neo-Nazism, our impending loss of the separation of church and state, the complete disregard of the dangers of global warming. He's buried in so deep with the televangelist/Shariah Christianity crowd now, he needs an actual intervention.
Mr. Douthat should spend the next 2 years of lunch hours, until midterms, learning from his own paper's editorial board. Like a good public school, his editorial board is closer to him and understands where he comes from, and they should be able to teach him something (would that be growth, proficiency or something else, Ms. DeVos?)
A mind is a terrible thing to waste.
Mr. Douthat should spend the next 2 years of lunch hours, until midterms, learning from his own paper's editorial board. Like a good public school, his editorial board is closer to him and understands where he comes from, and they should be able to teach him something (would that be growth, proficiency or something else, Ms. DeVos?)
A mind is a terrible thing to waste.
1
Betsy DeVos is unqualified to lead the Department of Education for a whole host of reasons, but here is the most pertinent one: during her questioning by the Senate, she revealed complete ignorance, perhaps even complete lack of awareness, of IDEA, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Lest you think this is a minor or insubstantive issue: Children with disabilities comprise 7% - 10% of students in American public schools. If there are indeed 50, 000, 000 public school students, we are looking at roughly 3 to 5 MILLION children of whose educational rights our new secretary of education is not aware. Shame.
Yes, you are mocking all of DeVos' opposition. To you, Ross, neither the separation of church and state guaranteed by the Constitution but challenged by tax exemeptions or credits for faith-based schools nor the ideal of good public schooling denied to those you describe as "low-income families loked into failin schools" but clearly embodied in moderate income suburban school districts, nor the viable concerns of professionals engaged in education most likely to be affected by Federal education dept actions is enough to convince you that 50 Senators' constituencies wanted policies affecting American kids to be directed by someone who believes in -- and comprehendds -- the mission of her department.
The US spend approximately 620 billion in K-12 public education. This is actually a big part of the economy.
The way it spends it is complicated, with the states paying for most but the feds often forcing the path (by offering just enough to make sure states will follow).
Trump voters would not, on the whole, be happy with the idea of their local schools going under. Even worse, the chosen candidate is particularly horrible, even by Trumpian standards. An ignorant billionaire who almost everyone says is a danger to public schools.
So this was a good fight to pick, and it is notable they got two Republicans on their side, who by doing so are showing that Trump can be disregarded on certain issues.
The way it spends it is complicated, with the states paying for most but the feds often forcing the path (by offering just enough to make sure states will follow).
Trump voters would not, on the whole, be happy with the idea of their local schools going under. Even worse, the chosen candidate is particularly horrible, even by Trumpian standards. An ignorant billionaire who almost everyone says is a danger to public schools.
So this was a good fight to pick, and it is notable they got two Republicans on their side, who by doing so are showing that Trump can be disregarded on certain issues.
Dear Ross: Maybe you missed the testimony by DeVos, promising to "review" existing federal laws to determine if she would deign to enforce them, or (preferably) leave such matters up to the states themselves to "decide." This little debate about whether DeVos understands the Supremacy Clause has everything to do with the rule of law, and nothing to do with unions or "upper-middle-class suburbanites."
Then there was the question whether she has a clue which poses the greater danger to our schoolchildren: guns or grizzlies. She sided with grizzlies and the gun lobby. I don't remember grizzlies rampaging through the elementary school in Newtown, CT (they've been extinct in the Northeast since colonial times), but maybe I've forgotten some of the gory details of what really happened that day.
Finally, there's your "That her support for school choice could conceivably enable more evangelical and Catholic parents to send their kids to conservative religious schools?" As if our US tax dollars SHOULDN'T be spent on paying for private religious education, separation of church and state notwithstanding?
You may pretend not to like Trump, but otherwise you seem pretty darned pleased with the state of things.
Then there was the question whether she has a clue which poses the greater danger to our schoolchildren: guns or grizzlies. She sided with grizzlies and the gun lobby. I don't remember grizzlies rampaging through the elementary school in Newtown, CT (they've been extinct in the Northeast since colonial times), but maybe I've forgotten some of the gory details of what really happened that day.
Finally, there's your "That her support for school choice could conceivably enable more evangelical and Catholic parents to send their kids to conservative religious schools?" As if our US tax dollars SHOULDN'T be spent on paying for private religious education, separation of church and state notwithstanding?
You may pretend not to like Trump, but otherwise you seem pretty darned pleased with the state of things.
"There’s no evidence that DeVos-backed charters actually visited disaster on Detroit’s students. Instead, the very studies that get cited to critique her efforts actually show the city’s charters modestly outperforming public schools."
This is a mis-characterisation. The studies are cited showing that _for-profit_ charter schools in fact _under-perform_ relative to non-profit charters _and_ normal public schools. And she profited from them. I assure you I also have problems with Carson, Sessions, Flynn, Price and the rest of Trump's terrible cabinet choices. But DeVos represents the downright sinister.
DeVos _never_ had any involvement in public schools, until she started using them to (a) make money, and (b) foist *Christian* religion on poor, underprivileged schoolchildren (including the disabled and/or those of other religions). She couldn't even say there was a problem with allowing firearms around schools.
Why's this my skin crawl so much, Mr. Douthat? Because while Fox News, Infowars & Breitbart may go ahead and promote the bigotry of Sen. Sessions or the anti-government nihilism of Ben Carson to their octogenarian audiences, parents like myself really don't want to see Ms. DeVos's and conservative America's particularly toxic form of misinformation and ignorance meted upon the nation's most helpless and susceptible victims - non-privileged, public school children.
It's not irrational; it's entirely justifiable.
This is a mis-characterisation. The studies are cited showing that _for-profit_ charter schools in fact _under-perform_ relative to non-profit charters _and_ normal public schools. And she profited from them. I assure you I also have problems with Carson, Sessions, Flynn, Price and the rest of Trump's terrible cabinet choices. But DeVos represents the downright sinister.
DeVos _never_ had any involvement in public schools, until she started using them to (a) make money, and (b) foist *Christian* religion on poor, underprivileged schoolchildren (including the disabled and/or those of other religions). She couldn't even say there was a problem with allowing firearms around schools.
Why's this my skin crawl so much, Mr. Douthat? Because while Fox News, Infowars & Breitbart may go ahead and promote the bigotry of Sen. Sessions or the anti-government nihilism of Ben Carson to their octogenarian audiences, parents like myself really don't want to see Ms. DeVos's and conservative America's particularly toxic form of misinformation and ignorance meted upon the nation's most helpless and susceptible victims - non-privileged, public school children.
It's not irrational; it's entirely justifiable.
2
"War" fought in large part because Donald Trump is fundamentally a not-quite-dilettante and more importantly is lazy, not prone to lending effort at making another choice despite loud-and-clear indicators from the rejecting would-be plebiscite that he needed to have another go at a nominee.
The first "phone-in" presidency. Expect more compromises of the wrong kind.
The first "phone-in" presidency. Expect more compromises of the wrong kind.
Where is Douthat's evidence that "Charters and vouchers are most appealing to the poor?"
As someone who grew up the child of a single parent with little disposable income, I can guarantee that school choice was not one of my mother's concerns. Besides, even with vouchers to cover the cost of a private institution, it's often still unfeasible for lower income families. This is because these families are often at the whim of public transportation or other structural barriers that make it more difficult for their children to attend these "better" schools.
I normally respect a lot of Mr. Douthat's opinions, but his unsubstantiated claims reflect a lack of experience with public education. This column is eerily similar to why we criticize DeVos.
As someone who grew up the child of a single parent with little disposable income, I can guarantee that school choice was not one of my mother's concerns. Besides, even with vouchers to cover the cost of a private institution, it's often still unfeasible for lower income families. This is because these families are often at the whim of public transportation or other structural barriers that make it more difficult for their children to attend these "better" schools.
I normally respect a lot of Mr. Douthat's opinions, but his unsubstantiated claims reflect a lack of experience with public education. This column is eerily similar to why we criticize DeVos.
55
After retiring from the Air Force with the grade of colonel, I wanted to remain in the Seattle area (who wouldn't?), I sought employment with Boeing as an aerospace engineer. When hired, I voluntarily joined the engineers union, with was affiliated with the AFL. I learned that one of the founders of the union was T Wilson, who then was CEO and Chairman. Nineteen years later, under a later Neanderthal chief operating officer, I went on the picket line, since the contract offerred was rejected by 99% (true). We won that strike, with many PhDs on the picket line. I am proud to have been a member of a labor union.
Public education is the foundation of the US. I really don't mind if the controversy between creationism and evolution is taught in the public schools. Creationism is Bronze Age nonsense and evolution is rock solid science. DeVoss totally unqualified for the position of Secretary of Education and has the intent of destroying public education in favor of far right religious fanaticism. Evangelicals just can't seem to accept that we were founded as a secular nation by enlightened founders who did not hold religion in high respect.
Public education is the foundation of the US. I really don't mind if the controversy between creationism and evolution is taught in the public schools. Creationism is Bronze Age nonsense and evolution is rock solid science. DeVoss totally unqualified for the position of Secretary of Education and has the intent of destroying public education in favor of far right religious fanaticism. Evangelicals just can't seem to accept that we were founded as a secular nation by enlightened founders who did not hold religion in high respect.
Ross Douthat's wikipedia page proudly displays his early private school education at Hamden Hall Country Day School. According to the school's website, tuition for grades 9-12 runs a cool $38k.
I don't mean to make this too personal--but Ross, nothing in your upbringing or work would suggest that you have any inkling of how deeply this nomination affects your fellow citizens who rely on public schools for a good education, and who can't afford to "choose" Hamden Hall. Their "choice", where it exists, genuinely involves predatory charter schools that lure unsuspecting parents and students with meaningless, commercialized perks.
Give these low-income families credit for speaking up. Don't write them off because "well-off suburbanites are easier to rally." You're punching down.
I don't mean to make this too personal--but Ross, nothing in your upbringing or work would suggest that you have any inkling of how deeply this nomination affects your fellow citizens who rely on public schools for a good education, and who can't afford to "choose" Hamden Hall. Their "choice", where it exists, genuinely involves predatory charter schools that lure unsuspecting parents and students with meaningless, commercialized perks.
Give these low-income families credit for speaking up. Don't write them off because "well-off suburbanites are easier to rally." You're punching down.
2
One of the things liberals fear most is an uneducated electorate. Because it is only an uneducated electorate who can be fooled by fake news dished out by oligarchs. Public schools are the last line in the sand for an educated electorate.
Betsy De Vos aims to destroy public education. Hence, liberals are terrified of her goals to strip Americans of the ability to think critically and defend themselves against tyranny of the oligarchs.
Betsy De Vos aims to destroy public education. Hence, liberals are terrified of her goals to strip Americans of the ability to think critically and defend themselves against tyranny of the oligarchs.
1
Lots of comments here. We live in a very affluent town in NJ with top public schools by all measures. But just a few towns away there are pockets of poverty and schools that despite very strong funding don't successfully produce top results for the kids. I hardly blame the schools as it is often community issues, economic and otherwise preventing real learning in the classroom.
So parents in these communities apply for scholarships to attend the catholic schools in our town and surrounding towns. Rather than being brainwashed as some commenters seem to suggest the kids are provided a safe and nurturing environment with teachers and parents truly invested in their best outcome. These schools graduate more kids and nearly all attend college. Obviously the parents that choose to do this place a real priority on education and their kids. We can't easily replicate that missing component for so many kids but that's not an education issue that's a culture issue. So why shouldn't parents have a choice. Just because they are low income doesn't mean they should be fated to low outcomes. Dumping more money into crummy schools hasn't worked for 30 years. Let's at least give those who want more the opportunity to do it. I'm not saying we abandon these other children who by virtue of who they were born to have the deck stacked against them, but we need to acknowledge that those children have different needs than those that are simply just poor financially.
So parents in these communities apply for scholarships to attend the catholic schools in our town and surrounding towns. Rather than being brainwashed as some commenters seem to suggest the kids are provided a safe and nurturing environment with teachers and parents truly invested in their best outcome. These schools graduate more kids and nearly all attend college. Obviously the parents that choose to do this place a real priority on education and their kids. We can't easily replicate that missing component for so many kids but that's not an education issue that's a culture issue. So why shouldn't parents have a choice. Just because they are low income doesn't mean they should be fated to low outcomes. Dumping more money into crummy schools hasn't worked for 30 years. Let's at least give those who want more the opportunity to do it. I'm not saying we abandon these other children who by virtue of who they were born to have the deck stacked against them, but we need to acknowledge that those children have different needs than those that are simply just poor financially.
9
Ms. DeVos is one of the first clowns out of the car. You forget to include that she doesn't believe charter schools should be held to the same level of oversight/performance that public schools are, AND, in Ms. DeVos' state, charter schools have resulted in de facto re-segregation. http://www.bridgemi.com/talent-education/betsy-devos-and-segregation-sch...
You are missing a big story here. Public school parents and students from around the country fought DeVos. The unions do not in any way control these activists. In fact, many of us have for years been fighting the union to ask them to better protect our schools.
I agree that the spectacle of holding the floor is worth critique. Too little too late (so many Dems approved policies that are, as you say, just left of DeVos). But I think they did it because of the millions of calls, letters and faxes. It was an acknowledgement of the public ground swell.
I'm equally against Sessions, but I'm more easily linked into DeVos protests. She did seem like a candidate we could bump, while the others did not.
You are wrong on the impact of her policies in Detroit. See Joanne Barkan in Dissent, or Edushyster.
I agree that the spectacle of holding the floor is worth critique. Too little too late (so many Dems approved policies that are, as you say, just left of DeVos). But I think they did it because of the millions of calls, letters and faxes. It was an acknowledgement of the public ground swell.
I'm equally against Sessions, but I'm more easily linked into DeVos protests. She did seem like a candidate we could bump, while the others did not.
You are wrong on the impact of her policies in Detroit. See Joanne Barkan in Dissent, or Edushyster.
So let me get this straight. The Senate Democrats should have welcomed the opportunity for a billionaire GOP donor with zero experience as an educator (let alone any ties at all to public education) who knows nothing about education policy and has strong connections with the Christian Right to run our schools? Sounds like the perfect choice to put our children's futures in the hands of.
And, by the way, it wasn't just the teachers' unions that made the difference. It was the multitude of calls individuals made to their senators. What a quaint concept for senators to listen to their constituents rather than billionaire donors!
And, by the way, it wasn't just the teachers' unions that made the difference. It was the multitude of calls individuals made to their senators. What a quaint concept for senators to listen to their constituents rather than billionaire donors!
Jimmy Carter set the precedent by appointing as the first Secretary of Education a woman who had no experience in public education. Shirley Hufstedler was a federal judge who was in line to become the first woman justice of the Supreme Court. When it became apparent that there would not be a vacancy, She was given a post as a cabinet secretsry despite her lack of qualifications.
A successful tenure by Betsy DeVos will culminate with the abolition of the US Department of Education.
A successful tenure by Betsy DeVos will culminate with the abolition of the US Department of Education.
"Instead, the very studies that get cited to critique her efforts
actually show the city’s charters modestly outperforming public schools."
Perhaps you are unaware of the problem with diverting public funds for
voucher handouts. The quality of public education decreases from cash
deprivation while schools-for-the-privileged likely improve with their extra funds.
"Decades of experiments suggest that choice can save money, improve outcomes for very poor kids whose public options are disastrous, and increase parental satisfaction."
Those assertions are debatable. And the most relevant issue with vouchers is they are just discount coupons. If the breathless politicos chronically gasping "School Choice!" were serious, the vouchers would instead be good for one education at an accredited school, not some fixed cash amount. But they're not. School choice isn't their goal.
Their goal is to subsidize only the better-to-well-off so they can have even
more privilege and advantage while making sure the poor have maximum opportunity to remain so. "School Choice!" means choice for some and no choice for those who need it most. It's a cruel farce, not unlike the rest of the present administration that is incapable of taking any non-destructive action whatsoever.
actually show the city’s charters modestly outperforming public schools."
Perhaps you are unaware of the problem with diverting public funds for
voucher handouts. The quality of public education decreases from cash
deprivation while schools-for-the-privileged likely improve with their extra funds.
"Decades of experiments suggest that choice can save money, improve outcomes for very poor kids whose public options are disastrous, and increase parental satisfaction."
Those assertions are debatable. And the most relevant issue with vouchers is they are just discount coupons. If the breathless politicos chronically gasping "School Choice!" were serious, the vouchers would instead be good for one education at an accredited school, not some fixed cash amount. But they're not. School choice isn't their goal.
Their goal is to subsidize only the better-to-well-off so they can have even
more privilege and advantage while making sure the poor have maximum opportunity to remain so. "School Choice!" means choice for some and no choice for those who need it most. It's a cruel farce, not unlike the rest of the present administration that is incapable of taking any non-destructive action whatsoever.
1
I have no qualms with the reasons Douthat offers for the Dem's resistance unless he believes them to be comprehensive.
Less persuasive is the case he presents for the performance of Detroit's charters and charter schools in general. Relying on the analysis of the National Review and National Affairs to make his case tells us everything we need to know about where he stands on the issue, as does his use of the ideologically charged phrase "school choice."
I was struck too by the irony of Douthat referring to "the old culture-war bogeymen" of liberals in a column in which he trots out the teachers' unions as a reliable conservative terror.
Less persuasive is the case he presents for the performance of Detroit's charters and charter schools in general. Relying on the analysis of the National Review and National Affairs to make his case tells us everything we need to know about where he stands on the issue, as does his use of the ideologically charged phrase "school choice."
I was struck too by the irony of Douthat referring to "the old culture-war bogeymen" of liberals in a column in which he trots out the teachers' unions as a reliable conservative terror.
I don't think you fully understand what was at stake here. The Trump nominees being confirmed is predictable because of the obvious and wanton corruption, desire for power, and insatiable greed. But when it comes to the children and students, there should've been a boundary. Republican senators conspired right past it and they should be very ashamed of themselves.
Every year, my children's schools request classroom supply donations because they can't afford it all-- and I live in a really nice city and community. All the parents shop and donate what we can. We even buy tissue boxes. There are no art classes and there are no music classes. You have to pay for them and they're expensive and held after school. For sports, they request bus donations and the lower teams don't even get to ride on them. Those parents have to drive on top of that. All the kids deserve to get to their games.
Now nowhere in DeVos' testimony did she indicate that she cares anything about that.
I did not want a woman who does not care about my children to head education in America. And I'm not alone in that sentiment.
Every year, my children's schools request classroom supply donations because they can't afford it all-- and I live in a really nice city and community. All the parents shop and donate what we can. We even buy tissue boxes. There are no art classes and there are no music classes. You have to pay for them and they're expensive and held after school. For sports, they request bus donations and the lower teams don't even get to ride on them. Those parents have to drive on top of that. All the kids deserve to get to their games.
Now nowhere in DeVos' testimony did she indicate that she cares anything about that.
I did not want a woman who does not care about my children to head education in America. And I'm not alone in that sentiment.
"Democratic Party at its worst: unstinting in defense of bureaucracy and its employees."
No, we just hate cynical, fox-in-the-henhouse appointments. If you don't like the department, fine. Get rid of it. Just don't give us another clueless amateur billionaire with conflicts of interest. That just destroys morale.
"more excited about causes dear to the upper middle class than the interests of the poor"
Oh, the GOP (and the for-profit charter school industry) is so interested in the poor. Please.
"and always girding for the battle with the Real Enemy, religious conservatives, no matter what the moment actually demands."
Jesus was not a religious conservative. 'Nuff said.
No, we just hate cynical, fox-in-the-henhouse appointments. If you don't like the department, fine. Get rid of it. Just don't give us another clueless amateur billionaire with conflicts of interest. That just destroys morale.
"more excited about causes dear to the upper middle class than the interests of the poor"
Oh, the GOP (and the for-profit charter school industry) is so interested in the poor. Please.
"and always girding for the battle with the Real Enemy, religious conservatives, no matter what the moment actually demands."
Jesus was not a religious conservative. 'Nuff said.
It's been but two weeks, Ross, and already the Progressives are well into mobilization across the country. We have learned from the Tea Party and we are pushing back, calling Congress daily, hourly.
That's but one big reason the fight against DeVos was so strong. Our Democratic Senators get the fact that we have their backs.
That's but one big reason the fight against DeVos was so strong. Our Democratic Senators get the fact that we have their backs.
1
Give Ross a break. He has to come up with a few essays a week, and he's supposed to do it as one of the conservative voices on the Op-Ed team. If you've been reading him lately, he's been offering up insightful commentary from the perspective of a thoughtful American. Thank you for that Mr. Douthat. More please.
This one? Perhaps he just wanted to feel once again what it is like to roll around in the liberal/conservative trope sty. I guess contemplating the Trumpian nightmare full time can be scary.
That's what Ross says the Dems were doing in their strong opposition to DeVos because it feels good to do things that are comfortable and familiar in times of turmoil, like putting up a stink to appeal to one's base instincts. Doctor Ross, heal thyself.
The DeVos opposition elevated to its heated level because only one vote was needed to reject her nomination. Success at rejecting anything remotely bad Trump is putting forth will be good, not just on policy grounds but on the battleground.
The Dems are recognizing that Trumpian impulses need to be stopped, stopped on any and all fronts. They are hunting for victories. One bi-partisan victory will lead to more. If opposition becomes sufficiently widespread, Trumpian impulses can be quashed. This battle was tantalizing because victory only required one more GOP convert. That's what it was about.
Ross must have recognized that, he's too sharp not to have. Making that observation, however, isn't much of an essay.
This one? Perhaps he just wanted to feel once again what it is like to roll around in the liberal/conservative trope sty. I guess contemplating the Trumpian nightmare full time can be scary.
That's what Ross says the Dems were doing in their strong opposition to DeVos because it feels good to do things that are comfortable and familiar in times of turmoil, like putting up a stink to appeal to one's base instincts. Doctor Ross, heal thyself.
The DeVos opposition elevated to its heated level because only one vote was needed to reject her nomination. Success at rejecting anything remotely bad Trump is putting forth will be good, not just on policy grounds but on the battleground.
The Dems are recognizing that Trumpian impulses need to be stopped, stopped on any and all fronts. They are hunting for victories. One bi-partisan victory will lead to more. If opposition becomes sufficiently widespread, Trumpian impulses can be quashed. This battle was tantalizing because victory only required one more GOP convert. That's what it was about.
Ross must have recognized that, he's too sharp not to have. Making that observation, however, isn't much of an essay.
Ross, you can focus on DeVos if you choose, but the larger question is why are so many of Trump's nominees so controversial. As many have said, presidents are generally given wide latitude on their cabinet appointments. But the new Secretary of State garnered only 56 votes. My guess is the easy ones (Mattis, Chao, etc.) are done and the upcoming votes will be close. With only 48 Democrats, I'm not predicting any will be defeated, but I bet Sessions - a sitting senator - won't get more than the low 50s and Mnuchin, Puzder and Price won't fare much, if at all, better. (If Carson gets 60 votes it's probably only because the Democrats won't want to be seen as simply opposing for opposition's sake and consider him relatively harmless.)
So the real question is why is trump nominating so many billionaires with no experience but lots of conflicts of interest? And why are so many republicans supporting nominees who are either patently unqualified, or should be disqualified because of their previous actions or positions? (See Mnuchin and his role in the housing crisis, Price and possible insider tracing.)? Hardly a bipartisan effort to unify the country.
So the real question is why is trump nominating so many billionaires with no experience but lots of conflicts of interest? And why are so many republicans supporting nominees who are either patently unqualified, or should be disqualified because of their previous actions or positions? (See Mnuchin and his role in the housing crisis, Price and possible insider tracing.)? Hardly a bipartisan effort to unify the country.
Ross ignores the plain reasons for opposing DeVos: a record of supporting poor policies, a lack of understanding, bad preparation, religious leanings, no experience or understanding of student diversity, her opposition to scrutiny of policies to see whether they work, diversion of government funds to religious purposes...
And Ross ignored the lemming-like behavior of the GOP, which blindly backs a monolithic opposition to Democrats ahead of any consideration, including
the welfare of the nation, and that applies to everything they do, not just DeVos.
Of course, you can't write an interesting article about non-thinking slavish roboticism, especially when you don't want to dwell upon facts, but rather, just to plaster them over and divert attention from them.
And Ross ignored the lemming-like behavior of the GOP, which blindly backs a monolithic opposition to Democrats ahead of any consideration, including
the welfare of the nation, and that applies to everything they do, not just DeVos.
Of course, you can't write an interesting article about non-thinking slavish roboticism, especially when you don't want to dwell upon facts, but rather, just to plaster them over and divert attention from them.
1
Where to even begin with this bagatelle of disingenuous ideological word salad. Let's start with the notion that Douthat is a "reasonable republican"; no, he's a republican and it's clear that he reacts as one. It is incredulous that Douthat makes this about liberals and their love of public schools.
FYI, Ross, generations of Americans have been educated in our public schools, and if there's bone to pick here with the quality of the public education system why not take a look at the South before and after Jim Crow ... before when African-Americans were denied equal education with whites and after when the South still scores lower than all other parts of America because their elected leaders prefer tax cuts for the RICH rather than tax dollars for educated their CHILDREN. Ugh!
But lets cut to the point about WHY democrats took a stand with Devos and not Carson or any of the other plutocrat, unqualified bomb-throwers nominated by Trump. While it is true that the local control of schools is tantamount in our system, like other 'state-centric' control issues, it is ONLY the Federal government that is capable of ensuring non-discrimination and protection of civil rights, particularly in terms of race and gender.
So, the Democrats going after Devos, wasn't just because of her utter ignorance of the public education system, it is because of the DANGER she poses to hard fought civil rights that is embodied in our PUBLIC school system.
At the end of the day, you're a TRUMPIST!
FYI, Ross, generations of Americans have been educated in our public schools, and if there's bone to pick here with the quality of the public education system why not take a look at the South before and after Jim Crow ... before when African-Americans were denied equal education with whites and after when the South still scores lower than all other parts of America because their elected leaders prefer tax cuts for the RICH rather than tax dollars for educated their CHILDREN. Ugh!
But lets cut to the point about WHY democrats took a stand with Devos and not Carson or any of the other plutocrat, unqualified bomb-throwers nominated by Trump. While it is true that the local control of schools is tantamount in our system, like other 'state-centric' control issues, it is ONLY the Federal government that is capable of ensuring non-discrimination and protection of civil rights, particularly in terms of race and gender.
So, the Democrats going after Devos, wasn't just because of her utter ignorance of the public education system, it is because of the DANGER she poses to hard fought civil rights that is embodied in our PUBLIC school system.
At the end of the day, you're a TRUMPIST!
No one who is angry about this confirmation is confused about why they are angry.
Would Mr. Douthat send his children to one of Michigan's DeVos approved charter schools?
Would Mr. Douthat send his children to one of Michigan's DeVos approved charter schools?
So Ross Douthat is upset that the Democrats are being mean to Betsy DeVos, a billionaire bubble-head who probably can't spell "education secretary," let alone run a major federal agency devoted to education. But what would he do instead?
As far as I can tell, GOP apologists like Douthat and his pal David Brooks haven't any idea how to oppose Trump and his merry band of Putin-loving kleptocrats. At least the Democrats are doing something.
The day I see Douthat and Brooks waving anti-Trump banners and wearing pink caps on the National Mall is that day I take their mindless right-wing bloviating at least semi-seriously.
As far as I can tell, GOP apologists like Douthat and his pal David Brooks haven't any idea how to oppose Trump and his merry band of Putin-loving kleptocrats. At least the Democrats are doing something.
The day I see Douthat and Brooks waving anti-Trump banners and wearing pink caps on the National Mall is that day I take their mindless right-wing bloviating at least semi-seriously.
Ross, you may join the 50 cowardly senators who knew DeVos was unqualified but were afraid to go up against their own short-term self-interest. She was an abhorrent nominee, like many others on the Trump team.
You should be ashamed of yourself. have you no sense of decency?
You should be ashamed of yourself. have you no sense of decency?
Aside from not knowing education law, a weak stand on evaluation of charter schools, an antipathy to public school education, a lack of advocacy for regulation of profiteering post-secondary education and an overall miserable performance at her hearing, I don't know why one might oppose her confirmation.
Here is a better analysis:
http://www.politico.com/story/2016/12/betsy-devos-michigan-school-experi...
Here is a better analysis:
http://www.politico.com/story/2016/12/betsy-devos-michigan-school-experi...
"none of the things that liberals fear the most about a Trump era revolve around education policy" .. well I'll tell ya... If half the citizens in this country weren't ignorant, like Douthat seems to be here; or bothered to use their education to form critical thinking and really see what's what.. there would be no Trump era. DeVos is the worst and most unqualified of all the cabinet picks. And that is really saying something, because they are all bad, downright scary. That's why the Dems rallied and why the Reps had to bring up Pence for the first time in history.
Orange, NJ
Orange, NJ
1
Well said, Ross, well said.
It is just these types of blow-ups that make one realize that, for all the gnashing and grinding of teeth over how Trump is the 2nd coming of Hitler, the Dems are the most despicable hypocrites when it come to foisting their progressive nonsense on the American people by bending to the will of their paymasters in the teachers unions instead of working for the good of America's children. For shame! Cory Booker - doubly shameful for backing down on school choice!
I've written it before, I'll repeat it again - fascism of the left is much softer, and thus more dangerous, than the heavy handed fascism of the right.
It is just these types of blow-ups that make one realize that, for all the gnashing and grinding of teeth over how Trump is the 2nd coming of Hitler, the Dems are the most despicable hypocrites when it come to foisting their progressive nonsense on the American people by bending to the will of their paymasters in the teachers unions instead of working for the good of America's children. For shame! Cory Booker - doubly shameful for backing down on school choice!
I've written it before, I'll repeat it again - fascism of the left is much softer, and thus more dangerous, than the heavy handed fascism of the right.
"the fervor and pitch of the opposition basically reflected the present Democratic Party at its worst: unstinting in defense of bureaucracy and its employees"
Wow, that's rich Mr. Douthat. The unjustified bashing of teacher unions continues. Try running a school without teachers and get back to me as to how that works for ya'.
We have been lied to for four decades as to what the panacea is for improving education outcomes. Republicans believe it is vouchers, expansion of charters, relentlessly bashing teachers unions and blaming all the problems on the unions' undeserved protection of 'bad' teachers.
This delusion of yours--that 'bad' teachers only exist in public schools and the only way to escape 'bad' teachers is to escape public schools. Or that parent satisfaction can only be achieved by escaping public schools. Or that parents who keep their children in public schools must be losers because they just can't be caring, insightful, or diligent about their children's schooling.
Learning is innate. What is inhibiting the innate nature of children to want to learn? It's not public schools, 'bad' teachers, or teacher unions that is the most likely culprit. It is the home environment, the community environment that inhibits what is normally an insatiable desire. Poverty. Hunger. Stress. Uncertainty. Stress. Instability. Stress. Violence. Stress. Fear. Stress. Apathy. Stress. Loss of hope. Stress.
Betsy DeVos knows nothing about these things. And neither do you.
Wow, that's rich Mr. Douthat. The unjustified bashing of teacher unions continues. Try running a school without teachers and get back to me as to how that works for ya'.
We have been lied to for four decades as to what the panacea is for improving education outcomes. Republicans believe it is vouchers, expansion of charters, relentlessly bashing teachers unions and blaming all the problems on the unions' undeserved protection of 'bad' teachers.
This delusion of yours--that 'bad' teachers only exist in public schools and the only way to escape 'bad' teachers is to escape public schools. Or that parent satisfaction can only be achieved by escaping public schools. Or that parents who keep their children in public schools must be losers because they just can't be caring, insightful, or diligent about their children's schooling.
Learning is innate. What is inhibiting the innate nature of children to want to learn? It's not public schools, 'bad' teachers, or teacher unions that is the most likely culprit. It is the home environment, the community environment that inhibits what is normally an insatiable desire. Poverty. Hunger. Stress. Uncertainty. Stress. Instability. Stress. Violence. Stress. Fear. Stress. Apathy. Stress. Loss of hope. Stress.
Betsy DeVos knows nothing about these things. And neither do you.
Like a lot of people, I have been spending too much time lately on social media, but I can tell you two things:
1. It was a heck of lot more than teachers unions who were outraged that such a person was put forward for a cabinet position--and the the fight against her nomination was broad and deep--maybe you should talk to a few Republicans on the Hill about the onslaught of protest cards, calls, letters, emails and visits--starting with Pat Toomey who made noises that he might be willing to vote the other way;
2. Those of us who are witnessing this trainwreck of an administration have been putting equal pressure on their Democratic Senators to oppose all of the other "deplorables" who have been confirmed--and believe me, I would not want to be in the shoes of some of these Senators come election time, because there are a lot of us (I mean a lot) who have witnessed support for men (and yes, it has been all men) by Democratic Senators who should be ashamed of their willingness to go along to get along.
Believe me when I say the Democrats who are paying attention are appalled by the behavior of Shumer et al--there will be a day of reckoning in the party, and it won't be pretty.
1. It was a heck of lot more than teachers unions who were outraged that such a person was put forward for a cabinet position--and the the fight against her nomination was broad and deep--maybe you should talk to a few Republicans on the Hill about the onslaught of protest cards, calls, letters, emails and visits--starting with Pat Toomey who made noises that he might be willing to vote the other way;
2. Those of us who are witnessing this trainwreck of an administration have been putting equal pressure on their Democratic Senators to oppose all of the other "deplorables" who have been confirmed--and believe me, I would not want to be in the shoes of some of these Senators come election time, because there are a lot of us (I mean a lot) who have witnessed support for men (and yes, it has been all men) by Democratic Senators who should be ashamed of their willingness to go along to get along.
Believe me when I say the Democrats who are paying attention are appalled by the behavior of Shumer et al--there will be a day of reckoning in the party, and it won't be pretty.
The "deep pockets" you describe in your article about Betsy DeVos belong to ... teachers' unions?
And liberals' problems with vouchers (says you) have to do with a lack of concern for the poor?
As an adult-literacy teacher, in a neighborhood where the child poverty rate is above 70%, I have heard countless adults tell me that they dropped out of school because they couldn't afford the bus tickets to get there. DeVos doesn't realize that the poor don't have the access to transportation she does. They don't have cars or money for public transit. Rural parents have a similar issues: they need strong public schools in their communities. A voucher to a school elsewhere is moot when there is no way to get there.
You blame liberals for fearing "too much choice" will hurt their children. What does that even mean? My fear is that our public system of education will be further starved of resources. Far from the "fat cats" you describe, the American public school teachers I know work heroically for their impoverished students, scrounging food, clothing, & school supplies; acting as social workers, cheerleaders, and anti-poverty advocates; & without adequate financial or staff support, public-school teachers experience high levels of burnout. I suspect the rallying cry against DeVos has less to do with unions and more about parents' fears that public education, under her "leadership," will be further diminished.
And liberals' problems with vouchers (says you) have to do with a lack of concern for the poor?
As an adult-literacy teacher, in a neighborhood where the child poverty rate is above 70%, I have heard countless adults tell me that they dropped out of school because they couldn't afford the bus tickets to get there. DeVos doesn't realize that the poor don't have the access to transportation she does. They don't have cars or money for public transit. Rural parents have a similar issues: they need strong public schools in their communities. A voucher to a school elsewhere is moot when there is no way to get there.
You blame liberals for fearing "too much choice" will hurt their children. What does that even mean? My fear is that our public system of education will be further starved of resources. Far from the "fat cats" you describe, the American public school teachers I know work heroically for their impoverished students, scrounging food, clothing, & school supplies; acting as social workers, cheerleaders, and anti-poverty advocates; & without adequate financial or staff support, public-school teachers experience high levels of burnout. I suspect the rallying cry against DeVos has less to do with unions and more about parents' fears that public education, under her "leadership," will be further diminished.
I notice you forgot the part about support for gay conversion therapy.
But why put the most inflammatory things about her history in an article about why she's not so bad? You're trying to prove a harebrained point here, don't let the facts get in the way! It sounds much better if you exclude all the bad stuff and just strawman the liberals.
But why put the most inflammatory things about her history in an article about why she's not so bad? You're trying to prove a harebrained point here, don't let the facts get in the way! It sounds much better if you exclude all the bad stuff and just strawman the liberals.
I think Ross minimizes the adverse impact of voucher system on public education. The idea of public school system comes from the belief that children at least should not get discriminated based on income. That is, public school system allows all kids, irrespective of their income, race or gender, get the same level of education to the extent possible. That way, the kids from poor families get the same education as the kids from the well off families, and are able to benchmark themselves against the best, and have a shot at competing for a spot in a good college. On the other hand, when most well-off students go to private schools, the public schools languish not only from lack of funds, but also from shortage of good students who can be role models for students from disadvantaged families.
The voucher systems is a back door method to undermine the public school system. If some are allowed to leave the public school system (for e.g. so they can go to an religious school), then all "good" students - typically well-off upper middle class, will leave the public school system, leaving the public school system with kids from poor and disadvantaged families, pretty much locking in their fate at that early an age.
The voucher systems is a back door method to undermine the public school system. If some are allowed to leave the public school system (for e.g. so they can go to an religious school), then all "good" students - typically well-off upper middle class, will leave the public school system, leaving the public school system with kids from poor and disadvantaged families, pretty much locking in their fate at that early an age.
Here's the ultimate irony in Ross's column today: He's whining about Dems acting as they used to in the pre-Trump era, but that's exactly what he did. He wrote a column slamming Dems just like he used to in the pre-Trump era while ignoring the very real problems with her nomination: 1. She's obviously unqualified. 2. She essentially bought her way the to position and 3. she clearly has financial conflicts of interests.
This could also be titled The Comforts of the Ross Douthat Strawman. It's good to see the Trumpocalypse hasn't dampened your ability to completely, utterly miss the point. I'm still not sure if you're doing it deliberately or by accident.
But of course, Ross didn't go to a public school or university. He never had the experience of trying to befriend and help an autistic classmate, whom Ms. DeVos wants to throw to the grizzlies because they're unprofitable "problem children". I was an unprofitable problem child, too, because I was well ahead of my classmates but also suffer ADHD. Thanks to the federal law Ms. DeVos knows nothing about, IDEA, the public schools I attended had the resources to accommodate me.
Public education is the very bedrock of our society. It ought to be unassailable (and it used to be). But no matter. The war on unions marches on, and teachers are the last ones standing. So Ross will snicker and snark at the professionals -- whose passion and life's work is the education of our children -- for trying to save a deeply flawed, deeply necessary system from being swept away by the fascist tide gripping the capital.
But of course, Ross didn't go to a public school or university. He never had the experience of trying to befriend and help an autistic classmate, whom Ms. DeVos wants to throw to the grizzlies because they're unprofitable "problem children". I was an unprofitable problem child, too, because I was well ahead of my classmates but also suffer ADHD. Thanks to the federal law Ms. DeVos knows nothing about, IDEA, the public schools I attended had the resources to accommodate me.
Public education is the very bedrock of our society. It ought to be unassailable (and it used to be). But no matter. The war on unions marches on, and teachers are the last ones standing. So Ross will snicker and snark at the professionals -- whose passion and life's work is the education of our children -- for trying to save a deeply flawed, deeply necessary system from being swept away by the fascist tide gripping the capital.
Ouch.
I suspect some of the fervor for the fight came from a glimmer of hope that it might work to prevent at least one of the extremely unqualified nominees from being confirmed.
The Democratic Party does indeed have some intense work to do to align the priorities for the common good rather than knee-jerk response to all things conservative. Too bad the pathology of DT has created such a reactionary environment.
I suspect some of the fervor for the fight came from a glimmer of hope that it might work to prevent at least one of the extremely unqualified nominees from being confirmed.
The Democratic Party does indeed have some intense work to do to align the priorities for the common good rather than knee-jerk response to all things conservative. Too bad the pathology of DT has created such a reactionary environment.
Here is what the New York Times and it's readers do not understand. When you respond to Trump in his chosen tone, you will lose. You will lose because he is meaner than you, more devious than you and has spent a lifetime mastering the art of manipulating you.
Worst of all, you demean yourself and further define deviance down by responding to his low brow mean spiritedness with your own high brow mean spirited Ness.
Ross Douthat is asking for reasoned discussion, temperate words and actions. He is a singular voice at the Times.
For those of you who oppose Trump, it is the only voice that can diminish him.
Civilization survives because a culture believes in civility, and collapses when even those with the best intentions abandon civility.
Thank you Ross Douthat for your civility. I hope it is contagious.
Worst of all, you demean yourself and further define deviance down by responding to his low brow mean spiritedness with your own high brow mean spirited Ness.
Ross Douthat is asking for reasoned discussion, temperate words and actions. He is a singular voice at the Times.
For those of you who oppose Trump, it is the only voice that can diminish him.
Civilization survives because a culture believes in civility, and collapses when even those with the best intentions abandon civility.
Thank you Ross Douthat for your civility. I hope it is contagious.
So Ross, here is my families direct experience with religious schooling. When my granddaughter was in grade school I paid for her to go to Catholic school because the local grade school was so limiting for a student who wanted to work ahead. In fifth grade on the standardized tests she scored highest of all her classmates, but only in the 87th percentile. My sisters grandson was sent my his mother and stepfather to a church run school where he got straight As, but flunked out of a state university twice. He couldn't pass a single course. My husbands niece homeschooled her kids and so far only one (the oldest daughter) has graduated from college. The oldest dropped out of a unaccredited religious school in his first year and went in the Navy. He couldn't cut it there either and in his late twenties is still living at home as is his next brother who didn't even try college and made it through less than six months in the Navy. Don't tell me religious schools and home schooling are where we taxpayers should put our money.
Down here in SC it has just been announced that our local high school is going to a lottery system decide who gets to go there. So what happens to the kids who don't get chosen in the lottery. Where do they get educated, especially if they don't get into a Private school?
Down here in SC it has just been announced that our local high school is going to a lottery system decide who gets to go there. So what happens to the kids who don't get chosen in the lottery. Where do they get educated, especially if they don't get into a Private school?
As a public school teacher for many years, I am as appalled as anyone that Betsy DeVos is now our Secretary of Education. But let's keep things in perspective.
It wasn't Betsy DeVos who turned our schools into the recessless and dreary test factories that they are today. When it comes to education policy, democrats have a great deal to answer for too.
It wasn't Betsy DeVos who turned our schools into the recessless and dreary test factories that they are today. When it comes to education policy, democrats have a great deal to answer for too.
1
Probably Price nomination of EPA is most critical. For planet.
DeVos is seen as a financial drag on a already troubled public education institution and especially damaging to the economically poor and families with a kid who has a disability. She will divert money from those that desperately need help to those who already have more options in private schools.
DeVos is seen as a financial drag on a already troubled public education institution and especially damaging to the economically poor and families with a kid who has a disability. She will divert money from those that desperately need help to those who already have more options in private schools.
"a liberal holy war..."
Just for the record, liberals aren't the ones suggesting 'holiness' is the way to go in the public sphere. That's your dog in the fight.
Just for the record, liberals aren't the ones suggesting 'holiness' is the way to go in the public sphere. That's your dog in the fight.
I keep thinking these commentaries must be satire. But no, a defense of a completely unqualified candidate because there may be others even more awful coming up. Seriously?
And PLEASE don't lie about the outcomes in Michigan - multiple studies showing DeVos has undermined and ruined the public education system in that great state. It's like a farce, only it's playing out in real life.
Mr, Douthat, people with integrity, whatever their party, want the best for the country and burn with shame when someone manifestly buys a position of power. That is supposed to happen in banana republics, not the USA. You, and any supporters of a candidate whose only "qualifications" for the position are party loyalty and millions in contributions, are an embarrassment to the nation you supposedly love.
And PLEASE don't lie about the outcomes in Michigan - multiple studies showing DeVos has undermined and ruined the public education system in that great state. It's like a farce, only it's playing out in real life.
Mr, Douthat, people with integrity, whatever their party, want the best for the country and burn with shame when someone manifestly buys a position of power. That is supposed to happen in banana republics, not the USA. You, and any supporters of a candidate whose only "qualifications" for the position are party loyalty and millions in contributions, are an embarrassment to the nation you supposedly love.
"I don’t want to make mock of all DeVos opposition."
Rather than dedicate a column to how Republicans refuse to actually vet Trump's cabinet nominations' experience, financial ties, and policy platforms, you spend an entire column mocking the Democrat's opposition to DeVos.
I find it infuriating.
Rather than dedicate a column to how Republicans refuse to actually vet Trump's cabinet nominations' experience, financial ties, and policy platforms, you spend an entire column mocking the Democrat's opposition to DeVos.
I find it infuriating.
K-12 education must be publicly funded to give equal opportunity to children of parents of modest means to compete and succeed. But our public schools which were doing fine fifty years ago are no longer performing well.
In California, where I live, Proposition 13 severely depleted the available funding of schools. Converting public schools into Capitalist profit making schools will encourage cost cutting and may reduce the quality of educational even further.
We need to get serious and come up with better methods of teaching and higher funding. We are lagging in both. With the need for much touted better infrastructure, we also need a better educated work force. Both need lots of money.
Is DeVos up to this task of coaxing more money from the Congress?
In California, where I live, Proposition 13 severely depleted the available funding of schools. Converting public schools into Capitalist profit making schools will encourage cost cutting and may reduce the quality of educational even further.
We need to get serious and come up with better methods of teaching and higher funding. We are lagging in both. With the need for much touted better infrastructure, we also need a better educated work force. Both need lots of money.
Is DeVos up to this task of coaxing more money from the Congress?
FYI, this Democrat and the tens of thousands who protested against DeVos, are concerned a great deal about DeVos and her goal of wrecking the education system by introducing profit and religion into public schools.
DeVos is ignorant about education and a great deal more. She has millions of $$$s to give to the Republican Senators who dutifully voted for her in spite of her obvious lack of education and knowledge of education. This is not over. Her every move will be scrutinized by Americans and specifically the teachers educated in our universities and who are experienced in the education of children, the students and parents who are forced to deal with her religion forcing agenda.
DeVos is ignorant about education and a great deal more. She has millions of $$$s to give to the Republican Senators who dutifully voted for her in spite of her obvious lack of education and knowledge of education. This is not over. Her every move will be scrutinized by Americans and specifically the teachers educated in our universities and who are experienced in the education of children, the students and parents who are forced to deal with her religion forcing agenda.
1
And one more thing.
She sets a bad example. Anyone else in the classroom (student or teacher) or in the workplace is expected to prepare for an exam (lecture, debate, presentation, etc.) Ms. DeVos's obvious lack of preparation and subsequent confirmation in spite of it sets a poor example. After all, it is the department of 'education.'
Remember the Aesop's fable in which the mother crab admonished the child crab to walk forward, rather than in an ungainly sideways manner, as he advanced along the sand? To which the child crab replied, "Pray, mother, do but set the example and I will follow you."
She sets a bad example. Anyone else in the classroom (student or teacher) or in the workplace is expected to prepare for an exam (lecture, debate, presentation, etc.) Ms. DeVos's obvious lack of preparation and subsequent confirmation in spite of it sets a poor example. After all, it is the department of 'education.'
Remember the Aesop's fable in which the mother crab admonished the child crab to walk forward, rather than in an ungainly sideways manner, as he advanced along the sand? To which the child crab replied, "Pray, mother, do but set the example and I will follow you."
There's one tiny, eensie-weensie little detail that Mr. Douthat forgot to mention....
Some of us don't want our tax dollars going to sectarian schools which promote a religious doctrine that we find abhorent.
I have no problem with "school choice" which includes non-sectarian charter schools (which are overseen by state regulations).
But the "school choice" mantra is a thin disguise for allowing tax-supported vouchers to be used to pay for sectarian private schools. That's the biggest concern for many who wanted DeVos rejected. It has nothing to do with her "zeal for free markets."
I wonder why Mr. Douthat would omit any mention of the RELIGION aspect of this issue? Is he guilty of verbal legerdemain to avoid disclosing his ulterior motive?
Some of us don't want our tax dollars going to sectarian schools which promote a religious doctrine that we find abhorent.
I have no problem with "school choice" which includes non-sectarian charter schools (which are overseen by state regulations).
But the "school choice" mantra is a thin disguise for allowing tax-supported vouchers to be used to pay for sectarian private schools. That's the biggest concern for many who wanted DeVos rejected. It has nothing to do with her "zeal for free markets."
I wonder why Mr. Douthat would omit any mention of the RELIGION aspect of this issue? Is he guilty of verbal legerdemain to avoid disclosing his ulterior motive?
1
There was a fine republican with experience in higher education that shared the presidents deepest beliefs, he was available, and for the life of me I don't know why he wasn't chosen.
Ken Starr
Ken Starr
More charters? Fewer unions? Dump Common Core?
While I don't necessarily agree with those ideas, I'm sure there are plenty of intelligent, experienced, thoughtful conservatives who could make that case. Let's hear what they have to say and have a lively, friendly debate on the merits.
But even if I was a Trump supporter I hope I'd be saying, "DeVos? Really? That's the best we can do?"
While I don't necessarily agree with those ideas, I'm sure there are plenty of intelligent, experienced, thoughtful conservatives who could make that case. Let's hear what they have to say and have a lively, friendly debate on the merits.
But even if I was a Trump supporter I hope I'd be saying, "DeVos? Really? That's the best we can do?"
I wonder what scriptures Ross has been reading -- the ones where Jesus admonishes Christians to become a Caesar and render unto themselves?
Why don't we just dispense with his glib stereotypes and go straight to the point: cabinet offices and department policies are officially for sale to the highest bidder. What could any pious American possibly find objectionable in that?
Why don't we just dispense with his glib stereotypes and go straight to the point: cabinet offices and department policies are officially for sale to the highest bidder. What could any pious American possibly find objectionable in that?
3
For me personally it is quite simple: 1) she's obviously totally unqualified, 2) she supports inserting a corporate profit-margin into what is currently a public good with no evidence that it will improve anything and 3) she is quite literally on record saying she expects all her political contributions to buy her access. It is simply ridiculous and insulting to put someone like this nominally in charge of the nation's public education system, whatever your beliefs.
Do I have kids in public schools? Yes, As do a great many people. It's a huge part of my family's life. I also have health insurance, my family goes to the doctor regularly, and I pay the bills. Which means: Messing with things like education and health insurance is extremely close to people's real lives. It's no coincidence that Devos and the botched "repeal/replace" of Obamacare have been two of the hottest issues these past two weeks. Both are visceral proof of the emptiness and soullessness of Trump and his Republican allies.
Do I have kids in public schools? Yes, As do a great many people. It's a huge part of my family's life. I also have health insurance, my family goes to the doctor regularly, and I pay the bills. Which means: Messing with things like education and health insurance is extremely close to people's real lives. It's no coincidence that Devos and the botched "repeal/replace" of Obamacare have been two of the hottest issues these past two weeks. Both are visceral proof of the emptiness and soullessness of Trump and his Republican allies.
1
You hit the nail on the head. UNION Power. Public unions, living off political power, are slowly dying. See WI and Scott Walker.
The NEA sees this threat to their power growing and they are terrified.
They should be. Their monopoly is threatened and they are losing.
Good. Competition helps schools and students
The NEA sees this threat to their power growing and they are terrified.
They should be. Their monopoly is threatened and they are losing.
Good. Competition helps schools and students
Very well put! We have very little to lose with what might be a "Change Agent" in Education.
The poor outcomes that so many students are currently receiving suggests that this is not a "Well Oiled Machine."
Vested interests in preserving the status quo, and increasing the funding, have suffered a setback!
The poor outcomes that so many students are currently receiving suggests that this is not a "Well Oiled Machine."
Vested interests in preserving the status quo, and increasing the funding, have suffered a setback!
If charter school teachers were member of the teacher's union, the Democrats would have no problem with charter schools.
There can be no other reason to object giving poor inner-city parents (allegedly their constituency) an opportunity to avoid the local school that has been failing for decades.
There can be no other reason to object giving poor inner-city parents (allegedly their constituency) an opportunity to avoid the local school that has been failing for decades.
Your own words provide an answer to your mischievous column.
"DeVos did look unprepared and even foolish at times during her confirmation hearings..."
Isn't that enough reason to vote against a cabinet appointment?
But I have to agree with you that the appointments of Tiillerson and Sessions to major cabinet positions were worse and should have been resisted more.
"DeVos did look unprepared and even foolish at times during her confirmation hearings..."
Isn't that enough reason to vote against a cabinet appointment?
But I have to agree with you that the appointments of Tiillerson and Sessions to major cabinet positions were worse and should have been resisted more.
1
Douthat forgets we keep church and State separate. Putting public education money into flaky religious schools is more destruction of our government, not just the wall between church and state but by creating a generation of ignorant, borderline illiterates. DeVos wants a voucher system to further enrich herself now, but the long game is to wipe out public schools and put as many children as possible into Christian Fundamentalist madrassa. She's a Dominionist who wants theocracy, like Mike Pence.
The writer seems to think that religious school means catholic school, where kids get science and maybe a Jesuit school. No. DeVos wants science to teach creationism, and how Adam and Eve rode dinosaurs. You saw how the Trump voters are ill informed, racist and often stupid? That's the mind DeVos want to turn out. A superstitious serfdom enslaved by ignorance is easy to enslave as cheap labor.
The writer seems to think that religious school means catholic school, where kids get science and maybe a Jesuit school. No. DeVos wants science to teach creationism, and how Adam and Eve rode dinosaurs. You saw how the Trump voters are ill informed, racist and often stupid? That's the mind DeVos want to turn out. A superstitious serfdom enslaved by ignorance is easy to enslave as cheap labor.
I reluctantly concede that Mr. Douthat has a point. There is truth in the notion that the Democrats still believe that they can fight Republicans in a civil manner.
Unfortunately, the Republicans rule absolutely even though their majority grasp of our representative institutions is thin. They don't fight fair. They lie with absolute conviction in an unbroken line from Gingrich to Cheney to Trump. They really don't care what others think, including their supporters. They are implacable and determined to undo a century of American progress.
The Democratic leaders should remember that they are in a fight that involves more than the survival of their party. They ought to be fighting to protect our republic. This is not the polite civics we learned in high school. It's a fight for the survival of representative government.
Plainly speaking, the Democratic leaders need to lead, follow, or get our of our way. We are marching in the streets--loudly and with very bad manners--because they are clueless. They are losing their chance to catch up. Events move at their own speed. They, and we, are speeding up.
Unfortunately, the Republicans rule absolutely even though their majority grasp of our representative institutions is thin. They don't fight fair. They lie with absolute conviction in an unbroken line from Gingrich to Cheney to Trump. They really don't care what others think, including their supporters. They are implacable and determined to undo a century of American progress.
The Democratic leaders should remember that they are in a fight that involves more than the survival of their party. They ought to be fighting to protect our republic. This is not the polite civics we learned in high school. It's a fight for the survival of representative government.
Plainly speaking, the Democratic leaders need to lead, follow, or get our of our way. We are marching in the streets--loudly and with very bad manners--because they are clueless. They are losing their chance to catch up. Events move at their own speed. They, and we, are speeding up.
1
This analysis is off-base. It's the siphoning of public funds into vouchers for homeschooling and religious "education" that signals the dark new era. A public school is struggling? Let's starve it for cash so wealthier parents can defray the cost of taking their darling out and into private school.
It's pretty clear that Republicans have correctly assessed that an educated electorate would never let them keep their jobs and power. And the Haves who will cash the voucher checks will keep rewarding Republicans. The unwashed masses can pound sand.
It's pretty clear that Republicans have correctly assessed that an educated electorate would never let them keep their jobs and power. And the Haves who will cash the voucher checks will keep rewarding Republicans. The unwashed masses can pound sand.
Apart from all her other ethical and intellectual defects, DeVos should have been rejected because of her ignorance and unconcern for the education of children with disabilities. This was incontrovertibly demonstrated by her obliviousness regarding IDEA, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. IDEA is the latest iteration of forty years of statutory law.
Whether or not DeVos shares the stern Calvinism of many of her neighbors in Holland, she certainly demonstrates it. Her disregard of people with disabilities is entirely consistent with the odious doctrines of election and predestination, including the belief that the elect can be identified by worldly success. Paradoxically, she puts to lie the associated belief that there is a correlation between merit and wealth, perhaps the final nail in Calvinism's coffin.
Whether or not DeVos shares the stern Calvinism of many of her neighbors in Holland, she certainly demonstrates it. Her disregard of people with disabilities is entirely consistent with the odious doctrines of election and predestination, including the belief that the elect can be identified by worldly success. Paradoxically, she puts to lie the associated belief that there is a correlation between merit and wealth, perhaps the final nail in Calvinism's coffin.
1
Mr. Douthat misses the point. True, Ms. Devos is not the natural locus for Democrats' deepest fears about the Trump era. When it comes to the undermining of the press, a disbelief in objective reality, emboldened racism and sexism, and the utter unpredictability of how this administration will respond to inevitable crises, our fears center on the President himself, not his cabinet.
However, Ms. DeVos embodies our fear about what will happen to the federal government while most of us are busy analyzing Mr. Trump's latest tweet. Because, independent of the larger battles over values that will be waged around it, that government will continue to operate.
Here, Ms. DeVos demonstrated more clearly than the other men or (few) women in the president's cabinet just how little she knows or cares to learn about the department she will lead.
Mr. Douthat may be right that that department is not particularly powerful. He may even be right (though I doubt it) that Ms. DeVos' policies are neither so disastrous nor so radical as her opponents claim. The problem is that Ms. DeVos appears to have only an elementary understanding of those policies. True, Arne Duncan may have also supported charter schools, but he based that position on knowledge and experience. Ms. DeVos instead bases her positions on conviction, which she has shielded from challenge, nuance, and facts on the basis of her wealth. Seems like a tailor-made expression of what Democrats fear from Trump's federal bureaucracy.
However, Ms. DeVos embodies our fear about what will happen to the federal government while most of us are busy analyzing Mr. Trump's latest tweet. Because, independent of the larger battles over values that will be waged around it, that government will continue to operate.
Here, Ms. DeVos demonstrated more clearly than the other men or (few) women in the president's cabinet just how little she knows or cares to learn about the department she will lead.
Mr. Douthat may be right that that department is not particularly powerful. He may even be right (though I doubt it) that Ms. DeVos' policies are neither so disastrous nor so radical as her opponents claim. The problem is that Ms. DeVos appears to have only an elementary understanding of those policies. True, Arne Duncan may have also supported charter schools, but he based that position on knowledge and experience. Ms. DeVos instead bases her positions on conviction, which she has shielded from challenge, nuance, and facts on the basis of her wealth. Seems like a tailor-made expression of what Democrats fear from Trump's federal bureaucracy.
1
Ross,
Perhaps part of the outrage against DeVos from places like teachers unions comes from the fact that people, on a very basic and individual level, understand public education and have witnessed the trials and tribulations of charter school proliferation firsthand. A bit harder to protest against Rex Tillerson when your average liberal American has not been to Russia, no? Or Jeff Sessions when your average liberal American has only a basic understanding of what the AG does. As an aside, how can public schools generate adequate funding, especially for children with special needs if funds are being driven to suspect (not) for profit service providers?
Perhaps part of the outrage against DeVos from places like teachers unions comes from the fact that people, on a very basic and individual level, understand public education and have witnessed the trials and tribulations of charter school proliferation firsthand. A bit harder to protest against Rex Tillerson when your average liberal American has not been to Russia, no? Or Jeff Sessions when your average liberal American has only a basic understanding of what the AG does. As an aside, how can public schools generate adequate funding, especially for children with special needs if funds are being driven to suspect (not) for profit service providers?
Democrats, keep your powder dry and GET JEFF SESSIONS! He is your mortal enemy within the slate of administration nominees. All else can be withstood for 4 years.
I, too, was puzzled at the amount of effort spent on an education secretary that doesn't have all that much power and influence over how and what children are taught at the local level. Ross explained a bit why that was.
But I sure hope Dems haven't sacrificed political capital better spent on defeating the nomination of Jeff Sessions, the nominee that MUST be stopped by whatever means necessary.
Make a deal, if necessary, Democrats. Take Neil Gorsuch as SCOTUS nominee if Republicans agree to stop Sessions. After all, with 2 justices of retirement age, Gorsuch may be an afterthought (and an asterisk) after 2020, when a Democratic POTUS gets to nominate 2 replacements.
But Jeff Sessions, nominee for US Attorney General, and one third of the Bannon-Kobach-Sessions troika, are gunning to change and challenge voting rights laws nationwide in an effort to do what Tom DeLay never could: "remove the Democratic Party from any relevance", by making local, state, and national elections tilt in favor of a manufactured majority even more than the GOP gerrymander (see "RedMap Project 2009") already does.
If we can't win elections then the Democratic Party is doomed. Jeff Sessions is the key to stopping that from happening, plus it'll be a punch in the mouth of Steve Bannon, who wants Sessions badly.
I, too, was puzzled at the amount of effort spent on an education secretary that doesn't have all that much power and influence over how and what children are taught at the local level. Ross explained a bit why that was.
But I sure hope Dems haven't sacrificed political capital better spent on defeating the nomination of Jeff Sessions, the nominee that MUST be stopped by whatever means necessary.
Make a deal, if necessary, Democrats. Take Neil Gorsuch as SCOTUS nominee if Republicans agree to stop Sessions. After all, with 2 justices of retirement age, Gorsuch may be an afterthought (and an asterisk) after 2020, when a Democratic POTUS gets to nominate 2 replacements.
But Jeff Sessions, nominee for US Attorney General, and one third of the Bannon-Kobach-Sessions troika, are gunning to change and challenge voting rights laws nationwide in an effort to do what Tom DeLay never could: "remove the Democratic Party from any relevance", by making local, state, and national elections tilt in favor of a manufactured majority even more than the GOP gerrymander (see "RedMap Project 2009") already does.
If we can't win elections then the Democratic Party is doomed. Jeff Sessions is the key to stopping that from happening, plus it'll be a punch in the mouth of Steve Bannon, who wants Sessions badly.
"Never mind that local control of schools makes the Education Department a pretty weak player."
Okay, you and several other publications note that the Education Department is lacking in actual power, but isn't that exactly one of the problems? I mean if we're going to go after the Education Secretary we're doing it because our education in this country needs to be changed, in rural areas and in cities. Our education is astounding compared to other countries and many problems in our society stem from an overall poor education system. Local school control has led to Oklahoma banning AP US History in its schools because it shed too negative of a light on US history. AP IS NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED PROGRAM and scores are used all over the country as university credits. Oh and I'm mentioning the minor problem, if anything our history is always taught in too positive of a light. Christopher Columbus has a holiday, yet committed genocide. We celebrate thanksgiving has some pact with the Native Americans before murdering most of their people as well. And slavery, systematic oppression and racism since emancipation for African Americans. History is there to learn from, to say "hey, we're better now than we were then and we recognize that we need to take steps to repair wounds that we caused." Anyways, I digress on how education is important.
Okay, you and several other publications note that the Education Department is lacking in actual power, but isn't that exactly one of the problems? I mean if we're going to go after the Education Secretary we're doing it because our education in this country needs to be changed, in rural areas and in cities. Our education is astounding compared to other countries and many problems in our society stem from an overall poor education system. Local school control has led to Oklahoma banning AP US History in its schools because it shed too negative of a light on US history. AP IS NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED PROGRAM and scores are used all over the country as university credits. Oh and I'm mentioning the minor problem, if anything our history is always taught in too positive of a light. Christopher Columbus has a holiday, yet committed genocide. We celebrate thanksgiving has some pact with the Native Americans before murdering most of their people as well. And slavery, systematic oppression and racism since emancipation for African Americans. History is there to learn from, to say "hey, we're better now than we were then and we recognize that we need to take steps to repair wounds that we caused." Anyways, I digress on how education is important.
1
No. We are not confused. Our anger is justified. Our children are innocent and deserve the very best we can give them. Betsy DeVos is perhaps the worst the can give them. Picking and then confirming Ms. DeVos demonstrates nothing but contempt for our children and their education.
Mr. Douthat: Read Thomas Jefferson on the connection between broad based public education and democracy. That is the issue.
Gary Hart
Gary Hart
3
It's increasingly apparent that we use logic to support things we want to believe. Douthat chooses to find support for his beliefs in Democratic opposition to DeVos - that they prefer battle with religious conservatives and support of the education bureaucracy - "no matter what the moment actually demands."
The moment really demands opposition to all of Trump's unqualified candidates, despite its likely futility. That way, when the disaster is apparent to all, at least they can say, "I did my best."
The moment really demands opposition to all of Trump's unqualified candidates, despite its likely futility. That way, when the disaster is apparent to all, at least they can say, "I did my best."
Former Secretary of Education (under Obama) John King's resume: BA Government, Harvard; MA Education, Columbia; JD Yale; Ph.D. Education, Columbia; NY Commissioner of Education.
Betsy DeVos:
Betsy DeVos:
2
Mr. Douthat, I recommend you begin reading an admirably informative daily journal called The New York Times. You may write for it but I see no evidence that you read more than your own column.
For instance, in answer to your supercilious ruminations as to why Democrats vociferously oppose DeVos, your superiors on the editorial board have written, "Betsy DeVos Teaches the Value of Ignorance". Read that Editorial - it will answer your questions. Do that.
Be brave! Reach beyond the Vatican's L'Osservatore Romano, and add some reality-based literature into your reading diet. You will find it invigorating.
For instance, in answer to your supercilious ruminations as to why Democrats vociferously oppose DeVos, your superiors on the editorial board have written, "Betsy DeVos Teaches the Value of Ignorance". Read that Editorial - it will answer your questions. Do that.
Be brave! Reach beyond the Vatican's L'Osservatore Romano, and add some reality-based literature into your reading diet. You will find it invigorating.
3
I am not a Democrat, and I have no love of teacher's unions.
Her nomination was utterly unacceptable. She made it abundantly clear that she has no idea what laws and policies the Department of Education is responsible for implementing and no interest in learning about them, either. Only with our current crop of nihilistic Republicans is ignorance of one's job a selling point.
There are plenty of well-prepared, intelligent conservatives who specialize in educational policy and have an interest in serving their government. Why weren't they nominated?
Her nomination was utterly unacceptable. She made it abundantly clear that she has no idea what laws and policies the Department of Education is responsible for implementing and no interest in learning about them, either. Only with our current crop of nihilistic Republicans is ignorance of one's job a selling point.
There are plenty of well-prepared, intelligent conservatives who specialize in educational policy and have an interest in serving their government. Why weren't they nominated?
76
While Ross D. may find "comfort" in Democrats fighting against the appointment of an incompetent to the presidents cabinet, I'd be more concerned about the fact that we have an administration that appoints multiple incompetents to important posts.
Apparently the slogan for the wealthy undesirables Trump appoints is the old familiar motto "Money talks and nobody walks." And if you remember your Crazy Eddy history, you know how that turns out.
Apparently the slogan for the wealthy undesirables Trump appoints is the old familiar motto "Money talks and nobody walks." And if you remember your Crazy Eddy history, you know how that turns out.
Just when you thought Ross Douthat was returning to sanity, he comes up with this gem.
DeVos was not opposed for partisan reasons, or because she is some bizarre bogeyman for Democrats, but for the simple reason that she is the most unqualified nominee for any Cabinet position in recent memory.
Should Douthat dispute that, all he has to do is suggest someone who was less qualified.
Anything to hide the real issue, eh, Ross?
DeVos was not opposed for partisan reasons, or because she is some bizarre bogeyman for Democrats, but for the simple reason that she is the most unqualified nominee for any Cabinet position in recent memory.
Should Douthat dispute that, all he has to do is suggest someone who was less qualified.
Anything to hide the real issue, eh, Ross?
A Vice President tie-breaking 51-50 vote for a hopelessly unqualified candidate with an exclusive career in inherited wealth whose only public education experience appears to be a drive-by viewing of a public school. Obviously $200 million in campaign and political contributionss doesn't buy what it used to, but money still talks.
Thank goodness President Trump is opposed to pay-for-play.
Thank goodness President Trump is opposed to pay-for-play.
2
The thrust of this column cannot be neglected. Opinion pieces tackling political calculations, fine. But, Mr Douthat, when it comes to public education, perhaps you should remind yourself that around 50 million children attend the public schools in the United States. The performance of our education system bedevils us all, regardless of political proclivity. Tell me then, is the new Secretary of Education, whom, in your own words appeared:
"unprepared and even foolish at times"
at her own confirmation hearings, is the correct leader for the department, solely entrusted with the education and development of the next generation of Americans? She posseses the qualities required to shape the system that will determine our national future? You didn't really bother to get into that whole learny-schooly part did ya? Hmm. But, the Democrats are petty and impotent.
You are on record now Mr Douthat. Education be damned, it's all partisan political warfare now... kids, drop your books and get your guns, because the "potential grizzlies are coming for you. Mr Douthat will write the story.
"unprepared and even foolish at times"
at her own confirmation hearings, is the correct leader for the department, solely entrusted with the education and development of the next generation of Americans? She posseses the qualities required to shape the system that will determine our national future? You didn't really bother to get into that whole learny-schooly part did ya? Hmm. But, the Democrats are petty and impotent.
You are on record now Mr Douthat. Education be damned, it's all partisan political warfare now... kids, drop your books and get your guns, because the "potential grizzlies are coming for you. Mr Douthat will write the story.
yes, the maternal Betsy DeVos is comforting but installing Jim Crow in public schools is not. there is no reason for not fully funding public schools other than white flight and prejudice.
this woman has no more business in the Department of Education than my lab puppy.
this woman has no more business in the Department of Education than my lab puppy.
Disingenuous and insulting. What part of the fact that DeVos is totally unqualified for this position don't you get?
What new heights of hypocrisy does it take for you to support this person for a high office requiring leadership in a foundation of our democracy - education - even though she lacks any credentials, experience, or even the most basic knowledge of public education?
Does the fact that she and her family have spent millions lobbying for for-profit charter schools in Michigan, which have been dismal failures while siphoning millions of dollars from Michigan's public schools - devastating education for poor kids - bother you at all?
As a Catholic, do you have no qualms at all about enriching the already-obscenely wealthy at the expense of the poor - and taxpayers?
Curious that you treat the subject of education so cavalierly, too. Yes, we liberals ARE concerned about providing a high-quality public education to every child and young person. We know education enables the poor and immigrants to escape poverty, assimilate into our culture, and rise the economic ladder. We know a well-educated citizenry is vital to democracy.
You know very well that "School Choice" is just a euphemism for "destroy public schools" so wealthy corporations can profit.
Just how do you justify this? How are you OK with DeVos' total lack of qualifications - or integrity? The only possible answer is hypocrisy. And you know what Jesus said about that.
What new heights of hypocrisy does it take for you to support this person for a high office requiring leadership in a foundation of our democracy - education - even though she lacks any credentials, experience, or even the most basic knowledge of public education?
Does the fact that she and her family have spent millions lobbying for for-profit charter schools in Michigan, which have been dismal failures while siphoning millions of dollars from Michigan's public schools - devastating education for poor kids - bother you at all?
As a Catholic, do you have no qualms at all about enriching the already-obscenely wealthy at the expense of the poor - and taxpayers?
Curious that you treat the subject of education so cavalierly, too. Yes, we liberals ARE concerned about providing a high-quality public education to every child and young person. We know education enables the poor and immigrants to escape poverty, assimilate into our culture, and rise the economic ladder. We know a well-educated citizenry is vital to democracy.
You know very well that "School Choice" is just a euphemism for "destroy public schools" so wealthy corporations can profit.
Just how do you justify this? How are you OK with DeVos' total lack of qualifications - or integrity? The only possible answer is hypocrisy. And you know what Jesus said about that.
Conspicuously absent from Douthat's assessment on DeVos' advocacy of vouchers and charter schools is how those schools can in many cases choose to turn away children with disabilities, who are more expensive and difficult to educate, as Senator Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire made clear in the DeVos confirmation hearings. This runs a real risk of leaving our public schools as repositories for the most behaviorally and academically challenged kids.
If DeVos, as she claimed in her hearings, is 'sensitive' to the needs of students with disabilities, like my son with Down syndrome and Hassan's with cerebral palsy, she will perceive the rightness of inclusion as fundamental policy. Moreover, she will enforce it, through IDEA, because it is the law.
If DeVos, as she claimed in her hearings, is 'sensitive' to the needs of students with disabilities, like my son with Down syndrome and Hassan's with cerebral palsy, she will perceive the rightness of inclusion as fundamental policy. Moreover, she will enforce it, through IDEA, because it is the law.
"But the fervor and pitch of the opposition basically reflected the present Democratic Party at its worst".
Actually, Mr. Douthat, the fervor and pitch is mirroring and mitigating the Republican party at IT'S worst. Unqualified billionaires (so much for running on the "common man" platform) thrust into the executive branch with hare-brained ideas on religious charter schools and brain retraining centers who profit on the fears of parents with no peer reviewed science to validate it.
While there are honorable men and women who will serve in the administrative branch whom I respect yet disagree with (Mattis, Tillerson), Mrs DeVos is not among them. Diplomatic posts are for patronage. Not the future of the nation's children.
Actually, Mr. Douthat, the fervor and pitch is mirroring and mitigating the Republican party at IT'S worst. Unqualified billionaires (so much for running on the "common man" platform) thrust into the executive branch with hare-brained ideas on religious charter schools and brain retraining centers who profit on the fears of parents with no peer reviewed science to validate it.
While there are honorable men and women who will serve in the administrative branch whom I respect yet disagree with (Mattis, Tillerson), Mrs DeVos is not among them. Diplomatic posts are for patronage. Not the future of the nation's children.
This article can be summed up by the following alternative fact presented by the writer: "I don’t want to make mock of all DeVos opposition."
Am I the only one that feels like this piece's only intent was to ridicule the opposition to DeVos's confirmation? I mean, it's an Op-Ed article but still.... kinda dry with real content, #sorrynotsorry.
Am I the only one that feels like this piece's only intent was to ridicule the opposition to DeVos's confirmation? I mean, it's an Op-Ed article but still.... kinda dry with real content, #sorrynotsorry.
"DeVos did look unprepared and even foolish at times during her confirmation hearings..."
You think?
Perhaps she looked unprepared because she doesn't have the knowledge or experience to run the department that she has been nominated to head.
You know, sort of like Rick Perry who had no clue as to what the Energy Department does and, who, with a degree in Animal Science, is replacing someone with a doctorate in Physics, who, in turn, replaced someone who won a Nobel prize in physics.
Perhaps it is too much to ask that the individuals the president, especially a Republican one, nominates have the education and experience to run the agencies that they have been nominated to head.
I suspect Trump would be echoing W. Bush's "Brownie, you're doing a heck of a job," and saying something similar to Betsy, Rickie and Scottie, regardless of how bad they screw up their respective departments.
You think?
Perhaps she looked unprepared because she doesn't have the knowledge or experience to run the department that she has been nominated to head.
You know, sort of like Rick Perry who had no clue as to what the Energy Department does and, who, with a degree in Animal Science, is replacing someone with a doctorate in Physics, who, in turn, replaced someone who won a Nobel prize in physics.
Perhaps it is too much to ask that the individuals the president, especially a Republican one, nominates have the education and experience to run the agencies that they have been nominated to head.
I suspect Trump would be echoing W. Bush's "Brownie, you're doing a heck of a job," and saying something similar to Betsy, Rickie and Scottie, regardless of how bad they screw up their respective departments.
1
To argue that the Dems should not have opposed Devos because the candidate for Secy of State was more troubling (And given his ties to Russia he was very troubling), is akin to arguing that the US should not have landed on, and liberated, NorthWest Africa in the autumn of 1942 because France itself was a bigger target.
As Trump is evil exponentially magnified (Does he ever tell the truth), it's time to fight Trump on all fronts. This is not the time to malign the opposition. From the day Obama walked into the White House republicans did everything in their power to make his programs and presidency fail. They were so intent on defaming the Democrats that the well-being of America was, to them, an after thought. Now we have a real Manchurian candidate in the White House. People should fight with full-throated unrestrained fury.
As Trump is evil exponentially magnified (Does he ever tell the truth), it's time to fight Trump on all fronts. This is not the time to malign the opposition. From the day Obama walked into the White House republicans did everything in their power to make his programs and presidency fail. They were so intent on defaming the Democrats that the well-being of America was, to them, an after thought. Now we have a real Manchurian candidate in the White House. People should fight with full-throated unrestrained fury.
"And even dragged a couple of wavering Republicans along with them."
"I don’t want to make mock of all DeVos opposition. Senators had every right to vote against her if they felt her underqualified or uninformed."
Ross: This trashing of people followed by "Who me? I didn't say anything bad." Has this always been your instinct or did you learn, admiringly, from DJT last year?
"I don’t want to make mock of all DeVos opposition. Senators had every right to vote against her if they felt her underqualified or uninformed."
Ross: This trashing of people followed by "Who me? I didn't say anything bad." Has this always been your instinct or did you learn, admiringly, from DJT last year?
Your snarky analysis misses the point completely, Ross.
Despite the DOE's relative insignificance, the Dems fought hard on the DeVos nomination for one reason and one reason only: it looked as if they might win.
Despite the DOE's relative insignificance, the Dems fought hard on the DeVos nomination for one reason and one reason only: it looked as if they might win.
Its hard to imagine a more willful misreading of events. DeVos is unqualified. She won no democratic votes because she espouses a ruinous education policy, and we obviously do no good as education secretary. If the democrats are guilty of partisanship, how to explain all but unanimous support among republicans? Principled? In a pig's eye.
Upper middle class issues? Obamacare? Expansion of Medicaid? Higher thresholds for overtime pay? Support for Planned Parenthood? On issue upon issue, democrats favor policies and programs that help the bottom 80% more that the top 20%, assuming that what Douthat refers to. If wealthy educated democrats get exercised over them, even if they're not pocketbook issues for them, I fail to see what's to criticize.
DeVos won't affect schools in Scarsdale or Darien one whit. She's just one more cog in the wheel of republican deception about what's wrong in this country and how to fix it. Taking her down, or trying to, is one step in building a coalition of the conscious in the Senate to keep Trump from applying his anti-Midas touch to everything he touches, and leave something intact for his successor.
Mr Douthat, you ain't hardly seen the half of it. The democratic wing of the Democratic Party has had all it can take of malevolent republicans and malingering democrats in congress. McConnell said the people's voice should be heard. So true. And he's about to get an earful.
Upper middle class issues? Obamacare? Expansion of Medicaid? Higher thresholds for overtime pay? Support for Planned Parenthood? On issue upon issue, democrats favor policies and programs that help the bottom 80% more that the top 20%, assuming that what Douthat refers to. If wealthy educated democrats get exercised over them, even if they're not pocketbook issues for them, I fail to see what's to criticize.
DeVos won't affect schools in Scarsdale or Darien one whit. She's just one more cog in the wheel of republican deception about what's wrong in this country and how to fix it. Taking her down, or trying to, is one step in building a coalition of the conscious in the Senate to keep Trump from applying his anti-Midas touch to everything he touches, and leave something intact for his successor.
Mr Douthat, you ain't hardly seen the half of it. The democratic wing of the Democratic Party has had all it can take of malevolent republicans and malingering democrats in congress. McConnell said the people's voice should be heard. So true. And he's about to get an earful.
Did you hear the giant ROAR in the background when Betsy DeVos got confirmed? That wasn't the teachers unions. It wasn't "politics as usual." It was the sound of every parent who's child is covered by I.D.E.A.
Ask any Senator who voted against DeVos- after her atrocious interview, these parents had their phones ringing off the hooks.
This silly woman has no idea of the force that will be unleashed against her.
The most vicious animal in the wilderness is a mother protecting her young, and these parents have learned how to fight tooth and nail for their children.
Think the women's march was big? You haven't seen anything yet.
Ask any Senator who voted against DeVos- after her atrocious interview, these parents had their phones ringing off the hooks.
This silly woman has no idea of the force that will be unleashed against her.
The most vicious animal in the wilderness is a mother protecting her young, and these parents have learned how to fight tooth and nail for their children.
Think the women's march was big? You haven't seen anything yet.
The Education Department is about public education. It needs a person who believes in public education. De Vos does not. She knows nothing about public education except that it's what her fevered little mind wants to destroy. She is utterly ignorant and dumb as a post--and that's an insult to posts. But she sure knows how to buy her votes and congress sure knows how to go to bed with the most repulsive right wingers as long they pay up front.
Good column. Predictably, the comments reflect the left's revulsion against the non-left in general and the new administration in particular.
Public schools will not disappear in this country, particularly in districts which have the finances and parental oversight to ensure excellence. The school charter movement is focused on those districts which lack the finances and parental oversight to ensure progress, much less excellence. What terrifies the unions is the challenge to the livelihood of teachers who don't produce results that are reasonable under their circumstances. The reason I put in those last four words in the prior sentence is that I understand that teachers in less privileged districts face special challenges that teachers don't face in more privileged environments. But that is not an argument that the teachers unions choose to make.
Public schools will not disappear in this country, particularly in districts which have the finances and parental oversight to ensure excellence. The school charter movement is focused on those districts which lack the finances and parental oversight to ensure progress, much less excellence. What terrifies the unions is the challenge to the livelihood of teachers who don't produce results that are reasonable under their circumstances. The reason I put in those last four words in the prior sentence is that I understand that teachers in less privileged districts face special challenges that teachers don't face in more privileged environments. But that is not an argument that the teachers unions choose to make.
DeVos was opposed by many parents not just because of her position on school choice, but because of her ignorance of special education laws. To not know that there is a federal law on the books since 1975--1975!!!--that guarantees children with special needs a free and appropriate public education is a really big deal. Thousands and thousands of parents of children with special needs called their congressional reps to speak out against this horrible choice.
We will not forget this.
We will not forget this.
Here's a possible reason that the Democrat's went all out on DeVos.
They know Sessions is a lock because the Republicans have already made clear that racism is ok as are attacks on voting rights.
They know Carson is a lock because the Republicans have already made clear that housing discrimination is ok
They did however think that there was some small chance that three Republican Senators might actually think about the welfare of our children. Alas, even that was not to be as all but 2 voted for an individual who knows nothing about education, running a large institution, is antagonistic to public education, and bought these Senators off to get her position.
Speaking of comfortable positions, is there anything more tiresome than the Douthat tactic of avoiding the substance of the concerns (she's incompetent) and focusing on how he believes others should spend their energy in dissent (see Black Lives Matter, Women's March, DeVos)?
They know Sessions is a lock because the Republicans have already made clear that racism is ok as are attacks on voting rights.
They know Carson is a lock because the Republicans have already made clear that housing discrimination is ok
They did however think that there was some small chance that three Republican Senators might actually think about the welfare of our children. Alas, even that was not to be as all but 2 voted for an individual who knows nothing about education, running a large institution, is antagonistic to public education, and bought these Senators off to get her position.
Speaking of comfortable positions, is there anything more tiresome than the Douthat tactic of avoiding the substance of the concerns (she's incompetent) and focusing on how he believes others should spend their energy in dissent (see Black Lives Matter, Women's March, DeVos)?
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Oh really? Betsy DeVos DOES NOT hold even a Bachelors degree in Education!
How many ways does it take to drive that home? This is crazy to have her heading the education of this country. Repeat - this woman has never studied a thing about education.
Trump was soooooo amazed with Gorsuch's educational credentials. But he couldn't care less about educational credentials of the very person that is supposed to lead the country's education?
Another piece of the insane world of Donald Trump.
How many ways does it take to drive that home? This is crazy to have her heading the education of this country. Repeat - this woman has never studied a thing about education.
Trump was soooooo amazed with Gorsuch's educational credentials. But he couldn't care less about educational credentials of the very person that is supposed to lead the country's education?
Another piece of the insane world of Donald Trump.
Can we not overlook the ethics? As explained in The Hill by Bush’s former ethics lawyer, “Her extensive financial holdings present significant—and unresolved—conflict of interest issues. She also failed to provide the Senate with accurate information about her involvement with outside organizations.”
DeVos is everything that’s wrong. She is an inherited billionaire who has influence exclusively because she has money. We might disagree with her policy or ideology and we should surely condemn her ignorance. But her ethics should make her a nonstarter. The outrage is not that all the Democrats voted against her but that (nearly) all the Republicans voted in her favor.
There is plenty to oppose in this Trump administration. If DeVos caught on, that’s terrific. Hopefully opposition to Sessions will catch on, too. If indigent minorities and immigrants don’t have as big a helper as public schools do, that means more of us should help them. But it serves no purpose to criticize defenders of public schools just because they almost won.
DeVos is everything that’s wrong. She is an inherited billionaire who has influence exclusively because she has money. We might disagree with her policy or ideology and we should surely condemn her ignorance. But her ethics should make her a nonstarter. The outrage is not that all the Democrats voted against her but that (nearly) all the Republicans voted in her favor.
There is plenty to oppose in this Trump administration. If DeVos caught on, that’s terrific. Hopefully opposition to Sessions will catch on, too. If indigent minorities and immigrants don’t have as big a helper as public schools do, that means more of us should help them. But it serves no purpose to criticize defenders of public schools just because they almost won.
Ross, I grew up in a motley town with a blend of ethnicities, religions and races to rival anything today. There was plenty of conflict, not the least between the Catholics and the rest of us. I walked some blocks out of my way to avoid being pelted with rocks by the Catholic children sheltered behind the chain-linked fence.
But thank God their parochial school only served k-6 so for the last six years of our schooling we were brought together in public Jr. High and High Schools where we learned to like (and even love) one another, understand one another, and work together toward common goals in sports, the arts, and civic events. Those shared experiences went a long way in countering the prejudices I was imbued with at church, in my family and in the predominantly protestant culture of the community.
I'm a huge fan of public education. I believe it is the primary force that blended our nation together. So people like Mrs. DeVos strike fear in my heart. They would have us do as much of the third world does, separate our children and teach them to hate, or at the least distrust all who are not like them. I don't want to return to an era like that.
But thank God their parochial school only served k-6 so for the last six years of our schooling we were brought together in public Jr. High and High Schools where we learned to like (and even love) one another, understand one another, and work together toward common goals in sports, the arts, and civic events. Those shared experiences went a long way in countering the prejudices I was imbued with at church, in my family and in the predominantly protestant culture of the community.
I'm a huge fan of public education. I believe it is the primary force that blended our nation together. So people like Mrs. DeVos strike fear in my heart. They would have us do as much of the third world does, separate our children and teach them to hate, or at the least distrust all who are not like them. I don't want to return to an era like that.
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A short jaunt to wikipedia shows me Douthat, a prodigy of a Times columnist at not yet forty, attended Hamden Hall, a private high school, and Harvard, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. I cannot see if Mr. Douthat has children, which perhaps would alter his opinions here.
His condescension and mockery caused me to suspect some such background.
At sixty-five, born to factory-working children of the 1890s immigration wave, and after teaching language, reading and writing in the public schools of New Haven, Los Angeles and Long Beach, at UCLA, in private all-Armenian, and all-Catholic schools, both co-ed and single-gendered—I have a different opinion.
I'm also a parent. Some questions I've never understood about choice and vouchers: where, exactly, does one find a good private school in L.A. for a voucher of two, six or even ten grand a year? Existing schools are already full. What of transportation? I would guess most parents like their children's schools to be close by.
Charter school staff tend to be younger, less experienced, have fewer masters degrees, have been in their schools for less time, earn less, are more racially diverse (70% of teachers are female and white). Turnover at charter schools is higher, The schools have high rates of failure and closure, many are not vetted; only 7% are unionized.
Charters need close financial and curricular vetting. I know not why they fall outside the teaching unions, benefits or the salary schedules.
And—Blackwater.
His condescension and mockery caused me to suspect some such background.
At sixty-five, born to factory-working children of the 1890s immigration wave, and after teaching language, reading and writing in the public schools of New Haven, Los Angeles and Long Beach, at UCLA, in private all-Armenian, and all-Catholic schools, both co-ed and single-gendered—I have a different opinion.
I'm also a parent. Some questions I've never understood about choice and vouchers: where, exactly, does one find a good private school in L.A. for a voucher of two, six or even ten grand a year? Existing schools are already full. What of transportation? I would guess most parents like their children's schools to be close by.
Charter school staff tend to be younger, less experienced, have fewer masters degrees, have been in their schools for less time, earn less, are more racially diverse (70% of teachers are female and white). Turnover at charter schools is higher, The schools have high rates of failure and closure, many are not vetted; only 7% are unionized.
Charters need close financial and curricular vetting. I know not why they fall outside the teaching unions, benefits or the salary schedules.
And—Blackwater.
"I don’t want to make mock of all DeVos opposition. Senators had every right to vote against her if they felt her underqualified or uninformed. But the fervor and pitch of the opposition basically reflected the present Democratic Party at its worst: unstinting in defense of bureaucracy and its employees, more excited about causes dear to the upper middle class than the interests of the poor, and always girding for the battle with the Real Enemy, religious conservatives, no matter what the moment actually demands."
"If" they felt her under qualified? She has no qualifications in education, unless one considers funneling money away from public education as legitimate. Sorry, but great public schools aren't about the upper middle class, but about all children.
"If" they felt her under qualified? She has no qualifications in education, unless one considers funneling money away from public education as legitimate. Sorry, but great public schools aren't about the upper middle class, but about all children.
Ross,
You fail to mention a huge and influential group: mom's of special needs students. The uncertainty of Federal support and funding scared many mothers. Don't poke those lions.
In addition, the "pay to play" factor this nomination highlighted was "yuge!"
You fail to mention a huge and influential group: mom's of special needs students. The uncertainty of Federal support and funding scared many mothers. Don't poke those lions.
In addition, the "pay to play" factor this nomination highlighted was "yuge!"
Oh get off your high horse.
For the middle class the way up IS education. It is personal for people who value being educated, not privileged.
Not very many people have rich families with pyramid schemes to help them rise up through the ranks. Betsy DeVos is the poster girl for the undeserving rich who reward themselves while being unskilled and incompetent.
Big change/Not.
For the middle class the way up IS education. It is personal for people who value being educated, not privileged.
Not very many people have rich families with pyramid schemes to help them rise up through the ranks. Betsy DeVos is the poster girl for the undeserving rich who reward themselves while being unskilled and incompetent.
Big change/Not.
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Why do Democrats care about Betsy DeVos? Becuase we have children and grandchildren, and would like them to get the same chance at a public school education that will qualify them to be a good citizen and find a rewarding career.
More importantly, I want their colleges, coworkers and fellow citizens to also be capable of understanding the differences between fact and dogma, reality and fantasy.
MS DeVos is very interested in providing lot ways for charlatans to form charters, collect state money, skim profits, and skim students. The assessments of charter schools have not shown them to be better or more effective--but they do show that by preselecting carefully, then expelling students who are not doing as well (based on dubious charges), they can manipulate their performance. They can also teach with one style, hire non-teachers to present the material, and again, expel those who seem not able to keep up.
Public education is the backstop of a working republic, with the electorate in charge. DeVos has the ideal system for a Theocracy, or a Fascist state, with the only requirements to blindly follow the great leader, reveled truth, and Fox News.
More importantly, I want their colleges, coworkers and fellow citizens to also be capable of understanding the differences between fact and dogma, reality and fantasy.
MS DeVos is very interested in providing lot ways for charlatans to form charters, collect state money, skim profits, and skim students. The assessments of charter schools have not shown them to be better or more effective--but they do show that by preselecting carefully, then expelling students who are not doing as well (based on dubious charges), they can manipulate their performance. They can also teach with one style, hire non-teachers to present the material, and again, expel those who seem not able to keep up.
Public education is the backstop of a working republic, with the electorate in charge. DeVos has the ideal system for a Theocracy, or a Fascist state, with the only requirements to blindly follow the great leader, reveled truth, and Fox News.
It's tempting to simply note that your entire premise is faulty: it's not only DeVos' nomination for whom the Democrats have manned the barricades (see "Tillerson, Rex") - efforts they admit are futile, but worthwhile as history remembers those those who stand for what is right and sane.
The better question, Ross, is where's your column asking why principled conservatives aren't opposing the least qualified slate of cabinet nominees in modern history? Or does staying in Don the Con's good books long enough to secure those budget-busting tax cuts for the rich (while stripping health care and the social safety net) triumph over all?
The better question, Ross, is where's your column asking why principled conservatives aren't opposing the least qualified slate of cabinet nominees in modern history? Or does staying in Don the Con's good books long enough to secure those budget-busting tax cuts for the rich (while stripping health care and the social safety net) triumph over all?
Just say it Ross - your condescension is clear -- it's the Soccer Moms -- so cute when they get angry.
The issue with DeVos' nomination was not so much the Teacher's Unions. Sorry. It was the 200 million dollars that it cost for someone to buy a job that they are completely unqualified for that ruffled so many feathers.
The populists voted Trump in - not conservatives. Don't forget that.
Christians may be happy with Christian schools -- will they be very happy with school choice/Federal funding for Islamic schools, Hebrew schools, for-profit online schools? All with no accountability.
The only honest point in your piece was about city's charters modestly outperforming public schools, however you forgot that this modest improvement comes while rejecting the neediest students and skimming from the best students from the top.
Our nation's public schools are still the way most of our children are educated. They should be given the resources and acknowledgement they deserve, not your condescension.
The issue with DeVos' nomination was not so much the Teacher's Unions. Sorry. It was the 200 million dollars that it cost for someone to buy a job that they are completely unqualified for that ruffled so many feathers.
The populists voted Trump in - not conservatives. Don't forget that.
Christians may be happy with Christian schools -- will they be very happy with school choice/Federal funding for Islamic schools, Hebrew schools, for-profit online schools? All with no accountability.
The only honest point in your piece was about city's charters modestly outperforming public schools, however you forgot that this modest improvement comes while rejecting the neediest students and skimming from the best students from the top.
Our nation's public schools are still the way most of our children are educated. They should be given the resources and acknowledgement they deserve, not your condescension.
Oh, dear -- just when I thought you might be something more than a party-line Republican.
Ross, the reason the Democrats opposed Betsy DeVos is because she is totally unfit to serve in her job. The Secretary of Education's job is to set national policy for our PUBLIC schools. Ms. DeVos does not believe in pubic education. This, by itself, should disqualify her.
We would never settle for an Attorney General who said he didn't believe in the rule of law, or a Defense Secretary who thought America shouldn't have a military.
The Democrats' opposition here was very simple: unqualified people shouldn't be running cabinet departments. You should be joining them, Ross.
Ross, the reason the Democrats opposed Betsy DeVos is because she is totally unfit to serve in her job. The Secretary of Education's job is to set national policy for our PUBLIC schools. Ms. DeVos does not believe in pubic education. This, by itself, should disqualify her.
We would never settle for an Attorney General who said he didn't believe in the rule of law, or a Defense Secretary who thought America shouldn't have a military.
The Democrats' opposition here was very simple: unqualified people shouldn't be running cabinet departments. You should be joining them, Ross.
A "modest expansion of charter schools in Massachusetts?" This one line displays the stunning lack of knowledge that cripples this deeply flawed column. Question 2 would have obliterated the cap on charters, allowing twelve new schools to open every year in perpetuity.
There is also a much more obvious answer to the question of why her nomination stirred such vehement opposition (besides the fact that she was obviously unqualified). It was a fight that the Dems thought they could win. It would have been nice to have successfully opposed at least one of Trump's nominees, making her only the tenth cabinet nominees ever successfully defeated in the history of our country.
There is also a much more obvious answer to the question of why her nomination stirred such vehement opposition (besides the fact that she was obviously unqualified). It was a fight that the Dems thought they could win. It would have been nice to have successfully opposed at least one of Trump's nominees, making her only the tenth cabinet nominees ever successfully defeated in the history of our country.
"So why did the Democrats fight so hard?"
It's not that complicated, Mr. Douthat. It was because they had a real chance of winning. Had just one more Republican had some decency they would have.
It takes a real Orwellian newspeak view of the world to blame the Democrats for any of this. I mean, really? Has Trump nominated anyone who is actually qualified? And *this* is what gets under your skin?
Good grief.
It's not that complicated, Mr. Douthat. It was because they had a real chance of winning. Had just one more Republican had some decency they would have.
It takes a real Orwellian newspeak view of the world to blame the Democrats for any of this. I mean, really? Has Trump nominated anyone who is actually qualified? And *this* is what gets under your skin?
Good grief.
Right... we did it to appease the teachers union and not because she is a devout Christian who will undoubtedly try to insert some nonsensical theology into the curriculum or defund public schooling in a way that disproportionately hurts minorities and the poor.
Ross if you and your party had an integrity, you would have opposed her as well, but the pre-trump republicans will trade away most of the county for a modest reduction in their marginal income tax rate.
Ross if you and your party had an integrity, you would have opposed her as well, but the pre-trump republicans will trade away most of the county for a modest reduction in their marginal income tax rate.
During her confirmation hearing, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) asked DeVos whether it is true that her family had donated $200 million to support the Republican Party going back over the years.
“That’s possible,” she answered.
Shame the columnist couldn't connect those same dots. A disgrace actually
“That’s possible,” she answered.
Shame the columnist couldn't connect those same dots. A disgrace actually
Forget Betsy...what this signals is more important...The Republicans can push anything through there is no real opposition.
Democrats insiders and protesters have nothing. If they want to push back they (we) have to come up with something new and push that hard and then come up with another new thing and on and on.
Nothing conventional will work for at least 2 years and that is too long.
Investigative reporting cannot uncover anything other than Trump is a crook (how surprising).
Once he pushes hos Supreme Court guy through like Betsy, the courts wil offer nothing either.
I have some ideas but that is no the point here. The point is Betsy proves they can do what they want however insane.
Democrats insiders and protesters have nothing. If they want to push back they (we) have to come up with something new and push that hard and then come up with another new thing and on and on.
Nothing conventional will work for at least 2 years and that is too long.
Investigative reporting cannot uncover anything other than Trump is a crook (how surprising).
Once he pushes hos Supreme Court guy through like Betsy, the courts wil offer nothing either.
I have some ideas but that is no the point here. The point is Betsy proves they can do what they want however insane.
Ross, so you think this Holy War was predictable. Good.
Liberals actually do care passionately about education. This is the real stuff of politics, the future of our workforce, the love of the next generation, the protection of childhood. And you mock, that Democrats would care! The question is: why don't you? Why are you not incensed that overseeing the education system of our nations children is seen as a job suitable for someone whose only real qualification is the money she paid to the party. She bought her way to the top post so that she can ride her hobbyhorse, yee haa! The government of amateurs, with power beyond their intellect, and confidence way beyond their ability. Their hubris, our fall.
Does Congress have a role in vetting these people?
If not, why the theatre? If so, then it is hard to think of a clearer example of a time when the Republicans might have grasped their responsibility and done their duty to the people, to the children they were elected to serve.
So Ross, you deride the left for their anger? Well get over your victory and open your eyes to the carnage that is unfolding in American values, like caring about education, about children.
Liberals actually do care passionately about education. This is the real stuff of politics, the future of our workforce, the love of the next generation, the protection of childhood. And you mock, that Democrats would care! The question is: why don't you? Why are you not incensed that overseeing the education system of our nations children is seen as a job suitable for someone whose only real qualification is the money she paid to the party. She bought her way to the top post so that she can ride her hobbyhorse, yee haa! The government of amateurs, with power beyond their intellect, and confidence way beyond their ability. Their hubris, our fall.
Does Congress have a role in vetting these people?
If not, why the theatre? If so, then it is hard to think of a clearer example of a time when the Republicans might have grasped their responsibility and done their duty to the people, to the children they were elected to serve.
So Ross, you deride the left for their anger? Well get over your victory and open your eyes to the carnage that is unfolding in American values, like caring about education, about children.
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I am a public school teacher who is also a union member. I have followed this business with Betsy DeVos very closely, and here is my opinion.
That she is completely unqualified is beyond doubt. She objectively seems to be of limited intelligence, and has been so insulated from real life by her inherited wealth that she simply has no clue about why she is so vehemently opposed.
However, given that her brief under Mr. Trump will be to destroy public education and its associated unions, I would rather have an unqualified, clueless airhead than the infinitely more competent and malevolent Michelle Rhee. For all I know, had Ms. DeVos been rejected, Ms. Rhee might have been waiting on deck.
That she is completely unqualified is beyond doubt. She objectively seems to be of limited intelligence, and has been so insulated from real life by her inherited wealth that she simply has no clue about why she is so vehemently opposed.
However, given that her brief under Mr. Trump will be to destroy public education and its associated unions, I would rather have an unqualified, clueless airhead than the infinitely more competent and malevolent Michelle Rhee. For all I know, had Ms. DeVos been rejected, Ms. Rhee might have been waiting on deck.
1
DeVos was supremely unqualified for a cabinet-level position, and as her confirmation hearing demonstrated, she knows next to nothing about education policy issues. Did there need to be yet more reasons to oppose her nomination? Douthat suggests that because Trump poses other greater dangers to the country that Democrats should not reject his lesser political choices, but what is the rationale for that proposition?
Donald Trump is a disaster, and Douthat knows that to be true, and rather than accept that white working class men have driven conservatism into a dark philosophical abyss, and deal with that fact over the next four years, Douthat has decided to criticize Democrats as if everything is alright in his corner of the political spectrum.
Donald Trump is a disaster, and Douthat knows that to be true, and rather than accept that white working class men have driven conservatism into a dark philosophical abyss, and deal with that fact over the next four years, Douthat has decided to criticize Democrats as if everything is alright in his corner of the political spectrum.
3
Why do so many insist on over-complicating a simple matter. The Democrats objections to Ms DeVos are indeed political, albeit not in the way set forth in Mr. Douthat's opinion piece.
Bluntly, it is in the Republican's political interests to gut the public education system because the teachers engaged in that system are not willing to abandon the teaching of interpretive and and critical analysis skills. The entire appeal of the education-for-profit industry so favored by DeVos is that it insists on suppressing those skills in order to please a particular clientele. A clientele which is far more interesting in schools which teach conformity rather than schools which do any real educating.
In short, well-educated people tend to vote Democrat. Poorly-educated ones tend to vote Republican. The Democrats opposed an Education Secretary who seeks to shrink their political base. Republicans supported a Education Secretary who seeks to build theirs. it's as simple as that.
Bluntly, it is in the Republican's political interests to gut the public education system because the teachers engaged in that system are not willing to abandon the teaching of interpretive and and critical analysis skills. The entire appeal of the education-for-profit industry so favored by DeVos is that it insists on suppressing those skills in order to please a particular clientele. A clientele which is far more interesting in schools which teach conformity rather than schools which do any real educating.
In short, well-educated people tend to vote Democrat. Poorly-educated ones tend to vote Republican. The Democrats opposed an Education Secretary who seeks to shrink their political base. Republicans supported a Education Secretary who seeks to build theirs. it's as simple as that.
2
This is poor political analysis. The Democrats do not perceive DeVos to be more dangerous than Trump's other nominees. Jeff Sessions is a racist who will take over the enforcement of US law. Ben Carson is a "pull yourself up by your bootstraps" ideologue who will run a government program serving predominantly people who lack bootstraps to pull. These are scary prospects. However, Trump's other nominees did not display an utter contempt, apathy, and underpreparedness for the job during their confirmation hearings.
The incompetence displayed by DeVos during her hearing bordered on comical. The Democrats assumed that she represented their best shot to convince a few Republicans to jump ship. Unfortunately, they miscalculated: Republicans, concerned exclusively about free-market orthodoxy and undermining public schools, care little that the foolish incompetence of Betsy DeVos will harm American children.
The incompetence displayed by DeVos during her hearing bordered on comical. The Democrats assumed that she represented their best shot to convince a few Republicans to jump ship. Unfortunately, they miscalculated: Republicans, concerned exclusively about free-market orthodoxy and undermining public schools, care little that the foolish incompetence of Betsy DeVos will harm American children.
2
People who donate as much money as Betsy DeVos does should be ineligible for a patronage position with such a huge budget that effects so many people. It is unethical.
Perhaps the cabinet should be elected and part of the campaign. If they knew then what they know now would they vote for Trump? His cabinet is the exact opposite of his campaign promises.
Perhaps the cabinet should be elected and part of the campaign. If they knew then what they know now would they vote for Trump? His cabinet is the exact opposite of his campaign promises.
2
I wonder how many Republicans who voted for DeVos have kids in public schools or know anything about the value good public schools have for the growth, safety, security, AND promise of opportunity of the (dream that increasingly used to be the) USA?
DeVos leading the department of education is like a non-scientist leading the department of Energy! (Oh, wait, that is happening, too, in this horror show of Kekocracy.)
DeVos leading the department of education is like a non-scientist leading the department of Energy! (Oh, wait, that is happening, too, in this horror show of Kekocracy.)
58
No evidence, Ross? I guess we are at Burger King, Home of the Whopper. There is plenty of evidence what has been foisted on the poor black population of Detroit by Devos has been a failure. No increase in scores, no accountability, schools all over the place opening and closing, 20,000 excess seats, Public schools deteriorating further as resources bleed off, financial malfeasance and zero accountability.
Further, none of Betsy's crusade ever goes on in the rich, white, well funded enclaves of the Forest Hills schools where her extended family lives. Nor does it happen in Birmingham, Bloomfiled Hills or Grosse Pointe. Essentially, the only laboratory for her unique destructive theories are poor black urban areas with unionized teachers. Unions are her and her families enemy for some reason. She created a solution, then went looking for a problem.
If ever there was proof positive of the Party over the country, as practiced by Senate Republicans, it is in this nomination. She has no credentials, no advanced degree, no work history. However, she did give 200 million to various candidates and the GOP over the years. That is really the bigger issue. The GOP and the 50 Senators have little integrity and it's really just money that matters in US politics.
Vouchers will not help Catholic schools, Ross. They work precisely because the children understand how big of a sacrifice Mom and Dad make to send them there.
Further, none of Betsy's crusade ever goes on in the rich, white, well funded enclaves of the Forest Hills schools where her extended family lives. Nor does it happen in Birmingham, Bloomfiled Hills or Grosse Pointe. Essentially, the only laboratory for her unique destructive theories are poor black urban areas with unionized teachers. Unions are her and her families enemy for some reason. She created a solution, then went looking for a problem.
If ever there was proof positive of the Party over the country, as practiced by Senate Republicans, it is in this nomination. She has no credentials, no advanced degree, no work history. However, she did give 200 million to various candidates and the GOP over the years. That is really the bigger issue. The GOP and the 50 Senators have little integrity and it's really just money that matters in US politics.
Vouchers will not help Catholic schools, Ross. They work precisely because the children understand how big of a sacrifice Mom and Dad make to send them there.
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What I find more than troubling is Douthat's attitude of that seems almost smug: in this terrible, dangerous time, he softens reality with 'in these distinctly abnormal times....with Donald Trump and his group of unprepared revolutionaries'....etc Despite questioning and demonstrating some concern, there is a tone of satire. Will Trump surrender Eastern Europe, etc while downplaying the choice of the Education Secretary's importance! Instead og being more critical of the whole lot and the whole situation, the situation is minimized by asking why this one, not the other. I don't get it. I don't see how this thinking is informing, or educating us, helping us to think critically as citizens, or 'mediating'. Mr. Douthat would do better to say how urgent it is and was to try to protest every appointment, advising his readers to get in touch with the Senate, insist on not having bought Republicans (from De Vos, which he does not mention in his text) be the total selfish syncophants they are. What is the message here, Mr. Journalist?
Mr. Douthat, I recommend this thoughtful piece to help you get your facts straight. Opposition to Ms. DeVos was about something more important than politics. It was about her fundamental lack of experience and expertise. She brought nothing to the table except her checkbook, which turned out to be all she needed. Shameful day for our government. Sad day for our children.
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/07/opinion/betsy-devos-teaches-the-value...
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/07/opinion/betsy-devos-teaches-the-value...
2
Mr. Douthat. In a nation so fond of its Bill of Rights and Freedoms, public education is one of the few genuine rights young American children and their parents can grasp. As the nation continues to tirelessly debate and reject health for its citizens as a basic right, strong, supported public education for all stands as a beacon for what the founders of this country envisioned. Jefferson's educated electorate remains critical to the success of this country.
You may consider the rejection of the dismantling of that right as political theatre. The majority of this nation's voters strongly disagree with you.
You may consider the rejection of the dismantling of that right as political theatre. The majority of this nation's voters strongly disagree with you.
2
It's always enlightening to notice what conservatives don't say rather than what they do. Here, Mr. Douthat mocks the fervor with which Democrats (and a lot of other Americans) opposed a remarkably unqualified nominee who just happened to have distributed nearly a million dollars among the senators who supported her. Ha ha, silly Democrats, all that fussing over a rich religious zealot who bought her way into a job dismantling the public education system.
What he doesn't say is anything that suggests she's minimally competent to be a school principal, much less run a cabinet.
This is what I find so comforting in its predictability: morally bankrupt conservatives who prefer sticking it to liberals above looking out for citizens. Now lecture us on how awesome it will be having a vote-suppressing racist in charge of the Department of Justice, and a wealthy businessman who hires undocumented workers running the Department of Labor.
What he doesn't say is anything that suggests she's minimally competent to be a school principal, much less run a cabinet.
This is what I find so comforting in its predictability: morally bankrupt conservatives who prefer sticking it to liberals above looking out for citizens. Now lecture us on how awesome it will be having a vote-suppressing racist in charge of the Department of Justice, and a wealthy businessman who hires undocumented workers running the Department of Labor.
2
Mr. Douthat, all of your fine reasoning and logic does not obscure the fact that Ms. DeVos is a mediocre Education Secretary, not really qualified for the job, nor in the least bit sensitive to the needs of school children. She is certainly not one of the "best and brightest" in this firmament of mediocrities that constitutes the Trump cabinet.
2
Typical Republican. Somebody who makes at least five times what a Teacher's Union teacher makes trashing them while sitting at a desk pushing a pen around while they try to teach our children despite less funding. And at the same time he's defending the dismantling of the very thing the teachers are trying to uphold. Keep up the good work,Ross. I hope your group sleeps well.
1
Mr. Douthat appears to condone the ignorance of the new Secretary of Education. President Trump is entitled to his team. Democrats are entitled to demonstrate that his team is totally and utterly unqualified. Blaming the unions is old and worn. Every day citizens are becoming more concerned about the situation in the United States. A lame opinion judging the protest of a single appointee is just that.
Mr. Douthat sees Trump as the menace he is but spends an entire column worrying about the fact that Democrats object strenuously to Ms. DeVos, who provided false facts to the Senate committee & was unable to answer simple questions about widely discussed issues in education. Why not a column on senators such as McCain and Graham, often described as reasonable GOP voices who vote yes on DeVos and the other Cabinet nominees whose nominations appear aimed at destroying the agencies they will control? The structure is on fire and he concerns himself with the lawn.
Trump has taken traditional Republican anti-intellectualism and turned it into something new: anti-intelligence. DeVos' stumbling, bumbling, amateur-hour confirmation hearing is just the latest manifestation. Douthat has cast himself as an anti-Trumpist conservative, but his dismissive downplaying of the most egregious display of incompetence since.. gosh, who knows? the presidential debates? .. indicates he is being sucked into the void. Resistance is futile, apparently, to formerly well-intended conservatives.
Mr. Douthat, you have a grand opportunity here: staking new ground for principled conservatism by contrasting it to dumb Trumpism. Don't blow it.
Mr. Douthat, you have a grand opportunity here: staking new ground for principled conservatism by contrasting it to dumb Trumpism. Don't blow it.
What Mr. Douthat seems to miss is that this is an appointment that may have ramification that last much longer than one or two presidential terms. Policies created by the Secretary of HUD for example, can be undone with a pen-stroke. The same is true of many of the other Cabinet-level positions. Education is a different story however.
While the Federal government does not have direct Constitutional authority over education in the Nation's schools, it can exert a great deal of pressure through the distribution or the denial of funding and through the Federal Judiciary in the enforcement of statutory law and Supreme Court decisions.
Decisions made about Education today can have a social impact that can persist over generations rather than merely the incumbency of politicians. Once you get it wrong, it can take a generation or more to repair the societal damage.
My concern about Ms DeVos in this position is that she has absolutely no idea what good educational practice looks like and lacking knowledge, training, and experience, is quite happy to approach Educational Policy from the point of view of personal opinion uninformed by evidence; in fact, personal opinion seemingly not informed by anything.
While the Federal government does not have direct Constitutional authority over education in the Nation's schools, it can exert a great deal of pressure through the distribution or the denial of funding and through the Federal Judiciary in the enforcement of statutory law and Supreme Court decisions.
Decisions made about Education today can have a social impact that can persist over generations rather than merely the incumbency of politicians. Once you get it wrong, it can take a generation or more to repair the societal damage.
My concern about Ms DeVos in this position is that she has absolutely no idea what good educational practice looks like and lacking knowledge, training, and experience, is quite happy to approach Educational Policy from the point of view of personal opinion uninformed by evidence; in fact, personal opinion seemingly not informed by anything.
1
Mr. Douthat asserts that because of the fragmented nature of the U.S. educational system, Ms. DeVos is unlikely to do any harm. Perhaps a better test of her candidacy would have been this: is she capable of doing any good?
Mr. Douthat is overthinking the situation. Occam's razor most often applies. The simple explanation of Democrats' behavior is that Ms. DeVos is simply, unambiguously the least qualified of all of Mr. Trump's nominees, and did an embarrassingly weak job in her hearings. As a result Democrats saw her as the only likely nominee against whom they could attract any Republican votes. They did, but not enough.
2
It appears that Republicans believe that ordinary citizens do not have the right to speak up about Donald Trump's policies and picks. Senator Mitch McConnelel silenced Elizabeth Warren over the Jeff Sessions nomination by using a relatively little used Senate rule. Mr. Douthat suggests the same, without mentioning his interest in this fight.
Just like Donald Trump's approval ratings, a tie vote broken by the Vice President suggests that her policies and her politics can be called into question. It appears that opposition to Donald Trump can no longer be viewed as true opposition to his policies and beliefs. Rather opposition is being cast as sour grapes by the "liberal elite". IMO, that is a dangerous tactic because my public school education and time at The Wharton bolstered my analytical abilities, which I will continue to use as long as Mr. Trump occupies the White House.
Just like Donald Trump's approval ratings, a tie vote broken by the Vice President suggests that her policies and her politics can be called into question. It appears that opposition to Donald Trump can no longer be viewed as true opposition to his policies and beliefs. Rather opposition is being cast as sour grapes by the "liberal elite". IMO, that is a dangerous tactic because my public school education and time at The Wharton bolstered my analytical abilities, which I will continue to use as long as Mr. Trump occupies the White House.
Sigh. In order to somehow make this about "special interest groups" (by which he means teachers unions, I think, and somehow not the DeVos family portfolio), Mr. Douthat conveniently overlooks the many real issues with Ms. DeVos's nomination that many on both sides of the aisle seemed to be able to see clearly. This is not about school choice (though Mr. Douthat also seems confused in his claims that vouchers will help low-income families--the evidence does not bear this out in the least) as evidenced by the many pro-voucher advocates who came out against Ms. DeVos. This about so many things, including her lack of knowledge about IDEA, plagiarism, and egregious conflicts of interest. This is about the hundreds of students with disabilities with whom I have worked whose access to education is in the hands of someone who thinks that it should be left up to the states (whatever that means). This is about a billionaire buying a cabinet position for which she is utterly unqualified. This about our future and the continued anti-intellectualization of our country. Mr. Douthat's glib assessment of the situation betrays either a stunning lack of awareness about education policy or a callous lack of caring about the majority of our nation's school children.
1
You have totally underplayed DeVos' performance in her nomination hearings. She seemed unaware that there are laws guaranteeing intellectually and physically disabled children a mainstream education. And you are right that charter schools are not a panacea but she is a theocrat who believes that religious schools are a panacea. This type of thinking undermines the tenants of a liberal democracy. Mr. Trump has assembled such an inexperienced and ignorant pool of cabinet members that it is difficult to choose one as being worse than the next. And for some of us this is nominating cycle required writing both of our Senators on a daily basis because the hearings were so rushed.
Mr. Douthat, don't let your bias get in the way of good sense. It wasn't just the same old bunch of predictable liberals getting riled up again. Betsy DeVos is profoundly unqualified for the job she just got, whoops, I mean "bought." It was embarrassing to watch her hearing--the woman knows nothing about the public school system. In the end, it made no difference--the craven Senate Republicans, many of whom had received large campaign cash from her, bowed their heads and supported this ignoramus. Thank you, Senators Collins and Murkowski, for showing your colleagues what character looks like.
1
To an extent I agree with Ross Douthat. I agree that there were a number of other nominees who are more deserving of an all-night session of the Senate Democrats. Mr. Puzder- a nominee who appears to have nothing but disdain and contempt for workers. Mr. Pruitt - a climate change denier and a constant and belligerent foe of the EPA. Mr Sessions- a man with a historical record of racism and an opponent of voting rights. I also agree the nominee for Secretary of State deserved much more scrutiny. His "friendship with Mr. Putin " , and his lack of prior governmental diplomatic experience both required a closer inspection. However, Ms. DeVos was not by any measure qualified to serve as Secretary of Education. Her main claim for the nomination appeared to be payback for her and her family's significant donations to the Republican party.
Mr. Douthat, your analysis is interesting only insomuch as you hypothesize about why Democrats (and two Republicans) chose to take a stand on this nominee over others when so many Trump nominees present unique combinations of ethical compromise and lack of qualifications (or even intellectual curiosity). However, the glaring oversight is your failure to mention the truly "most predictable of spectacles," the true "doses of normalcy": namely, Republicans' continued allegiance to party at all costs. In fact, watching senior Republicans makes me feel like your hypothetical "visitor from Saturn," much more puzzled by current Republicans' unwillingness to even pretend to scrutinize Trump nominees than by Democrats' objections. What Democrats may find most concerning about DeVos is that she represents a sort of epitome of the Trump team's nominating philosophy: to undermine the role of government through incompetence and ignorant pursuit of ideology such that government institutions become irrelevant. I'm surprised that you, or all conservative commentators, can't bring yourself to call Republican rubber-stamping what it is. These are not intellectuals who can re-conceptualize the role of government in a conservative era. There is no good faith effort being made by the administration nor this Republican Congress. Who are we to criticize where and how Democrats choose to express that on behalf of the country?
2
I guess you'd have to have family who are actually public-school teachers to understand, Ross. You see, Billionaire Betsy has never taught... period. She's never cleaned up puke, she's never bandaged a cut finger, she's never dealt with hungry kids, she's never had to deal with meth-addled parents, she's never dealt with kids who move from home-to-home and change locations all the time... DeVos is just some rich lady of society with maybe great intentions but no experience, no background, no training, no ANYTHING where education is concerned. I'll tell you something, Ross: no educational leader should ever, ever be allowed anywhere near a school unless they have taught and have a teaching license. Not just administered, but actually taught.
I didn't agree with Obama either, not one bit when it came to education, just to be clear. I didn't like Arne Duncan's ideas, and I didn't like the fact that even though he came from an educational administrative background, he sure as heck wasn't a teacher. Like DeVos, he was just some political flack... the only thing I can say that made a difference was that Arne did have that educational administrative experience.
I didn't agree with Obama either, not one bit when it came to education, just to be clear. I didn't like Arne Duncan's ideas, and I didn't like the fact that even though he came from an educational administrative background, he sure as heck wasn't a teacher. Like DeVos, he was just some political flack... the only thing I can say that made a difference was that Arne did have that educational administrative experience.
1
Mr. Douthat's show of incredulousness as to why DeVos's nomination, in his eyes the minor one of Education Secretary, was the fight that Democrats set their sights on is specious, to say the least. The fact that someone so clearly unqualified was rubber-stamped by all but two Republicans is entirely what is wrong with Congress. So-called maverick John McCain has to know in his heart that DeVos should have been torpedoed, but he played along for the sake of... what? Party unity? A favor to the President? Didn't everyone's jaws drop watching DeVos's feeble appearance before the Senate subcommittee? That Douthat would write an entire column on why there shouldn't have been so much of an outcry over this nomination made my jaw drop again.
1
The entire DeVos family are massive Republican Party donors who helped fund the election of the senators who voted for her. Sitting Republican senators have received more than $950,000 from the full DeVos family since 1980. In the past two election cycles alone, her family has donated $8.3 million to Republican Party super PACs. Campaign finance reform groups called on senators who received money from DeVos and her family to recuse themselves from voting on her nomination, but we know how well that went over.
The DeVos appointment was obviously a quid pro quo. More than any other appointee in recent memory, there is no question that she bought her position in the cabinet. And, that is my main objection to her.
The DeVos appointment was obviously a quid pro quo. More than any other appointee in recent memory, there is no question that she bought her position in the cabinet. And, that is my main objection to her.
To other commenters: please be kind to Mr. Douthat; he has a job to do.
We all feel for him. As a conservative voice among NYT opinion writers, his duty is to provide an opposing view and preserve a nominal political balance in the paper's roster. If he started writing "Yet another crazy move by the Trump administration..." what good would he be? This would marginalize him, and could even get him fired.
The other token conservative in the fold, Mr. Brooks, is coping by expatiating about the grand scheme of things, elaborating on intellectual issues, and commenting on the latest book he read. Mr. Douthat has opted for identifying a minute or nonexistent issue with "the liberals" and weaving his scolds and objections into a full article.
Love him for that. But don't stop commenting, as this is vital for preserving his relevance. After all, this is human nature: we watch thrillers and shout "don't go there, stupid!"; we blow our noses, and then look into the tissue; and we read Douthat.
We all feel for him. As a conservative voice among NYT opinion writers, his duty is to provide an opposing view and preserve a nominal political balance in the paper's roster. If he started writing "Yet another crazy move by the Trump administration..." what good would he be? This would marginalize him, and could even get him fired.
The other token conservative in the fold, Mr. Brooks, is coping by expatiating about the grand scheme of things, elaborating on intellectual issues, and commenting on the latest book he read. Mr. Douthat has opted for identifying a minute or nonexistent issue with "the liberals" and weaving his scolds and objections into a full article.
Love him for that. But don't stop commenting, as this is vital for preserving his relevance. After all, this is human nature: we watch thrillers and shout "don't go there, stupid!"; we blow our noses, and then look into the tissue; and we read Douthat.
1
Mr. Douthat - Over 50 million students attend public schools in this country. Around 6 million attend private schools. Does it make sense that we put in place a person who has shown no interest in public schools and has not ever been involved in making public schools work better in the inner cities? Instead a mantra of vouchers, for profit and no over-site. Education is the pillar that makes this country run and secures out future. Sorry, maybe even on par with Russia, China and all the rest of the mess Trump will get us into. Out democracy is dependent on an educated populace. Most of whom get their education through public schools.
Mr. Douthat - Please name ONE reason why DeVos was the perfect candidate for Secretary of Education.
Mr. Douthat, you've lost several of the important points. First, education is the national security of the future, both in terms of the quality of our domestic workforce and security responders (i.e., firefighters, police, military personal), and in terms of our ability to engage internationally. It is not a trifle compared to the other federal departments. Second, you can say that the DOE doesn't have a lot of influence locally, unless you teach in a school with a high FRL (low SES) population or high SPED population or high refugee population, in which case federal funding and regulation are critical to making things work to the betterment of your students. Third, yes, suburbanites are skeptical of choice because of the quality of their public schools. Witness our vote on charters here in Massachusetts. Still, across the country people seem willing to experiment on urban youth. Sometimes, yes, they must have immediate relief; but, that leaves students who lack advocacy in the maws of poor education. We're back to separate but equal. There must be a concerted effort, which can only be lead by the federal DOE, as with civil rights, to better all public schools. Moderately regulated school choice certainly has its place, but not at the expense of those without advocacy. Finally, it isn't school choice for a lot of us. It's the proselytizing thing and crooked ideas like "reduced taxes = revenue neutral" that allows for covert redirection of public funds for religious education.
1
Apparently Democrats care more about competent governing than you and your ilk.
Actually, we already knew that.
Actually, we already knew that.
Mr. Douthat, you can parse it this way and that way to your heart's content. You can try to make the argument about predictability, if you think that helps your pro-religion-in-public-schools agenda. But you can't escape one basic fact, a real fact, not an alternative fact: Betsy DeVos is the most unqualified and the most incompetent cabinet nominee I have ever witnessed in my 50 plus years of watching the political theatre in Washington. Period.
Mr. Douthat, have you ever even set foot in a U S public school?
It's just like the Good Father Douthat to deflect the argument from the merits or lack thereof of Mrs. DeVos to the process of confirmation.
In Betsy Devos we have an obviously passionate, wealthy but illiterate (in public education) Secretary who should never have been near the office, let alone behind the desk. Ross glosses over the obvious lack of credentials in consideration of her religious fervor.
Never my tax dollars for religious or profit based schools.
In Betsy Devos we have an obviously passionate, wealthy but illiterate (in public education) Secretary who should never have been near the office, let alone behind the desk. Ross glosses over the obvious lack of credentials in consideration of her religious fervor.
Never my tax dollars for religious or profit based schools.
1
You definitely don't capture why I'm opposed to Ms. DeVos's confirmation. As a resident of NYC, I've seen firsthand how charter schools in my neighborhood exclude special-needs kids, and put all of that burden on the public schools. Further, many parents with special-needs kids (me included) have had to go to war with the system to get our kids the help they need, and the IDEA Law and FAPE have been crucial to our efforts. Ms. DeVos's responses in this area during the confirmation bearings were highly inadequate, and betrayed a lack of knowledge and understanding. I'm no fan of the vast unwieldy public education bureaucracy, but I know it can be held accountable to ensure the education of all our kids. Balkanizing our public educational system through the creation of a million charter schools will guarantee the opposite.
76
I don't vote for either Dems or Reps as a general rule. Possibly I never will again. They are divisive, power-hungry and sometimes delusional parties who criticize each other for doing what they themselves do. I realize where I'm writing and that most readers will think - well sure, the Reps do that, but we don't. Keep telling yourself that. I still can't believe Trump is pres. (you should have put up a decent candidate), but right now, the danger is with the Dems. Betsy Devos may not be a great nominee, but she's not rioting, intimidating, bullying and threatening. It is the Dem. house members who took over the floor of congress last year or care more about embarrassing Trump than weakening our country, the radical left (where much of the party has moved) that has invaded college campuses as terrorists (the media would say so if they were right wing), taken over rallies with intimidation, chanted death to cops (and watched cops assassinated soon after), who tried to shut down Trump rallies, who block traffic, burn cars, beat up people in the opposition party, all while the media yawns at it. That's scary stuff and it is fascism. I'm sure most Dems don't do that, but I wouldn't be associated with any group that was silent in the face of it.
MLK, Jr. and Gandhi are rolling over in their graves because you've turned their message on its head, made everything about identity rather than character. This, sadly, is what is being normalized, even celebrated.
MLK, Jr. and Gandhi are rolling over in their graves because you've turned their message on its head, made everything about identity rather than character. This, sadly, is what is being normalized, even celebrated.
3
Ross,
The reason for anyone standing up against DeVos is simple. As you stated "DeVos did look unprepared and even foolish at times during her confirmation hearings, and she lacks the usual government experience. "! Why in heaven's name are Republicans will to load the Cabinet positions with completely incompetent people?
Oh that's "Right" is not if you can help the Country, it's the money and how much harm you can inflict on the Nation to prove government doesn't work. Well done Republicans, sticking together no matter how bad a candidate, now that's unique unity.
The reason for anyone standing up against DeVos is simple. As you stated "DeVos did look unprepared and even foolish at times during her confirmation hearings, and she lacks the usual government experience. "! Why in heaven's name are Republicans will to load the Cabinet positions with completely incompetent people?
Oh that's "Right" is not if you can help the Country, it's the money and how much harm you can inflict on the Nation to prove government doesn't work. Well done Republicans, sticking together no matter how bad a candidate, now that's unique unity.
2
My first thought is that Mr. Douthat is simply blathering his usual uninformed and prejudiced alt-right "think-thoughts" - empty of meaning or intelligence or any sense of rationality...as he lamely tries to say in this article, business as usual. Then I realized that, no...he is displaying exactly what can be expected as a result of the DeVos debacle - a totally uneducated individual with no grasp of reasoning, no ability to conceptualize ideas, a complete lack of what could be called reading comprehension...in other words, he cannot comprehend ideas at anything but the most basic level, such as: empty bowl must mean no food, begging and wagging my tail might get me food, or whatever other tactics his ilk uses in their mindless dog-world of slavish worship of ignorance. This pure stupidity has gone on too long...Mr. Douthat cannot even spout anything close to original copy, so, in his world of self-denial, he ignores the trumpian world of destruction and evil and comes up with...this lame excuse of an article. Nothing substantiated, nothing of relevance, just a deeper and deeper reiteration of the same old nonsense. Mr. Douthat, your time/date stamp is way done.
1
What would happen if the Democrats sat back and let the Republican majority have its way on everything? Since the Democrats can't win when the votes are tallied, maybe if they just let the Republicans have at the steering wheel, the system might crash sooner than later. Politics as usual won't cut it with Trump in the White House and Republicans controlling House and Senate. How about trying something off the wall, something completely different? (No need to attack this comment. It's just an idea whose time may have come.)
Doug Giebel
Big Sandy, Montana
Doug Giebel
Big Sandy, Montana
Ross, you really don't get it? Or are you just being obtuse?
Yes, teachers unions matter here to the Democrats. Hey, for pointing that out, can I get a gig as a New York Times columnist?
But there's another thing -- Betsy is all about federal money for "school choice" . Remember Trump's 20 B$ campaign promise for same? If not, read here:
http://www.businessinsider.com/donald-trump-pledges-20-billion-to-school...
Now the Republicans aren't eager to pay for any such thing, so it's likely yet another otiose promise that isn't going to happen. Betsy will end up being the secretary who twiddles her thumbs.
But the whole point was to appease the religious conservatives -- the ones who want to use federal money for their own little private madrassas.
And Democrats broadly really don't like that idea. Democrats also tend to be people who ... you know ... actually care about facts; think that's what schools should teach. Republicans are happy with Trump U.
Yes, teachers unions matter here to the Democrats. Hey, for pointing that out, can I get a gig as a New York Times columnist?
But there's another thing -- Betsy is all about federal money for "school choice" . Remember Trump's 20 B$ campaign promise for same? If not, read here:
http://www.businessinsider.com/donald-trump-pledges-20-billion-to-school...
Now the Republicans aren't eager to pay for any such thing, so it's likely yet another otiose promise that isn't going to happen. Betsy will end up being the secretary who twiddles her thumbs.
But the whole point was to appease the religious conservatives -- the ones who want to use federal money for their own little private madrassas.
And Democrats broadly really don't like that idea. Democrats also tend to be people who ... you know ... actually care about facts; think that's what schools should teach. Republicans are happy with Trump U.
2
Ross Douthat's analysis shows why he is the most rational writer now publishing in the pages of an increasingly hysterical New York Times, most of whose correspondents -- and all of whose Editorial writers -- have lapsed into temporary insanity or PTSD over Trump.
Ross utters the most obvious truth: Opposition to DeVos is "the present Democratic Party at its worst: unstinting in defense of bureaucracy and its employees, more excited about causes dear to the upper middle class than the interests of the poor, and always girding for the battle with the Real Enemy, religious conservatives, no matter what the moment actually demands."
Ross refuses to regurgitate conventional NY Times wisdom. For Ross's courage in challenging the almost total "groupthink" now infecting his own paper, he should be nominated by the Times for a Pulitzer.
Ross, no blind supporter of Trump, will be remembered 20 years from now for his brilliantly insightful 2017 columns, long after some of your other, more famous, Op-Ed columnists have faded from memory.
All credit to the Times for hiring a soft-spoke, modest columnist who has soared in recent years to the highest levels of analytic journalism. He tells it like it is, just as Maureen Dowd does. Both deserve recognition by the Pulitzer board.
Ross utters the most obvious truth: Opposition to DeVos is "the present Democratic Party at its worst: unstinting in defense of bureaucracy and its employees, more excited about causes dear to the upper middle class than the interests of the poor, and always girding for the battle with the Real Enemy, religious conservatives, no matter what the moment actually demands."
Ross refuses to regurgitate conventional NY Times wisdom. For Ross's courage in challenging the almost total "groupthink" now infecting his own paper, he should be nominated by the Times for a Pulitzer.
Ross, no blind supporter of Trump, will be remembered 20 years from now for his brilliantly insightful 2017 columns, long after some of your other, more famous, Op-Ed columnists have faded from memory.
All credit to the Times for hiring a soft-spoke, modest columnist who has soared in recent years to the highest levels of analytic journalism. He tells it like it is, just as Maureen Dowd does. Both deserve recognition by the Pulitzer board.
2
Interesting narrative, but he contradicts himself when he sais "But the fervor and pitch of the opposition basically reflected the present Democratic Party at its worst: unstinting in defense of bureaucracy and its employees, more excited about causes dear to the upper middle class than the interests of the poor, and always girding for the battle with the Real Enemy, religious conservatives, no matter what the moment actually demands.". He clearly implies earlier in the article that Dems were taking up this cause because there was leverage behind the teachers union and a real voice rising from Dem and Republican parents alike. He tries to conclude his article by reducing Democratic values and strategy to some kind of Crusade against the religious right. Oh please Ross, are you so myopic a Republican that you can't see the bigger picture? Democrats have been completely disenfranchised and will fight fairly whatever battle they can win. Just as the Senate shot down Elizabeth Warren for calling out Sessions for who he really is, you are trying to do the same with the Democratic party. Go ahead, hold your nose. But don't say the fish doesn't stink.
What? "none of the things that liberals profess to fear the most about a Trump era revolve around education policy"??? We fear the rise to power of an uninformed bigot with an agenda narrowly focused on enriching the few while lying to the masses about how his policies will help them. Betsy DeVos is an instance of this! And so do Pudzer, Price, Tillerson, Perry, and Carson, to take the most egregious examples. Beyond that, many of us fear the dumbing down of America that the GOP has fostered, and that Trump is exacerbating, by encouraging disrespect for evidence, casting doubt on the credibility of the media, and, yes, degradation of our educational system. So the DeVos nomination hits at the very heart of our concerns. Plus authoritarianism!
Douthat's claim that the DeVos nomination does not reflect the core threats of a Trump presidency is ludicrous. The DeVos nomination is part and parcel of the Trump agenda of undermining federal agencies whose missions liberals support - HUD, the EPA, Education, etc.
Douthat concedes that DeVos was "unprepared and even foolish" at her confirmation hearing, which ought to be sufficient to explain opposition to her nomination. But since Douthat agrees with DeVos's agenda, he acts as if a Secretary of Education completely ignorant of the major educational issues of our time is no big deal - nothing but a partisan food fight.
Douthat seems to think that Democrats are entitled to vigorous opposition to only one Trump nominee - if they take on DeVos, they're giving up the opportunity to oppose Sessions or Carson. He accomplishes this trompe-l'oeil, so to speak, by putting words into Democrats' mouths, claiming that Democrats have said that DeVos is Trump's "most controversial nominee."
Douthat also seems to think that Democrats are entitled to only one grounds for opposition to Trump's nominees - policy ignorance, authoritarianism, lack of qualification. I wonder if Douthat ever pressed that argument on Republicans opposing Obama.
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
Douthat concedes that DeVos was "unprepared and even foolish" at her confirmation hearing, which ought to be sufficient to explain opposition to her nomination. But since Douthat agrees with DeVos's agenda, he acts as if a Secretary of Education completely ignorant of the major educational issues of our time is no big deal - nothing but a partisan food fight.
Douthat seems to think that Democrats are entitled to vigorous opposition to only one Trump nominee - if they take on DeVos, they're giving up the opportunity to oppose Sessions or Carson. He accomplishes this trompe-l'oeil, so to speak, by putting words into Democrats' mouths, claiming that Democrats have said that DeVos is Trump's "most controversial nominee."
Douthat also seems to think that Democrats are entitled to only one grounds for opposition to Trump's nominees - policy ignorance, authoritarianism, lack of qualification. I wonder if Douthat ever pressed that argument on Republicans opposing Obama.
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
2
Speaking of taking comfort! After three weeks of the Trump administration, with all its ludicrous twists and turns, its alternative facts and ominous, anti-democratic rumblings, Mr. Douthat uses his space in the NY Times to write about the failings of. . . .the Democrats.
you are right, Russ, she has no qualifications and seems unprepared for the job, but other nominations have the potential to do even greater damage....what are we to make of the fact that the environment, pluralism, common decency, morality, gender equality, the press, and even 'facts' are under assault with other nominations. Betty DeVos is the far down on our list of catastrophes....she is just a cretin. And being educated (or not) won't matter if we implode.
1
Mr. Douthat,
You have the right to express your opinion, however, you are missing the point that we, the people, the constituents are the ones who are calling our legislators and expressing our concerns about her nomination. We are educated parents, who are experiencing the public education system - for good or for bad- and we are paying close attention to it. My kids have disabilities and to see Ms. DeVos so clueless about IDEA was the motivation that I needed to voice my concern and reach out to my legislator. It is part of their job, to listen to our concerns. I find appalling that you are not recognizing this, the voice of thousand of parents like me who are genuinely concerned for our kids future. My kids are only 8 years old, we have 13 years to go (yep, they have the right to a free and public education until they are 21 years old) and whatever this woman does, will impact them and millions of other kids nationwide for years to come.
So don't patronize us Sr. and undermine our voice and advocacy efforts, it is not just about unions and politics and democrats, it is about Maya and Thomas future.
You have the right to express your opinion, however, you are missing the point that we, the people, the constituents are the ones who are calling our legislators and expressing our concerns about her nomination. We are educated parents, who are experiencing the public education system - for good or for bad- and we are paying close attention to it. My kids have disabilities and to see Ms. DeVos so clueless about IDEA was the motivation that I needed to voice my concern and reach out to my legislator. It is part of their job, to listen to our concerns. I find appalling that you are not recognizing this, the voice of thousand of parents like me who are genuinely concerned for our kids future. My kids are only 8 years old, we have 13 years to go (yep, they have the right to a free and public education until they are 21 years old) and whatever this woman does, will impact them and millions of other kids nationwide for years to come.
So don't patronize us Sr. and undermine our voice and advocacy efforts, it is not just about unions and politics and democrats, it is about Maya and Thomas future.
How you can write this claptrap with a straight face is beyond me. All the thinly veiled insults creep into your narrative. And it is galling when one realizes that you and your Republican cronies are the ones who gave us the Trump disaster. Instead of calling out your feckless colleagues for their inability to stand up to Trump and worse abet his increasingly scandalous behavior, you deride the Democrats for not making common cause with your high ideals. Whether they are shouting loudly enough is not the issue. What's deafening is the Republican silence on all matters Trump! Take a shower Mr. Douthat. Your hypocrisy must leave a lot of grease stains.
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Wow. I'm shocked the Editorial Board even allowed this to be printed. Deflecting the real issues by trying to use "empiricism" against DeVos critics. Here's what you needed to write about: 1) spectacularly unqualified (foolish in your words), 2) pushing to dismantel the separation of church and state, 3) contributed $200M to Republicans, 4) doesn't even understand (or care about) the ADA protections in place to protect our K-12 students in particular ... I could go on, but why?
Must be nice to be completely unqualified but still get the job because of connections and money.
Ross, this issue warranted a "liberal holy war" (really?!) because it affects our kids ... my daughter. You'll get a fight there every time.
Finally, I have read your column and found it often raised coherent arguments and salient points. No more.
Must be nice to be completely unqualified but still get the job because of connections and money.
Ross, this issue warranted a "liberal holy war" (really?!) because it affects our kids ... my daughter. You'll get a fight there every time.
Finally, I have read your column and found it often raised coherent arguments and salient points. No more.
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Mr. Douthat, you have lost all credibility with this silly rant. Reading your column has become a waste of time as you desperately attempt to justify your conservative credentials. Best of luck to you!
Sorry Ross, studies actually indicate that charters typically do not outperform public schools. You are wrong. Here is a link to the best study so far of charters in Michigan, where DeVos hails from: http://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/2014/06/22/michigan-spend...
Charters have not succeeded in Michigan despite being allowed since 1994. They are also largely unregulated here, so you'd think the free market would have worked out the kinks by now and lousy charters would be gone. Not so though. DeVos has resisted making charters follow the same rules and regs as public schools. Why? Michigan also has the highest percentage of for profit charters in the nation. Many of these schools are able to continue functioning because of the lack of regulation that DeVos defends.
Why does she do so? The only logical reason for her defense of clearly failing for profit charters must be because she is defending the profits charters make for their investors. It isn't because students in such schools are doing better.
Wanna see even worse results? Look to the online learning academies that are allowed to function like enormous cash vacuums here in Michigan. These too are unregulated. Because such schools do not support any of the physical infrastructure, transportation and student service costs of public schools, companies can siphon off enormous per pupil. The nation shouldn't look to Michigan or Devos for answers.
Charters have not succeeded in Michigan despite being allowed since 1994. They are also largely unregulated here, so you'd think the free market would have worked out the kinks by now and lousy charters would be gone. Not so though. DeVos has resisted making charters follow the same rules and regs as public schools. Why? Michigan also has the highest percentage of for profit charters in the nation. Many of these schools are able to continue functioning because of the lack of regulation that DeVos defends.
Why does she do so? The only logical reason for her defense of clearly failing for profit charters must be because she is defending the profits charters make for their investors. It isn't because students in such schools are doing better.
Wanna see even worse results? Look to the online learning academies that are allowed to function like enormous cash vacuums here in Michigan. These too are unregulated. Because such schools do not support any of the physical infrastructure, transportation and student service costs of public schools, companies can siphon off enormous per pupil. The nation shouldn't look to Michigan or Devos for answers.
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You completely miss the greatest threat posed by a DeVos based education philosophy. Religion. Her desire to inject religion, and specifically, her brand of religion, into our educational system is dangerous and unconstitutional.
Why? Well, teaching creationism as an equal alternative to evolution is certainly near the top of the list. The universe is 10,000 years old? Total nonsense. DeVos disciples are the missionaries leading the charge on these biblical fantasies.
Another geocentric universe? Separation of church and state everyone. With all the information available today surely we can prevent another dark ages.
Why? Well, teaching creationism as an equal alternative to evolution is certainly near the top of the list. The universe is 10,000 years old? Total nonsense. DeVos disciples are the missionaries leading the charge on these biblical fantasies.
Another geocentric universe? Separation of church and state everyone. With all the information available today surely we can prevent another dark ages.
I don't understand how you can be so cavalier about Betsy DeVos as education secretary, when her agenda is clearly against good quality public schools? Over here kids of uneducated unemployed parents attend the same (free) schools as those of CEOs, with the exact same opportunity to attend (free) college to become a doctor or an engineer. Children are the single best investment opportunity for every country.
Who are these insecure people in the US who want to rig the game and deprive other people from the same chances as their own kids? They should be ashamed of themselves.
US companies have been able to mask the high educated worker influx problem through immigration combined with the general appeal of the country, issuing H-1B, student visas etc. With these things now under threat, US multinationals know they're in trouble and abandon the sidelines but forget that the people who voted for the Trump administration don't give a damn about their issues.
Who are these insecure people in the US who want to rig the game and deprive other people from the same chances as their own kids? They should be ashamed of themselves.
US companies have been able to mask the high educated worker influx problem through immigration combined with the general appeal of the country, issuing H-1B, student visas etc. With these things now under threat, US multinationals know they're in trouble and abandon the sidelines but forget that the people who voted for the Trump administration don't give a damn about their issues.
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Let's us forget all about community and a sense of common good and really push the envelope; Mr. Douthat, I don't have any offspring, why am I not getting a voucher for that? What? I owe something for this great country I grew up in? Tell it to Gilroy.
Dear Mr. Douthat,
Certainly didn't take you long to show your true stripes now, did it?
For the past month you almost appeared 'liberal' in your columns, distancing yourself, seemingly, from your party's 'chosen' leader.
But along comes "Kingdom of God" DeVos and, ta-da, you're BACK writing in your true, right wing, hasn't changed at all gibberish.
You are defending THIS Cabinet nominee because the Democrats didn't attack all of the 'other' billionaire nominees? You excoriate the Democrats for supporting 'bureaucracy' but not a word about the 'nepotism' of your guy's administration?
Glad to have the old Ross back! It's been a while since I've been able to write the words "whatever 'snake oil' you're selling, I'm not buying".
I can hardly wait for your next column!
Certainly didn't take you long to show your true stripes now, did it?
For the past month you almost appeared 'liberal' in your columns, distancing yourself, seemingly, from your party's 'chosen' leader.
But along comes "Kingdom of God" DeVos and, ta-da, you're BACK writing in your true, right wing, hasn't changed at all gibberish.
You are defending THIS Cabinet nominee because the Democrats didn't attack all of the 'other' billionaire nominees? You excoriate the Democrats for supporting 'bureaucracy' but not a word about the 'nepotism' of your guy's administration?
Glad to have the old Ross back! It's been a while since I've been able to write the words "whatever 'snake oil' you're selling, I'm not buying".
I can hardly wait for your next column!
Why doesn't he generalize a little more? No pigeon hole left unfilled. Republicans = suburbanites, Democrats = Teacher union members, Rural citizens = religious nuts, Bohemians = conspiracy theorists. Who did he leave out? Interestingly enough, despite their clinging to religion, rural citizens might be the biggest defender of the public school. Why you ask? Because they are the focus of the community. Even Democrats who are suburbanites(if there is such a thing, apparently in Ross world they don't exist) might be defenders of the public school too. Enough, this is the usual pile of feces, Working in statistical gathering agency where public school finance is the title of my area, one can see the outcome of states with a large number of charters. They are small, have a high per pupil expenditure and go in and out of business frequently. For a clown who claims to care about the stewardship of public money De Vos defense of charters is amusing. In her confirmation hearing she showed herself be nothing but a dolt and stooge for the neo liberal money bags populous she comes from. Why this one? Think of it as a dress rehearsal for future action.
First, let's not ignore how the Senate Republicans limited questioning during her hearing. Why? Clearly, they realized she doesn't stand up to scrutiny. That alone was reason for the Democrats' outrage. Second, the amount of money she and her family have given to the GOP should disqualify her. (Marco Rubio has received $100,000 from her family!) I don't doubt for one minute that the vote came out the way it did because she has spread her cash around. She bought her position. Our democracy is a sham. Finally, her lack of qualifications and her ideological agenda raised objections from all over the political spectrum. My opinion is that when tax payer money goes to private schools and private charters that are not as fully accountable to the public (i.e. the taxpayer) as our public school system, we have a problem. Public education is intended to benefit all of us. A well-educated citizenry will support our economy and preserve our democracy. DeVos has other goals. She seemingly cares little whether children are being educated; she wants to build God's Kingdom. Not on my dime. So, no, this was not faux outrage at the behest of Democrat's usual constituencies.
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Mr. Douthat, how can anyone who,saw Betsy Devos in her deer in-a-headlight confirmation hearings ask why Democrats were so vehemently opposed to her? She was pathetic.
When will republicans understand that "failing schools" are always schools with low income populations, which indicates that there are social problems which need to be addressed in the family and in early childhood? It's so much easier to demonize teachers than to actually attack a problem that begins when a child is born into a poor, troubled family.
When will republicans understand that "failing schools" are always schools with low income populations, which indicates that there are social problems which need to be addressed in the family and in early childhood? It's so much easier to demonize teachers than to actually attack a problem that begins when a child is born into a poor, troubled family.
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Not a thought about the insult that this woman is to our nation? Of course not. To Republicans it's all just a game that only those who didn't choose to be born rich lose.
Your feeble attempt to redirect the discussion to other terrible nominees avoids the obvious. They will all be opposed as well.
Your party just threw our children under the bus - again. You should be ashamed.
Your feeble attempt to redirect the discussion to other terrible nominees avoids the obvious. They will all be opposed as well.
Your party just threw our children under the bus - again. You should be ashamed.
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Sure thing, Ross, trot out the teachers unions rather than discuss the millions flowing from DeVos to Republicans. Yet another false equivalency and diversion.
Oh yeah, jeez, you forgot her lack of public school or educational knowledge and her self-serving private interests (her so called "learning" company).
Yes indeedee, these are "troubled times". Trump and Bannon are unhinged and willing to do great damage our government, our planet and our people, and Republicans enjoy the diversion so they can ram through their horrific agenda.
You and your party are complicit in all of this; how do you sleep at night?
Oh yeah, jeez, you forgot her lack of public school or educational knowledge and her self-serving private interests (her so called "learning" company).
Yes indeedee, these are "troubled times". Trump and Bannon are unhinged and willing to do great damage our government, our planet and our people, and Republicans enjoy the diversion so they can ram through their horrific agenda.
You and your party are complicit in all of this; how do you sleep at night?
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Dear Mr Douthat:
The bottom line is that Ms DeVos has little domain knowledge. Would you be amenable to having heart surgery performed by an intelligent billionaire who dealt in creating medicated stents but had never performed surgery?
I wish us all the best of luck.
The bottom line is that Ms DeVos has little domain knowledge. Would you be amenable to having heart surgery performed by an intelligent billionaire who dealt in creating medicated stents but had never performed surgery?
I wish us all the best of luck.
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"... a liberal holy war against Betsy DeVos ..."
So I guess you're OK with DeVos?
I read through the gibberish.
Since it is not possible to directly defend the merits and qualifications of the candidate herself, a professional right apologist (EG. you Ross) must invoke a different tact. Not unlike creationist who cannot directly challenge the scientific theory of evolution must invoke the "Teach the Controversy" campaign, to promote the pseudoscientific principle of intelligent design, a variant of traditional creationism, while attempting to discredit the teaching of evolution.
Your tact: why focus on DeVos when every cabinet pick is deplorable, and DeVos is not the worst of them. Hey democrats, if you think DeVos is a horror show, check out Carson and Sessions. Why not go after them?
So I guess you're OK with DeVos?
I read through the gibberish.
Since it is not possible to directly defend the merits and qualifications of the candidate herself, a professional right apologist (EG. you Ross) must invoke a different tact. Not unlike creationist who cannot directly challenge the scientific theory of evolution must invoke the "Teach the Controversy" campaign, to promote the pseudoscientific principle of intelligent design, a variant of traditional creationism, while attempting to discredit the teaching of evolution.
Your tact: why focus on DeVos when every cabinet pick is deplorable, and DeVos is not the worst of them. Hey democrats, if you think DeVos is a horror show, check out Carson and Sessions. Why not go after them?
From the NYT Editorial on DeVoss:
"Maybe they couldn’t ignore the $200 million the DeVos family has funneled to Republicans, including campaigns of 10 of the 12 Republican senators on the committee that vetted her."
Mr Douthat- you cannot make your position without acknowledging this. And saying that Dems should not fight this because education funding is a small percent of federal funding and because she is not as bad as Trump's other appointments is simply silly. EVERYTHING matters now. Especially when it comes to educating the future of America. We have this maniac in the White House because ill-informed people lacking critical thinking skills somehow thought he would deliver them to a better tomorrow. Pretty clear, just three weeks in that this will NOT happen. Stay tuned for the rest of the proof. It will be painful and overwhelming.
"Maybe they couldn’t ignore the $200 million the DeVos family has funneled to Republicans, including campaigns of 10 of the 12 Republican senators on the committee that vetted her."
Mr Douthat- you cannot make your position without acknowledging this. And saying that Dems should not fight this because education funding is a small percent of federal funding and because she is not as bad as Trump's other appointments is simply silly. EVERYTHING matters now. Especially when it comes to educating the future of America. We have this maniac in the White House because ill-informed people lacking critical thinking skills somehow thought he would deliver them to a better tomorrow. Pretty clear, just three weeks in that this will NOT happen. Stay tuned for the rest of the proof. It will be painful and overwhelming.
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Interesting column, I hadn't thought about the influence of the teachers unions as a way of explaining the Democrats' fervor for this particular nominee. I don't quite share Douthat's hesitant approval of Devos--I think she's grossly unqualified. But I definitely see merit to Douthat's argument that Democrats too often rally around certain symbols or people without much thought about what makes them liberal rallying cries in the first place. I would take the latest women's march on Washington as a recent example. Democrats, including Bernie Sanders, flocked to Linda Sarsour. She has some really good things to say, but she has also said some questionable things in the past. Most alarmingly, she has publicly disparaged heroes like Ayaan Hirsi Ali just because Ms. Ali had the courage to speak out against the kind of Islamic fundamentalism that she has had to flee from in her native Somalia. Ms. Sarsour has since deleted the tweet, but she said about Ms. Ali, "I wish I could take their vaginas away - they don't deserve to be women." Disgusting, if you ask me.
I think it's noble to oppose Ms. Devos. But we progressives, especially now that we're in the wilderness, should be more willing than ever to examine what makes our liberal values liberal.
I think it's noble to oppose Ms. Devos. But we progressives, especially now that we're in the wilderness, should be more willing than ever to examine what makes our liberal values liberal.
This column is ridiculous. There are two reasons that DeVos was the biggest fight of any of Trump's nominees and the one that required a Pence tie vote:
- Murkowski
- Snowe
That is it. The real story here is not the Democrats, it is those two Republicans. DeVos is the one nominee who caused Republican Senators to break ranks. That's the real story here. It's actually an interesting story! But you will not learn about it from this column.
- Murkowski
- Snowe
That is it. The real story here is not the Democrats, it is those two Republicans. DeVos is the one nominee who caused Republican Senators to break ranks. That's the real story here. It's actually an interesting story! But you will not learn about it from this column.
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Mr. Douthat:
It didn't take long for you to find your footing. Now, some things Trump does are not so very bad? What happened to thecrusader for sanity and decorum who fought the Trump ascendancy?
Are your principles out for drycleaning? Is your spine being straightened? Or are you just afraid? Yes, familiarity does give comfort. You are obviously very comfortable with hypocracy. Glad you are relieved by this run-of-the-mill
kerfuffle. Most people in education are not. This is pretty foolish stuff.
However, if I apply your logic to other issues in these troubling times, might we poor readers not expect you to write serious columns on the issues of import that trouble you? How about that immigration thingy? Or, maybe, insulting foreign heads of state? Back to partisan politics. Or are you hoping Bannon appoints you White House Cardinal?
It didn't take long for you to find your footing. Now, some things Trump does are not so very bad? What happened to thecrusader for sanity and decorum who fought the Trump ascendancy?
Are your principles out for drycleaning? Is your spine being straightened? Or are you just afraid? Yes, familiarity does give comfort. You are obviously very comfortable with hypocracy. Glad you are relieved by this run-of-the-mill
kerfuffle. Most people in education are not. This is pretty foolish stuff.
However, if I apply your logic to other issues in these troubling times, might we poor readers not expect you to write serious columns on the issues of import that trouble you? How about that immigration thingy? Or, maybe, insulting foreign heads of state? Back to partisan politics. Or are you hoping Bannon appoints you White House Cardinal?
"...the present Democratic Party at its worst: unstinting in defense of bureaucracy and its employees, more excited about causes dear to the upper middle class than the interests of the poor"
Really Douthat? Maybe you should visit a classroom in an inner city public school for a day. I doubt you'd draw that same cynical conclusion about the public employees. You sound like Scott Walker.
Really Douthat? Maybe you should visit a classroom in an inner city public school for a day. I doubt you'd draw that same cynical conclusion about the public employees. You sound like Scott Walker.
This statement is inaccurate: "Never mind that Republican views on education policy are much closer to the expert consensus than they are on, say, climate change."
Republican consensus for "climate change" is ideological just as it is for school choice and charter schools. If there's consensus on school choice and charters, it's that they're plagued by corruption and fraud:
https://www.academia.edu/15693380/Bibliography_Federal_Bureau_of_Investi...
Here's the peer-reviewed expert consensus from Julian Vasquez Heilig:
https://cloakinginequity.com/2015/11/20/drinking-charter-kool-aid-here-i...
Republican consensus for "climate change" is ideological just as it is for school choice and charter schools. If there's consensus on school choice and charters, it's that they're plagued by corruption and fraud:
https://www.academia.edu/15693380/Bibliography_Federal_Bureau_of_Investi...
Here's the peer-reviewed expert consensus from Julian Vasquez Heilig:
https://cloakinginequity.com/2015/11/20/drinking-charter-kool-aid-here-i...
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What Democrats are doing is finally fighting back against Republican corruption. It is obvious that Betsy DeVos is unqualified for her new job. The difference is that she gave 200 million dollars to members of the Republican party. Maybe there are two Republicans Senators who actually have some integrity left but that would be about it. What is surprising is that Republicans actually think that they will not have political repercussions beyond this day as a result of this sellout. I can say that there is nothing more motivating than protecting the educational future of our children, and in my case, grandchildren. I used to think that Republicans acted out of principle and there were legitimate differences of opinion that explained their actions. Well, not any more. They have appointed people who clearly look to either profit from their government experience or destroy those agencies they are tasked to manage, or both. Trump has appointed people who are the most unqualified candidates that I can ever remember in the 40 years I have covered politics. I know incompetence when I see it and know a sell out when it hits me in the face. Any words to the contrary are damage control by Republican spinmeisters now working overtime to explain the actions of 48 souls selling out the kids for a few pieces of silver. Trying to hide the actions of this Republican Congress with the Trump circus won't change the lipstick on this pig. Time to grab the pitchforks friends, the kids are worth it.
The objections to DeVos go far beyond this pathetic list. DeVos is beyond unqualified. She isn't just a fan of charter schools, she and a lot of other billionaires are deeply opposed to public schools on ugly ideological grounds. She is also a fundamentalist Christian, not unlike this columnist. That is a major reason for her objection to public schools. It is also a reason for violent objection to her appointment.
Also, Douthat doesn't talk about the millions and millions of dollars DeVos and her billionaire husband have showered on Republican Senators who voted her in. Also Trump and Pence, who collected their own millions. No big deal, say the corrupt and their enablers like Douthat, it's just more of the totally not corrupt money in US politics. It just takes a lot of extra money to buy a title or win an election when you're an incompetent ignorant boob.
Also, Douthat doesn't talk about the millions and millions of dollars DeVos and her billionaire husband have showered on Republican Senators who voted her in. Also Trump and Pence, who collected their own millions. No big deal, say the corrupt and their enablers like Douthat, it's just more of the totally not corrupt money in US politics. It just takes a lot of extra money to buy a title or win an election when you're an incompetent ignorant boob.
I think you mean Trumpism at it's worst. A billionaire entitled know nothing, appointing another, billionaire entitled know nothing, to be in charge of education. What a sick joke.
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Ross, since when is support of quality public education of interest to only the "upper middle classes" and not the poor?
Further, YOU acknowledge that she looked "unprepared and even foolish" during her confirmation hearings. THAT alone wasn't worthy of a no vote?
You belittle all of the Democratic attention Ms. DeVos' nomination has garnered as not being worth the effort, given the relative size and importance of the Dept. of Education. Typical of the scorn and disrespect that Republicans have for education in general and a complete lack of awareness of the role education plays in furthering our society.
Finally, enough of the religion! If people want to send their children to Christian Taliban schools to be indoctrinated in the kind of crazy Western Michigan Dutch Reform garbage that Ms. DeVos espouses, be my guest, but you're not doing it with MY tax dollars.
This is truly one of your more ridiculous columns.
Further, YOU acknowledge that she looked "unprepared and even foolish" during her confirmation hearings. THAT alone wasn't worthy of a no vote?
You belittle all of the Democratic attention Ms. DeVos' nomination has garnered as not being worth the effort, given the relative size and importance of the Dept. of Education. Typical of the scorn and disrespect that Republicans have for education in general and a complete lack of awareness of the role education plays in furthering our society.
Finally, enough of the religion! If people want to send their children to Christian Taliban schools to be indoctrinated in the kind of crazy Western Michigan Dutch Reform garbage that Ms. DeVos espouses, be my guest, but you're not doing it with MY tax dollars.
This is truly one of your more ridiculous columns.
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As a former public school teacher and now professor of education and after school teacher I am grateful for the effort to call out DeVos as highly unqualified to be secretary of education. This is a real blow to educators everywhere. Moral is at an all time low and I think we're going to experience a teacher shortage in the not too distant future. This article reads like a slap in the face. Not appreciated.
What a stunningly ill-informed column! It's rather obvious that RD is neither a trained educational researcher or a social science. His read of the research is far off base.
This is not just about her erring a bit too far on the choice issue. She is utterly unqualified to run a large bureaucracy that deals with a vast range of complex programs and policies. Her testimony during the nomination hearing was flabbergastingly bad. How is it that Douthat could miss that? Her lack of qualifications are unparalleled in modern cabinet member history.
This is not just about her erring a bit too far on the choice issue. She is utterly unqualified to run a large bureaucracy that deals with a vast range of complex programs and policies. Her testimony during the nomination hearing was flabbergastingly bad. How is it that Douthat could miss that? Her lack of qualifications are unparalleled in modern cabinet member history.
Douthat attended the private Hamden Hall, then graduated summa cum laude from Harvard. At not yet forty, he seems a prodigy of a Times columnist. His biography on wikipedia does not mention any parenthood.
Douthat's condescension and mockery on this topic so many clearly cared so much about, led me to expect just such a background.
I'm 65. Child of uneducated factory-working children of immigrants of the 1890s waves; I've taught in public school in New Haven, Los Angeles, Long Beach, at UCLA. in a private all-Armenian school, an all-boys' Catholic school for the Archdiocese of LA.
I have a different opinion of charter schools—a number of which operate without vetted finances and curriculum, without union protections or benefits. Charter school staff are younger, less experienced, hold fewer masters degrees, earn less—they are more racially diverse (70% of public teachers are female and white). Turnover at charters is higher, as are their rates of failure and closure.
I'm also a parent. Some questions about charters and vouchers: where, exactly, does anyone not already wealthy find a reputable private school for 2, 4, 6, or even ten grand a year? Existing schools are full. What of transportation? Most parents like their children's schools to be close.
Charters need close financial and curricular vetting. I know not why they fall outside union benefits, salaries, and protections.
I am bothered that this woman's brother founded a mercenary army, Blackwater.
Douthat's condescension and mockery on this topic so many clearly cared so much about, led me to expect just such a background.
I'm 65. Child of uneducated factory-working children of immigrants of the 1890s waves; I've taught in public school in New Haven, Los Angeles, Long Beach, at UCLA. in a private all-Armenian school, an all-boys' Catholic school for the Archdiocese of LA.
I have a different opinion of charter schools—a number of which operate without vetted finances and curriculum, without union protections or benefits. Charter school staff are younger, less experienced, hold fewer masters degrees, earn less—they are more racially diverse (70% of public teachers are female and white). Turnover at charters is higher, as are their rates of failure and closure.
I'm also a parent. Some questions about charters and vouchers: where, exactly, does anyone not already wealthy find a reputable private school for 2, 4, 6, or even ten grand a year? Existing schools are full. What of transportation? Most parents like their children's schools to be close.
Charters need close financial and curricular vetting. I know not why they fall outside union benefits, salaries, and protections.
I am bothered that this woman's brother founded a mercenary army, Blackwater.
This piece reveals Douthat's comprehensive ignorance about education and education policy. This is not important? The possibility of the loss of one of America's most critical public institutions? The brick by brick demolition of the metaphorical wall between irrational religion and civil life? The surrender of America's children to profit and deception? Insulting science and truth by endorsing an "alternative fact" approach to education?
Comparing Catholic parents sending their children to long-standing schools on their own dime with using taxpayer dollars to fund fundamentalist nonsense? That's supposed to be equivalent?
If we lose the unifying (albeit imperfect) system of free public education, serving all children equally, we are doomed. And Douthat thinks this is just silly partisanship?
Simply infuriating. I'm an educator and author and will stand podium to podium with Douthat (or DeVos) any day of the week, should the opportunity to arise. Times columnists should know something before they write something. Of course DeVos should know something before she runs something. But . . .
Comparing Catholic parents sending their children to long-standing schools on their own dime with using taxpayer dollars to fund fundamentalist nonsense? That's supposed to be equivalent?
If we lose the unifying (albeit imperfect) system of free public education, serving all children equally, we are doomed. And Douthat thinks this is just silly partisanship?
Simply infuriating. I'm an educator and author and will stand podium to podium with Douthat (or DeVos) any day of the week, should the opportunity to arise. Times columnists should know something before they write something. Of course DeVos should know something before she runs something. But . . .
Ross, you should stick to your stuff about the church, really. I'm a teacher and have been for many years. I have had the pleasure, now for almost 14 years of working in teacher education at a couple of universities. Training teachers is rewarding and challenging work. You are short on facts and a qualitative understanding about the complexities of schooling in America. You do not really understand the public school v charter/voucher argument. I suggest you do lots more homework before you pontificate about schools. Educating our youth is very complex work. Ms DeVos was an important battle to fight for our schools and our nation. You don't get the problem, so maybe just stick to covering all things Vatican.
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There are some citizens who believe that public institutions are best run by the public.There is something bothersome about a private company coming in to run the public library, perhaps at a profit. Why? Because taxpayer dollars ought to be spent for the public, not the private, good.Also the pubic ideally has some input into how public institutions are operated. If we cede the public sector to private interests we could lose control of our institutions.That could be bad for our democracy.
And Ross Douthat is back to delivering smug conservative talking points. Perhaps, in the last analysis, DeVos is a mediocre (at best) hack, and may be incapable of doing much harm--that point may well be valid enough. Nonetheless, Douthat's supposed careful citation of the literature on charters as showing the foolishness of basing opposition on such grounds is likely worthless ( I assume Douthat's reading of the evidence is selective and weighted to his preconceptions--I have wasted time in the past checking on "studies" of the sort he often alludes to. Based on performance, no reason to exert more effort hoping for something interesting or informative this time).
As for the other side of the aisle, I heard Senator Cormyn of Texas ranting about how we need some sort of change or disruption in education. The man is apparently unaware that such experiments and change have been going on for many years, suggesting, on the basis of the statement, that he was clearly unable to vote on the nominee. But such thoughtless knee-jerk republican (they don't deserve capital letters) cracks don't get remarked on by Douthat.
As for the other side of the aisle, I heard Senator Cormyn of Texas ranting about how we need some sort of change or disruption in education. The man is apparently unaware that such experiments and change have been going on for many years, suggesting, on the basis of the statement, that he was clearly unable to vote on the nominee. But such thoughtless knee-jerk republican (they don't deserve capital letters) cracks don't get remarked on by Douthat.
Mr. Douthat underestimates the degree to which educators, students, and families have increasingly objected to the privatization of public education. The opposition was growing under President Obama, but took on new urgency when faced with the specter of Betsy DeVos pro-charter and pro-voucher positions. The vast majority of public school teachers are not in the business for the money. We are in it because we see the institution of public education as the single greatest vehicle to create a more just and equitable society. Whether DeVos is motivated by money or is simply misguided is unclear. However, the policies she stands for will only serve to undermine our schools and our children. Make no mistake, charter schools are NOT public schools.
Respectfully,
Chris Johnston
Oakland, CA
Respectfully,
Chris Johnston
Oakland, CA
If a liberal equivalent of Betsy Devos were nominated by a President Hilary Clinton and she were to be vilified and characterised as out of her depth and clueless by the Republicans there would be numerous stories and op-eds in this newspaper charging her opponents with sexism.
Where are they feminists?
Where are they feminists?
1
Or, Ross, they were able to even get a Republicans to oppose her and make this unpopularly elected demagogue not get each of his directives and personnel passed. But, listen, you write a nice story too and it's always fun to get that Democrats dislike religion angle in for you.
Here is an alternative fact Mr. Douthat. Vouchers are just a politically polite and legal way to segregate rich from poor, black from white, Christian from everyone else.
Mrs. DeVos' voucher system will establish a zero sum game for that haves and have nots. The haves will use vouchers to as a way to isolate and separate. Like now there will be a limited number of good schools - and those lucky enough to know someone will be able to use their vouchers.
It is truly amazing to me that these patriot Republicans always have one core value: US vs. THEM. Vouchers are the perfect tool for enforcing this credo.
What's even better: I of course get to pay for this!!!
Mrs. DeVos' voucher system will establish a zero sum game for that haves and have nots. The haves will use vouchers to as a way to isolate and separate. Like now there will be a limited number of good schools - and those lucky enough to know someone will be able to use their vouchers.
It is truly amazing to me that these patriot Republicans always have one core value: US vs. THEM. Vouchers are the perfect tool for enforcing this credo.
What's even better: I of course get to pay for this!!!
Right. The opposition to DeVos was largely generated by the teachers unions. If there is legitimate concern that choice only benefits a few and diverts resources from the many, then give all schools the main advantage of the non-municipal schools. Municipal schools don't need competition as much as they need management to be able to choose their employees like any successful professional institution, profit or non-profit. Teacher quality is the most important controllable factor in students performance, as every parent knows and research demonstrates (Erik Hanushek). Both unions and advocates of choice conspire against this because they are very interested or uninterested respectively, but, there is no disinterested argument against it.
It's a truly a shame that so few speak up for this. People who should be interested in the plight of the worst schools like the NAACP and Black Lives Matter leaders side with their Party and its union interests on this. The choice people mostly don't want to challenge the powerful unions. Look how Scott Walker was viciously attacked. Wisconsi n schools are now seeing the benefits of returning school authority to those chosen by the electorate to run them. There's a Profile in Courage.
It's a truly a shame that so few speak up for this. People who should be interested in the plight of the worst schools like the NAACP and Black Lives Matter leaders side with their Party and its union interests on this. The choice people mostly don't want to challenge the powerful unions. Look how Scott Walker was viciously attacked. Wisconsi n schools are now seeing the benefits of returning school authority to those chosen by the electorate to run them. There's a Profile in Courage.
So apparently this is how Mr. Douthat will join the "give Trump a chancers" while remaining unsullied by actually saying so. He will condescendingly tut-tut the evidence-based, Trump resistance movement as little more than - ho-hum - the same hoary, traditional, alliance-beholden, knee jerk response of politics as usual Democrats. This also involves diminishing the substance of the issue itself - in this case, belittling the significance of Department of Education. Perhaps he'll be doing the same with the EPA. In the meantime, in the case of DeVos, while light-heartedly giving her a pass on her dedication to Christian education, he conveniently fails to sight even one example of the new secretary's web of other conflicting ideological and financial interests. Most notably, this includes her and her husband's history in gay conversion "therapy" - now adapted to for profit ADD treatment they are attempting to incorporate in public schools. Shameful, Douthat.
1
Simply put, I do not want my tax dollars spent on private education of any kind. I was supposed to attend a "not very good" High School. My mother wanted more for me. As a divorced single mother she could not afford to send me to private school, but she sacrificed and did.
I do not lack empathy for parents who want a better education for their children than what their local public school can provide. But diverting tax dollars to private education flies in the face of our basic democratic beliefs.
In Rockland County, NY there is a school board where the majority of the members are of a particular religious group. They have routinely funded the private schools of their faith, and underfunded public schools. The State of NY finally interceded and appointed a monitor to resolve the situation.
What DeVos represents is TAXATION WITHOUT REPRESENTATION.
I believe we started a revolution over that concept
I do not lack empathy for parents who want a better education for their children than what their local public school can provide. But diverting tax dollars to private education flies in the face of our basic democratic beliefs.
In Rockland County, NY there is a school board where the majority of the members are of a particular religious group. They have routinely funded the private schools of their faith, and underfunded public schools. The State of NY finally interceded and appointed a monitor to resolve the situation.
What DeVos represents is TAXATION WITHOUT REPRESENTATION.
I believe we started a revolution over that concept
Huh? I objected to DeVos because she represents the same ideology that is bringing down our schools in Douglas County, Colorado. The Koch Brother funded school board "reformers" brought in vouchers (thanks ACLU for fighting), pay for performance, charters, etc, and the result has been disastrous. While we have really bright kids and lots of stay at home moms and dads, our school ratings have declined since they took over. One reason is that they are driving out our best teachers, who make far less than in other districts. Since they have to jump through a bunch of extra hoops to prove their performance and since they can make much more in other districts, they jump ship. Our teachers make $50k per year on average, versus the average household income of $100k in our district. Head up north one school district and the teachers make 30% more and their schools are higher rated, despite their disadvantage in household income. This is why I objected to deVos. It has nothing to do with the silly reasons you cited, Ross.
1
Thoughtful article, but . . .
After I have worked 11 years in a charter school in California, I believe Betsy DeVos represents the fringe of the fringe in public education. Anyone, anyone would have been a more qualified candidate. Why could we not have a superintendent from an average sized district anywhere in the country who would know much more than Ms. DeVos? Oh, wait, she or he would not be able to contribute millions of dollars to support this awful president.
I like your columns, I really do. But, please don't make excuses for Trump and his ilk.
After I have worked 11 years in a charter school in California, I believe Betsy DeVos represents the fringe of the fringe in public education. Anyone, anyone would have been a more qualified candidate. Why could we not have a superintendent from an average sized district anywhere in the country who would know much more than Ms. DeVos? Oh, wait, she or he would not be able to contribute millions of dollars to support this awful president.
I like your columns, I really do. But, please don't make excuses for Trump and his ilk.
This is idiotic and insulting. If you don't see why DeVos represents everything underhanded, smarmy and disingenuous about Trump and his "administration", then you are not paying attention. As the mother of two children who attended excellent public schools, I believe that all children in America deserve someone who will fight to make public education the best it can be.
While it seems that Mr. Douthat is having a bit of trouble warming to the new leader of his party, the line must be toed. Those darned liberals are at it again. You know who I mean--interest groups! teachers! suburbanites!. Liberal elitists. (Trump voters don't live in the suburbs?)
Russ does point out: "DeVos did look unprepared and even foolish at times during her confirmation hearings, and she lacks the usual government experience." Well--there seems to be no problem here; foolish, unprepared, inexperienced? That's what we're looking for--just what we need to Make America Great Again.
In a grand, magnanimous gesture we are reminded: "Senators had every right to vote against her if they felt her underqualified or uninformed". That's good to know in our time of GOP tyranny. And then reveals the true problem: it's not the opposition you see, it's the "fervor and pitch" of the Democratic Party. It's not what they said, it's how they say it. The Dems--they're for the upper-middle class see?--and they don't care about the poor--like the GOP. Duly noted.
As for: "choice can save money", I've tried for years to understand how privatization, which comes with a profit margin of +/- 20% saves money. It might effect a transfer from teachers to stockholders--desirable for both according to GOP thinking, but where are the "savings"?
Russ does point out: "DeVos did look unprepared and even foolish at times during her confirmation hearings, and she lacks the usual government experience." Well--there seems to be no problem here; foolish, unprepared, inexperienced? That's what we're looking for--just what we need to Make America Great Again.
In a grand, magnanimous gesture we are reminded: "Senators had every right to vote against her if they felt her underqualified or uninformed". That's good to know in our time of GOP tyranny. And then reveals the true problem: it's not the opposition you see, it's the "fervor and pitch" of the Democratic Party. It's not what they said, it's how they say it. The Dems--they're for the upper-middle class see?--and they don't care about the poor--like the GOP. Duly noted.
As for: "choice can save money", I've tried for years to understand how privatization, which comes with a profit margin of +/- 20% saves money. It might effect a transfer from teachers to stockholders--desirable for both according to GOP thinking, but where are the "savings"?
My dear Mr. Douthat:
The fact that she didn't know an English word, proficiency, is not a reason to oppose her? Or, maybe she bought her position for $200 million, of "donations" to Republicans, as she told Sen. Sanders, (see http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ entry/betsy-devos-senate-contributions_us_589a12d1e4b040613139a5a4. The cited article also demonstrates how much she "contributed to 23 Republican senators, with the white horse Marco Rubio, receiving $98,300. Is that a possibility? Or do quid pro quos not occur in your world, and prey tell you have alternative facts.
The fact that she didn't know an English word, proficiency, is not a reason to oppose her? Or, maybe she bought her position for $200 million, of "donations" to Republicans, as she told Sen. Sanders, (see http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ entry/betsy-devos-senate-contributions_us_589a12d1e4b040613139a5a4. The cited article also demonstrates how much she "contributed to 23 Republican senators, with the white horse Marco Rubio, receiving $98,300. Is that a possibility? Or do quid pro quos not occur in your world, and prey tell you have alternative facts.
1
Yeah. Those horrible Democrats fighting for public schools.
4
Teachers Unions? Good grief, the dissent I have seen and heard mostly came from parents! And in Michigan, outside Detroit, my courtesy niece's public education was badly damaged, years ago, by DeVos' shifting funding away from services to support students with special needs. I actually favor a modest degree of school choice, because I grew up poor without it, but this nominee was so unqualified that the whole confirmation process was an embarrassment. She's definitely not the person I would want implementing any degree of school choice--a divisive candidate based on her actual past performance, and amazingly uninformed about public education and its requirements. Rural schools are really likely to suffer under a department that practices defunding for mandates that public schools are required to meet. Don't normalize this, Ross. I remind you again that you are smarter than your rhetoric.
Dear New York Times editors, you need to rein in your own by vetting columnists such as Mr. Douthat. You're falling prey to the "equal time for both sides" argument that gives equal billing to facts and falsehoods. Mr. Douthat can express an opposing view, but not at the expense of facts.
Before he spouts his usual liberal conspiracy theories about why only Democratic politicians did not like Ms. DeVos, you should have made him count the calls and letters to both aisles in Congress from the public. It was the public (you know, the folks that will pay her salary) that demanded she not be approved. Democrats did not ignore their constituencies; the Republicans did. To say only Democrats, acting alone, were responsible for speaking against a fabulously unqualified candidates is a falsehood. Will you now please print a correction and have a little talk with Mr. Douthat?
Before he spouts his usual liberal conspiracy theories about why only Democratic politicians did not like Ms. DeVos, you should have made him count the calls and letters to both aisles in Congress from the public. It was the public (you know, the folks that will pay her salary) that demanded she not be approved. Democrats did not ignore their constituencies; the Republicans did. To say only Democrats, acting alone, were responsible for speaking against a fabulously unqualified candidates is a falsehood. Will you now please print a correction and have a little talk with Mr. Douthat?
1
Sir, your deliberate revision of the opposition to Ms. DeVos' nomination is particularly galling. She is without a doubt. the most unqualified (unless your criteria is donating to the cause) individual to be nominated for the office. Beyond having no experience, if Ms. DeVos spent anytime preparing it was entirely wasted. Her ability to answer the most basic educational questions was far and away nonexistent.
You would see this as a partisan ballet royale because you have no other filter though which to see the world. I'm a Marine vet, 30 year plus Republican turned career educator and watching her confirmation hearings was one of the more repulsive things I have had to endure and no this - you call it mockingly a crusade. Well sir, it sure as hell is, it's a crusade for everything I value in my country and I lost today. The last thing I need is some partisan hack berating me as some misguided liberal Democrat. I know what I am sir, I'm a patriot who believes a strong public education system is what makes America great. Though I have to admit sir, I'm, still trying to find a term for this column I can use in public without shocking my students.
You would see this as a partisan ballet royale because you have no other filter though which to see the world. I'm a Marine vet, 30 year plus Republican turned career educator and watching her confirmation hearings was one of the more repulsive things I have had to endure and no this - you call it mockingly a crusade. Well sir, it sure as hell is, it's a crusade for everything I value in my country and I lost today. The last thing I need is some partisan hack berating me as some misguided liberal Democrat. I know what I am sir, I'm a patriot who believes a strong public education system is what makes America great. Though I have to admit sir, I'm, still trying to find a term for this column I can use in public without shocking my students.
1
Another typical Douthat column: set up the liberal straw man and slap it around a bit. Throw in a bit of red meat about looming theocracy and call it good. Why no mention of the fact that DeVos contributed $200 million to the very people who confirmed her? Why no mention of the her lack of knowledge of, and respect for, IDEA legislation? Are "rich suburbanites" and other liberals the only ones concerned that kids with disabilities get an equal and appropriate education? We didn't even get a Douthat word that sends people thumbing through their dictionaries this time around. Come on, Ross.
1
Sometimes Mr. Douthat says moderately interesting things, and at other times he writes like a Fox News political hack.
This piece falls into the latter category.
Mr. Douthat has decided to debase himself by defending the indefensible. No serious person can say with a straight face that DeVos is at all qualified to be Education Secretary.
Mr. Douthat cannot conceive that anyone really cares about the education of our nation's youth. And so he thinks any outrage over Mrs. DeVos must be politically motivated.
So who cares that Mrs. DeVos is patently, painfully, unqualified for the job?
Who cares that she doesn't seem to have even a rudimentary knowledge of the issues?
That's not important for Mr. Douthat. What's really important is to point out that the evil "Teacher's Union" - that nefarious group that tries to educate young people non-religiously - normally favors Democrats.
"AH HA!!" He shouts. "That's what must be behind it all!"
Notably missing from Mr. Douthat's "analysis" is any mention of the fact that Mrs. DeVos doesn't want charter schools to be held to the same standards as public schools.
She wants charter and religious schools to get tax-payer funding, but she doesn't want them to be held to the same accountability.
If Mr. Douthat was not blinded by his ideological love for religious schooling, he would see that as a serious problem, requiring the serious push-back DeVos has gotten from people who really care about our children's education.
This piece falls into the latter category.
Mr. Douthat has decided to debase himself by defending the indefensible. No serious person can say with a straight face that DeVos is at all qualified to be Education Secretary.
Mr. Douthat cannot conceive that anyone really cares about the education of our nation's youth. And so he thinks any outrage over Mrs. DeVos must be politically motivated.
So who cares that Mrs. DeVos is patently, painfully, unqualified for the job?
Who cares that she doesn't seem to have even a rudimentary knowledge of the issues?
That's not important for Mr. Douthat. What's really important is to point out that the evil "Teacher's Union" - that nefarious group that tries to educate young people non-religiously - normally favors Democrats.
"AH HA!!" He shouts. "That's what must be behind it all!"
Notably missing from Mr. Douthat's "analysis" is any mention of the fact that Mrs. DeVos doesn't want charter schools to be held to the same standards as public schools.
She wants charter and religious schools to get tax-payer funding, but she doesn't want them to be held to the same accountability.
If Mr. Douthat was not blinded by his ideological love for religious schooling, he would see that as a serious problem, requiring the serious push-back DeVos has gotten from people who really care about our children's education.
3
This is one of the laziest editorials I've seen in a while, and that says a lot because I'm used to Douthat's particular version of intellectual laziness/ dishonesty. Usually people who are clearly intelligent but who stick to republican ideologies do so via one or both of two mechanisms: intellectual dishonesty or pure meanness.
Ross, you could have used your rare and valuable platform to question why your party has insisted on nominating people who are uniquely unqualified to run the agencies they are tasked with heading. Or whether such nominations represent the "draining of the swamp" or anti-corruption ethos Trump valiantly promised his supporters. You could have used your platform to describe some reasons, if any exist, why you personally do not think that DeVos will be a disaster or why you think it is acceptable to appoint someone who is ideologically opposed to an agency to be its leader. But no, instead of defending this obviously horrible choice, your baseless accusation is that democrats chose to target her because of that oh-so powerful teacher's union. Oh. Please.
Put another way, instead of adding anything valuable to the discussion, you insisted on trying to make democrats look unprincipled for opposing this tremendously inappropriate nomination, and at the same time insinuating that there is no real reason for them to do so except for union dollars. What a clever slight of hand.
Ross, you could have used your rare and valuable platform to question why your party has insisted on nominating people who are uniquely unqualified to run the agencies they are tasked with heading. Or whether such nominations represent the "draining of the swamp" or anti-corruption ethos Trump valiantly promised his supporters. You could have used your platform to describe some reasons, if any exist, why you personally do not think that DeVos will be a disaster or why you think it is acceptable to appoint someone who is ideologically opposed to an agency to be its leader. But no, instead of defending this obviously horrible choice, your baseless accusation is that democrats chose to target her because of that oh-so powerful teacher's union. Oh. Please.
Put another way, instead of adding anything valuable to the discussion, you insisted on trying to make democrats look unprincipled for opposing this tremendously inappropriate nomination, and at the same time insinuating that there is no real reason for them to do so except for union dollars. What a clever slight of hand.
2
Why are Democrats so opposed to this fraudulent billionaire heiress?
She has had no experience in the public sector whatsoever, but she would happily destroy the public education system and do her best to privatize it so that she and her billionaire friends can make money (like they don't have enough) off of our children's backs.
Did you actually watch her "performance" during her hearings? Her arrogance and dismissal of the questions, in addition to her complete and total lack of knowledge about the public education system has nothing to do with the teachers' unions standing against her.
You know what, Ross? I don't have a degree or any real experience in journalism. Maybe I'll take your job. How does that sound?
She has had no experience in the public sector whatsoever, but she would happily destroy the public education system and do her best to privatize it so that she and her billionaire friends can make money (like they don't have enough) off of our children's backs.
Did you actually watch her "performance" during her hearings? Her arrogance and dismissal of the questions, in addition to her complete and total lack of knowledge about the public education system has nothing to do with the teachers' unions standing against her.
You know what, Ross? I don't have a degree or any real experience in journalism. Maybe I'll take your job. How does that sound?
2
"DeVos did look unprepared and even foolish at times during her confirmation hearings, and she lacks the usual government experience."
After that choker there isn't much point in going on. Foolish and unprepared fits the bill for Republicans these days.
But holy wars? Who exactly is it that's shoving extreme Christianity down our throats? Right. And Betsy DeVos wants to make sure they start with little kids.
After that choker there isn't much point in going on. Foolish and unprepared fits the bill for Republicans these days.
But holy wars? Who exactly is it that's shoving extreme Christianity down our throats? Right. And Betsy DeVos wants to make sure they start with little kids.
Douthat's obliviousness to simple math is good evidence of the urgent need to strengthen education, even if he's a product of parochial schooling.
The Democrats could count 50 votes against DeVos. That's the most votes against any nominee. Who wouldn't put their chips on a 50-50 proposition?
I think Douthat unconsciously projects his own existential angst over the "big issues" he derides Democrats for failing to oppose with sufficient vigor while slyly pretending he thinks public education is a trivial aspect of national government just like the Democrats he says.
Then he proceeds with a detailed political analysis of education that minimizes differences between progressive, commercial, right-wing policies, that predictably ends with a contemptible sneer accusing Democrats of cynically pandering to unions and bureaucracy.
Huh?
Is this Conservative Republican Derangement Syndrome? Is this the cognitive dissonance of 40 days and 40 nights wandering in the desert only to be tempted to turn a petty tweet into a genuine and principled conservative vision that justifies the Christian crusade against liberals, secularists, globalists, multi-culturalists, women, lawyers, journalists, artists?
What would JC do? What did he do?
At some point you have to choose between authenticity and bad faith. With Trump as the new North Star for your belief system, how hard can it be?
The Democrats could count 50 votes against DeVos. That's the most votes against any nominee. Who wouldn't put their chips on a 50-50 proposition?
I think Douthat unconsciously projects his own existential angst over the "big issues" he derides Democrats for failing to oppose with sufficient vigor while slyly pretending he thinks public education is a trivial aspect of national government just like the Democrats he says.
Then he proceeds with a detailed political analysis of education that minimizes differences between progressive, commercial, right-wing policies, that predictably ends with a contemptible sneer accusing Democrats of cynically pandering to unions and bureaucracy.
Huh?
Is this Conservative Republican Derangement Syndrome? Is this the cognitive dissonance of 40 days and 40 nights wandering in the desert only to be tempted to turn a petty tweet into a genuine and principled conservative vision that justifies the Christian crusade against liberals, secularists, globalists, multi-culturalists, women, lawyers, journalists, artists?
What would JC do? What did he do?
At some point you have to choose between authenticity and bad faith. With Trump as the new North Star for your belief system, how hard can it be?
2
Mr. Douthat,
It is stunning to me that you imagine education to be a cause that is "dear to the upper middle class," and not among the "interests of the poor."
Who do you think attends the worst schools in this country, and who do you imagine is hurt the most when badly educated??
For over twenty years, I have taught mostly first- generation college students whose parents often work two jobs to pay their bills, so I know very well that education is an issue that is of greatest concern to families who live paycheck to paycheck. Upper middle class people are never, ever the ones who suffer the consequences of terrible education policy, and families who live paycheck to paycheck know this. If you were poor and had children, you would also know this very, very well, as you would know that your child's future will be determined by the quality of her education.
So please, do us all a favor and talk to some economically disadvantaged families. If you do this, I have no doubt that you will learn what every teacher who works with economically struggling families knows: there is no other issue that is more important than this one.
And yes, this is why so many of us have fought the appointment of a person who is so clearly unqualified to provide the kind of vision, passion, and intelligence that is required to fulfill the duties of this very important cabinet position.
1
Are you suggesting and/or supporting vouchers for conservative religious schools? Was I asleep? Did the Constitution's separation of church and state get overturned?
5
come on Ross, you're better than this...
1
Does it occur to no one at all that the reason for this particular battle over the others where sneeringly insulting nominations of mindless or gleeful would-be destroyers of the departments they were nominated for--was simply that it was one where there was a tiny chance to win?
3
To nominate somebody so unprepared, unqualified and unintelligent is simply a slap in the face of every citizen.
4
I am proud of the Democrats for taking a stand against the minority presidents' appointments. In 2018 we will take back the country from the corrupt Greed Over People party.
3
I'd be very curious to know how the "modest" improvements you cited were measured? Were there objective educational standards that the public and private charter schools were required to meet? Were the modest improvements statistically meaningful?
1
It wasn't just wealthy suburban moms who opposed DeVos, and it's inaccurate to say that the federal government has little control over education. No recent administration has had the wisdom to put the money where the problem is: support the families whose children need better schools, and support the educators who are working against tremendous odds. But Betsy DeVos is an insult to government, to the education profession, and to the American public. In New York City, we had our Cathy Black interlude. One can only hope this interlude at the USDOE is as brief.
This is the last time I'll be clicking on Douthat's columns.
This is the last time I'll be clicking on Douthat's columns.
4
"Charters and vouchers are most appealing to the poor, the religious and the eccentric"—and the apparently the megarich. Devos is a billionaire, bruh, why did you conveniently omit that fact? I also think it worth noting that she comes from a family that stands to greatly benefit from the changing of federal policy to support privatization and charters. Our nation, and our public institutions, are under siege by a bunch of spray tanned plutocrats—this ain't the same old politics.
3
Thank heavens, for Ross Douthat, who just gave us the most predictable of spectacles: a right wing diatribe against opponents of the appointment of Betsy DeVos, that minimizes the real issues about her appointment and trots out unsubstantiated "stats" about the benefits of school choice for all. When liberals object, Douthat is ready to respond with a fervor and a pitch that disguises his disdain for all things different and ignores the plight of a public education system in need of so much more than sloganism. School choice is a misnomer. Just ask the inner city kid with neither the means nor the transportation available to him or her in order to take advantage of any choice offered. Besides, the kid would have to take Douthat's word that the choice is a better option.
3
If Betsy DeVos had had any integrity or class, she would have withdrawn her name from nomination. She has proven she doesn't put education first; she puts Betsy DeVos first.
2
Ross, I know you get paid to publish an opinion and you have to find a topic and all, and I often agree where you are coming from, but your criticism of the opposition to Da Vos is equally predictable, and I would offer, unecessary. Da Vos resonates b/c she is so completely unqualified to run the department, clearly a nod to her GOP $upport, and her leadership is an insult to good teachers everywhere. Organizations are only as good as their leadership, and it hurts to think of privatization and division being what awaits poor children, when we should be doing everything to build up our public schools and ensuring equal opportunity. Hard to do that when hedge funds wanting to privatize education are going in one direction, and hard-working, public-minded people are fighting desperately to keep our public schools, especially in urban areas, from falling apart.
3
I think that one thing Ross fails to include in the discussion is the undermining of union power that affects teacher speech. While it is true that unions spend a lot of time supporting poor teacher performance, we need to also recognize that that is only possible because union power makes firing a teacher for political purposes illegal. Teachers who teach both sides of a current event issue in class in union states are protected, while those in nonunion states can be fired for being "unpatriotic". Given the current "alternative fact" environment created by the Trump administration, a teacher who merely speaks the truth can be claimed to be "unpatriotic" because they teach something contrary to what our political leader is saying, and can be fired without union protection. This may be a secondary benefit of the conservative push to increase school choice (after profit motive), but to anyone in a classroom after 9/11 who had to discuss the potential invasion of Iraq in a "your either with us or against us" environment, this is a very real concern.
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Ross, being smug and condescending may be fun but it's not helpful, and some fact checking is in order, too. In Massachusetts, for example, the proposition on raising the cap on charter schools failed for lots of reasons. Chief among them was the total lack of oversight over the schools, and we were well aware of the failure and corruption in charter schools in places like Michigan. Other questions included: the current number of charter schools is well below the cap, why the need to raise it? The massive funding to promote raising the cap came from a few billionaires from out of state, what's their angle? And, how will students without access to charter schools and those with special needs be assured a good education? We need to improve public education, not destroy it.
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Another comforting familiarity: Conservatives' sneering contempt and derision after a win.
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Comparing private and charter schools to public schools is disingenuous. Public schools must accept ANY child that comes along. Private schools can be more selective. This means that public schools will almost always be behind private schools in various measures of performance, simply because they are required, by law, to accept under performing students.
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"Decades of experiments suggest that choice can save money, improve outcomes for very poor kids whose public options are disastrous, and increase parental satisfaction." This statement is infuriating to a liberal such as myself because such 'choices' are never equally available to people of all denominations. In this country, those who come from wealthier families undoubtedly have more opportunities to give their children a high quality education. How can we call ourselves a democratic society without providing equal opportunities for our children? A better funded and more equitable public education system is the only solution to this problem, and any action in defense of it is a good investment in our future.
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Democrats care because they believe the head of a department should actually have an interest and sincere belief in its mission. Democrats care because they know that public schools are the bedrock of this country. To all GOP members who deny the historic AND current success of public schools -- I guess you are willing to insult most of your fellow citizens, since 90% of us use these for 100% of our education. Democrats care because they honor the first amendment and do not want to see it violated by a tear-down of the wall between church and state. If you think those of us who revere our PS system are in it for "our own upper middle class causes," then you have never spoken to a tireless member of a PTA, a founder of an education foundation, employees of a company which sends volunteers into classrooms, devoted school board members. Most of all, you have clearly never conversed with a PS parent-- we who cheer on all the kids with equal fervor, believing that every smile we give children perhaps not quite so blessed as our own, will be a pay forward gesture. I know I influenced countless PS children along the way with just that tiny bit of encouragement. You ought to try it sometime Ross, and then the real reason why this mattered to dems will be clear to you.
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Dude the reason why this nation is in peril is because the people lack education. Ergo DeVos. For the love of all things holy, I'm surprised you don't get that.
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First, DeVos's Christian piety has no place in public policy. And is putting less funding (read: the bogeyman "money") into public schools going to improve public schools?
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So, essentially, what you're saying is: Almost ALL of his nominees deserve to be blocked. On that point, I agree with you.
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By any reasonable metric DeVos is unqualified. Yes, we know Douthat is a dyed in the wool Republican, and tows the party line. And yes, according to GOP talking points, teachers should are not entitled to a living wage or benefits of their constitutional right to unionize. Only billionaires and corporations are entitled to a living wage.
So, on Douthat goes with his whining: nobody loves Trump because deep down he really cares, and no one will give a billionaire donor the chance she deserves (because she's a billionaire donor).
Why not make public eduction better? It's simple solution, and requires someone who has a background in education not writing checks.
So, on Douthat goes with his whining: nobody loves Trump because deep down he really cares, and no one will give a billionaire donor the chance she deserves (because she's a billionaire donor).
Why not make public eduction better? It's simple solution, and requires someone who has a background in education not writing checks.
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The issue is in fact that she is completely unqualified and hostile to the department she is supposed to lead.
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Education teaches the future generation. So typical for a republican to divert issues to military and war. We will be stuck with the outrageous health care costs, ridiculous tuition to universities, and schools teaching stupid creatioh legends much after Putin.
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Like Betsy DeVos and Betsy DeVos's children, Ross Douthat never had any use for public schools. His parents sent him to private schools, and if he has children, I'm sure he sends them to private school. So it's understandable that he doesn't see what the fuss is about.
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You neglect to mention (I suspect purposely), that charter schools and for-profit education fail in almost every case to serve special needs kids. All of our charters are free to deny any student they wish. So they leave parents like me with only two options, the public schools which they want to starve of any resources, or home-schooling. DeVos' answer to IDEA, when she finally got it through her thick skull that it was an existing federal law that she was stuck with, countered inexplicably that parents would be best served by her vouchers which require them to waive their legal rights.
This urban liberal could get behind a lot of reforms to public education, though you seek to belittle me as a slave to teachers unions. But I have no confidence that an ideologue with no solid experience in the field is going to have any success doing anything other than moving more community resources to her rich friends, at the expense of quality education of our children.
This urban liberal could get behind a lot of reforms to public education, though you seek to belittle me as a slave to teachers unions. But I have no confidence that an ideologue with no solid experience in the field is going to have any success doing anything other than moving more community resources to her rich friends, at the expense of quality education of our children.
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Based on my understanding of his argument Dounthat does not believe the Department of Education is important and therefore placing a person who has no expertise in education in control of the department is unimportant. Does this mean also that US ranking in the mid twenties for education is ok also. That at least is a consistent position.
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Would it be unreasonable, Ross, to point out that with public pressure forcing two Republican Senators to break ranks, this was one abominable nomination the Democrats had at least a remote hope of stopping? The rest of Trump's cabinet picks will be passed on party lines: the Democrats haven't got the votes to block them and the Republicans lack both the spine and the ethical fiber to do so.
Your opinion basis died at the starting line, what with opposition to Jeff Sessions now taking center stage. Perhaps wait another 24 hours before writing would have given your mind time to form clear arguments, instead of wasting paper space.
Individual parents can choose where to send their children. If they don't want to send them to charter schools, they don't have to. If the teachers union can find a way to improve the quality of their input, which has not happened, then parents can choose to leave charter schools. If 20% of the school become charter schools and get 20% of the money, that does not reduce the amount of money per student. My friend who is a teacher in Philadelphia public schools has been assaulted by students and endures daily insults. Progress is based on experiment, and what has been happening has not been working. Let's keep trying until we find something that works.
The problem is not that there was a predictable tone to the Democrats' opposition to DeVos. It's that a similar fight isn't also being waged against other unqualified nominees, such as those for the Departments of Justice, HHS and Labor.
Come on Ross, I see fights across the board against unqualified candidates like Sessions and Gorsuch. Bringing to light Devose's obvious problems is as essential to emphasizing Trump's problems as any of his other unqualified nominees.
This billionaire of a lady who's family is rich as cream ( i see where here hubby went to public schools in grand rapids, michigan) truly borders on incompetence. I'll try to watch her through the press.
This battle was worth fighting, because public schools are one of the key institutions in American democracy. We have recent experience of government support for private schools leading to the system of segregated academies throughout the South as the states' reaction to school desegregation. We know the end result was to starve the remaining public schools, which African Americans attended, starved for financial support. We also know that America's economy, which is dependent upon scientific advances, will not prosper if we increase the number of schools teaching pseudo-science.
I have to admit that I was one of those folks who rallied against Betsy DeVos having spent the last 40 years in education and having taught almost all grades in public school plus both graduates and undergraduate education students at three different universities. I probably might be qualified for her job. However, as I have been ranting to all my friends - vouchers and charter schools will not fix public education. Sure more money will help, but what will help even more are effective teachers. Given how we have dumbed down our schools in the past fifty years, what we have coming out of our universities are mostly well meaning but uneducated young people. Education is not an undergraduate degree - it is a graduate degree. Our future teachers need four years of liberal arts courses (to make up for what they missed in high school) and then two years of education courses with experience in model classrooms where they can experience what effective teaching looks like and sounds like.
You obscure your argument with conservative speak about liberals attacking religion and the union bogeyman, instead if addressing the real fact that this woman is completely unqualified for this position. The truth that she is being rewarded for her contributions to a cause is what you are trying to burry here, not her work to undermine public schools. Also, exactly what are the "modest" gains over public schools in Detroit? Were they in math and science, reading comprehension, PE? What were the real gains other than to separate the haves from the have nots? This woman is a disaster to our education system and a clear signal from the republicans that their plan of privatized America is well on its way.
I love conservative arguments - they basically come down to the democrats are hypocrites because they aren't pure enough - it is the ultimate argument for the mathematically impaired - arguing since the democrats aren't completely pure they are hypocrites and evivalent to the corrupt and incompetent opposition - never mind that they are vastly more competent and less corrupt than Trump and his toadies - this poor reasoning and lack of ability to measure quantity is what got Trump elected - it will be a tacable moment when people learn that quantity matters - you don't have to be saint to be better than the republicans
Suburban mom here. All the moms I know mobilized against DeVos, and the opposition was spearheaded by the moms with special needs kids. As for your fondness for the idea of charter schools, the impact of charters here in NC has been the development of segregated schools, with no actual documented improvement in kids' learning. A good many of us suburbanites are opposed to siphoning resources from the public schools so that affluent students can go to charter schools that cherry pick their students and that don't provide transportation and lunch, while the poorer kids get left behind.
As usual, because Mr. Douthat is a Conservative, most Times readers dismiss, ignore, or miss the point of his argument: the main reason the democrats went to the mat over this appointment is that one of their largest special interest groups, the teachers unions, wanted them to do so. (Similarly, the republicans always go to the mat for their interest groups, such as the religious right and the gun lobby.) As someone who works in education, I can say I do not think the democrats give a darn about real education, but only care about the financial interests of publicly employed educators. The two are not the same. The 40 year experiment with a federal department of education has been a disaster that I witness up close every day. Instead of appointing an idiot to run it, Trump should have had the guts to propose its shutdown.
Great points. The most problematic appointee is Pruit to the EPA. He can cause the most damage to our society. I have wondered why there is little fight on this issue- now I know, water and air do not have vast funds to contribute to politicians
There's one very important point relating to education that we're forgetting: These are peoples' children. You can't suppress six and a half million years of evolution through well reasoned logic. People are disproportionately defensive about the outcomes of their progeny. That's a fact. There's even a mathematical expression that explains the probability of parental self-sacrifice. Meaning: The probability of an individual sacrificing their life to save another human-being increases proportionally as you get closer to the root of the family tree. More simply: The average person is more likely to die for their own child than their cousin. Look it up. We are a K strategy species after all.
Betsy DeVos, minus the billions, is an abject failure re her mission of school reform. She is appallingly ignorant of evaluative tools and legal requirements for the education of public school students. She does not believe in accountability. Neither she, nor her children have attended or worked in public schools. Her ignorance and cluelessness were embarrassingly displayed during her confirmation hearing.
I ask this; is this monied mediocrity truly the best person the Republicans could select to advance the quality of public education? Is the pool of conservative education experts, theorists and teachers alike, so inconceivably shallow that DeVos stands astride it? Good Lord, the Republican collective intellect has devolved further than we might have imagined if DeVos is deemed "talent." How humiliating for them.
I ask this; is this monied mediocrity truly the best person the Republicans could select to advance the quality of public education? Is the pool of conservative education experts, theorists and teachers alike, so inconceivably shallow that DeVos stands astride it? Good Lord, the Republican collective intellect has devolved further than we might have imagined if DeVos is deemed "talent." How humiliating for them.
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"School choice" is a foil. Sounds reasonable on the surface but it really means privatizing public education. Vouchers will never cover the cost of the better private schools. Parents with the means to do so can make up the difference. Parents who can't will in fact have no choice but to send their kids to underfunded local schools.
If Russia invades Ukraine, the current group of school children will be the ones to deal with the ramifications 20 years from now. Will they be ready?
If Russia invades Ukraine, the current group of school children will be the ones to deal with the ramifications 20 years from now. Will they be ready?
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Sadly it will take many years to recover from the mess those republicans are making out of our great country. Where did trump dig up all these unqualified
persons. That person devos believes in vouchers....well if you want a private school for your kids, you pay for it and not the taxpayers. When the intelligent republicans finally wake up, it will be too late.
persons. That person devos believes in vouchers....well if you want a private school for your kids, you pay for it and not the taxpayers. When the intelligent republicans finally wake up, it will be too late.
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If this person weren't a billionaire contributor, her expertise would be recognized as being about the level of an average PTA mom with a right wing ideological bent. Douthat is papering over incompetence bordering on cluelessness and the fact bought and paid for Senate Republicans voted her in en mass. That's the whole story and Douthat' typically insightful column today is superfluous whining about opposition he'd support if the parties were reversed
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If Collins had really wanted to vote no she would have done so in committee. She knew her no vote would not hurt DeVos and she could make some points. Mine is not the first comment to point this out. Two other writers here in the Times have glossed over this fact in the last two days. Is that on purpose or just poor reporting.
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I might be more sympathetic to DeVos if 1) vouchers were based on income. If parents are wealthy enough to pay for private school then they should. 2) No money for religious schools. not Catholic, Not Jewish, Not Muslim NONE. Religious schools mean my taxes are paying for religious speech that I disagree with. My first amendment rights trampled. 3) if a school receives any public money then they must be accountable to the same standards as public schools 4) No picking and choosing what students they want or sending difficult kids back to the public schools. A lottery is used for slots in schools. Those students are theirs until parents withdraw them or the school shuts down. Efforts to push kids out will mean a loss of all funds
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This candidate is uniquely unqualified for the position for which she has been nominated.
To me, Ms. DeVos having any input or control over education is scary. Unlike other cabinet positions, where in many instances it may be possible to reverse any damage which may be done, if a child's education is adversely affected for several years, there are life-long consequences. Those years are lost.
To me, Ms. DeVos having any input or control over education is scary. Unlike other cabinet positions, where in many instances it may be possible to reverse any damage which may be done, if a child's education is adversely affected for several years, there are life-long consequences. Those years are lost.
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Ross, can you accept the possibility that millions of Americans actually DISAGREE with the idea of gutting the public sector in favor of privatization schemes? This was NEVER primarily about charter schools, and implying that it was is dishonest. It was about an arrogant, dismissive attitude toward the value of public education and public services in general. DeVos represents the smirking billionaire who thinks "government sucks" and who has sought to profit personally from creating private alternatives. Get it now?
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Let's not forget that Douthat is, admittedly or not, a proponent of religion over government, a theme that permeates his columns. He writes frequently of "moral" imperatives and their bases in laws, but what he's really ducking is his desire (like most Constitutional originalists) to re-establish religion over the state, in spite of the First Amendment. His claim that public schools are run locally is a huge (and typically Republican) overstatement. If he bothered to inform himself (like DeVos, he appears ignorant of what the Department of Education does, or of the real issues like testing and performance standards), he'd notice that federal standards are what have elevated (and admittedly, in many cases, hindered) our public schools. I wonder if he would be so in favor of "school choice" and "charter academies" if the religion behind them were Islam. Hypocrite, heal thyself!
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Totally disagree. DeVo$ represents the worst of the swamp that was supposed to be drained. Utterly unqualified. And, it was painfully obvious that she did not prepare at all for her hearing, much less the job. Oh wait - yes she did - she bought the Republicans, who turned a deaf ear on their constituencies (who protested vociferously by every method available to them). Shameful.
Do you have children? Where did they go to school? You should disclose that before making fun of Democrats and Republicans who care deeply about public education.
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The opposition to Betsy DeVos isn't, as this article suggests, a Democratic attachment to bureaucracy but rather a response to Ms. DeVos' obvious ignorance of basic educational terms. It is incredibly disturbing that in her Senate hearing she could not distinguish between growth-based and standards-based evaluation. This is on par with a physician not knowing the difference between taking an X-ray and measuring a patient's blood pressure. Now imagine that same doctor was just appointed surgeon general. DeVos has made it clear she knows nothing about education. Perhaps Democrats' "attachment to bureaucracy" is simply the desire to have a qualified, competent individual appointed to a position that will impact millions of children.
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Perhaps the best thing about the is the probability Ms. Davis will be so incompetent that it will give further proof of the inherent idiocy of Trumping.
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I think that one of the main reasons people fought so hard against DeVos is that she was a) clearly uninformed about issues in education and b) so perfectly exemplifies Trump's tendency to reward loyalty far more than expertise. There are right-wing education people that he could have picked who are more experienced in public schools than DeVos, but he didn't choose them. He chose her. She could barely answer questions in the hearing. Why did he pick her?
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The reason Democrats coalesced against DeVos is because they thought they might possibly win. The fact that she had no real qualifications to serve as Secretary of Education was relatively unimportant.
In the end, Mitch McConnell's ability to maintain party discipline won the day. Sens Murkowski and Collins took the opportunity to make statements, but the third vote never materialized. What a surprise.
And then a member of the House introduced a bill to abolish the Dept of Education. He was probably not trying to make a statement about the new Secretary.
This column did advance my personal education. I looked up the meaning of "logorrheic."
In the end, Mitch McConnell's ability to maintain party discipline won the day. Sens Murkowski and Collins took the opportunity to make statements, but the third vote never materialized. What a surprise.
And then a member of the House introduced a bill to abolish the Dept of Education. He was probably not trying to make a statement about the new Secretary.
This column did advance my personal education. I looked up the meaning of "logorrheic."
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DeVos was among the worst of Trump's choices on every front - policy, experience, knowledge, etc. Opposition to her was a political test. She was the easiest target for Democrats to show to the American voter what Trump and the Republicans are doing. One need not be an urbane, east coast liberal to know what public schools are and that this woman could impact our children, and pretty much everyone cares about their children. For Democrats, persuading three Republicans to vote against DeVos would be a major rebuke to Trump and also show that there was a crack in the foundation. On the other hand, even if they failed to do so, the fact of Republican endorsement of such an unqualified person reflects so poorly on Republicans that it will serve as excellent campaign fodder for 2018. Trump did no favor to the Republicans by nominating her, and Republicans will suffer the same consequences with Tom Price and Ben Carson. Being both ignorant and doctrinaire is not a recipe for success. To succeed there really is no substitute for knowing what you are doing.
So Douthat once again confirms his preference for cynicism in place of constructive criticism. Nothing new here. He will fiddle while Rome burns, all the while claiming it as his opponents' melody.
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Public school is an important American institution to a lot of people for many different reasons. It is one of the few places where Americans gather in a public forum and spend a lot of time together no matter their politics, class or religion. (Unless they choose not to attend) The public school system is the melting pot. It is not to be taken lightly.
Plus, we have been here before, during the Bush years, when the private school elite class decided it had great ideas for the public school system, which they knew little to nothing about and regarded with contempt. No Child Left Behind was a joke. Yet, they were able to get it wrong for eight years. More or less a generation of students sold out by their president for a system that helped no one except for those few people from the private sector who got in on the lucrative student testing windfall. There are million$ to be made in federal education policy. DeVos is a chip off that block. Why do you think she is there? Because she cares about children and education? Yea, right.
Conservatives congratulate themselves when they chip away at the Federal Government regardless of the damage it causes. Public school is what makes America great, back in the day and as well as right now.
How come you didn't write an article opposing her? You are at least skeptical of her motives and potential. Why would you instead chastise the people who did?
Plus, we have been here before, during the Bush years, when the private school elite class decided it had great ideas for the public school system, which they knew little to nothing about and regarded with contempt. No Child Left Behind was a joke. Yet, they were able to get it wrong for eight years. More or less a generation of students sold out by their president for a system that helped no one except for those few people from the private sector who got in on the lucrative student testing windfall. There are million$ to be made in federal education policy. DeVos is a chip off that block. Why do you think she is there? Because she cares about children and education? Yea, right.
Conservatives congratulate themselves when they chip away at the Federal Government regardless of the damage it causes. Public school is what makes America great, back in the day and as well as right now.
How come you didn't write an article opposing her? You are at least skeptical of her motives and potential. Why would you instead chastise the people who did?
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Betsy DeVos is an unqualified gadfly with dangerous ideas, whose chief qualification for the job was the political influence her wealth had already secured for her. I don't care what motivates a Senator to oppose her, I am simply glad to see her opposed. I will be similarly glad to see any and all of Trump's picks get as vigorously opposed... though I brace myself for disappointment, as we seem to live in disappointing times.
And yes... I don't expect this will in any way lead to some kind of "victory" for "liberalism". But, given that Trump's Cabinet is going to be a sick joke of cosmic proportions, anyone in a position to oppose it is morally obligated to do so, for the sake of all History, and it's up to the rest of us to encourage them as much as possible.
And yes... I don't expect this will in any way lead to some kind of "victory" for "liberalism". But, given that Trump's Cabinet is going to be a sick joke of cosmic proportions, anyone in a position to oppose it is morally obligated to do so, for the sake of all History, and it's up to the rest of us to encourage them as much as possible.
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This is a deeply cynical opinion piece.
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The one saving grace about DeVos and Rick Perry is they are both too stupid to do very much damage to the departments they head.
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Did it really relieve you to become even more aware of the fact that education...the key to truly liberal thought and to self-governance...is in the hands of a special interest group. I take no relief in this. The education system does not only control the content and form of learning but dictate the course of the day for the average American as well as the rhythm of the year. It is a maddening control granted a rather uninspiring group of people. I take no relief in having my life dictated to (even if my child is in the Catholic educational system due to things like busing and school lunches and boxes and subsidies) by a self-interested group of professionals who market themselves as being more interested in my child than even I am. I take no relief in hearing them howl. None at all.
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It is just hard to figure out where to begin. You don't mention anything about her lack of qualifications. You don't mention that she has donated large amounts of money to the people who confirmed her. A visitor from Saturn might wonder why it is that Democrats are disqualified from holding government positions and Republicans are not. That same visitor might wonder why Republicans are OK with a Trump supposed moral equivalency between Putin and the U.S.A. , and yet these same Republicans would call a Democrat who uttered the same words a traitor. (Shout out to General Barry )McCafree). Ross, you and the entire Republican party show true cowardice and lack of any guiding moral compass. You have no real principles and you continue to put the good of the Republican party and its ability to stay in power above the good of our nation. I read Profiles in Courage as a boy and I know now of the true cowardice that you have on full display.
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The lack of Separation of Church and State, Military and Politics are all just fine with you.
The real interest here is the separation cash and wallet.
Public loss and private gain.
A more unprepared unqualified cabinet pick would be hard to find.
Keep looking down Ross that is we're we are headed.
The real interest here is the separation cash and wallet.
Public loss and private gain.
A more unprepared unqualified cabinet pick would be hard to find.
Keep looking down Ross that is we're we are headed.
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The Roman Catholic Church was organized to be the state religion of the Roman Empire. The whole idea of separation of church and state runs counter to its raison d'etre.
Wait, so Republicans confirm Betsy Devos as education secretary -- a person with no qualifications beyond having donated hundreds of millions to Republican campaigns -- and Mr Douthat wants to call the Democrats corrupt?? This perfectly encapsulates the hypocrisy and hubris that will eventually topple the Republican grip on the federal government... As divided as this nation is, honesty and integrity are among the last values that all Americans (even tea partiers) share; with each passing day the Republicans are exposing themselves to be abjectly dishonest hypocrites who would do or say anything for power. People will see you all for what you are!
You have chosen to be a collaborator
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Good reading! The American public school system did not show much success!
Great oped Ross. The Dems are the party of civil service unions; protecting the jobs and huge pensions of upper middle class mostly white teachers; while allowing mostly poor minority inner city kids to rot in violent dysfunctional public schools. Thanks for pointing this out. One can despise DT; but still love his cabinet if you are an open minded principled republican - or a non crazy rational liberal who truly cares about the disadvantaged. There must be at least some -- somewhere.
You "don't want to make mock of all DeVos' opposition" ? I beg to quibble. Sounds a lot like those folks who say, "Oh, protest is so 1960s" The many Republican senators who received large donations from DeVos' family surely did not forget who helped them get elected. Do you think that's trivial?
Should people just accept that?
One reason for such success as some charter schools have is that they can cherry-pick their students, eliminating those with special needs or problems, while public schools are mandated to serve all. If you're a poor family with a troubled kid, your child may not get into a charter school, or may face a constantly-churning staff of underpaid, poorly-trained, overloaded teachers.
Finally, I resent your portrayal of teachers' unions as elite-supporting, overly powerful, and greedy. Our working conditions are your child's learning conditions.
Should people just accept that?
One reason for such success as some charter schools have is that they can cherry-pick their students, eliminating those with special needs or problems, while public schools are mandated to serve all. If you're a poor family with a troubled kid, your child may not get into a charter school, or may face a constantly-churning staff of underpaid, poorly-trained, overloaded teachers.
Finally, I resent your portrayal of teachers' unions as elite-supporting, overly powerful, and greedy. Our working conditions are your child's learning conditions.
Not sure why Douthat sees a particular fervor by Democrats on DeVos. What made the fight so prominent was that DeVos was considered so incompetent that 2 Republicans refused to endorse her, requiring the VP to get her pass. Had it not been the case, the approval of Devos would have gone indeed unnoticed. Not sure why you need to blame Democrats there.
We fought Devos hard because of her belief that educating kids with disabilities is optional. That "the IDEA should be optional for states" was what sent average parents over the edge. Ross you seemed to have omitted this from your argument.
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During the campaign, Trump said, "I love the poorly educated!" They're the ones who elected him--and he wants to keep them that way. The LAST thing Trump wants is a well-read, well-educated electorate capable of critical thinking. Trump and DeVos want to dismantle the public school system and turn education over to for-profit concerns. They see education as a product to be merchandised and SOLD for the highest price possible. They want you to PAY for your child's education--more than you pay now in property taxes. School vouchers are a scam. They don't cover the whole cost of private school tuition. Trump and DeVos want educated to be the domain of the very, very RICH. The rest of us can wallow and die in ignorance, because we don't matter. #NotMyPresident #RESIST
You might want to double check your facts. From Mother Jones magazine: "A 2015 study from Michigan State University's Education Policy Center found that a high percentage of charter schools also had a devastating impact on the finances of poor Michigan school districts like Detroit. Researchers reported that, under the state's school choice and finance laws, it was hard for districts to keep traditional public schools afloat when charters reached 20 percent or more of enrollment. While per-student public funding follows kids to charters or other districts, traditional public schools still have fixed costs to cover, like building expenses and faculty salaries. Charter growth also increased the share of special-needs students left behind in traditional public schools, and the extra costs for educating such students weren't adequately reimbursed by the state." I think the Democrats should be commended for fighting the fight. Enjoy your alternative facts.
And Ross gave us the most predictable of commentaries. Your a smart guy Ross, start using that brain.
How childish—to denigrate the opposition to one's own catastrophic Party rather than to analyze the situation constructively and propose positive alternatives on the main issue. And to ignore the real action now which is the emerging buffer system of resistance to Trump within his own family and the White House—Rex Tillerson and General Mattis are part of that solution, Ross, not part of the problem, which is why their appointments were not opposed. Democrats united against DeVos because they could attract some Republican Senators' votes, which they did. The important issue is not how the media reacts, and you failed to mention DeVos' opposition to accountability of Charter schools. So this column earns you a C-minus at best.
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This column implies that Republicans care more about education for the poor and minorities than Democrats. This is laughable. Any empirical study of proactive involvement in public education on behalf of the poor and minorities is decidedly by Democrats. Betsy Devos is a professional lobbyist and proselytizer for Christian based education. Her true mission is to use Charter Schools and federal dollars as a vehicle to intertwine public and private education with her notions of Christian values. Indeed, she reflects completely the emerging ethos of Trump and Steve Bannon to fundamentally alter the American character to reflect their single-minded vision of what America is and what it's values are. She is definitely not a servant of the Public as that is broadly understood. She is not fit to be a Secretary of Education.
#rednecksdontcare. Until they do
Douthat's main comfort about DeVos is that Douthat's side won and the other side lost. And he expects to see similar comfort in the near future. There's no doubt that Trump will get big tax cuts for the rich, that he will let companies pollute more, and that he will make himself and his friends even richer than they already are, at taxpayers' expense. Eventually Douthat expects Trump to win the main prize that Douthat is aiming for, namely making abortion illegal. By comparison none of the stuff about education or pollution or corruption matters all that much to Douthat, so in the meantime he will write comfortable and cozy columns about how Democrats are powerless to stop Trump's (and like it or not, Douthat's) agenda.
I suppose if the idea is to insulate your child from the reality of science and emphasize religion in an education system driven by the profit motive, DeVos is the perfect Education Secretary. Unfortunately, we live in an era where familiarity with the scientific method and the need for constant learning far outweighs the need to regurgitate religious stories. Most of these children will need to learn new ideas and skills throughout their entire careers. Look at the fiasco, for profit schools have been on the college level, and then tell me this is the model that will save education on the primary and secondary level. If you can, well, there is a nice bridge in Brooklyn I'd like to sell you. That alone, before we even discuss what study topics will equip students for life in our perilous times, disqualifies DeVos.
This is all well and good, but did you actually hear DeVos' testimony during the confirmation hearing? She's not qualified to be the Secretary of Education. End of story.
When you seriously flub a job interview, as De Vos did in her Senate appearance, you don't get the job. Why is it different for this clueless job candidate? It's ok to have unexceptional, I'll-prepared people in key government roles? I guess so.
Hey, Ross - it's because we care about our children. Is that really so hard to understand?
She's wholly unqualified, wholly biased, and ... and...
Faced with Republican Senators who couldn't care less about their constituents' children, conservative writers who actually publish something as ridiculous as this article, and the complete - complete - disregard for the opinions of thousands and thousands of teachers (i.e., actual professionals in the field of education), there is just nothing more to say.
It's time for a national teacher "sick out."
She's wholly unqualified, wholly biased, and ... and...
Faced with Republican Senators who couldn't care less about their constituents' children, conservative writers who actually publish something as ridiculous as this article, and the complete - complete - disregard for the opinions of thousands and thousands of teachers (i.e., actual professionals in the field of education), there is just nothing more to say.
It's time for a national teacher "sick out."
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Never mind.
I wondered when the "The American President" movie would come to the fore again to represent the current situation. Those who have seen the movie know that the sitting president is ruthlessly attacked in his second campaign by a Republican who indeed is much like our sitting president; using slander and lies to impugn the President and his "girlfriend." The sitting leader takes the "high road" until the Senator crosses the line and impugns his date for "sexual favors" in a previous job (wrong) and for burning a flag in her youth (an allowed protest action).
The "never you mind" speech from the film is reiterated by Douthat here, and it reflects badly that it was spoken by the mean loser in the movie.
I wondered when the "The American President" movie would come to the fore again to represent the current situation. Those who have seen the movie know that the sitting president is ruthlessly attacked in his second campaign by a Republican who indeed is much like our sitting president; using slander and lies to impugn the President and his "girlfriend." The sitting leader takes the "high road" until the Senator crosses the line and impugns his date for "sexual favors" in a previous job (wrong) and for burning a flag in her youth (an allowed protest action).
The "never you mind" speech from the film is reiterated by Douthat here, and it reflects badly that it was spoken by the mean loser in the movie.
Charter Schools = 60's/70's busing. American schools, OVERALL, are mediocre compared with European and East Asian schools, yet those schools are highly centralized and run right out of Tokyo, Helsinki, Berlin, etc. with little or no influence from religion or private interests. All public. All big gubmint. Basically, the charter school movement will recreate a movement of black and brown students out of heavily black and brown schools and into taxpayer supported white schools. Just like before. With one difference: teachers' unions will be weaken which is probably the real reason. Ross also didn't mention the centrality of local schools in the life of rural, small town America.
Thank you for this thoughtful commentary. It's clear that the Democrats and the NYTimes didn't learned anything from the last election. But, I guess that just confirms that they don't know much about learning.
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Is this satire?
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Dear Mr. Douthat, I have been reading your columns recently and one thing I notice is the theme where your constant focus is on how the liberals are doing everything wrong in their opposition to Trump. Whilst I agree with you that the liberal section of society could do a better job of opposing the president, I find it rather striking that you do not care to gaze in the mirror. The GOP is now actively supporting most of the actions taken by Trump, actions which they said were abhorrent to them prior to the election. Maybe it is high time you also took a look at the lack of moral fortitude in the ranks of the GOP or is that way too uncomfortable? As to Betsy DeVos, maybe she was opposed because she is simply incompetent and ill-equipped to run the department. Agreed that she would not be the first incompetent to be appointed but given the general poor state of US education (just look at any global ranking) maybe some felt it was time for some skilled leadership. You obviously do not seem to care much one way or the other.
Occasionally I think this guy has a few insights. Then he writes a column like this, and I realize he's another clueless republican with a somewhat fancier education. Gee Ross, why would anyone possibly care about the state of public education in a country where half the population thinks the earth is 10,000 years old?
I was actually thinking along these lines, but thought I must be missing something. This is why we need balanced news. But where, other than the opinion page?
Say what you will, but it remains true that the single best chance for kids, any kids, but especially the poor, is a good education. As a teacher for over two decades in an inner city school where over half the students receive free or reduced lunches, I have taught children who ended up at Ivy League schools on full ride scholarships, Public education has its problems, pockets of absolute dysfunction, admittedly. Improve it, improve teacher training, improve the quality and effectiveness of administrators who have completely lost touch with the classroom. But don't take money away from a system that teaches all children, including the poor and disadvantaged, and dump it into the pockets of the rich or the evangelical. It's un-American. And Betsy DeVos is not only unqualified and uninformed, she is motivated by the desire to see public money pay for the private religious eduction of the kids of her wealthy friends. She has a narrow and myopic focus that will adversely affect the efforts of so many to do right by American kids in classrooms.
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DeVos bought her nomination by making donations to all GOP senators who voted for her. Rubio alone got over $100K from her. Talk about draining the swamp... Washington needs some serious shake up.
There are a lot of assertions in this column. Assertions about the influence of unions as a primary reason for opposition to DeVos. Assertions about the attractiveness of choice and vouchers to "the poor, the religious and the eccentric," and assertions about the influence of "upper middle class suburbanites" who see vouchers as a threat. These assertions may have merit -- but how would we know? There's no evidence of any reportage here -- nothing to suggest that Douthat is doing anything but intuiting (from his own ideological perspective) what's going on here. The people I talk to have no stake in teachers unions, and they're neighbors in my integrated urban neighborhood. They're just outraged at what appears to be the utter lack of competence of the appointee, her conflicts of interest, and her untested bias towards religious for-profit schools. Douthat must be talking to somebody else -- or nobody at all.
Douthat writes a cynical column, making fun of the powerlessness of a minority party on a substantially important topic. He evades discussion of his own biases (Catholic, pro-Charter). Across the country, teachers are in dismay that a uniquely unqualified hack could ascend to power and wreak havoc on the lives of children, teachers and the process of education. Shameful, Ross.
You said it, "DeVos did LOOK unprepared and even FOOLISH at times during her confirmation hearings, and she lacks the usual government experience."
DeVos WAS unprepared so she WAS foolish. It's not that she "she lacks the usual government experience", she sees no point in it. She is not there to disrupt. She's there to destroy. You wrote an entire column arguing in favor of a spectacularly unqualified candidate. As Bruno Mars sings, "Don't believe me? Just watch!"
DeVos WAS unprepared so she WAS foolish. It's not that she "she lacks the usual government experience", she sees no point in it. She is not there to disrupt. She's there to destroy. You wrote an entire column arguing in favor of a spectacularly unqualified candidate. As Bruno Mars sings, "Don't believe me? Just watch!"
Ross, you do not want tax dollars used for abortion. I do not want tax dollars used for religious indoctrination. That you pretend the issue is class or labor - Sad!
Uh, Ross, the dems are protesting Sessions. Well, of course they must be in the thrall of their old benefactors, the venal Voting Rights Union.
Douthat writes as if things in America are normal. Indeed, for him the "new normal" of life under Trump seems to be infecting his computer. He writes as if this is so minor it needs to be taken in some sort of context with the rest of what is going on in Washington these days. He is missing the point. This country is in trouble due to this ignorant president, his unprepared cabinet, and his lemmings in the Republican party. This - all of this - is not normal. It is a crisis and needs to be treated as such.
Yes familiarity has its comforts. And after the Bowling Green massacre, a column this predictable, in its repetition of Douthat's conventionally conservative blather, came as something of a relief.
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Ross, Democrats fought against Devos because she's unqualified. Highly unqualified. Period. You should be writing columns impugning the slipshod reasoning of Senate Republicans in nominating someone who has contributed millions of dollars to their campaign war chests.
Sorry Mr. Douthat, but DeVos a prime example of the Know Nothing disregard for facts and knowledge. Aside from parroting the standard Republican line on education, what exactly are her qualifications? Her qualification is that her family has donated millions upon millions to Republicans.
They have protested other nominees. That is exactly what Elizabeth Warren was trying to do yesterday in reading Coretta Scott King's letter aloud in the Senate when she was summarily silenced by Mr. McConnell. There are still only 24 hours in the day to protest the string of biased and unqualified nominees Mr. Trump has put forward.
Democracy requires educated citizens. That is the fundamental belief that drives the Democratic Party. I think your tap dance around that fact is disingenuous. Too approve the introduction of profit to public eduction is tantamount to sacrificing our future. Nothing more or less than surrendering our future.
No mention of the large amounts of money she donated to the republican senators? Buying a cabinet post isn't cheap.
Ross, it isn't just teachers/unions. The recent election proves education is lacking. What follows is dinosaurs on Noah's Ark.
Oh god . . . the Democrats voted against De Vos because she's a ninny (among all the other reasons). But now, having her be Trump's face of "education reform" will be the gift that keeps on giving. To the Democrats.
Ross, have you no shame? You have the gall to blame the Democrats for challenging Devos because other Trump appointees are even more terrible and will do even more damage at agencies they will oversee in advancing Trump’s destructive policies? You have made the most specious and morally bankrupt argument possible, one repeatedly made throughout history by apologists, collaborators, and cohorts of despots. According to you, taking a patriotic stand out of decency against a person to be placed in power, not merely because they are entirely unqualified, but inherently corrupt, is wrong because other people appointed along with them are even worse. It's an argument to destroy democracy, and argument only accepted under totalitarian rule where dissenters are hindered, then halted, then sent to a gulag to die, or simply assassinated. In case you aren’t up on current events the Republicans used a procedural trick to silence Elizabeth Warren in the middle of reading a letter from Coretta Scott King on why Jeff Sessions was a racist and unqualified to be Attorney General, so DeVos was not an isolated stand. Would Warren have been permitted to speak if she and the Democrats had not opposed Devos? Of course not. Perhaps you can now tell us how the Democrats are actually to blame for all of this as opposed to the Republicans, who for all intents and purposes are now indistinguishable from the United Russia Party, and like that Party, will do anything to enable their Despot In Chief.
Actually Mr. Douthat, in Detroit alone 70 percent of charter schools ranked in the bottom quarter of the state’s schools, Your comment that: Senators had every right to vote against her if they felt her underqualified or uninformed-really? Gee, thanks. Better than your pompous condescension would be your questioning why it does not bother Republicans that a total amateur in every conceivable way, was not a problem for them. You found this debate to be a relief? Pay better attention sir-public education is going down. Also, how contemptuous you are of what is a very serious breach in a basic tenet of public education. Devos has stated her intention clearly that she wants to use America's schools to build "God's Kingdom". Not on my tax paying dime.
Odd that you used a picture of Elizabeth Warren. I'm sure you are now aware of her silencing on the senate floor-#LetLizSpeak
I can't think of anyone who has fought harder for most of her career for ALL Americans. She deserves your apology.
I can't think of anyone who has fought harder for most of her career for ALL Americans. She deserves your apology.
And Ross is back.......
Ross: the woman bought the seat; all she brings is her ability to make massive donations, her religion, and her commitment to all things "free market". Your attempt to underplay her "performance" at her hearing, to hold other nominees up to somehow make her look better is all too telling. Are we back to party over good of the country? Are we back to saying anything so long as it's to undermine democratsprogressives? Shame on you for this nonsense piece. And, frankly, I'm insulted I paid money to read it.
Well, I agree that she's just as looney a pick as several others that are diametrically opposed to the divisions they run. But you gotta start somewhere, and she's also incompetent, so let's start with her. Ross, you can rev up the liberal-insult machine, but even you can tell she's incredibly unqualified to run DoEducation. You should go back to being an apologist, if you want to retain any moral standing after this presidency.
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This column suggests that the author himself has very limited experience with public education. Ross, do you send your own children to public school? I think not. If you did, you would understand that DeVos poses an existential threat to the very idea of public education--and that charter schools, especially the for-profit one DeVos favors, exist in direct opposition to them. Ditto for vouchers. Did you know that public schools are already so under- funded that parents are asked to buy all the paper, pens, and notebooks? Next time you write a column on education, try walking into an actual public school, preferably in an urban setting, and doing a little research.
Back to extremist right wing propaganda. Parents and voters will now have to begin the fight to protect and improve their schools, demanding their fair share of federal funds, while keeping religion out. This will be tough as this administration denies funds to public schools and pays religionists to operate and run their havens of hatred and intolerance. If anybody wishes for their children to be poorly educated, but dedicated to ignorant religious belief, they should be very pleased with this turn of events. Get ready to rumble. It will be an awful, stressful 4 years for parents of K-12 children. Thanks to Democrats who are not giving up.
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Finally, Douthat goes Trumpist. I'm shocked, I tell you!
Greed, Hypocrisy, Ignorance, Hate. More and more this what the world see spewing from America.
"make mock of"?
Intersting that your "pick" says that Ross doesn't get it. He does get it. Read the last paragraph. I think that she is unqualified, but I also think that Democrats have backed themselves into an untenable position that they now must defend - oppose all Trump nominations because, well, they are Trump nominations.
Of course Ross Douthat, graduate of Hamden Hall Country Day School, doesn't understand why graduates of public schools like me are concerned for public schools' future. So, Ross, where do YOUR kids go to school?
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Here's a question for you Mr Douthat: Why does a Republican donor with inherited billions and a side business in education want to run the Dept of Education? Why does she not even make a pretense of learning some basics about education policy in preparation for her hearing?
Betsy DeVos has an agenda (hers, not Trump's - he probably couldn't care less about education). This agenda, as evidenced by her activism in Michigan, is to take over schools, turn them over to private and preferably religious operators, lower the standards of public accountability affecting them (she clearly if indirectly admitted as much to Kaine) AND finance it all with taxpayers' money.
If you think only the teachers' unions object to this picture you're more ideologically blinkered than I thought.
Betsy DeVos has an agenda (hers, not Trump's - he probably couldn't care less about education). This agenda, as evidenced by her activism in Michigan, is to take over schools, turn them over to private and preferably religious operators, lower the standards of public accountability affecting them (she clearly if indirectly admitted as much to Kaine) AND finance it all with taxpayers' money.
If you think only the teachers' unions object to this picture you're more ideologically blinkered than I thought.
This article conflates charter schools and voucher programs. Charters schools are a mainstream, debatable approach to education. Vouchers are DeVos's signature issue, and far to the right of the Democratic party and America. Ross - what you did is called a pivot.
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The Republican Party and the Trump Brand of Politics and Governance REQUIRES an ignorant Nation in order to thrive. Rejecting scientifice facts and replacing them with phony religion- based concepts is the hallmark of the Republican Party. Betsy DeVos has been tasked to expand the "Tent of Ignoranc" even further. The damage that the Trump Presidency shall inflict on this Nation will endure for decades with grave consequences. But one thing it will never do, would be to Make America Great Again! The 62 million voters whose hatred, racism and bigotry drove them over the cliff will have a lot to apologize for to the rest of us.
The column seems a little superfluous. The Democrats choose this battle because it had the highest likelihood of winning and thus weakening Trump's hold on moderate Republican reps in future votes. Plus, a lot of the moderate constituents who called their rep and got ignored are going to remember that sting come election day. Don't worry though. You and the rest of the Republicans will understand it eventually. Its going to be a hard lesson though. Its way too late for anything else.
Ross, please explain to me how it's OK for my tax dollars to go to religious schools. I'm waiting.
Your party owns this government now, Ross, and the days of blaming liberals, Democrats, and Obama are over. A substantial majority of people in Michigan consider the DeVos charter school movement to be a disaster. The studies you believe indicate competency in DeVos' schools are a cherry-picked handful; the bulk of studies indicate a precipitous decline in performance. I believe that DeVos's primary motivation is to turn schools into instruments of theocracy. DeVos is a clear example of 'more money than sense'.
I read your column all the way through. I still see nothing that ameliorates confirming a person with so little experience and understanding of public education. More than that, she seems to feel contempt for free public education, one of the bedrocks of United States policies of government.
Douthat rarely fails to provide the most tortuous, pablum-infected sophistry as support for the execrable. There is no longer any true ratiocination sought by, nor Socratic reasoning in the right wing; I've never seen nor imagined darker times, and I survived Nixon. Sort of.
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"unstinting in defense of bureaucracy and its employees, more excited about causes dear to the upper middle class than the interests of the poor, and always girding for the battle with the Real Enemy, religious conservatives, no matter what the moment actually demands."
Really? Since when has an expectation of basic competence, an effort to understand the basic issues facing the job the candidate is applying for, and a willingness to represent the interests of the general public rather than privileged few, become so mendacious?
This is another example of denigrating the integrity of other side to an argument rather than considering the validity of their concerns - something that has become a new profession under the current administration.
Really? Since when has an expectation of basic competence, an effort to understand the basic issues facing the job the candidate is applying for, and a willingness to represent the interests of the general public rather than privileged few, become so mendacious?
This is another example of denigrating the integrity of other side to an argument rather than considering the validity of their concerns - something that has become a new profession under the current administration.
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You must not have noticed that she is the only female nominee, and thus the easiest target in a future cabinet of the dangerous, the corrupt and the hopelessly ignorant.
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Douthat grants that "Senators had every right to vote against her if they felt her underqualified or uninformed." Really? She was uninformed? She didn't actually know what she didn't know? Made cutesy, non-sequiturial comments about guns and grizzlies?
Douthat believes the democrats are at war the "Real Enemy, religious conservatives, no matter what the moment actually demands." Yes, give the democrats a sub-mediocre, never-employed, billionaire corrupter of government, say, to fill the position of Education Secretary, and right away the democrats are shouting about religion! What nonsense.
Some in the GOP told the democrats to get over it after W stole his election. I wish Douthat and the GOP would get over their victory now.
Somehow, against all reason or justice, they have their wonderful leader, both houses of Congress, and soon the Supreme Court. Douthat can't defend his president or the miserable Congress and should stop trying. But he should also stop kicking the democrats for their opposition to this fun house government and calling it a war against religion.
It's a war against nonsense and stupidity and betrayal of the American people.