The Democrats are for open borders that bring in immigrants who are willing to work for lower wages.
2
I agree with a lot of the commenters who weren't excited by this Op-Ed. Obviously, some of what Senator Schumer mentions we should be doing: a government-sponsored jobs program especially for unskilled laborers both in rural & inner city America; higher minimum wage; more regulation of corporations who are sticking it to the American people. But this is not enough, as many said. Universal health care, an Amendment to cancel Citizens United, oversight of colleges & universities who have priced the working class & more & more of the middle class out of higher education.
In other words, we DO need to listen to Bernie Sanders (& Elizabeth Warren) & all the people who voted for Sanders in a grassroots campaign. He would have beaten Trump, despite all the DNC & NYTimes' fear of the attack ads against a "New York Commie Jew." He had ideas, but was criticized for not having the details on how to do it, but this op-ed doesn't have the details either.
The way to pay for this is obviously a return to a tax code under which the rich & especially the super-rich pay a LOT more in taxes. That's how the interstate highway system was built, how the Space program landed men on the moon, etc.
The federal government & many state governments have been bought off by a certain pair of brothers and their ilk. Legislation or amendments are needed to take the government back from them & their puppets.
In other words, we DO need to listen to Bernie Sanders (& Elizabeth Warren) & all the people who voted for Sanders in a grassroots campaign. He would have beaten Trump, despite all the DNC & NYTimes' fear of the attack ads against a "New York Commie Jew." He had ideas, but was criticized for not having the details on how to do it, but this op-ed doesn't have the details either.
The way to pay for this is obviously a return to a tax code under which the rich & especially the super-rich pay a LOT more in taxes. That's how the interstate highway system was built, how the Space program landed men on the moon, etc.
The federal government & many state governments have been bought off by a certain pair of brothers and their ilk. Legislation or amendments are needed to take the government back from them & their puppets.
9
The first thing: Democrats need new leadership. Sorry Senator Schumer, but it is time for new blood and new voices. The average American does not believe that you or the rest of the Democratic establishment mean what you say. You are the senator from Wall Street and did nothing as thousands were illegally foreclosed upon. You did nothing as Bush waged an illegal war. You did nothing to fight for the ACA and defend our last (legitimate) president or fight for single payer (what the majority of us want and need). Millions of Americans are burdened with crippling student loans. What about them?
10
A BETTER DEAL is as hollow and unmemorable a slogan as STRONGER TOGETHER.
I suggest MAKE AMERICA YOURS AGAIN.
I suggest MAKE AMERICA YOURS AGAIN.
7
Lowering household costs? Given that my single largest expense is my Federal income tax bill, My second is my child's college tuition at a state university my third is my property tax bill ( yes it is larger than my mortgage. ) My guess is that you think I'm the one who needs to help pay for these upgrades. I won't get into the idiocy of a $15 minimum wage, that issue will solve itself as those jobs disappear faster and faster despite the luddites like Schumer. Make College more affordable? You would have to address cost growth at universities ( far exceeds inflation) and the explosive growth in administrative staff at universities, we know that won't happen,so where will this money come from? Infrastructure? Everyone agrees, but reality sinks in. have you driven? , what road is not under reconstruction now? As the Obama stimulus plan found it, you can't just promise money and spending starts, there is a multitude of government regulations that you have to deal with that slow projects down, then there are the environmental lawsuits, the NIMBY lawsuits, the just plain nuisance suits. What is the average time for approval of an infrastructure project? It's 3 to 7 years depending on the source and the size of the project? The bigger projects taking longer as they roll through the courts and bureaucracy. Has anyone in congress actually had a real job?
7
So you will raise peoples incomes which raises the costs of goods yet lower their everyday expenses (double talk).
Lower household costs by paid family leave (does zero if you don't have kids) and sick leave (ok). That isn't lowering costs that is insurance .... (nice try).
$1 trillion infrastructure plan (copied from every government since 2008) ... (is this the definition of the plan? maybe?)
Vulture capitalists and drug costs ... um ok .... there are price controls at the state level, so how will this work when you didn't do this in ACA ... (maybe someone needs a new drug). Medicare for all ... (why didn't you do this in the first place .... [wow ... dense plan].
Upping the minimum wage will in the long run reduce the employment pool and potential, or if neutral will just raise costs as any artificial floor economically will do (at least we know it isn't a smart plan).
Tax credits .... to hire people ... um sure ... they pick on the Republicans for health care tax credits so obviously it will work with economics (something the DNC has 100% failed with over multiple decades).
We will share more great ideas .... (crickets ....) If you can't articulate something bold in an op-ed now and after 6 months of think tanking it under the guise of the Trump Tweet storm .... what are you going to come up with on Monday ...
They need more time to create a better better plan
The Republican party the party of bad ideas
The Democratic party the party of no ideas
Lower household costs by paid family leave (does zero if you don't have kids) and sick leave (ok). That isn't lowering costs that is insurance .... (nice try).
$1 trillion infrastructure plan (copied from every government since 2008) ... (is this the definition of the plan? maybe?)
Vulture capitalists and drug costs ... um ok .... there are price controls at the state level, so how will this work when you didn't do this in ACA ... (maybe someone needs a new drug). Medicare for all ... (why didn't you do this in the first place .... [wow ... dense plan].
Upping the minimum wage will in the long run reduce the employment pool and potential, or if neutral will just raise costs as any artificial floor economically will do (at least we know it isn't a smart plan).
Tax credits .... to hire people ... um sure ... they pick on the Republicans for health care tax credits so obviously it will work with economics (something the DNC has 100% failed with over multiple decades).
We will share more great ideas .... (crickets ....) If you can't articulate something bold in an op-ed now and after 6 months of think tanking it under the guise of the Trump Tweet storm .... what are you going to come up with on Monday ...
They need more time to create a better better plan
The Republican party the party of bad ideas
The Democratic party the party of no ideas
2
Too little, too late, Chuck. To the DNC: Your meddling cost us democrats the White House, and more. Now, how about fielding some actually progressive candidates that have the interests of the middle and lower classes are heart?
4
You got a plan?
Put it in legislative form. Ask the CBO to score it.
Build a website where I can go enter my info and find out how it would affect me and my family.
We know you'll tell us how it will make things better. Tell us also what could go wrong and how much harm it could create.
Put it in legislative form. Ask the CBO to score it.
Build a website where I can go enter my info and find out how it would affect me and my family.
We know you'll tell us how it will make things better. Tell us also what could go wrong and how much harm it could create.
3
Chuck:
You just don't get it. We don't need a retirement age New Yorker telling us he that he really gets it now, after 40 years of getting it wrong. Step aside and let some new inspiring blood take over. For once in your lives, you and Nancy need to put aside your own best interest, and do something for the people. You can redeem yourself, if you would admit failure, step aside and become an elder statesman supporting the young people who are necessary to carry the party into a successful future. When not mentoring young dems, you should devote your time to overturning Citizens United. The Party stands no chance so long as the 1% can buy elections and influence.
You just don't get it. We don't need a retirement age New Yorker telling us he that he really gets it now, after 40 years of getting it wrong. Step aside and let some new inspiring blood take over. For once in your lives, you and Nancy need to put aside your own best interest, and do something for the people. You can redeem yourself, if you would admit failure, step aside and become an elder statesman supporting the young people who are necessary to carry the party into a successful future. When not mentoring young dems, you should devote your time to overturning Citizens United. The Party stands no chance so long as the 1% can buy elections and influence.
3
What sprawling vision. Dare I risk that detestable exclamation point, after such great exhortation.
Blah, blah, blah.
Blah, blah, blah.
The Democrats are far from being the party of labor. More like the party of the (politically) homeless.
How about...
1. A health care minimum wage. In short, single payer insurance (medicare) for everyone who holds down a job.
2. Maintain what we have in common. You are neglecting parks, infrastructure, and other community assets. You are good at serving
us castor oil.
3. Pass comprehensive immigration reform that is merit based, not family based. Stand up to Nancy (Ma Barker) Pelosi. Simply reduce naturalization from countries that excel in violence and corru
How about...
1. A health care minimum wage. In short, single payer insurance (medicare) for everyone who holds down a job.
2. Maintain what we have in common. You are neglecting parks, infrastructure, and other community assets. You are good at serving
us castor oil.
3. Pass comprehensive immigration reform that is merit based, not family based. Stand up to Nancy (Ma Barker) Pelosi. Simply reduce naturalization from countries that excel in violence and corru
1
America is war weary, and now another Cold-War being sold with Russia and China the ‘enemies.’ Unlike the never-ending War on Terror this one will sap the federal budget massively calling for more cuts in public non-military-non-security-apparatus-expenditures.
Do the Democrats have any peace-nicks left?
Charge the causes of Middle East conflicts and Co-Existence with other major powers and see if the populist paying the taxes and not taking the profits respond. The millianians will buy it and many more; for a better deal. Be creative if you want results.
Do the Democrats have any peace-nicks left?
Charge the causes of Middle East conflicts and Co-Existence with other major powers and see if the populist paying the taxes and not taking the profits respond. The millianians will buy it and many more; for a better deal. Be creative if you want results.
Better deal? Reminds me of the mail order catalogues of the past where you could order a good - better- or best product . Better sounds like a B grade in school.
Who will argue for best ? Our best instincts our best values our best skills our best ideas? Medicare for all, the best infrastructure and education
Inspire and motivate... don't patronize.
Who will argue for best ? Our best instincts our best values our best skills our best ideas? Medicare for all, the best infrastructure and education
Inspire and motivate... don't patronize.
1
Get a better message. "Jobs for American Workers." "Jobs Jobs Jobs." "Government, for the People". ETC. Using the word "deal" looks petty, is petty. C'mon Senator Shumer and Dems. Rev us up!!!
1
Till we get constitutional amendments banning corporate donations, corporate advertisements, all lobbyist and limiting support to smaller donations from constituents ONLY (no out of state donations for senators or out of district donations for representatives), our representatives in congress on both sides of the isle will continue to work for someone other than those that elect them to office. Why can't the Democratic party do that for us? Removing the money from Washington is the only way that things will start to change because special interest works by filling the halls of Congress with money and lobbyists and spreading half-truths or out right lies about candidates they don't like via all forms of media.
26
Huh? What took you so long to figure this out? Although I'll be voting for democrats in the next election, it won't be because of your epiphany.
11
WOW! Is it soon election time? That's the only time they know us!
12
Chuck: How about using "A Return of the American Dream" as your slogan instead of the lackluster "A Better Deal for American Worker"? It seems to better summarize your points and would better resonate with more people.
6
About time. Democrats have thought for a long time that the country wouldn’t stand with them and their ideas. (Working for the middle class) It seems to be that in becoming Republican light they really became nothing at all. I voted for Hillary but you need to ask what was her reason for running? She never answered that question. Since Ronald Regan Democrats have been adrift in some fundamental ways. We never wordsmith like Republicans “Death Tax” and “Death Panels “and our leaders have been afraid to stand for what Democrats have won on for decades. Keep it simple stupid:
Minimum wage – should be a living wage
Education – If you are smart enough for college, you should be able to attend
Taxes – Billionaires should pay more than teachers
Wall Street – Laws should be written so when you cheat you go to jail.
Heath Care - Is a Right
Minimum wage – should be a living wage
Education – If you are smart enough for college, you should be able to attend
Taxes – Billionaires should pay more than teachers
Wall Street – Laws should be written so when you cheat you go to jail.
Heath Care - Is a Right
38
We also failed to communicate our values to show that we were on the side of working people, not the special interests. We will not repeat the same mistake.
Those special interests got Hillary a billion in campaign money, and now you're telling us that you won't take that kind of money again??? A POX on all of you!!!
Those special interests got Hillary a billion in campaign money, and now you're telling us that you won't take that kind of money again??? A POX on all of you!!!
7
Both parties keep talking to the "middle class" but that group is shrinking, for the first time in our nation's history. Many people who identify themselves as middle class should ask themselves, am I as well off as my parents were? My grandparents? If you have no retirement savings, save a 401k that you keep borrowing against, two car payments, $20k in credit card debt and less than 3 months savings, think again. No one wants to be called "lower class", but the fact is that a growing portion of the population is economically successful.
The Democrats used to identify themselves as the party of the common people, until the Clintons came along to move them upmarket. I'm not sure if Obama ever decided which group he wanted to represent. The results reflected that.
The Democrats used to identify themselves as the party of the common people, until the Clintons came along to move them upmarket. I'm not sure if Obama ever decided which group he wanted to represent. The results reflected that.
4
Senator Schumer:
"A Better Deal," needs a better slogan!
Yes, there was a "Square Deal," and a "New Deal," however
the 150-word vocabulary of President Donald J. Trump has
co-opted the word, as in the "Art of the Deal."
Democrats need another metaphor with more vigorous and inspired
leadership.
"A Better Deal," needs a better slogan!
Yes, there was a "Square Deal," and a "New Deal," however
the 150-word vocabulary of President Donald J. Trump has
co-opted the word, as in the "Art of the Deal."
Democrats need another metaphor with more vigorous and inspired
leadership.
5
Will the hypocrisy of Senator Schumer ever cease? He will work with Republicans only if they submit to the dictates of the Democratic Party in the Congress. He did not explain that businesses forced to pay a higher minimum wage will lay people off and replace them with cheaper automated systems. Why not let the states determine the minimum wage since the economy of each is different. Senator Schumer would have shown moral courage if he is ready to compromise (operative word) with Republicans. He did not address how we can pay down the national debt. This only be paid down by increasing taxes (sorry Republicans) and reducing the size of the Federal Government (sorry Democrats). For example, why can't those over 60 years old help reduce the national debt their grandchildren will have to pay by not collecting social security before age 70? Since the elderly need the most health care why not create a single payer government system for Americans over 70 in return for not collecting social security until age 70? Why not tax people making over $500,000.00 a year at a flat rate of 15% with no deductions? Why not unilaterally reduce the number of nuclear weapons in the US arsenal by 50%? The billions in savings can be split between paying down the national debt and paying for health care for those with preexisting conditions and still leave the US with enough nuclear capability to destroy any adversary. As a conservative I want to compromise with liberals, not submit to them.
4
Senator Schumer's Op-Ed certainly shows he did grow up in the America he described, the one from the second half of the 20th century. He articulated his points and avoid grammatical potholes. The problem is there has never been an issue in recent history where Sen. Schumer didn't take a public stance; mind you not the truly important ones but every single thing that passed over his desk or through his e-mail filter to his inbox. He rolls with the probibilities just not the pecentages a stragegy opposite most professional gamblers. This side of the line or that side its a good bet for near 50% not counting absent voters or those on the line. This Op-Ed reads like a polite version of any of President Trump's campaign rallies. It is nice to have the esteemed and photogenic Senator from New York, Senator Schumer, on the Republican side.
2
Of course, without patriotic immigration reform--that is, reduction in numbers of legal and illegal immigrants, along with strict interior and border control--all of this is more meaningless prattle from the disconnected elites. You CAN'T pay people more when there is limitless supplies of labor. Build the wall. Then we can talk.
6
The Democratic leadership is finally getting the message but based upon the comments here the members haven't. The progressives, a subset of the party, think that they will win elections when the whole party could not. When you are starting from a losing position you need to start with any gains that you can make, but the better educated don’t seem to understand that kind of math.
4
The Democratic Party has been adrift for decades beginning with Centralist drift of Bill Clinton adopting Republican programs on welfare reform, prison extension terms, free trade agreements that promised jobs but resulted in shirting then first to Mexico and Canada and then to Asia, and the disappearance of labor protection and anti-trust prosecution.
And now it promises to give a better deal? Until the leadership admits it failing to look toward its citizenry and not its elite, no one will take that claim as anything more than more of the same repackaged. Admit where you failed then repackage – that might work. It’s called Honesty.
And now it promises to give a better deal? Until the leadership admits it failing to look toward its citizenry and not its elite, no one will take that claim as anything more than more of the same repackaged. Admit where you failed then repackage – that might work. It’s called Honesty.
15
I appreciate Mr. Schumer as an alternative to Mitch McConnell but both of them, and the entire membership of the Senate and the House lack integrity in the most basic way. Their incomes, their health care benefits, their wealth, their lifestyles all have long ago rendered even the best of them incapable of even imagining the life of a young husband and father supporting a family on $15/hour or a seventy-year-old single woman living on $1100/month from Social Security. The gap has grown too wide, Senator. With all the good intentions in the world, you will not be able to reach across to take even one hand. It is time that all the aging, wealthy white men in Congress, pack up and go home.
24
Single payer health care. National service programs, not just the military. Massive infrastructure projects run chiefly by Gov. NOT privateers looking to bilk the taxpayers with various inside dealing to profiteer from the over-stressed working folk. A New, New deal.
These sort of social programs are hugely popular, SS and Medicare good examples. This is what Republicans are really afraid of: the Dems regaining their good reputation for creating simple programs that make society better, not worse. Everything John Galbraith said.
getting a good reputation for creating a better society for the 99.
These sort of social programs are hugely popular, SS and Medicare good examples. This is what Republicans are really afraid of: the Dems regaining their good reputation for creating simple programs that make society better, not worse. Everything John Galbraith said.
getting a good reputation for creating a better society for the 99.
23
Senator Schumer if we were playing "Black Jack" the cards you are dealing are marked so that the players (American public) will always go bust...
3
Thank you Chuck Schumer for recognizing that sometime in the future the minimum wage will be $15. That was very big of you (slow clap). Here is a question.....When might I ask?
9
Actions speak louder than words Senator Schumer.
http://www.salon.com/2017/03/31/baltimores-democratic-mayor-breaks-promi...
https://www.counterpunch.org/2017/06/27/california-scheming-democrats-be...
https://www.lawcha.org/2016/11/23/bill-clinton-remade-democratic-party-a...
Beware of the Democrats.
http://www.salon.com/2017/03/31/baltimores-democratic-mayor-breaks-promi...
https://www.counterpunch.org/2017/06/27/california-scheming-democrats-be...
https://www.lawcha.org/2016/11/23/bill-clinton-remade-democratic-party-a...
Beware of the Democrats.
6
Chuckie money....as much of a corportist as Republicans!
Prove it by doing this:
- Medicare for ALL......shut down the corrupt and greedy Wall Street health insurance giants who's profits jumped by 40% in 2015 alone! Health Insurance companies are scoring record profits!
- Restore Glass-Steagall and break up the giant banks and bring back regional banks. The banking monopolies like Goldman, JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley and Citi are killing the US worker!
- Break up the giant monopolies controlling every major industry in the US. Start by breaking up Exxon/Mobil. The out of control mergers & acquistions in the US is the result of Democrats passing tax policies that fail to encourage companies to stay independent and on their own. Tax capital gains as ordinary income! Enforce FTC and Anti0trust laws....hire prosecutors and fully staff the SEC! Breaking up the giant monopolies and bring back competition will create millions of jobs for the middle class!
- Fix the upside down tax code where the working poor and middle class stop paying higher taxes than the rich. Tax incremental income over $ 1 M at 90%
- The US has an over population crisis! 322 Million is way too many people and NOT sustainable. Reform immigration and pass public policies that make a 2 child plan the US plan per each family. No more tax deductions on large families....in fact, add tax premiums if they have more than 2 kids!
- Put workers on the board at the DNC....
Prove it by doing this:
- Medicare for ALL......shut down the corrupt and greedy Wall Street health insurance giants who's profits jumped by 40% in 2015 alone! Health Insurance companies are scoring record profits!
- Restore Glass-Steagall and break up the giant banks and bring back regional banks. The banking monopolies like Goldman, JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley and Citi are killing the US worker!
- Break up the giant monopolies controlling every major industry in the US. Start by breaking up Exxon/Mobil. The out of control mergers & acquistions in the US is the result of Democrats passing tax policies that fail to encourage companies to stay independent and on their own. Tax capital gains as ordinary income! Enforce FTC and Anti0trust laws....hire prosecutors and fully staff the SEC! Breaking up the giant monopolies and bring back competition will create millions of jobs for the middle class!
- Fix the upside down tax code where the working poor and middle class stop paying higher taxes than the rich. Tax incremental income over $ 1 M at 90%
- The US has an over population crisis! 322 Million is way too many people and NOT sustainable. Reform immigration and pass public policies that make a 2 child plan the US plan per each family. No more tax deductions on large families....in fact, add tax premiums if they have more than 2 kids!
- Put workers on the board at the DNC....
19
Democrats are too busy looking down on working people, and calling them dumb racists and religious morons to actually help them. Once again they propose ways to legislate happiness while stealing people's freedom by stealing other people's work to make certain demographics happy. It's a flawed point of view that Americans need the government to help them. We just need Liberty and God, and the joy will follow. Schumer's playbook is obvious here: class warfare. Understandable considering identity politics flopped and has left the Democratic Party bruised and battered.
8
I just don't care for the slogan. It doesn't seen powerful, decisive or inclusive. The slogan's message seems to be geared to only a subset of the Democratic Party. How is that going to resonate with the rest of the Party?
5
For cripe sake, raise the motor fuel tax!
12
This is a good start, but two important things are still needed, I think:
1. A commitment to fairness and fair play in terms of economics, justice and opportunities. In economics, I mean that it's not fair when the big shots at a company make 400 times what the lowest paid, but just as hard working, workers make. They get big bonuses and raises, golden parachutes, etc. and then tell the rest of us, there's no money for a decent, or any, raise this year. They get rid of our pension and health insurance plans while making sure they have 1000 times more than enough to retire and get health care no matter what.
It's not just about the workers getting paid more, it's about the economic unfairness of the pay gap, the huge income inequality.
This will require Wall Street Democrats, like Schumer, to not only give the workers a Better Deal but to make their rich benefactors pay much more in taxes. I'm all in favor of working hard and getting rich, but the degree to which it's gone is just out of balance and unhealthy for our society.
2. Democratic politicians who will fight vigorously and without timidity in the face of Republican nay-sayers for A Better Deal. People like Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren who won't back down the way Democrats usually do. Negotiate from the ideal and then compromise to the middle. Don't start in the middle, and compromise to the right as Democrats usually do.
1. A commitment to fairness and fair play in terms of economics, justice and opportunities. In economics, I mean that it's not fair when the big shots at a company make 400 times what the lowest paid, but just as hard working, workers make. They get big bonuses and raises, golden parachutes, etc. and then tell the rest of us, there's no money for a decent, or any, raise this year. They get rid of our pension and health insurance plans while making sure they have 1000 times more than enough to retire and get health care no matter what.
It's not just about the workers getting paid more, it's about the economic unfairness of the pay gap, the huge income inequality.
This will require Wall Street Democrats, like Schumer, to not only give the workers a Better Deal but to make their rich benefactors pay much more in taxes. I'm all in favor of working hard and getting rich, but the degree to which it's gone is just out of balance and unhealthy for our society.
2. Democratic politicians who will fight vigorously and without timidity in the face of Republican nay-sayers for A Better Deal. People like Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren who won't back down the way Democrats usually do. Negotiate from the ideal and then compromise to the middle. Don't start in the middle, and compromise to the right as Democrats usually do.
13
A lot of noble sentiments but no solid indication the party actually espouses Schumer's points. They're coming from a deep, black hole and it will take more than a few well chosen words to make me a believer. But, it's a start - I hope.
8
It's just an empty slogan like Trump's.
5
Old political formula: pander to the rich contributors and corporate elite to amass huge funds to advertise message to gain votes. But Trump won with less funds and without backing from the elites? New political formula: pander directly to the gullible masses of left behinds exactly as Trump did. Look for a steep rise in fake news from the left to match the successful strategy on the right.
2
We can do this a whole lot easier. Just convince 20% of Americans to move to Europe. After living in economies more stagnant than this one they'll beg to come back.
@NYHugeonot: I lived there for ten years. If I could, I'd go back in a heartbeat.
8
What's stopping you?
Democrats need to explain this bill in language that the average American understands. Corporations have corrupted our political system and have been robbing us blind for forty years. Time we-the-people stand up to corporate greed and make America work for everyone.
11
Words.
3
Can I help with the bumperstickers, Chuck?
Don't blame us, WE JUST WOKE UP!
Don't blame us, WE JUST WOKE UP!
4
Bravo to Senator Schumer and the Democrats!
CS has outlined a program America needs and Americans want.
I am with you!!!
CS has outlined a program America needs and Americans want.
I am with you!!!
2
A "Better Deal? Okay. But it doesn't quite have the ring to it that the "New Deal" and the "Fair Deal" had. You can do better than that, Chuck.
6
Single payer, you say? Here's what Chuck Schumer thinks about that:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/chuck-schumer-single-payer_us_5974b0...
Chuck Schumer Says Senate Democrats Are Open To Single-Payer Health Care
The Democratic party was "too cautious" in the past, he said.
By Mollie Reilly
Huffington Post
07/23/2017
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) argued Sunday that it’s time for the Democratic party to take a “bold” approach on economic issues, adding a single-payer health care system is “on the table.”
Appearing on ABC’s “This Week,” Schumer previewed the economic agenda his party plans to roll out this week...
(Those of you in New York State might want to tell Chuck how you feel about this. He'd love to hear from you at 212-486-4430.)
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/chuck-schumer-single-payer_us_5974b0...
Chuck Schumer Says Senate Democrats Are Open To Single-Payer Health Care
The Democratic party was "too cautious" in the past, he said.
By Mollie Reilly
Huffington Post
07/23/2017
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) argued Sunday that it’s time for the Democratic party to take a “bold” approach on economic issues, adding a single-payer health care system is “on the table.”
Appearing on ABC’s “This Week,” Schumer previewed the economic agenda his party plans to roll out this week...
(Those of you in New York State might want to tell Chuck how you feel about this. He'd love to hear from you at 212-486-4430.)
7
Only one question matters.... we have $19 trillion in debt already, where's the money going to come from for all these high, noble ideals? I saw nothing to tell me where you planned to get the money to fund these things and you can only take so much money from the people, even those wicked wealthy people.
6
good joke chuck ! you can promise all you want but i aint buying !
what have you offered working class americans for the past 10 years ? the answer is NOTHING ! your party has been more worried about climate change , gun control and giving citizenship to illegal aliens than to create new jobs for people who have been born and raised here or came here legally following the process.
you have spit in the face of white non college educated voters and legal immigrants over and over again and we had enough.
what have you offered working class americans for the past 10 years ? the answer is NOTHING ! your party has been more worried about climate change , gun control and giving citizenship to illegal aliens than to create new jobs for people who have been born and raised here or came here legally following the process.
you have spit in the face of white non college educated voters and legal immigrants over and over again and we had enough.
8
This is the same warmed over gruel the party has been dishing out for years. Chuck Schumer can serve it to his financier friends when he visits them in the Hamptons.
8
At last, the Democrats are talking sense. As the public gets clear about who's side you're on, they'll trust you to deal with the existential threat of climate change, immigration and other divisive issues.
Don't worry about the bumper sticker yet. Just put your folks out there talking to voters. The right language will come in its own time out of the back and forth.
And, you're right, Senator. This is not about Democrats moving left or right. Its about Democrats confronting the economic anxiety felt by 80 % of us and, then, honoring the contribution everyone can make to rebuilding America.
Hey wait, how about "Rebuilding America?"
Good job, Senator!
Don't worry about the bumper sticker yet. Just put your folks out there talking to voters. The right language will come in its own time out of the back and forth.
And, you're right, Senator. This is not about Democrats moving left or right. Its about Democrats confronting the economic anxiety felt by 80 % of us and, then, honoring the contribution everyone can make to rebuilding America.
Hey wait, how about "Rebuilding America?"
Good job, Senator!
6
From the sentiment of many commenters Schumer may be sorry he wrote the Op-ed (Obvious poor - edict demanded).....
Maybe you next election campaign slogan should be "Chuck or Bust"....
Maybe you next election campaign slogan should be "Chuck or Bust"....
4
Sounds like Hubert Horatio Humphrey. About time.
3
This platform should have been announced on January 21 of this year. The fact that it took so long, and that the same tired Democratic leadership thrusts it forward, leaves me with a milquetoast feeling at best. If you want to build a solid platform, you have to have a plan that demonstrates a clear path toward efficacy and a leadership base with the ability to see it through thick and thin. I have seen neither so far.
Without more information, and without leadership more thoughtful and competent than Pelosi, Schumer, or [insert the "Old Guard" Democrat of your choice], this is nothing more than a pipe dream.
Until this "Better Deal" includes a serious effort to properly register marginalized voters in Red/Purple Voter ID states and then get them to the polls in 2018 & 2020, it means nothing.
As much as I hate to say it, there is one catchphrase that Rush Limbaugh has beaten to death about Democrats that rings true: "Symbolism over Substance." So far, it applies to the "Better Deal".
So Democratic Party Leadership, what is it going to be? Symbolism or substance? I really hope the latter shows itself soon.
If not, the symbolism will turn to ashes on your mouth.
Without more information, and without leadership more thoughtful and competent than Pelosi, Schumer, or [insert the "Old Guard" Democrat of your choice], this is nothing more than a pipe dream.
Until this "Better Deal" includes a serious effort to properly register marginalized voters in Red/Purple Voter ID states and then get them to the polls in 2018 & 2020, it means nothing.
As much as I hate to say it, there is one catchphrase that Rush Limbaugh has beaten to death about Democrats that rings true: "Symbolism over Substance." So far, it applies to the "Better Deal".
So Democratic Party Leadership, what is it going to be? Symbolism or substance? I really hope the latter shows itself soon.
If not, the symbolism will turn to ashes on your mouth.
4
Yeah, right.
You guys are wimps. When is some Dem going to stand up remind the Republican's of the McConnell doctrine enacted the day after O took office and proudly took the title of the Party of No. And, you'r going to roll over and work with them.
You guys are wimps. When is some Dem going to stand up remind the Republican's of the McConnell doctrine enacted the day after O took office and proudly took the title of the Party of No. And, you'r going to roll over and work with them.
3
Infrastructure and get special interests out of govt from food that is bad for us to drugs we don't need to infrastructure tilted towards big oil.
3
Show me.
6
"A better deal" you mean like ramming obamacare down our throats?? That kind of better deal????
1
It's sad that at this point, when the Republicans are in disarray and Trump is corrupt and embarrassing, that the Democrats can't galvanize their forces and a united opposition. Or it seems propose a message that is convincing and doable, as well as inspiring.
And it's sad that so many Democrats responding here see this is just as flat a message as I do.
And it's sad that so many Democrats responding here see this is just as flat a message as I do.
4
Should have called it A Real Deal.
2
You need to tell people what they want to hear.
1
Wow!!! It's all coming back to me, now I remember why I voted for Trump. Go away Schumer.
3
I needed a good laugh. Thank you Senator.
3
Really? are you selling a use car?
3
“Again”, again?
Donald Trump: “Make America great again”
Chuck Schumer: Make “this country work for everyone again.”
Fifty years ago this very week, the Doors reached #1 on the Billboard Hot-100 with “Light My Fire”. If it’s within Messrs. Trump and Schumer’s power, can we have some decent music, again?
Looking down that same chart, Janis Ian shocked us all with “Society’s Child”, a song about a white girl bringing home her black boyfriend to meet Mom and Dad. (She was 14 when she wrote and recorded it.) Janis subsequently told us that “a radio station in the '60s was burned to the ground for playing it and a writer at the Boston Herald was fired for writing about it.”
Politicians preaching “again” are inviting us to go back to an earlier era – but not everything about such eras was good. Sometimes we overlook the progress we have made.
Donald Trump: “Make America great again”
Chuck Schumer: Make “this country work for everyone again.”
Fifty years ago this very week, the Doors reached #1 on the Billboard Hot-100 with “Light My Fire”. If it’s within Messrs. Trump and Schumer’s power, can we have some decent music, again?
Looking down that same chart, Janis Ian shocked us all with “Society’s Child”, a song about a white girl bringing home her black boyfriend to meet Mom and Dad. (She was 14 when she wrote and recorded it.) Janis subsequently told us that “a radio station in the '60s was burned to the ground for playing it and a writer at the Boston Herald was fired for writing about it.”
Politicians preaching “again” are inviting us to go back to an earlier era – but not everything about such eras was good. Sometimes we overlook the progress we have made.
4
"A Better Deal for American workers".
Less immigration needs to be a big part of that.
Less immigration needs to be a big part of that.
5
A good opening salvo, I look forward to Mondays first detailed plan. Let's hope the Democrats did a truly honest appraisal of where they fell short in 2016 and are now actually listening to people's real concerns, not some policy wonk or aide's assumptions.
3
Population growth is the cause of all of our problems. Healthcare costs, education, lack of affordable housing, lack of jobs: all influenced by too many people. Any attempts to fix these problems will be merely short term solutions.
USA population is predicted to be ~450 million by 2050. This is an increase of approximately 100 million in 33 years.
we as a country are NOT prepared for those types of numbers.
The democrat party must start now with healthcare and universal accessibility to birth control. We need to give women the ability to not have children by default, and to have children if they so desire (as opposed to currently having children due by default due to a lack of access to birth control).
This is an "icky" topic for many, but it is the dilemma that underpins the problems of the entire world. We need to start talking about it.
USA population is predicted to be ~450 million by 2050. This is an increase of approximately 100 million in 33 years.
we as a country are NOT prepared for those types of numbers.
The democrat party must start now with healthcare and universal accessibility to birth control. We need to give women the ability to not have children by default, and to have children if they so desire (as opposed to currently having children due by default due to a lack of access to birth control).
This is an "icky" topic for many, but it is the dilemma that underpins the problems of the entire world. We need to start talking about it.
19
Malthus was wrong and so are you.
1
Sez "Jonas," the world-renowned economist.
1
The DEMOCRATIC Party!
The DEMOCRAT label for the Democratic Party was started by Senator Joe McCarthy.
The DEMOCRAT label for the Democratic Party was started by Senator Joe McCarthy.
A good start. Impressed with focus on material help for middle/working class, such as paid leave, lower drug prices, serious job training, etc. Keep fighting to change change perception of government as villain, and to make Democrats the party of all working people again.
MUST emphasize how savage ACA repeal attempts are as part of distinguishing Dems from Repubs again. That distinction has been lost.
MUST emphasize how savage ACA repeal attempts are as part of distinguishing Dems from Repubs again. That distinction has been lost.
5
Dems, please stop using the term "special interests". I know it polls well but the Right co-opted it and many people now think unions when they hear it. works at cross purposes. if you mean the wealthiest say that! Two, why oh why do we need to cede any ground on government? why say, "Our better deal is not about expanding the government". Again, we are still caught in net of thinking we need to nod to anti-government folks. it serves no purpose. they will never be with us. all it does is bury our lede and prime feelings that do not help. "reorienting government" how not inspiring. It is focus group tested buzz words instead of a real heart felt VISION.
4
In honor of Jane Austen's 200th anniversary, it is a truth universally acknowledged that a single party in possession of a good program must be in want of an effective message.
Sen. Schumer, as an FDR Democrat and one of your constituents, I hope that our party can do better than fall back on wordy position papers. And, Better Deal won't cut it as a slogan. The party needs to settle on two or three strong themes or principles that link its policies together. I'm not creative enough to suggest too many things that that might work, but the word Freedom should be top of the list. The GOP has purloined the word under false pretenses and it should be taken back from them. Ever since the ACA was passed and then put under siege, I have not for the life of me understood why the Dems never used it in connection with health care. Freedom for people to change jobs without losing health coverage. Freedom for small businesses to hire without worrying about insuring their workers. And then there's the idea that the Government is not - or should not be - the enemy. It is not even our agent, but it is Us, We the People.
The Dems need to get themselves a wordsmith, and quickly - someone skilled at crafting concise messages the way the GOP has done for years. Otherwise the best program in the world will not succeed against opponents that know nothing about governing but everything about the darkest propaganda arts.
Sen. Schumer, as an FDR Democrat and one of your constituents, I hope that our party can do better than fall back on wordy position papers. And, Better Deal won't cut it as a slogan. The party needs to settle on two or three strong themes or principles that link its policies together. I'm not creative enough to suggest too many things that that might work, but the word Freedom should be top of the list. The GOP has purloined the word under false pretenses and it should be taken back from them. Ever since the ACA was passed and then put under siege, I have not for the life of me understood why the Dems never used it in connection with health care. Freedom for people to change jobs without losing health coverage. Freedom for small businesses to hire without worrying about insuring their workers. And then there's the idea that the Government is not - or should not be - the enemy. It is not even our agent, but it is Us, We the People.
The Dems need to get themselves a wordsmith, and quickly - someone skilled at crafting concise messages the way the GOP has done for years. Otherwise the best program in the world will not succeed against opponents that know nothing about governing but everything about the darkest propaganda arts.
17
Well said!
5
Was it not Chuck Schumer who introduced the tax law that allows Wall Street guys to declare a substantial part of their income as capital gains and thus pay much lower tax rates? While what he says here is true about the Democratic Party, I not sure he is credible.
21
dem Chuck, will you and nancy and feinstein and the rest freaking RETIRE AND LET humans have your fat cat jobs - 'a better deal' - why not the BEST deal??
I am so sick of you and your inability to speak to real humans who live in this world.. Please!!! You are TOO OLD.. let it GO!!!How much retirement pay do you need, with your half glasses and absolutely uninspiring way of speaking..Please let us be rid of these old dem creakers..there is too much at stake..
I am so sick of you and your inability to speak to real humans who live in this world.. Please!!! You are TOO OLD.. let it GO!!!How much retirement pay do you need, with your half glasses and absolutely uninspiring way of speaking..Please let us be rid of these old dem creakers..there is too much at stake..
18
@ Grace: I would not say that they are "too old." That smacks of ageism, & if you are lucky enough to live to my age, you will by then - at the latest - know what I mean by that.
I would, however, say that their ideas are definitely too old. The world has changed & they have not evolved their ideas in accordance. Ideologically, they're stuck in 1990 or thereabouts, around the time that they stopped socializing with normal people & joined the political class, which has endeavored to separate itself by any means from the less-privileged classes.
As more of the middle class slides into the lower classes, there are fewer who are willing to tolerate this kind of behavior. It used to be that people would defend wealth tooth & nail, because they too hoped to join those ranks someday. But as more & more people realize how rigged the system is against them, the more they realize they have no chance of moving up in the world. Too much is now stacked against them, after decades of right-wing lobbying have resulted in laws designed to favor the rich & powerful above anyone else. In the eleventh century a similar situation resulted in the Magna Charta, & in the eighteenth it led to a little conflict known as the War of Independence. In the 1930s it resulted in something entirely novel: the New Deal.
Now it remains to be seen whether we have learned anything from history. Those of us in favor of peace would prefer to know that we have. Will we do the right thing this time?
I would, however, say that their ideas are definitely too old. The world has changed & they have not evolved their ideas in accordance. Ideologically, they're stuck in 1990 or thereabouts, around the time that they stopped socializing with normal people & joined the political class, which has endeavored to separate itself by any means from the less-privileged classes.
As more of the middle class slides into the lower classes, there are fewer who are willing to tolerate this kind of behavior. It used to be that people would defend wealth tooth & nail, because they too hoped to join those ranks someday. But as more & more people realize how rigged the system is against them, the more they realize they have no chance of moving up in the world. Too much is now stacked against them, after decades of right-wing lobbying have resulted in laws designed to favor the rich & powerful above anyone else. In the eleventh century a similar situation resulted in the Magna Charta, & in the eighteenth it led to a little conflict known as the War of Independence. In the 1930s it resulted in something entirely novel: the New Deal.
Now it remains to be seen whether we have learned anything from history. Those of us in favor of peace would prefer to know that we have. Will we do the right thing this time?
4
@alison, I beg to differ, I am a senior citizen, and with age comes honesty and knowing your limitations. Chuck was born too old for politics, he is just dull, not a leader, and he needs to move aside for someone who speaks from the heart, not the personal pocketbook. Conversely, Bernie Sanders remains young at heart, inspired, evolving and listening. Age is not just years, it is in ossification of the soul. It can happen at any decade.
6
I have to say, I find the reflexive negativity from a lot of the commenters extremely tiresome. I don't appreciate the invidious, bad-faith remarks and open fratricide that we on the left seem all too eager to embrace. There's this "because Sen. Schumer is the one saying these things, they must be bad" attitude that is not only obnoxious, but actively counterproductive.
That said, one bit of this piece does trouble me slightly: Sen. Schumer says, "Our better deal is not about expanding the government, or moving our party in one direction or another along the political spectrum. ... It’s about reorienting government to work on behalf of people and families." While the second half of that is clearly correct, I don't understand the sort of Clintonian aversion to expanding the government; in a time when private interests exercise such crushing power, it seems to me obvious that expanding the government is the best way to institute a countervailing force. We need to show people that the government is a force for good, a way to improve their lives and shelter them from the brutal forces of the unrestrained free market.
We need to build things (like new broadband infrastructure and rail lines), establish institutions (viz. the CFPB, among others), and remind people that the public sector is just as important as the private in driving the country forward. That is the foundation of liberalism; we should embrace it, rather than running away from it.
That said, one bit of this piece does trouble me slightly: Sen. Schumer says, "Our better deal is not about expanding the government, or moving our party in one direction or another along the political spectrum. ... It’s about reorienting government to work on behalf of people and families." While the second half of that is clearly correct, I don't understand the sort of Clintonian aversion to expanding the government; in a time when private interests exercise such crushing power, it seems to me obvious that expanding the government is the best way to institute a countervailing force. We need to show people that the government is a force for good, a way to improve their lives and shelter them from the brutal forces of the unrestrained free market.
We need to build things (like new broadband infrastructure and rail lines), establish institutions (viz. the CFPB, among others), and remind people that the public sector is just as important as the private in driving the country forward. That is the foundation of liberalism; we should embrace it, rather than running away from it.
11
"There's this "because Sen. Schumer is the one saying these things, they must be bad" attitude that is not only obnoxious, but actively counterproductive."
Obnoxious, or true?
When I first learned computer programming in BASIC at the age of 12, conflicting lines of code often led to a crash in the program. In the process of weeding out these conflicts, I guess I could say that I thought the impact of these errors were "obnoxious" in a way. Of course, I had only myself to blame. And I learned--over time--how deal with them, and ultimately how to avoid them.
Some of us who "obnoxiously" nay say established Democratic leaders do so because we have learned that--like the aforementioned BASIC program--the party platform will not work until new, "revised" leadership steps forward. When the code doesn't work, you fix it. When leadership doesn't work, you find new leaders.
Contempt of the current Democratic leadership, and/or asserting the need for better leadership, is not "counterproductive". It's merely advocating for the only condition that will allow anything productive to occur at all.
Obnoxious, or true?
When I first learned computer programming in BASIC at the age of 12, conflicting lines of code often led to a crash in the program. In the process of weeding out these conflicts, I guess I could say that I thought the impact of these errors were "obnoxious" in a way. Of course, I had only myself to blame. And I learned--over time--how deal with them, and ultimately how to avoid them.
Some of us who "obnoxiously" nay say established Democratic leaders do so because we have learned that--like the aforementioned BASIC program--the party platform will not work until new, "revised" leadership steps forward. When the code doesn't work, you fix it. When leadership doesn't work, you find new leaders.
Contempt of the current Democratic leadership, and/or asserting the need for better leadership, is not "counterproductive". It's merely advocating for the only condition that will allow anything productive to occur at all.
6
@Michael: to some extent I agree. If we practiced more parliamentary style politics we would be better equipped to deal with change. It would be common to have several parties sharing power, and we would be more skilled at working in coalitions. We would be used to seeing votes of "no confidence" and a consequential change in leadership. Practicing these political skills would make the whole country more flexible and adaptable.
3
There's something hollow about workers standing up to the big corporations that employ those very workers. There needs to be a level playing field, starting with respect for facts and reality.
The outsourced jobs are not coming back, there are no death panels, voter fraud is negligable, Obama was born here, the earth is getting hotter, pharmaceutical companies will not develop miracle drugs unless they can charge a fortune for them, Trump is not smart enough to collude but has surely broken numerous other laws, more guns will not solve the problem of too many guns, etc.
The good news is that most Americans are generous and moderate. Disagreeing with the Republicans is not liberal at all; it's moderation and common decency. The rejection of Trumpcare shows that we have our differences but we're not fools.
The outsourced jobs are not coming back, there are no death panels, voter fraud is negligable, Obama was born here, the earth is getting hotter, pharmaceutical companies will not develop miracle drugs unless they can charge a fortune for them, Trump is not smart enough to collude but has surely broken numerous other laws, more guns will not solve the problem of too many guns, etc.
The good news is that most Americans are generous and moderate. Disagreeing with the Republicans is not liberal at all; it's moderation and common decency. The rejection of Trumpcare shows that we have our differences but we're not fools.
6
This is a good start. But I think Schumer made a mistake beating up on "special interests." To Republicans and white workers, that's a code word for black Americans and the poor. Obviously, not only will Democrats continue to work to insure that these elements of our society have an equal opportunity to improve their lives, but they need to know that loud and clear. This Democratic Party change should not be viewed as exchanging one special interest for another. The interests of blacks and the poor are not in conflict with the interests of the struggling American worker. Democrats should be working for all Americans. Only the favored status of the wealthy (the word "elite" has been used more often to refer to liberals, not the wealthy) and corporations should be downgraded. Corporate interests are important, and they need to have a place at the table, but their interests should no longer be controlling.
7
I love Chuck Schumer and wish he would run for President. But what the heck is wrong with the Democrats that our numbers are so low. I cannot understand it but something is terribly wrong that the party with the most voters cannot sell their program to a large group of independents and get members to vote for its candidates. It cost us the election. I like that Chuck told Hillary to accept responsibility. She was the prototypical limousine liberal and did not acknowledge or deal with the criticisms against her. We need Trumans in the room. Men and women who can stand up, take it and fight the good fight.
3
The message is fuzzy, but it's a start. "Better Deal" may not be electric as a title, but it's a handy umbrella for your message in that you can bring other issues under and contrast your positions with those of the GOP Raw Deal. But you can't focus on those issues by zeroing in on small adjustments--stomping your foot at Big Pharma over drug prices--puleeze. "Medicare for all!" That's your message on health care in three words. Mergers of corporations is a detail; your message on limiting corporate power should be "Repeal Citizens United!" Three words. Minimum wage, family and sick leave--since you allowed the GOP to destroy unions, you're left with "Workers' rights!" Two words. Your infrastructure proposal got virtually no press--who's heard of it?--it should be 3 trillion and part of the Better Deal. "Infrastructure = jobs!" Sorta two words. Job training is vital, and the urgent issue at present is the folks left high and dry by advancing technology and corporate flight; "Retool workers" would be a good mnemonic phrase for the training programs you want to fund. The adjustments you mention here are just bullets that fall under the sound-bite headings. Get out there, get visible, and talk about what each sound bite represents. Think big, Chuck! Think bold. And then, on every major issue, you need to repeat, repeat, repeat the succinct sound bites that stand for what you intend to do.
7
Chuck Schumer - and mancuro - are you listening? Here are the words you need to be using. And maybe the wordsmith, as well.
4
The tragedy of the last elections is that Donald Trump stole the old-fashioned democratic slogans from the Dems in front of the entire nation and won the presidential race because they didn't dare to stand for what they used to believe in...
6
I just heard Tom Perez interviewed on PBS. I cry out: Tom, oh Tom...
S-t-o-p! You mean so well. You are a good guy. BUT these grandiose statements of empathy, however loving and true, are tired "same old same old". Your voice, that changes tone to force a sense of earnestness, does not work!! You sound like a politician. The Democrats need a fresh voice! We need someone who comes across with a totally different sound. We need someone who causes the listener to stop whatever they are doing and listen. We need someone with a fabulous sense of humor! We need someone who catches us off guard with a sense of profound caring and fun. We need this NOW. Give a bigger role to Sen.Franken, for example.
I am worried.
Sen.Schumer, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your hard work.
S-t-o-p! You mean so well. You are a good guy. BUT these grandiose statements of empathy, however loving and true, are tired "same old same old". Your voice, that changes tone to force a sense of earnestness, does not work!! You sound like a politician. The Democrats need a fresh voice! We need someone who comes across with a totally different sound. We need someone who causes the listener to stop whatever they are doing and listen. We need someone with a fabulous sense of humor! We need someone who catches us off guard with a sense of profound caring and fun. We need this NOW. Give a bigger role to Sen.Franken, for example.
I am worried.
Sen.Schumer, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your hard work.
10
Please, Dems. Get a serious marketing director and messaging strategist. This platform is more of the same. People want to know why you want to do what you do. Not what.
7
It is telling that Sen. Schumer rolled out this "plan" in a red, red district of Virginia. As democrats leave the party in droves, Schumer is still campaigning to win republican votes. This is no surprise considering the Schumer Scheme in the election:
“For every blue-collar Democrat we lose in western Pennsylvania, we will pick up two moderate Republicans in the suburbs in Philadelphia, and you can repeat that in Ohio and Illinois and Wisconsin.”
As we see, that was a gigantic flop.
Will the DNC ever learn?
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
“For every blue-collar Democrat we lose in western Pennsylvania, we will pick up two moderate Republicans in the suburbs in Philadelphia, and you can repeat that in Ohio and Illinois and Wisconsin.”
As we see, that was a gigantic flop.
Will the DNC ever learn?
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
6
Not enough. Not even close. Have you learned nothing from watching Republicans take over almost everywhere? Want to win elections? Get a clue. Pay attention to what people really need and want. Hint: It ain't neo-liberalism. It's not Clintonsim. It's not Republican lite, it's not 'we're not Trump' and it certainly isn't this re-hashed, lightweight attempt to sound progressive. Hey, progressive! Now there's a thought.
14
Quit pandering.
8
immigration?
7
"immigration?"
Not a blip on the subject. Chuckie needs to read one of the poor poor immigrant stories in the New York Times and count how many objections to slackening the rules come from the Left.
No one wants illegal immigrants. When will Democrats figure that out? If not or never how about they all move to California?
Not a blip on the subject. Chuckie needs to read one of the poor poor immigrant stories in the New York Times and count how many objections to slackening the rules come from the Left.
No one wants illegal immigrants. When will Democrats figure that out? If not or never how about they all move to California?
4
Nice piece, Chuck. But I'll tell you what Americans AREN'T clamoring for: that heinous AIPAC bill you're pushing that would make it a crime to boycott Israel.
9
Where have you been, Schumer? What happened? Did the Ghost of Christmas Future wake you up? Did you get religion?
Not buying it, Bunky. Once a hypocrite, always a hypocrite.
You are tired. Time to get out of the way. Retire. Now. And take the other Democrat Party honchos with you.
Not buying it, Bunky. Once a hypocrite, always a hypocrite.
You are tired. Time to get out of the way. Retire. Now. And take the other Democrat Party honchos with you.
5
Chuck,
Just give the keys to Bernie and go hang out with your friends on Wall Street, we don't need your kind of help,
Just give the keys to Bernie and go hang out with your friends on Wall Street, we don't need your kind of help,
16
Senator Schumer is often vilified by the dominant right wing talk show media. In reality, he is one of the hardest working politicians out there. His advocacy to his New York State constituents covers the gamut from large urban areas to small rural towns. He is genuinely concerned for the common man, and the 'Better Deal' plan sounds like a pragmatic blueprint for economic development.
7
What does being on the side of workers / consumers mean?
1. Higher minimum wage...check.
2. Anti-trust action...check.
3. Paid family and sick leave...check.
4. Medicare to negotiate drug prices...check.
5. Tax credits for life-long learning...check.
But much more is needed around the big-ticket items:
6. Reducing tuition costs. Perhaps switch from debt to subsidies.
7. Reducing healthcare costs to peer country levels. Prescription drugs are only 10% of healthcare spending, so we must look elsewhere for real savings.
8. Strengthening Social Security, by removing the cap on the payroll tax and creating a more progressive tax structure to support the program.
9. Unions...expand them in service industries not subject to international competition (i.e., non-trade sector).
10. Revenues...the top 20% get $750 billion per year in tax expenditures (preferential rates, deductions & exemptions). Go after much of that.
1. Higher minimum wage...check.
2. Anti-trust action...check.
3. Paid family and sick leave...check.
4. Medicare to negotiate drug prices...check.
5. Tax credits for life-long learning...check.
But much more is needed around the big-ticket items:
6. Reducing tuition costs. Perhaps switch from debt to subsidies.
7. Reducing healthcare costs to peer country levels. Prescription drugs are only 10% of healthcare spending, so we must look elsewhere for real savings.
8. Strengthening Social Security, by removing the cap on the payroll tax and creating a more progressive tax structure to support the program.
9. Unions...expand them in service industries not subject to international competition (i.e., non-trade sector).
10. Revenues...the top 20% get $750 billion per year in tax expenditures (preferential rates, deductions & exemptions). Go after much of that.
13
Focus on three issues that undermine our democracy.
Do away with Citizen's United.
Do away with the Electoral College.
Push for single payer health care for all.
Do away with Citizen's United.
Do away with the Electoral College.
Push for single payer health care for all.
15
Why not add 3 day work week and 3 onths paid vacation.
The only good thing about campaign ads is that people are getting paid to produce them, other than that perhaps a good laugh now and then but rarely any value information.
So if these groups want to waste their money so be it.....
The only good thing about campaign ads is that people are getting paid to produce them, other than that perhaps a good laugh now and then but rarely any value information.
So if these groups want to waste their money so be it.....
1
Nix on throwing out the Electoral College. That's throwing out the baby with the bathwater. If you throw out the Electoral College you exclude small-population states from sharing in governance. Don't be distracted or rehash that the Founders wanted to curb "control" "by the Southern States with their populations "three-fifths of all other persons".(black slaves).
To Democratic Leaders: infrastructure, infrastructure, infrastructure, infrastructure.
9
get rid of a 10,000 page tax code. get rid of all deduction except a personal exemption of 10k/ person per family unit. give every american insurance that will prevent medical bankruptcy. medical bankruptcy is the number 1 cause of bankruptcy in this country.
11
"get rid of a 10,000 page tax code."
A correction. The tax code is over 70,000 pages.
A correction. The tax code is over 70,000 pages.
3
The Dems need to ask where the GOP successes are. The GOP has had Congress 6 of the last 8 years. And 6 of the 8 years before that, with a GOP president.
Where are the GOP successes?
Where are the GOP successes?
4
Post-war America was the world’s leading industrial power and innovator. We had a population that, relieved to survive World War II, were happy to be citizens and to work for a middle-class standard of living. The ideal was to raise a good family in a wholesome community.
Today, we face the challenge of never-ending involvement in international conflict, of multi-national corporations that seek cheap labor markets, and a population that sees wealth as its sole measure of success.
The Democrats, rightly interested in social justice, abandoned their traditional support of the American worker, and focused instead on civil liberties and the plight of minorities. This was worthwhile in the 1960’s and the decade that followed, but lost its lustre as the party became obsessed with identity politics.
In recent years, both parties have argued endlessly about women's reproductive rights, as though this was the only moral issue surrounding the rights of women.
Everyone wants a hand-out, and it may be that Democrats can use them to get elected. Yet what the country really needs is to work together and accomplish something challenging and monumentally worthwhile. Rewards are most appreciated when worked for, and most satisfying when they come with a lasting sense of accomplishment.
Today, we face the challenge of never-ending involvement in international conflict, of multi-national corporations that seek cheap labor markets, and a population that sees wealth as its sole measure of success.
The Democrats, rightly interested in social justice, abandoned their traditional support of the American worker, and focused instead on civil liberties and the plight of minorities. This was worthwhile in the 1960’s and the decade that followed, but lost its lustre as the party became obsessed with identity politics.
In recent years, both parties have argued endlessly about women's reproductive rights, as though this was the only moral issue surrounding the rights of women.
Everyone wants a hand-out, and it may be that Democrats can use them to get elected. Yet what the country really needs is to work together and accomplish something challenging and monumentally worthwhile. Rewards are most appreciated when worked for, and most satisfying when they come with a lasting sense of accomplishment.
6
Dear Mr. Schumer -
I applaud you recognition that the Democrats need to get their eye back on the ball in terms of working for workers, but am dismayed by some obsolete language.
You say, "First, we’re going to increase people’s pay. Second, we’re going to reduce their everyday expenses. And third, we’re going to provide workers with the tools they need for the 21st-century economy." I don't think you can do any of that until you fix the political system that allows billionaires to fix the game by literally buying Wasington.
I don't want you to increase my pay, I want you to rewrite the laws that allow business to steal my wages and raise my tuition and cut public school budgets. When you say you are going to raise my wages, it gives the impression that you have the power to give me the raise. What you have is the power to fix a system that has favors some and cheats others. It is time to stop the borders and that will be a tough battle.
Good luck, I'm on your side.
I applaud you recognition that the Democrats need to get their eye back on the ball in terms of working for workers, but am dismayed by some obsolete language.
You say, "First, we’re going to increase people’s pay. Second, we’re going to reduce their everyday expenses. And third, we’re going to provide workers with the tools they need for the 21st-century economy." I don't think you can do any of that until you fix the political system that allows billionaires to fix the game by literally buying Wasington.
I don't want you to increase my pay, I want you to rewrite the laws that allow business to steal my wages and raise my tuition and cut public school budgets. When you say you are going to raise my wages, it gives the impression that you have the power to give me the raise. What you have is the power to fix a system that has favors some and cheats others. It is time to stop the borders and that will be a tough battle.
Good luck, I'm on your side.
9
Democrats have become the party that panders to special interests while giving a free pass to the rich. The public senses that they are useless, spoiled and need to be replaced by fighters who live on middle class wages and identify with family issues.
We are going to have to fight the rich and fight the special interests (gays come to mind) to balance out the needs of families. Who will stand up for middle class families and truly fight? Schumer's lukewarm campaign seems gutless from the start. Where is the demand to tax capital gains (and not just income)?
Pelosi is a joke, until she is replaced the party can not be taken seriously.... as trying advocate for the middle class.
We are going to have to fight the rich and fight the special interests (gays come to mind) to balance out the needs of families. Who will stand up for middle class families and truly fight? Schumer's lukewarm campaign seems gutless from the start. Where is the demand to tax capital gains (and not just income)?
Pelosi is a joke, until she is replaced the party can not be taken seriously.... as trying advocate for the middle class.
5
And the environment? International security? Civil liberties? Reduced criminalization of the citizenry? Public safety? We are not just workers, for Republocans or Democrats. We're citizens exactly the same as every politician. This isn't about Democrats doing us a favor by recognizing our Constitutional right to financial security. It's about politicians doing the complex, messy, and uncomfortable job of protecting and expanding our rights in an adversarial system. Money is important so far as it is power, which has been concentrated in so few hands for so long it's almost a joke to call our country a democracy. Almost. So, Democrats, your job is to shoehorn your way into that sliver of hope with every bill, every policy, every thought to your responsibility to this country, and fulfill our American social contract by bringing the promised power to the people.
4
I was a Sanders supporter during the election. Last month I quit the Democratic party and reregistered as an Independent because it wasn't clear to me what the Democrats stood for. If this message had come out six weeks ago, I might have stayed.
I like the fact that Schumer is acknowledging what didn't work for Clinton in the 2016 election. As he said on Sunday, when you're beaten by someone as disagreeable as Trump, you have to look beyond the Russians and the FBI for the reasons you lost.
I like the fact that Democrats are focusing on things that matter to working people. And I think they're starting in the right places -- income, job training, consumer protection, health and well-being.
I like the fact that this is not just Trump-bashing or fear mongering, and that it it avoids slipping into narrow and divisive identity politics. This feels like a way to start moving forward again.
So, way to go Senator Schumer. You've made me proud to say I'm from New York. Keep it up and I may even rejoin your party.
I like the fact that Schumer is acknowledging what didn't work for Clinton in the 2016 election. As he said on Sunday, when you're beaten by someone as disagreeable as Trump, you have to look beyond the Russians and the FBI for the reasons you lost.
I like the fact that Democrats are focusing on things that matter to working people. And I think they're starting in the right places -- income, job training, consumer protection, health and well-being.
I like the fact that this is not just Trump-bashing or fear mongering, and that it it avoids slipping into narrow and divisive identity politics. This feels like a way to start moving forward again.
So, way to go Senator Schumer. You've made me proud to say I'm from New York. Keep it up and I may even rejoin your party.
2
We need a Bernie, not a Schumer.
We need someone to go bolder than bold. We need someone to tell it really like it is.
We need single payer medical care. SINGLE PAYER. nothing else will do.
We need to END CITIZENS UNITED.
We need to replace the Dinosaur National Committee with true progressives.
We need to let those in power try to get along on $15 an hour.
And we need to at least keep the conversation going to abolish to Electoral College. We're sick of hearing it for a just a few weeks every 4 years.
We need someone to go bolder than bold. We need someone to tell it really like it is.
We need single payer medical care. SINGLE PAYER. nothing else will do.
We need to END CITIZENS UNITED.
We need to replace the Dinosaur National Committee with true progressives.
We need to let those in power try to get along on $15 an hour.
And we need to at least keep the conversation going to abolish to Electoral College. We're sick of hearing it for a just a few weeks every 4 years.
10
Mr. Schumer,
what is the major difference between the Dems and the GOP regarding the endless foreign wars, the world policing, the overblown defense budgets, the chronic borrowing, the colossal national debt, the endless tax cuts for the wealthy, the free trade, acceptance of the campaign contributions, the lobbyists obedience, the big corporation servitude, the housing bubble a decade ago, or basically any important aspect of our lives?
Any time the choice is regarding what party can better serve the big business the democrats will lose the elections because the republicans are better in that...
Your party has fooled the voters for two decades. Finally, the blue color workers, the middle class and the poor have abandoned you.
The empty promises don't work any longer...
We want to know who betrayed us and why!
what is the major difference between the Dems and the GOP regarding the endless foreign wars, the world policing, the overblown defense budgets, the chronic borrowing, the colossal national debt, the endless tax cuts for the wealthy, the free trade, acceptance of the campaign contributions, the lobbyists obedience, the big corporation servitude, the housing bubble a decade ago, or basically any important aspect of our lives?
Any time the choice is regarding what party can better serve the big business the democrats will lose the elections because the republicans are better in that...
Your party has fooled the voters for two decades. Finally, the blue color workers, the middle class and the poor have abandoned you.
The empty promises don't work any longer...
We want to know who betrayed us and why!
3
My party needs a better ad agency. I guess if you're old enough to remember "the new deal" "a better deal" might strike a chord. But, if you're trying to reach today's working class middle Americans, a better theme is:
WE'LL DELIVER!
That's such a better platform for saying: Look, Trump made all kinds of promises. But he and the GOP haven't delivered. They're letting America down. We'll come through for you, We'll deliver!
WE'LL DELIVER!
That's such a better platform for saying: Look, Trump made all kinds of promises. But he and the GOP haven't delivered. They're letting America down. We'll come through for you, We'll deliver!
3
Great! We need to refocus on what really matters to everyday people. My parents worked hard all of their lives and deserves a decent retirement. However, they are finding that they are having to dig into their retirement to support some of my siblings that don't seem to every be able to get ahead. The system is rigged against the average person. And, the Donald, and all of his rich buddies definitely do not care about the average person. Many of his supporters were hood winked! That's all I got to say!
4
The Republicans are in for a tough time if the Democrats read and incorporate half the good feedback in these comments. The Democrats will have a much tougher time if they ignore listening to their true constituents and stick with just "Resist Trump".
3
Today, the democratic party is beginning a "rebranding" effort. They want to connect to a larger voting block, distance themselves from the Clinton debacle, and position themselves as the party of the working class. I'm not buying one word of it. When Schumer writes, "The wealthiest special interests can spend an unlimited, undisclosed amount of money to influence elections and protect their special deals in Washington," he is talking about himself and his democratic colleagues. The same party purposely pushed the primary frontrunner off the stage. When caught, the Democratic Chairperson resigned, only to be quickly embraced (the same day) by the Clinton campaign. The Democratic rebranding effort is just another "at least we are not as bad as the Republicans" divide and conquer. I don't care what party you are part of, I will watch what you do, who pays you, and make an intelligent decision.
10
I wonder how Schumer plans to persuade the special interests (i.e., the ruling moneyed elite) to abandon their health care TAX CUT. Since they now control, via Russian meddling, tax roll manipulation, and massive advertising, the electoral process, how can Schumer threaten them? How can he persuade them? Will massive public demonstrations and unrest do the job? If not, what else? How do you overcome an entrenched oligarchy? Will the "Russia" probe do it, or will it fail and underline our collective impotence. That the horse is already out of the barn.....
3
Other than the occasional sprinkling of Bernie-ism's that give me some hope, this is the same old uninspiring message that has led to so many Democratic losses, and led me personally to end my life long affiliation with the Democrats. In June of 2016 I re-registered as an Independent. If Mr. Schumer had the ability to inspire, it likely would have happened in one of the several other decades he claimed to know what was necessary for the task.
Further, though it would appear the Senator would now like to subtly throw Hillary under the bus, I personally can't forget his great passion for all that was Hillary in 2016 and before. How can anyone possibly overlook that it was just that very passion that leads to the current need for "A Better Deal".
If the Dems want to do better come 2018, the old guard is going to have to let go, and allow some real inspiration to take center stage. Schumer and Pelosi are like some old disco songs being newly produced with a hip hop beat. No matter how you dress it up, its still the same old song.
Further, though it would appear the Senator would now like to subtly throw Hillary under the bus, I personally can't forget his great passion for all that was Hillary in 2016 and before. How can anyone possibly overlook that it was just that very passion that leads to the current need for "A Better Deal".
If the Dems want to do better come 2018, the old guard is going to have to let go, and allow some real inspiration to take center stage. Schumer and Pelosi are like some old disco songs being newly produced with a hip hop beat. No matter how you dress it up, its still the same old song.
7
Without single payer as a center piece, this is just so much hot air.
Let's have Senator Gillibrand step out front and center and lead this charge for change.
Let's have Senator Gillibrand step out front and center and lead this charge for change.
2
I suggest that the party stop advertising to the college grads only and get in the neighborhoods. They've been stuck up for too long!
3
If you believe the government is the solution to economic prosperity Then this country deserves all the ill will that will fall upon it. I am convinced the Democrat party truly hate America. Capitalism did not fail the American people the politicians that put roadblocks up with bureaucrats and regulations did the damage. Wake up America you are the solution to your problems, not Chuck Schumer.
1
Uh, Phil, this version of capitalism, our economy, was BUILT by the super rich for the super rich. That's a fact Phil. They bought off our legislators and told them what to do. "Government was the solution for THEIR economic prosperity" for decades. Time for government to reverse some of that in favor of the victims of that.
4
Let the voters have more say: eliminate the super-delegates. This is purely a Democrat's job. When the party does not give privilege to the elites, it will attend to equality and fairness for all. Good policy will follow. Take this first step, please!
3
Senator Schumer exemplifies what is wrong with the Democratic Party, same old, same old, closely tied to the 1% people, those who do not need help making ends meet, sorting out what is best for their children, etc. The Senator has been at the front of the corrupt DNC and the DSCC. Senator, we know FDR and you're no FDR.
6
This isn't going to help. All politics are local. If you don't elect local democrats you'll keep hemorrhaging national democrats. Focus on supporting young and inspirational leaders who have a clear message for their constituencies. All of this grandiose verbiage is just for show.
3
Chuck Schumer thoughts are a little scattered, relative to my way of thinking. There are three premises in his argument: we are playing a zero sum game with big money, big pharma, big corporations, etc.; the agenda idea or list will win enough votes to be implemented; and, the problems of this country will be solved with this list, if it should be implemented.
The fastest way to show the weakness of the plan is to consider a mother heroin addict who has a underpaid spouse. In effect, according to his list or plan, raising a salary, decreasing a opiate prescription cost (thus stopping the heroin need), would solve all problems. But the problem is the person is just a less desperate addict and the drug manufacturer is still a drug manufactuer -- there is no evoluton and there is no vision but to be less miserable and less contemptible.
The democratic party needs a presidential candidate with a vision that delivers a non-zero sum game and can win votes by enabling this country and its citizens to genuinely evolve to a better, more Star Trek like place. There are no herion addicts and prescriptions are not for profit but to enable better shared voyages, better general humanity. I am such a presidential candidate.
The fastest way to show the weakness of the plan is to consider a mother heroin addict who has a underpaid spouse. In effect, according to his list or plan, raising a salary, decreasing a opiate prescription cost (thus stopping the heroin need), would solve all problems. But the problem is the person is just a less desperate addict and the drug manufacturer is still a drug manufactuer -- there is no evoluton and there is no vision but to be less miserable and less contemptible.
The democratic party needs a presidential candidate with a vision that delivers a non-zero sum game and can win votes by enabling this country and its citizens to genuinely evolve to a better, more Star Trek like place. There are no herion addicts and prescriptions are not for profit but to enable better shared voyages, better general humanity. I am such a presidential candidate.
1
Does this mean that Schemer has dropped his opposition to repealing the carried interest loophole?
5
"Chuck" Schumer is pals with the Wall Street superrich. As much as I might be glad he is a Democratic pol rather than a Republican one ("moral pygmies," to quote Paul Krugman, about the Repubs in Congress), one of the reasons for the real divide today in the Democratic Party between the "Establishment Dems" and the progressives is precisely because it becomes very hard to separate many of the Dems in Congress from Republicans simply because they are millionaires, including "Chuck" and Nancy Pelosi. So anytime Schumer writes so passionately about "working Americans" and anyone not wealthy in America, I find myself just shaking my head.
5
Incidentally "Better Deal" is a wonderful name for this new program/idea.
I hope you can pull this off, I'm with Senator!
I hope you can pull this off, I'm with Senator!
1
Dear Senator Schumer, The Better Deal for American Workers is deja vu all over again. What the party needs is the big idea and catch phrase that everyone can understand, relate to and becomes a meme. Back in the day we had: A chicken in every pot. Progress is our most important product. Speak softly and carry a big stick. You get the idea. More apropos to modern times: Free hot dogs for life. Zero percent unemployment. No more traffic jams. How about: The future ain’t what it used to be.
1
This:
"Democrats have too often hesitated from taking on those misguided policies directly and unflinchingly — so much so that many Americans don’t know what we stand for."
Should read...
"Democrats have too often been complicit in establishing these misguided policies — so much so that many Americans don’t know what we stand for."
But still a good first step. Hopefully, this is more than hot air.
"Democrats have too often hesitated from taking on those misguided policies directly and unflinchingly — so much so that many Americans don’t know what we stand for."
Should read...
"Democrats have too often been complicit in establishing these misguided policies — so much so that many Americans don’t know what we stand for."
But still a good first step. Hopefully, this is more than hot air.
3
Hoorah. And if the Republicans won't cooperate, kick them out of office!
It is a great start, Senator Schumer. As some of my running buddies would say: On On!
It is a great start, Senator Schumer. As some of my running buddies would say: On On!
Talk is cheap. This is so vague as to be laughable but it sure looks like doubling down on the same old Democrat big government agenda with a dash of populism thrown in. If President Trump proposed something this porous, this vague the cacophony of Democrats and media screaming, "Where are the details" would be deafening. But since it's proposed BY the Democrats, crickets.
It looks like the Democrats have learned nothing from the slaughter of the 2012, 2014 and 2016 elections that have cost them the Presidency, state governorships and over 1,000 federal and state legislative seats. But hey, Schumer, Pelosi, Warren, Perez, et. al. all love it and I'll bet their psychophant enablers in Hollywood and the media will, too!!
It looks like the Democrats have learned nothing from the slaughter of the 2012, 2014 and 2016 elections that have cost them the Presidency, state governorships and over 1,000 federal and state legislative seats. But hey, Schumer, Pelosi, Warren, Perez, et. al. all love it and I'll bet their psychophant enablers in Hollywood and the media will, too!!
4
All that ink and you didn't tell us where the Dems' money will come from.
Will you still be feeding at the Wall Street trough? Will you still be spending your summers at Hamptons fund raisers? Will you tell us in public what we want to hear and then, behind closed doors, tell the banksters what they want to hear?
These are nice words and it seems that you are finally clued in to what many Americans want.
But I kind of wonder if you've just figured out what to lie about.
Will you still be feeding at the Wall Street trough? Will you still be spending your summers at Hamptons fund raisers? Will you tell us in public what we want to hear and then, behind closed doors, tell the banksters what they want to hear?
These are nice words and it seems that you are finally clued in to what many Americans want.
But I kind of wonder if you've just figured out what to lie about.
4
It's too bad this is just dawning on the Democrats. Hopefully not too little, too late.
2
"Democrats have too often hesitated from taking on those misguided policies directly and unflinchingly...."
That's because the Democratic Party is just as guilty of being bough and paid for by elite special interests.
That's because the Democratic Party is just as guilty of being bough and paid for by elite special interests.
5
The first few lines of boilerplate sound like they came out of the mouth of Bill Clinton 25 years ago - and they did. Schumer's been feted by his Hamptons handlers for so long I guess he forgot. Number one one your list Senator should have been: replace Chuck Schumer with someone who is not an oleaginous Wall Street toady, someone with credibility.
6
"A Better Deal" What an awesome slogan....for Joe's Used Car Lot.
4
Senator, you wrote, "It’s about reorienting government to work on behalf of people and families.". As though read right off Hillary's teleprompter, numbing and soulless. Elizabeth Warren and Bernie in their speeches connect with their audience because they know, intimately, what is actually happening for people and families. "American's clamoring for bold changes.." Yes, its called connect.
3
I see many comments of the form "What about pet issue __, __, and __?" Fill in the blanks with Citizens United repeal, LGBTQ rights, free college, electoral reform, dreamers rights, gun control, universal medicaid, etc. These people misunderstand why the Democrats lost. They also don't understand that gaining power comes down to more Democratic rear ends in congressional seats.
They lost because the overwhelming concern of working class whites is the economy, which they partially blame on immigrants, and also because rural voters chafe under elite, educated, metropolitan, PC condescension. The DP is correctly going after the large swath of people in the middle--moderate Democrats, independents, and non-extremist Republicans--while trying not to alienate the self-righteous left. The only way to win the middle is to focus on the economy and avoid other controversial issues. Only after the DP gains power can it have a hope of addressing the other issues, and that battle will be fought mano a mano.
My personal opinion is that if the DP does mention anything other than the economy, it should focus on fair elections and Constitutional rights. This will appeal to the old-school, flag-waving Reagan conservatives. But more important is the economy.
They lost because the overwhelming concern of working class whites is the economy, which they partially blame on immigrants, and also because rural voters chafe under elite, educated, metropolitan, PC condescension. The DP is correctly going after the large swath of people in the middle--moderate Democrats, independents, and non-extremist Republicans--while trying not to alienate the self-righteous left. The only way to win the middle is to focus on the economy and avoid other controversial issues. Only after the DP gains power can it have a hope of addressing the other issues, and that battle will be fought mano a mano.
My personal opinion is that if the DP does mention anything other than the economy, it should focus on fair elections and Constitutional rights. This will appeal to the old-school, flag-waving Reagan conservatives. But more important is the economy.
3
Thank you, Senator Schumer. Keep the Dem's message simple and hammer it home incessantly, that is what the Republicans do.
2
I'm disappointed to announce that reading this just did not make me excited. In fact, it was so boring that I skimmed it. Please. Get a good PR firm to communicate a plan that people can get excited about.
4
So where is the economic plan dems were to release today? Aside from this I see nothing.
I don't see dems mentioned for days on end in this rag or the WAPO. can we safely assume the task of "vanishing" the dems in the news is complete?
Dems will fail to show in midterms and be gerrymandered out of existence in 2020.
I don't see dems mentioned for days on end in this rag or the WAPO. can we safely assume the task of "vanishing" the dems in the news is complete?
Dems will fail to show in midterms and be gerrymandered out of existence in 2020.
1
I remember seeing Schumer on David Letterman in 2007 touting his ghost-written "manifesto" "Positively American: Winning Back the Middle-Class Majority One Family at a Time" (sound strangely familiar?). It's now being sold on Amazon, not for Kindle, but for kindling. This guy is an absolute fraud who spends most of his time popping out of cakes in the Hamptons.
Read it and weep.
https://www.amazon.com/Positively-American-Winning-Middle-Class-Majority...
Read it and weep.
https://www.amazon.com/Positively-American-Winning-Middle-Class-Majority...
6
I read in several news sites today that Schumer threw Hillary under the bus with this op ed.
Nonsense.
Hillary threw herself under the bus by running a lackadaisical campaign,
I voted for Hillary but I held my nose.
The Democratic Party threw themselves under the bus when they cheated Bernie out of his legitimate candidacy.
Go Chuck. Let's explain life to the ignoramus' who voted for Drumpf.
Nonsense.
Hillary threw herself under the bus by running a lackadaisical campaign,
I voted for Hillary but I held my nose.
The Democratic Party threw themselves under the bus when they cheated Bernie out of his legitimate candidacy.
Go Chuck. Let's explain life to the ignoramus' who voted for Drumpf.
6
The DNC saw to it that Bernie Sanders be marginalized during the campaign. they got what they wanted and totally ignored their liberal base. I can even recall a prominent Democrat referring to liberals as, "those f..... liberals." That was in 2009, which was a precursor for the decline of the average citizen. Far too many American communities have gone downward ever since. I did vote for Hillary, but it was only out of fear. Since then I have disavowed my lifelong Democratic membership and refer to myself as independent. Bottom line is that Bernie was the only one who could have defeated Trump and neither the DNC nor Hillary even had a clue that there was so much angst among their constituents. With 24 hour news and technology moving at rapid speed, there's no longer anywhere for either major party to hide. People are watching and they are not pleased. We need more than better articulation from the Democratic Party. We need action and courage.
6
Does Senator Schumer actually expect us to believe this pablum? The last raise in the minimum wage happened in 2009, and President Obama expended zero political capital over his two terms to raise it again. And according to Picketty/Saez/Zuchman, the bottom 50% of American workers averaged a pre-tax income of $16,200 in 2014. In constant dollars, those same workers averaged $16,000 in 1980. That's not just a few bad years. That's the wrath of God.
I saw a photo of Sen. Schumer and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi in a story about the Democrats' "Better Deal." They should begin by apologizing to all of us Bobby Kennedy Democrats for their pathetic, corporatist policies of the past 30 years, and for their abject failure to keep this enormous issue before the public eye, and actually doing something about it.
Then they can resign their leadership positions on the grounds of abject failure to get the American people what they need. I do not believe in term limits for legislators, but I do believe in them for leadership positions. The existing Democratic leadership is way too old, and beholden to everything corporatist. They are sclerotic in every way, and I for one do not trust them to do anything of real substance anymore. We need fresh blood--badly--and humdrum OP-Eds like this are just more proof that the existing leadership needs to go away.
I saw a photo of Sen. Schumer and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi in a story about the Democrats' "Better Deal." They should begin by apologizing to all of us Bobby Kennedy Democrats for their pathetic, corporatist policies of the past 30 years, and for their abject failure to keep this enormous issue before the public eye, and actually doing something about it.
Then they can resign their leadership positions on the grounds of abject failure to get the American people what they need. I do not believe in term limits for legislators, but I do believe in them for leadership positions. The existing Democratic leadership is way too old, and beholden to everything corporatist. They are sclerotic in every way, and I for one do not trust them to do anything of real substance anymore. We need fresh blood--badly--and humdrum OP-Eds like this are just more proof that the existing leadership needs to go away.
6
Oh, yahoo! This is what I have been waiting to "hear". Thank you, Senator Schumer.
1
This article reminded me of a song…
You made me promises promises
You knew you'd never keep
Promises promises
Why do I believe?
~ Naked Eyes
You made me promises promises
You knew you'd never keep
Promises promises
Why do I believe?
~ Naked Eyes
3
Yeah, Chuck Schumer, patron saint of Wall St.
Now the rich donors in the Hamptons are grooming Kamala Harris for 2020.
The more things change ...
Now the rich donors in the Hamptons are grooming Kamala Harris for 2020.
The more things change ...
6
It's about time something positive comes out of the Democratic Party!
1
Hey Dems! As many in their form suggest: Keep it simple. 140 characters or less. Bullet points.
* Single payer
* Job training
* Liberty and justice for all
* Single payer
* Job training
* Liberty and justice for all
2
Don't neglect Centrists, like us Baby Boomers, who VOTE, you know. Lots of Centrists are not committed irrevocably to either party, so if you can put forth a good policy platform, we'll go for it. A registered Republican, I pulled the lever for Hillary since she was BY FAR the better candidate; and the Democratic platform was excellent. I can not understand how so many people could be hoodwinked by a Policy-lite (policy-flexible? policy-free) Trump could get so many votes. Unfortunately, a combination of Hillary's mistakes, biased punditry, esp. by Fox News); thank you Rupert, and Trump's swagger, found appeal in various battleground states. The condition of the Electoral College is pro-Red State, of course, as is the Senate; no chance for a change anytime soon given the current swamp dwellers.
So, keep the Faith, and stay with us Centrists. We shall overcome!
So, keep the Faith, and stay with us Centrists. We shall overcome!
3
Schumer is the wrong messenger; the Democrats-with Schumer in support of the candidate-- just got through losing an important election and being beaten in numerous states after relying on a candidate that was seen by many as dishonest and had no real vision for the future or any real reason to run. Schumer is replaying a broken record. The Democrats need to look to new leaders and make significant breaks with the past. This means ending the repeated interventions in foreign countries and the excessive expenditures on defense. The modest changes proposed are much too little and too late to stop another Republican victory in 2018 and 2020.
3
A Constitutional amendment mandating public financing of all elections, and the overturning of Citizens United is a must. Without these two changes, all will be lost no matter which party is in power.
13
A Better Deal with an economic core favoring the middle class will update Democratic values begun by FDR with his New Deal. Bravo! Now, please consider pulling out other root causes of wage stagnation for the middle class, which is the doubling, or more, share of the economic pie being taken by the top 1%. This root endures because of a) a low top federal marginal income tax rate and (b) ability of corporations to deduct compensation exceeding $1 million dollars. Please see Emmanuel Saez at Berkeley on (a). Apologies for having no source at the ready for (b), but am pretty sure undoing (b) will scale back the unjustiable growth in stock based compensation for top execs since the later 90's.
3
One more tepid attempt by our moribund Democratic party to pretend to represent the average Joe. Here are some really "bold" positions: 1) universal healthcare, 2) get $ out of politics, 3) raise taxes on the rich to reduce income inequality. Just what is it that the Democratic party doesn't get?? Go Bernie.
11
Chuck Schumer promising all of this is just like the Republicans promising to repeal Obamacare. We all know that once they're back in power this rhetoric will all go out the window. Just like it always does. It's just like redistricting. In WI Republicans are in charge and Dems say it's unfair. In IL it's the reverse. Does anyone reading this think that when the party control flips the party in charge will enact non-partisan redistricting? No. Because they never do what they say they will do.
1
"We all know that once they're back in power this rhetoric will all go out the window. Just like it always does"
I do not know that. I know the Dems had Congress for 2 years under Clinton, 2 years under Bush, and 2 years under Obama. And under Obama the Dems had to fix the GOP Great Recession. A scattered 6 of the last 24 years.
So, no, I do not know what you mean by "Just like it aways does".
I do not know that. I know the Dems had Congress for 2 years under Clinton, 2 years under Bush, and 2 years under Obama. And under Obama the Dems had to fix the GOP Great Recession. A scattered 6 of the last 24 years.
So, no, I do not know what you mean by "Just like it aways does".
2
Here's what you, Chuck, and Nancy have articulated for years, not through your words but your actions: an attachment to your power, position and perks at the expense of your party and your nation.
The first inkling I got of this was in 2006, when the Democrats took back the Senate. Virginia, where Jim Webb squeaked out a narrow victory, got in its results late. While Virginians were waiting to hear Webb give his victory speech, you and Nancy made him wait so you could go on TV and crow about taking back the Senate, stealing Webb's thunder and giving him a smaller audience as people started switching off and going to bed.
You delivered an unmistakable message to the Webb and the voters who put him over the top: there is a pecking order, and you are not at the top. We are. Even if the kill is yours, the choicest cuts are ours. You will be allowed to speak, by our good graces, when it is your turn. Not before.
This is the approach you have taken to everything. Do only that which keeps your position safe. The establishment before the people. Seniority above all else.
The problem isn't with the message, Chuck. It's the messenger. You, Pelosi and Clinton can't fix the problem because you, and your attachment to your own personal power while your party falters and the nation suffers, _are_ the problem. You need to stop lecturing America and start listening to America. You've failed to serve your party and your country well. Step aside.
It's our turn.
The first inkling I got of this was in 2006, when the Democrats took back the Senate. Virginia, where Jim Webb squeaked out a narrow victory, got in its results late. While Virginians were waiting to hear Webb give his victory speech, you and Nancy made him wait so you could go on TV and crow about taking back the Senate, stealing Webb's thunder and giving him a smaller audience as people started switching off and going to bed.
You delivered an unmistakable message to the Webb and the voters who put him over the top: there is a pecking order, and you are not at the top. We are. Even if the kill is yours, the choicest cuts are ours. You will be allowed to speak, by our good graces, when it is your turn. Not before.
This is the approach you have taken to everything. Do only that which keeps your position safe. The establishment before the people. Seniority above all else.
The problem isn't with the message, Chuck. It's the messenger. You, Pelosi and Clinton can't fix the problem because you, and your attachment to your own personal power while your party falters and the nation suffers, _are_ the problem. You need to stop lecturing America and start listening to America. You've failed to serve your party and your country well. Step aside.
It's our turn.
7
"Our Turn". The GOP had Congress, where laws and budgets are made, for 18 of the last 24 years, 75% of the time.
Yes, the Dems failed to fix things when they had Congress 2 out of every 8 years.
So you think the GOP should have power all the time. Regardless of an a abysmal lack of any kind of success over the last 24 years.
Yes, the Dems failed to fix things when they had Congress 2 out of every 8 years.
So you think the GOP should have power all the time. Regardless of an a abysmal lack of any kind of success over the last 24 years.
1
Who do you think I meant by "our"?
Definitely not the GOP!
I'm talking about an internal dispute among us Democrats - period.
Definitely not the GOP!
I'm talking about an internal dispute among us Democrats - period.
2
gratis, Democrats should have gotten rid of the filibuster and went big when they had the House, Senate and President Obama, but the filibuster, along with our country being a republic and not a democracy is there to make sure that absolutely nothing gets done that the plutocrats don't want. The real rulers of the universe did not want Democrats to tend to the issues facing the American people and so they didn't do anything. Stop making excuses for Democrats, if they wanted to go big for the working class they had opportunities to do so.
1
Senator Schumer needs to get this piece published in non-liberal newspapers.
4
About time.
1
about time? they've been saying per their own admission the wrong things and start correcting that in the middle of the summer when no one is paying attention!
how clueless can they be?
how clueless can they be?
1
Finally. Finally. Say it loud and clear: Democrats offer a better deal. Better jobs. Better wages. A better life! A better future!! We must call upon our rich Democratic history, from Roosevelt's New Deal to JFK's ideals communicated around the world! People, big and small businesses, and the government ALL do better with Democrats in leadership! Say it again and again and again! We have to counter every Republican message with a positive MESSAGE from DEMOCRATS! Thank you.
6
Just the ticket to help us in the red states, where Republicans have promised much but delivered little. I'm on board!
2
Chuck old friend - we appreciate the good sentiments of solving employment problems with benevolent, forward looking government programs. But the root cause of the unemployment is GLOBALIZATION. When are the the Democrats going to STOP secretly supporting this agenda? Sending jobs overseas is the real problem. All the goodwill of the US government cannot overcome this glaring gap in the Democratic Party's platform. Are you guys really bought and paid for by Government Sachs, Inc?? Who else benefits from GLOBALIZATION??
2
TedM, check out the results of strong antitrust laws like we used to have.... The jobs are not being sent overseas so much anymore, they are simply being eliminated due to mergers & acquisitions. That is how most companies show profit now, by buying up smaller companies and then laying off a bunch of people. "Right to Work" is actually code-speak for "Right to Fire for any cause"
4
Chuck are you saying you're going to make America great again? Remember the first step to solving a problem is to admit you have one.
Chuck can I run this by you? Try having the drug companies justify their present pricing. And then lower them.
Chuck can I run this by you? Try having the drug companies justify their present pricing. And then lower them.
4
Stay on message and bring us some fresh faces. Sorry, but I'm not trusting Democrats who've been in office for too long any more than I trust Republicans. You've lost touch with the common (sense) folk who don't share your health benefits and pensions.
3
Heard it all before. . .blah blah blah. The believing is in positive actions like creating a truly non corrupt party free of big money influence, finding fresh blood and sticking with policies until they are implemented and correcting false starts like those problems with the ACA or better yet passing Medicare for all.
2
I call this piece blubbering from a Con Man! Why did the Affordable Care Act, written and passed by the Democratic Party, have a provision that government could NOT negotiate drug prices? How many mergers and acquisitions were approved during the Democrat Obama's eight years in office? Sir, you have no credibility with most of the people. Your party is a disgrace and has been so for quite a while now. We want and need NEW leadership.
6
No Plan to heal our planet, to end planet destruction. That would have to include ending wars and severely decreasing the military budget. Oh and let's not forget his mind boggling idea to make it a federal crime to boycott Israel and the minimum punishment being $250K fine to exercise a first amendment right to free speech. Really??? Chucky, you've been around way too long and have done way too much damage. Please, take your milque toast and dine with Ms. Clinton.
5
Yes, yes we get it. You'll tell us you'll help us and then make backroom deals with rich lobbyists, and then tell us you can't deliver because your hands are tied because of Republicans. This reads like you understand what's going on, but are still approaching it like some sort of business plan with all the passion of a spreadsheet. No offense, but it's time for the old guard to go. Let in new blood with new ideas and passion - you guys have had your turn and you lost us 1024 seats in the last 8 years so please move on.
8
One thing needed this time: Chutzpah.
3
Not one word about universal healthcare. Not one word about the costs of higher education and student debt relief.
When y'all decide to catch up to what the American people actually need, we'll be listening. Until then, these proposals are nothing more than hollow concessions to an electorate that has rejected pseudo-Democrats and their pretense of concern for working people. Infrastructure, great. Minimum wage raise, great. Job training, great. Renegotiate trade deals to favor labor, fine, but what exactly are you going to get for labor?
Keep going. You haven't even begun to hit the real targets, yet.
And this is coming from a lifelong Democrat with an actual party membership.
When y'all decide to catch up to what the American people actually need, we'll be listening. Until then, these proposals are nothing more than hollow concessions to an electorate that has rejected pseudo-Democrats and their pretense of concern for working people. Infrastructure, great. Minimum wage raise, great. Job training, great. Renegotiate trade deals to favor labor, fine, but what exactly are you going to get for labor?
Keep going. You haven't even begun to hit the real targets, yet.
And this is coming from a lifelong Democrat with an actual party membership.
11
"We propose giving employers, particularly small businesses, a large tax credit to train workers for unfilled jobs. "
I think this is fine though it shouldn't be too large, but this should be coupled with making it much more difficult to import labor if you want it to be effective.
I think this is fine though it shouldn't be too large, but this should be coupled with making it much more difficult to import labor if you want it to be effective.
3
Congressman Schumer- your intro fails to mention that the American Dream timeline of working hard, buying a house, etc systematically excluded people of color. That is one of the reasons why black households to this day have significantly less accrued wealth than white households- for decades, restrictive covenants and redlining made it near impossible for African-Americans to purchase homes.
Flawed narratives like the one your op-ed is based on, that ignore the experiences of minorities and the resulting problems they still feel today, are too embedded in the Democratic Party's platform. It is evidently too late for Hillary but this must be addressed and corrected and we must truly represent everyone if we want to win the next election/have enough seats to enact real change.
Flawed narratives like the one your op-ed is based on, that ignore the experiences of minorities and the resulting problems they still feel today, are too embedded in the Democratic Party's platform. It is evidently too late for Hillary but this must be addressed and corrected and we must truly represent everyone if we want to win the next election/have enough seats to enact real change.
5
Sen. Schumer, you couldn’t do these things with a Democratic majority; how can you do them now? And why have Democrats done the opposite for the last 30 years?
Under Clinton, Democrats, with Republicans, ended “welfare as we know it” as real wages declined; passed NAFTA, devastating US manufacturing; repealed Glass-Steagall, further financializing the economy and leading to the 2008 crash; allowed corporate megamergers and emasculated the FTC’s anti-trust enforcement; and stood by while health care costs rose.
You want to raise people’s pay and reduce their expenses. To do that, enact single-payer health care. Change the tax code to raise the corporate portion of federal taxes and cut the individual portion, make individual income tax rates more progressive, and cut loopholes for the wealthy. Change campaign finance laws to have public financing replace the the ridiculous millions you and your colleagues raise (per the Federal Election Commission, in 2015 and 2016, of 481 Senatorial candidates who raised from $0 to $22 million; you came in 7th, at $18 million). Change arcane Senate rules to allow more open debate, fewer procedural games, and less wasted time.
Anecdote: I am middle income. My family has high medical expenses. Previously, medical expenses above 7.5% of income were deductible. You and your colleagues raised that threshold to 10%. Thanks a lot for your work on health care and tax reform.
I’m a Democrat. You’re part of the problem, not the solution.
Under Clinton, Democrats, with Republicans, ended “welfare as we know it” as real wages declined; passed NAFTA, devastating US manufacturing; repealed Glass-Steagall, further financializing the economy and leading to the 2008 crash; allowed corporate megamergers and emasculated the FTC’s anti-trust enforcement; and stood by while health care costs rose.
You want to raise people’s pay and reduce their expenses. To do that, enact single-payer health care. Change the tax code to raise the corporate portion of federal taxes and cut the individual portion, make individual income tax rates more progressive, and cut loopholes for the wealthy. Change campaign finance laws to have public financing replace the the ridiculous millions you and your colleagues raise (per the Federal Election Commission, in 2015 and 2016, of 481 Senatorial candidates who raised from $0 to $22 million; you came in 7th, at $18 million). Change arcane Senate rules to allow more open debate, fewer procedural games, and less wasted time.
Anecdote: I am middle income. My family has high medical expenses. Previously, medical expenses above 7.5% of income were deductible. You and your colleagues raised that threshold to 10%. Thanks a lot for your work on health care and tax reform.
I’m a Democrat. You’re part of the problem, not the solution.
15
This is just more empty rhetoric that could have been said years ago.
4
Too little, too late.
8
Just about all the comments are good, but so far as I can tell not a single one deals with issues of war and peace and the militarization of domestic security. Democrats have always been skittish about dealing with these issues, always worried that they would be labeled as unpatriotic. So they leave the field to the Republicans, with unfortunate consequences. For example they cheered (as did the Times) when Trump stupidly sent 59 missiles into Syria.) Democrats have to come up with a sensible foreign policy that doesn't embrace dictators and doesn't support violence against the innocent. The militarized approach to the Middle East's problems has been a total failure. Bombing is not a policy. America is most effective when it leads by example. Finally, we should take seriously the often proclaimed but not acted on goal of eliminating nuclear weapons.
4
Until the Democratic leadership can figure out that ONLY Bernie Sander's plan will move the football for the them and the country, we will be stuck with a Republican minority elected Congress and president.
13
Loud applause for Mr. Chuck Schumer. Finally a Democrat is speaking out with common sense and a program. Thanks for showing this kind of leadership. It is just what we need to get the Bernie machine re-powered and off to the next Congressional race and the presidency. The past is gone. The future is before us with Chuck leading the Democrats back to giving the country what it so sorely needs and is lacking under the Koch Brothers and their pals. On to victory!
Thank you Senator Schumer. It's about time.
Senator Schumer, this is the lamest list of proposal I have seen. The comments (2190 of them so far) pretty much agree. This is no way ahead. You think this type of wishy washy stuff is going to reverse the fortunes of the Democratic Party? Where is single-payer, Medicare for all on the list for example? Are you too tied to the Health Insurance cartel like the ex-senator, ex-VP candidate from Connecticut, still-lobbyist Joe Lieberman? How about comprehensive tax-reform, Social Security reform, environmental policy, a radical campaign finance reform, education reform including free tuition in all state colleges and universities, equal pay for women, reform of the fascistic police forces across the country, prison reform, Wall Street reform (yes those guys that funded your campaigns from day 1 of your political career)and so many other key issues. You may just borrow a few ideas from Bernie Sanders, hopefully our next president. I cannot believe the Democratic Party keeps you where you are and think they will reverse course. You are more of the same of both Clintons, a right of center career politician.
15
The message is solid, but uninspiring by itself. There is no other viable party in our nation; the GOP has already disappeared into the vortex and the Dems are looking at it square in the eye. Without a better vision of the future, this is like choosing between a horse and buggy and a Model T to escape an approaching tornado. With luck, that vision of the future will be fleshed out in the coming months by people we can rally behind, and it will include environmental protection and universal healthcare. Until that happens, I'll go with the Model T provided the driver has some spunk and knows what tools to carry.
2
Still sounds more like lip service than any meanngful action, Chuck. How about increased taxation on the wealthy, bringing back marginal income tax rates to pre Reagan levels? And Did you forget to mention single payer, or is that still too risky for the members of your conference who accept millions from health insurance industry?
4
As Hamlet said, "Words, words, words...."
Need I say more?
Need I say more?
6
Any reforms the Democrats make, you can thank Donald Trump.
Oh puhleeze. As my mother used to say, go listen to yourself.
8
what about poor people who are self aware enough not to think of themselves as "middle class"?
5
How about cutting the military?
9
Hopefully Schumer means what he says. Let's see the details and who pays for what...
1
But very uninspiring.
Worthless. Completely detached from anything you could describe as a "base".
Was "Four More Years", taken? Give us our party back, nobody is on the left in the Democratic Party.
Was "Four More Years", taken? Give us our party back, nobody is on the left in the Democratic Party.
3
Look no further than the Democrats complacency and even protection of the H1B, H2B, L1, L2, H4B and so on, non-immigrant work visa programs. These visas are nothing more than a trillion $ welfare programs for the .1%, and they are having a devastating effect on the American middle class. To Senator Schumer and the rest of the rudderless Democrats Congressional contingency, it is; 1. time to push to get rid of these bogus programs, 2) pass laws to protect American workers from unscrupulous cheap labor in-sourcing, 3) fix the immigrant system so that the .1% no longer has access to indentured servants, 4) Take health care away from employers. Americans should all have access to good health care and employers should not be in the middle. In other words, Universal HC is a must. 5) Taxes need to be raised mostly on the 1%, but even on most corporations and Americans to support UHC and pay off the debt. 6) Even with those tax increases, we should still reduce the corporate tax rate to a 20%. Since many corporation are paying 0% taxes right now. 7) Once the H1B and all are gone, the average American should finally see a substantial increase in pay and access to good jobs. Even with a increase in taxes pretty much all middle class families will see an increase in pay and quality of living. 8) Tackle to student loan issue. Payment that can be acquired via in a 3% payroll tax. That way students are not overwhelmed by their student debt and can join in the American dream much sooner.
10
"First, we’re going to increase people’s pay. Second, we’re going to reduce their everyday expenses. And third, we’re going to provide workers with the tools they need for the 21st-century economy."
That's it? The Democratic response to the mess we find ourselves in is a chicken in every pot?
The election of a candidate like trump ought to be a serious wake up call, and it's not yet been responded to in an effective way by the Democratic leadership.
Nothing in this opinion piece gives me confidence or or the sense of a grand plan. And that is what is called for at this moment in history.
I expect a bold vision for this country, not this thin empty joke of a platform.
That's it? The Democratic response to the mess we find ourselves in is a chicken in every pot?
The election of a candidate like trump ought to be a serious wake up call, and it's not yet been responded to in an effective way by the Democratic leadership.
Nothing in this opinion piece gives me confidence or or the sense of a grand plan. And that is what is called for at this moment in history.
I expect a bold vision for this country, not this thin empty joke of a platform.
9
"Today’s working Americans and the young are justified in having greater doubts about the future than any generation since the Depression."
Senator, mass immigration isn't helping to allay their fears or lessen their commute times.
Senator, mass immigration isn't helping to allay their fears or lessen their commute times.
You paint the problem of workers today as if it were a new problem. We had child labor in this country until FDR. Teddy Roosevelt was the first trust buster. He knew then that huge corporations had an undue influence on the US government. And that was before Citizens United. Until the present-day president and Congress admit this, they will not turn back to review the past inequalities in the system; unequal distribution of wealth--let's look to the 1920s. What worked and what didn't?
3
The Republicans should be thankful for this deal. It will finally give them something they are competent in - Criticizing the opposition. They clearly have no clue how to govern.
1
Mr Schumer, Are talking about situations like just after the Great Recession, when unemployment was still 9% and you wanted to open up 200,000 work visas. Who was that for? Was it on Wall St's request? I think you are full of fertilizer.
3
Pure, unadulterated drivel.
3
Oh yes Chuck... We are getting a better deal alright.....
We will allow the senate to choose a group or independent people to regulate the drug companies. So 102 senators who have been bought by the pharmaceutical industry elect impartial persons. What a joke....
Why cant we have the voters elect the people on this commission and then we will see if we get a fair deal, if we do not like the results, we should have to approve them every year, otherwise we replace them. This makes a lot more sense.....
We will allow the senate to choose a group or independent people to regulate the drug companies. So 102 senators who have been bought by the pharmaceutical industry elect impartial persons. What a joke....
Why cant we have the voters elect the people on this commission and then we will see if we get a fair deal, if we do not like the results, we should have to approve them every year, otherwise we replace them. This makes a lot more sense.....
5
Why are you trying to take care of The Deplorables, Mr Schumer? Why now?
3
Hey Chuck - You still gonna support the carried interest exemption for your fat-cat wall street buddies. You are such a hypocrite. Raise the income tax on the wealthy, increase the estate tax and close their loopholes.
10
I doubt Democrats can fathom how much the working American middle class, especially staunch Trump supporters hate Centrism (Carte blanche free trade/Globalism in support of the US banking and capitalist class; government subsidization through debt accumulation for those unemployed under Globalism (cheaper foreign labor) which benefits only the international capitalist class in America.
If Democrats within their own Party cannot quit sucking up to the rich, to obtain baksheesh for the poor (the true meaning of Centrism) they are defunct.
Hillary's failure to get the Wall Street rich to ante up to support the poor they could not offer jobs according to the international capitalist equation was the dearth of Centrism.
If the Democrats do not become more assertively nationalistic as a party they are doomed to extinction.
If Democrats within their own Party cannot quit sucking up to the rich, to obtain baksheesh for the poor (the true meaning of Centrism) they are defunct.
Hillary's failure to get the Wall Street rich to ante up to support the poor they could not offer jobs according to the international capitalist equation was the dearth of Centrism.
If the Democrats do not become more assertively nationalistic as a party they are doomed to extinction.
3
We know what the Islamocrats believe in: illegals, Islam, & H1B: basically cheap labor.
The Islamocrats inserted language into a bill to allow illegals to work in government.
The Islamocrats refuse to kill the #H1B program, forcing Americans to compete with foreigners in their own country.
The Islamocrats want open borders so their donors get refugee, migrant, & illegal labor on the cheap.
You know I'm right.
The Islamocrats inserted language into a bill to allow illegals to work in government.
The Islamocrats refuse to kill the #H1B program, forcing Americans to compete with foreigners in their own country.
The Islamocrats want open borders so their donors get refugee, migrant, & illegal labor on the cheap.
You know I'm right.
3
More Democrat pap for the masses spread by the liberals living high on the hog in Washington DC.
1
Reading this I like it. It could be construed as a bit weak on substance by some but this is the USA. It needs to fit into a catchy, sexy 5-10 second sound byte. Also, there needs to be some effective social media and maybe even paid advertisements on cable channels frequented by the people you need to vote you back into power. Finally, you need attractive, visually appealing people to deliver the message: think cleavage for the targeted men and sculpted pecs for the women and some of the men. Sadly this is how things sell in America. I simply cannot see Democrats pulling off the bombastic. Good luck to you, Democrats. You deserve a lot of it.
1
Suddenly Democrats care about deplorables. LOL.
1
Chuck Schumer is the friend who, after being cajoled into picking up alcohol for the night, came back with one six-pack of light beer. Sorry, Chucky, to get this party hopping we're going to need more than that. Go grab some universal healthcare, free college tuition, and more Wall Street regulation and maybe we'll stick around.
11
Good work - the world is waiting and hoping for an alternative to the nightmare of Trumpcare [who only cares about himself]
time for people who care about others - helping others is the longest lasting source of happiness
time to end the horror.
time for people who care about others - helping others is the longest lasting source of happiness
time to end the horror.
1
Obama turned the economy around and brought us the Affordable Care Act even though the Republicans refused to work with him. He appointed two great justices (Kagan and Sotomayor), made huge progress on climate change, and brought dignity and thoughtfulness to the White House. He made the U.S. more popular around the world. Let's not act as though he never happened.
4
I like the slogan. Short, fits on a bumper sticker, echoes the New Deal.
The agenda is a start. Conspicuously missing is single-payer health insurance. Also campaign finance reform. Add those, and Dems have the makings of a winning strategy.
It's about time.
The agenda is a start. Conspicuously missing is single-payer health insurance. Also campaign finance reform. Add those, and Dems have the makings of a winning strategy.
It's about time.
3
You think those two things were left out by accident?
1
I was a registered democrat for 40 years. The Democratic Party abandoned ordinary American citizens by: (1) flooding the country with illegal and legal immigrants, depressing wages for ordinary Americans . (2) by creating Nafta and permitting China to enter the WTO, put ordinary American citizens in direct competition with people working for paltry wages and without any enforced health and safety or environmental regulations (3) not fighting for Medicare for all. I could add to the list, but this is a start.
10
Sen Schumer, you state "The wealthiest special interests can spend an unlimited, undisclosed amount of money to influence elections and protect their special deals in Washington" with no proposed resolution. We will continue down the path we are on today without addressing Citizens United and SuperPACs.
6
I am a farmer. I have made less than the minimum wage for more than the last decade. My workers make more than I do. I work more hours and take all of the financial risks. I keep hoping that not only can my workers earn more, but that farmers will be able to make living wages and more consistently. Yes, the big corporate operations make on average considerable profits, but medium and small sized farms have a very hard time doing so these days. my farm is a medium sized by today's standards in my county and crops.
I support a better deal for all of America's workers be they citizens or not and I support a better deal for those of us who own our businesses and WORK in them.
I support a better deal for all of America's workers be they citizens or not and I support a better deal for those of us who own our businesses and WORK in them.
9
You briefly note the control over our political system wielded by our American oligarchs due to SCOTUS decision on Citizens United, and the striking down of McCain-Feingold campaign finance reform. But you never propose a solution in your op-ed. So, hat are your plans to directly address this central problem with our democracy?
4
I wouldn't have expected this from Schumer and I am pleasantly surprised, if a little suspicious as to what this actually means, but it's a good start. Important that there is some acknowledgement of error, but again what does that mean? All in all a good first step, but are they really going to improve trade policies that hurt American workers? You have my attention. Please elaborate.
1
Funny - the price of many of the things referred to have come down. Ever fly Frontier to Denver? And I can't wait for Amazon to bring down prices at Whole Foods. And I bet cable bills will go the way of wireless bills - wireless bills that dropped so much Yellen noted them multiple times in testimony as bringing down inflation.
1
@John Smith: Yes, I've flown Frontier to Denver and was shocked at their nickel-and-diming of customers. It is cheaper to fly a slightly more expensive airline that still allows you to check bags for free.
As for wireless bills going down - mine started out at less than $50 a month twelve years ago and is now close to $200. Inflation does not raise wages fast enough to keep up with the rate at which it drives prices sky high. In the mid-fifties the rent for my parents' first place was $50 a month. Twenty-five years later, the rent for my first place was $200, so four times what they paid. Twenty-five years after that, the same apartment is $4000 - twenty times what I paid, but the increase occurred within the same amount of time.
Tuition at a private university when I went to college was $30,000 a year. Now it's close to $60,000. But I am actually earning less than I earned a dozen years ago! Mergers during the 2008 crisis killed some of my biggest clients, and that income has yet to be replaced. Six years ago, my health insurance premiums were around $350 a month. Now they are approaching $800.
Inflation is out of control, and those who push for it are only doing so because they will profit from it. Most people in this country, however, do not.
As for wireless bills going down - mine started out at less than $50 a month twelve years ago and is now close to $200. Inflation does not raise wages fast enough to keep up with the rate at which it drives prices sky high. In the mid-fifties the rent for my parents' first place was $50 a month. Twenty-five years later, the rent for my first place was $200, so four times what they paid. Twenty-five years after that, the same apartment is $4000 - twenty times what I paid, but the increase occurred within the same amount of time.
Tuition at a private university when I went to college was $30,000 a year. Now it's close to $60,000. But I am actually earning less than I earned a dozen years ago! Mergers during the 2008 crisis killed some of my biggest clients, and that income has yet to be replaced. Six years ago, my health insurance premiums were around $350 a month. Now they are approaching $800.
Inflation is out of control, and those who push for it are only doing so because they will profit from it. Most people in this country, however, do not.
3
Add anti-gerrymandering initiatives to the platform to ensure that at least every federal election district is competitive, even when a region is heavily Democratic or Republican. California has some good ideas to consider in this area. Also balance rural and urban voter values so that both are fairly represented, especially in the Electoral College. Finally, Democrats need to raise up young, charismatic, attractive candidates in every district nationwide to reflect these core values without demeaning the values of the local communities they seek to represent. That means Dems need to steer clear of so called family values and religious issues that currently send large portions of the electorate running toward the Republicans. It also means that Democrats in some regions must be allowed to embrace those family and religious values if they are essential to the identity of the community they represent.
3
Finally! And to think, it took the Trump Presidency to rattle your cages. I do appreciate the admission of past failures. Now make it happen. Start showing up well in our neighbors well before the next election, when all you usually want are our votes. Walk the walk and you'll get my vote.
2
Oh, please! Get real. Talk real. Act real. That would be a 'better' start.
When do the Democrats find the guts to publicly admit that this country can't afford 'good', 'better', 'best', or 'great' anything as long as Congress continues to throw a trillion a year into the golden toilet of the Military-Industrial-Security Complex?
Talk about entitlements! The U.S. global empire of nearly 1000 military bases in over 100 countries is killing us financially, morally, spiritually, and physically. When do you find the courage to talk about that sacred cash cow?
When Congress refers to even the smallest of 'cuts' to anything related to defense or security, they're referring to cuts in the rate of growth, not actual decreases. It's a racket.
The war racket is killing this country more quickly and effectively than any external enemy could dream of, but Democrats don't dare speak openly about that cold hard fact. Even Bernie is silent about that enormous waste that must be applied elsewhere. Both parties pretend that elephant isn't in the living room, wrecking the furniture and crapping on everything.
The fact is, the most important national security action is taking care of We the People and our land we call home - not the open air prison referred to as the Homeland that's being created as a profitable corollary to endless war$.
Stop pussyfooting around. Start talking honestly about how the U.S. empire is sucking the lifeblood out of this country and world.
When do the Democrats find the guts to publicly admit that this country can't afford 'good', 'better', 'best', or 'great' anything as long as Congress continues to throw a trillion a year into the golden toilet of the Military-Industrial-Security Complex?
Talk about entitlements! The U.S. global empire of nearly 1000 military bases in over 100 countries is killing us financially, morally, spiritually, and physically. When do you find the courage to talk about that sacred cash cow?
When Congress refers to even the smallest of 'cuts' to anything related to defense or security, they're referring to cuts in the rate of growth, not actual decreases. It's a racket.
The war racket is killing this country more quickly and effectively than any external enemy could dream of, but Democrats don't dare speak openly about that cold hard fact. Even Bernie is silent about that enormous waste that must be applied elsewhere. Both parties pretend that elephant isn't in the living room, wrecking the furniture and crapping on everything.
The fact is, the most important national security action is taking care of We the People and our land we call home - not the open air prison referred to as the Homeland that's being created as a profitable corollary to endless war$.
Stop pussyfooting around. Start talking honestly about how the U.S. empire is sucking the lifeblood out of this country and world.
11
what?
for jobs, the answer is tax credits for training and minimum wage bump?
what?
Trump was one of many republicans until he said he would build a wall and stop illegal immigration. He is not even a republican, but he blew them and hillary away because of his immigration policies. And to be clear, Trumps proposal was not a policy prescription but an emotional response to what has been overwhelming immigration that has flattened the american worker.
Democrats needs to do something that workers will feel. Something to make them hope for a better future for their children.
Democrats need to say, no more immigration until wages have increased 50% across the country. No more H1b, H4, F1, OPT, L1, H2B until wages have increased for the american worker. Then they need to double down and take all profies from Feddie Mac and Fannie Mae and use to reduce interest rates for student loans. LEt the rich that get interest breaks on their mortgage pay for student loans.
They need to do something bold not the crap put forward by Schumer and Pelosi.
for jobs, the answer is tax credits for training and minimum wage bump?
what?
Trump was one of many republicans until he said he would build a wall and stop illegal immigration. He is not even a republican, but he blew them and hillary away because of his immigration policies. And to be clear, Trumps proposal was not a policy prescription but an emotional response to what has been overwhelming immigration that has flattened the american worker.
Democrats needs to do something that workers will feel. Something to make them hope for a better future for their children.
Democrats need to say, no more immigration until wages have increased 50% across the country. No more H1b, H4, F1, OPT, L1, H2B until wages have increased for the american worker. Then they need to double down and take all profies from Feddie Mac and Fannie Mae and use to reduce interest rates for student loans. LEt the rich that get interest breaks on their mortgage pay for student loans.
They need to do something bold not the crap put forward by Schumer and Pelosi.
11
The reader who asserted that "Your two term Democratic president ... failed you." misleadingly inverts the facts of the case. Those adhering to progressive values failed Obama in not providing a legislature which could further his administration's steps to provide some leverage for the average Joe against the elites. Take a look at the focus of Trump's on-going dismantling efforts and you'll see precisely where the Obama administration succeeded - big time.
3
Nonsense. It was more realistic to just nuke the filibuster and create laws with 51 Democrats than wait on 61 Democrats. Stop making excuses for them.
Shumer lifted the "new" Democratic program directly from Bernie Sanders' 2016 presidential primary campaign as corporate Democrats lined up to defeat Sanders.
10
Don't think so. Bernie had rhetoric not policy. Hillary had policy not rhetoric.
1
Good start, and sorely needed. But because Dems have no legislative power at present, the most important thing would be to be ready with a bill to fix the ACA if the GOP bill fails. And the time is ripe now to re-introduce the Public Option, Of course Medicare for all is really the answer but that will not happen. The insurance industry is entrenched in the U.S. health care, which is why the cost is higher here than in any other industrialized country.
2
A message lifted from Bernie Sanders circa 2014, without attribution, as usual. Finally, perhaps Democrats are coming to their senses and adopting his policies and message? Let Bernie and Warren lead, support new blood like Senator Kamala Harris from CA, and hopefully, the party will find it's mojo.
6
Reduced Medicare drug costs would be a big deal for me; it's one of my major out-of-pocket costs, thousands of dollars per year; about half that much for my wife. We're in our late 60's - just retired a year and one-half ago.
4
I'm happy to hear that Mr. Schumer is addressing the issues facing the Democratic Party. I can only hope that he's also aware of his responsibility to restore civility and mature leadership to the government.
The American people need to get used to bipartisan victories again. That is the struggle facing both parties.
Without it, the obstruction we have faced for the last seven years will only get worse and none of Mr. Schumer's policy goals will see the light of day let alone the pen of a President.
The American people need to get used to bipartisan victories again. That is the struggle facing both parties.
Without it, the obstruction we have faced for the last seven years will only get worse and none of Mr. Schumer's policy goals will see the light of day let alone the pen of a President.
5
End the filibuster. Then fight it out for a decade. The policies that the people love will remain because the party opposing those things won't be voted back in.
Most people think raising minimum wage is a BandAid that erodes the buying power of the masses over the long term by driving up inflation. I agree and think the party should scrap the $15 minimum wage idea but looks like they are doubling down on it. It's a loser but good luck with that.
2
According to Pew Research, "most people" do not agree with you about $15/hr. minimum wage.
4
Now be consistent. The same message, the same policies. Over and over.
4
Before readers get carried away
"
NYT BUSINESS DAY | THE RECKONING
A Champion of Wall Street Reaps Benefits
WASHINGTON — As the financial crisis jolted the nation in September, Senator Charles E. Schumer was consumed....
The next day, Mr. Schumer appeared at a breakfast fund-raiser in Midtown Manhattan for Senate Democrats. Addressing Henry R. Kravis, the buyout billionaire, and about 20 other finance industry executives, he warned that a bailout would be a hard sell on Capitol Hill. Then he offered some reassurance: The businessmen could count on the Democrats to help steer the nation through the financial turmoil.
The message clearly resonated. The next week, executives at firms represented at the breakfast sent in more than $135,000 in campaign donations.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/14/business/14schumer.html
His words are for labor, his labor for the ultra-rich that ought to have gone to jail.
"
NYT BUSINESS DAY | THE RECKONING
A Champion of Wall Street Reaps Benefits
WASHINGTON — As the financial crisis jolted the nation in September, Senator Charles E. Schumer was consumed....
The next day, Mr. Schumer appeared at a breakfast fund-raiser in Midtown Manhattan for Senate Democrats. Addressing Henry R. Kravis, the buyout billionaire, and about 20 other finance industry executives, he warned that a bailout would be a hard sell on Capitol Hill. Then he offered some reassurance: The businessmen could count on the Democrats to help steer the nation through the financial turmoil.
The message clearly resonated. The next week, executives at firms represented at the breakfast sent in more than $135,000 in campaign donations.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/14/business/14schumer.html
His words are for labor, his labor for the ultra-rich that ought to have gone to jail.
12
Sen. Schumer writes:
"And for far too long, government has gone along, tilting the economic playing field in favor of the wealthy and powerful while putting new burdens on the backs of hard-working Americans.
Democrats have too often hesitated from taking on those misguided policies directly and unflinchingly — so much so that many Americans don’t know what we stand for."
But that isn't what happened. The Democrats didn't simply hesitate to take on those misguided polices. With the rise of New Democrats, such as Bill Clinton and Al Gore, the Democrats embraced and promoted those misguided policies. Then Sen. Schumer claims that "Democrats will show the country that we're on the side of working people." What if Microsoft and Google and Goldman Sachs say "no"? Are you going to break your ties with the giant corporations that many feel are your true constituency? I doubt it. And if not, this will all prove to be another scam. Glossing over the unpleasant reality of past Democrat betrayals is not a good start.
"And for far too long, government has gone along, tilting the economic playing field in favor of the wealthy and powerful while putting new burdens on the backs of hard-working Americans.
Democrats have too often hesitated from taking on those misguided policies directly and unflinchingly — so much so that many Americans don’t know what we stand for."
But that isn't what happened. The Democrats didn't simply hesitate to take on those misguided polices. With the rise of New Democrats, such as Bill Clinton and Al Gore, the Democrats embraced and promoted those misguided policies. Then Sen. Schumer claims that "Democrats will show the country that we're on the side of working people." What if Microsoft and Google and Goldman Sachs say "no"? Are you going to break your ties with the giant corporations that many feel are your true constituency? I doubt it. And if not, this will all prove to be another scam. Glossing over the unpleasant reality of past Democrat betrayals is not a good start.
9
It's a good start. I'm very glad that my emails have not fallen on deaf ears! Democrats must have a plan to reverse the damage inflicted by trump and his minion, the republican-led Congress and Senate. The plan must include reversing any cuts to Medicaid, and any dismantling of the ACA. (Of course a Single-Payer system would be ideal!). If you truly believe that Democrats take the moral high-ground, their policies must reflect this with positive legislation and a pro-99% agenda. It's not enough to be anti-trump, the Dems MUST be a positive force of nature and proactive in their legislation!
2
And that is why I will never be a Democrat. They talk about "raising wages".
Chuck - that is NOT your job.
They talk about creating jobs. AGAIN - not your job.
They talk about educating/training the workforce for this centuries challenges.
ALL TOGETHER - Not your job.
And they finally claim that their plan is not about expanding Government.
Schumer - are you that clueless, or do you think we are?
How about working with the other party to reduce Government spending and the related burdens it places on society? How about working with the other Party to stop our INSANE level of defense spending? And yes - how about working WITH the other party to see if the Government is in a position to efficiently provide health care for those that can not afford it. Unfortunately, that happens to be every man, woman and child in the country - thanks to the dysfunctional government we have been tolerating.
Summary? You are too late. The revolution is coming.
Chuck - that is NOT your job.
They talk about creating jobs. AGAIN - not your job.
They talk about educating/training the workforce for this centuries challenges.
ALL TOGETHER - Not your job.
And they finally claim that their plan is not about expanding Government.
Schumer - are you that clueless, or do you think we are?
How about working with the other party to reduce Government spending and the related burdens it places on society? How about working with the other Party to stop our INSANE level of defense spending? And yes - how about working WITH the other party to see if the Government is in a position to efficiently provide health care for those that can not afford it. Unfortunately, that happens to be every man, woman and child in the country - thanks to the dysfunctional government we have been tolerating.
Summary? You are too late. The revolution is coming.
1
Problem: Republicans are staunchly against everything you mentioned. Everything.
1
Did you tell that to the Repubs when they obstructed Obama on everything he came up with? The Repubs will NEVER decrease defense spending and they will NEVER implement universal health care. Dysfunctional government? Why do you blame Democrats when it is obvious that Republicans have either forgotten how to govern or never learned it?
Of course this proposal is based on the idea that voters made a rational choice for Trump based on their economic circumstances. Schumer, Sanders and co think that you can make this country less racist, sexist, and mean by giving everyone a job. This program is nothing more than the attempt to capture the great white male vote.
2
In 1986, Senator, you were the architect of the bill legalizing undocumented migrants.
1. This let them petition the government to bring in their relatives. Since the government awards most of its green cards solely on kinship, Mexicans are now receiving 30% of all the green cards, we award annually, to people from around the world.
2. The amnesty encouraged more people to migrate here illegally.
The result is that we are inundated with undereducated, poorly skilled people, many of whom are not learning English. Most of them value large families over education. They have many children without making sure each child understands the importance, in today’s world, of a good education. In our country, Hispanics have the highest rates of teen pregnancy and of school drop-outs.
We have been subsidizing the undocumented on everything from free emergency room medical care and long term hospital stays to heating bills and bus passes, and the legal immigrants in many more areas.
Just think if we had been spending all of this money on our own poor, marginalized people!
1. This let them petition the government to bring in their relatives. Since the government awards most of its green cards solely on kinship, Mexicans are now receiving 30% of all the green cards, we award annually, to people from around the world.
2. The amnesty encouraged more people to migrate here illegally.
The result is that we are inundated with undereducated, poorly skilled people, many of whom are not learning English. Most of them value large families over education. They have many children without making sure each child understands the importance, in today’s world, of a good education. In our country, Hispanics have the highest rates of teen pregnancy and of school drop-outs.
We have been subsidizing the undocumented on everything from free emergency room medical care and long term hospital stays to heating bills and bus passes, and the legal immigrants in many more areas.
Just think if we had been spending all of this money on our own poor, marginalized people!
9
Sounds so much like the Trump direction that you should encourage other Democrats to join forces, work with the President and get some credit for this "new direction" - cross the aisle; lead the way Mr. Schumer. Let's get American workers, manufacturing into a renaissance of real wages and fair (not foreign subsidy-heavy) "free" trade. The "Left" has traditionally protected the workers and stood for limited immigration - especially uncontrolled illegal immigration that drives down wages and standard of living for the working class. "United we Stand" - Divided we fall. i.e.:not divided into sub-identities. "E Pluribus Unum" - not "E Pluribus Diversum". Let's get working - I applaud your program. Thank goodness a voice for the center left to work with the center-right. THOSE differences are minor and not significant enough NOT to form a coalition. Thank you Mr. Senator for finally a breath of realioty to our divided 2017 political arena.
You can't "reorient the government" without campaign finance reform. Start with that Senator so that being a public officer can once again be an honorable profession.
5
One problem here is that so many Americans are uneducated or uninterested to get a reasonable health care passed. I have Medicare. We are way beyond England and Europe.
1. The old guard of the Democrats is finally getting scared of the Bernie Sanders Wing.
2. After spending a lot of money on consultants and pollsters, they have come up with a lame response that they think will pacify the rabble and get them back in line.
Chuck Schumer and majority of the Democrats in power ARE the PROBLEM. They just want to keep their jobs and do the same they have ever done.
How does this lame 3 point plan address what he says is the basic bargain in this country: a decent job, having a home and car, putting your kids through college and a retirement?
The Bernie solution is:
1- Cut outside money in politics.
2- Cut defense spending that is basically a government giveaway to defense companies at the expense of our youth being killed overseas and destabilizing the world.
3- Government Healthcare for all
4- Free college education.
5- Regulation for banks, energy and healthcare industries that are critical to the country.
But given that the Democrats are addicted to corp money they will never want to do any of this. So they remain "Republican Light" and will keep losing elections because frankly they don't stand for anything except their self preservation.....
2. After spending a lot of money on consultants and pollsters, they have come up with a lame response that they think will pacify the rabble and get them back in line.
Chuck Schumer and majority of the Democrats in power ARE the PROBLEM. They just want to keep their jobs and do the same they have ever done.
How does this lame 3 point plan address what he says is the basic bargain in this country: a decent job, having a home and car, putting your kids through college and a retirement?
The Bernie solution is:
1- Cut outside money in politics.
2- Cut defense spending that is basically a government giveaway to defense companies at the expense of our youth being killed overseas and destabilizing the world.
3- Government Healthcare for all
4- Free college education.
5- Regulation for banks, energy and healthcare industries that are critical to the country.
But given that the Democrats are addicted to corp money they will never want to do any of this. So they remain "Republican Light" and will keep losing elections because frankly they don't stand for anything except their self preservation.....
11
Awesome ideas!!!
And I'm Republican. If you can do this , and stop worrying about "resisting" , you will win.
You don't have to worry about trump as he is clearly unable to focus on anything other than tweeting.
And I'm Republican. If you can do this , and stop worrying about "resisting" , you will win.
You don't have to worry about trump as he is clearly unable to focus on anything other than tweeting.
All good ideas. The problem is the messengers. Pelosi and Schumer are old school and irrevocably tied to the Hillary campaign. New ideas should come from fresh faces with no baggage.
4
Agreed that we need new faces; but these aren't new ideas. They're Bernie's.
I'm glad the Democratic Party is getting its act together on what it stands for. But don't forget the most important thing for winning elections. People have to actually vote. Put some effort in getting the Democratic base, as well as 2016 non-voters and 3rd party voters to the polls!!
1
A Better Deal? It sounds like a take off of Trump's, "Art of the Deal." We have all complained about Trump's antics dominating the national conversation and monopolizing the media, so it seems a shame to have to reference him in the Democratic agenda.
New Deal, anyone?
I'm sorry Mr. Shumer. But your broad strokes proposals are going to fall on deaf ears. It's nice that you've had your epiphany but it's too late.
It's interesting that with all of the crying about Trumps "Russian" connections the one thing that always gets missed is the fact that the wikileaks release exposed the DNC and their disdain for Mr. Sanders. The DNC undermined Hillary by their very actions.
Here's an idea. How about proposing your own ideas and stop demonizing President Trump. He's going to sink his presidency all by himself. I'm retired and I'm one of the lucky few American's who have a pension. My family and I are looking for some sort of Leadership. Some sort of a vision that works for our country. I will look to candidates that provide that regardless of what party they are in.
It's interesting that with all of the crying about Trumps "Russian" connections the one thing that always gets missed is the fact that the wikileaks release exposed the DNC and their disdain for Mr. Sanders. The DNC undermined Hillary by their very actions.
Here's an idea. How about proposing your own ideas and stop demonizing President Trump. He's going to sink his presidency all by himself. I'm retired and I'm one of the lucky few American's who have a pension. My family and I are looking for some sort of Leadership. Some sort of a vision that works for our country. I will look to candidates that provide that regardless of what party they are in.
8
Wow, a new slogan. Impressive.
4
Oh come on, Senator. Bold vision? This is a sad retread of the same bald tire you and other "centrist" Democrats have been wobbling on for years. No mention of universal healthcare? No campaign reform? No nonpartisan redistricting? No reduction in the military budget? No mention of climate change? You think $15/hour is a bold step? It's a baby step. That you don't understand that goes to how OUT of step you are. Progressives and true centrists left you behind long ago. Get out of the way or get run over.
4
Senator get rid of the frustrating and corrupt system of "Super Delegates"and perhaps we can talk about this "Better Deal".
4
Not that it will make a whit of difference to the Democratic party leadership but here goes:
1-For those large sectors of the workforce who stand to lose their old economy jobs It Is Simple!- Put a large infrastructure build in their area so that they never have to miss a paycheck! If they dug a hole in the old job, the next day the infrastructure build would put them to work digging a hole with minimal job retraining, better pay and better working conditions. There's more than enough work that needs to be done across this country and there's more than enough money to do it! If someone wants to advance beyond their current skill set, of course give them training for that. Telling coal miners and older workers all about free college education does not pay their bills now! Deal with Now and! the future offering free job training and free college education. If this seemingly no brainer had been the Democratic message Hillary would be in Our oval office. It's not 'the' government. It is Our government. We pay the bills- Our government should actually work for us!
2-Do the Big things first!!! Democrats stop with the identity politics! All that does is create an us versus them paradigm over table scraps. We're in this together but once you start carving out this or that program at the beginning you've automatically set up the fight instead of the cooperation. Then within the Big Thing establish a truly shared prosperity and the programs to ensure that all participate equally.
1-For those large sectors of the workforce who stand to lose their old economy jobs It Is Simple!- Put a large infrastructure build in their area so that they never have to miss a paycheck! If they dug a hole in the old job, the next day the infrastructure build would put them to work digging a hole with minimal job retraining, better pay and better working conditions. There's more than enough work that needs to be done across this country and there's more than enough money to do it! If someone wants to advance beyond their current skill set, of course give them training for that. Telling coal miners and older workers all about free college education does not pay their bills now! Deal with Now and! the future offering free job training and free college education. If this seemingly no brainer had been the Democratic message Hillary would be in Our oval office. It's not 'the' government. It is Our government. We pay the bills- Our government should actually work for us!
2-Do the Big things first!!! Democrats stop with the identity politics! All that does is create an us versus them paradigm over table scraps. We're in this together but once you start carving out this or that program at the beginning you've automatically set up the fight instead of the cooperation. Then within the Big Thing establish a truly shared prosperity and the programs to ensure that all participate equally.
5
Good slogan and statement of priorities! I appreciate your effort, Mr. Schumer. Last year, this messaging might have helped Hilary. She offered a meaningful slogan and similar ideas, but this new effort simplifies the Democratic view for the sake of clarity. Hopefully, these ideas will resonate with the majority of Americans who vote. It was smart to make a connection to FDR's New Deal. It reminds voters that Democrats try to help Americans in difficult times. Effective slogans get people's attention, but actions speak louder than words. Please remember that, Democratic Party.
Well slogans are one thing, actual policy implementation is quite another. Unfortunately, the Democrats abandoned the FDR New Deal quite a few decades ago, around Bill Clinton's time. The problem is that the Democratic party does not have any candidates who are conversant with Middle Class Americans, they abandoned that segment some time ago. So who ya gonna run????
What about an Anti-Quixote to fight FOR (not against) windmills? I read a well researched sci-fi/time travel/alternate history novel that suggested Denmark had windmills in the 1600s. I've lived in West Michigan (near Holland) and visited Windmill Island and I know the Dutch have had windmills for centuries. Several buildings in my town in the Philly suburbs have solar panels. So what about investing in renewable and clean energy and not letting the Chinese eat our lunch on solar? Solar and Wind power would help both the environment and our asthmatic kids, who can stay out of the ER when the air is cleaner. Oppose Trumps and dirty coal.
1
Where and from whom have we heard this before? The Democrats? The Republicans? Politicians in general? Is anything changed by offering the same old "better deal" in a newly labeled bottle?
If our representatives were actually members of our working class the words found in Mr Shumer's comments would hold a ring that carried beyond the halls he and his compatriots tred.
Intellectual respect for both parties as well as a large portion of our electorate was lost with the ascension of Mr Reagan to the Presidency. That he defeated one of the most decent and intelligent men to hold the office opened my eyes to just how little reason is involved in our political decisions.
Like those seeking office, a large segment of our citizenry, must consider elections to be little more than beauty contests which go no further than the swimsuit competition.
If any in our Congress actually worked their way up and are comfortable with that formula it may be due to the fact they are unwilling or unable to accept someone just as interested in the office had to be embarrassed, crushed, and defeated
The deck used to construct this shaky structure is loaded in favor of a class few of us will ever meet yet who, as often pointed out, control a disproportionate share of our wealth.
If, as it seems, the labor market is waning and thanks to automation will never again be seen to wax Mr Shumer should be touting universal health care and a guaranteed income.
I sense a "request" for continual control.
If our representatives were actually members of our working class the words found in Mr Shumer's comments would hold a ring that carried beyond the halls he and his compatriots tred.
Intellectual respect for both parties as well as a large portion of our electorate was lost with the ascension of Mr Reagan to the Presidency. That he defeated one of the most decent and intelligent men to hold the office opened my eyes to just how little reason is involved in our political decisions.
Like those seeking office, a large segment of our citizenry, must consider elections to be little more than beauty contests which go no further than the swimsuit competition.
If any in our Congress actually worked their way up and are comfortable with that formula it may be due to the fact they are unwilling or unable to accept someone just as interested in the office had to be embarrassed, crushed, and defeated
The deck used to construct this shaky structure is loaded in favor of a class few of us will ever meet yet who, as often pointed out, control a disproportionate share of our wealth.
If, as it seems, the labor market is waning and thanks to automation will never again be seen to wax Mr Shumer should be touting universal health care and a guaranteed income.
I sense a "request" for continual control.
5
First, kudos do Mr. Schumer for his editorial.
But I feel disheartened by the comments here.
Several commentators complain the policies are not big enough, wide enough, progressive enough.
USA is under attack by an extremist wing of the right, that wants voter ids across the country coupled with voting histories; that wants to gut any hint of regulation; that rails against analyses such as the CBO so that it does not need to have any accountability for the population.
This extremist wing is supported by a significant part of the Republic.
This is the truth we must all come to. A significant part of the population supports Donald Trump, and Republican congressmen and women that want to dismantle the earned benefits they live on.
Why?
Because the US population is right of center in the abstract, and in practice left of center. Read: http://mattgrossmann.tumblr.com/asymmetric
And so a progressive left has fewer chances of winning than what one narrow intuition would suppose.
These are the waters Mr. S. must navigate. I say kudos for attempting a unified path forward. The measures here are not revolutionary; they are feasible.
Concerning single payer - look at the Obamacare debacle. And you believe in single payer?
Wake up for reality. Yes, demand more from politicians. But stay united.
And think local. It's on all of us to speak to our neighbors (especially the crazy ones with Trump signs on the lawn) and bridge the gap. Politicians can only do so much.
But I feel disheartened by the comments here.
Several commentators complain the policies are not big enough, wide enough, progressive enough.
USA is under attack by an extremist wing of the right, that wants voter ids across the country coupled with voting histories; that wants to gut any hint of regulation; that rails against analyses such as the CBO so that it does not need to have any accountability for the population.
This extremist wing is supported by a significant part of the Republic.
This is the truth we must all come to. A significant part of the population supports Donald Trump, and Republican congressmen and women that want to dismantle the earned benefits they live on.
Why?
Because the US population is right of center in the abstract, and in practice left of center. Read: http://mattgrossmann.tumblr.com/asymmetric
And so a progressive left has fewer chances of winning than what one narrow intuition would suppose.
These are the waters Mr. S. must navigate. I say kudos for attempting a unified path forward. The measures here are not revolutionary; they are feasible.
Concerning single payer - look at the Obamacare debacle. And you believe in single payer?
Wake up for reality. Yes, demand more from politicians. But stay united.
And think local. It's on all of us to speak to our neighbors (especially the crazy ones with Trump signs on the lawn) and bridge the gap. Politicians can only do so much.
1
"Concerning single payer - look at the Obamacare debacle. And you believe in single payer?"
What does one have to do with another? Yes, I believe in Medicare for all. No, I don't believe in Obamacare, which leaves in place for-profit insurance companies and unrestricted drug prices. Apple and oranges? More like apples and lemons.
What does one have to do with another? Yes, I believe in Medicare for all. No, I don't believe in Obamacare, which leaves in place for-profit insurance companies and unrestricted drug prices. Apple and oranges? More like apples and lemons.
3
Finally Democrats have a "message" the Americans have been waiting for.
It's about time! Cut drug prices, and Medicare and Medicaid for ALL!
It's about time! Cut drug prices, and Medicare and Medicaid for ALL!
4
I think Bernie Sanders ran on this platform but somehow didn't win the Democratic nomination.
2
Most of this is from Hillary Clinton's platform, which she declined to press home, favoring a campaign based on unfavorable comparisons with Trump. Bernie Sanders platform was far more bold, single payer health care, free tuition at state owned universities, raising taxes on the highest income earners. It is highly likely that every point in this "better deal" has been vetted with the big ticket party contributors. corporations and the wealthy, so that they know exactly what the details are, how far Democrats would actually go. The title itself invokes the hedged tones of an intent to not upset any apple carts. Sure, its promises are better than status quo, but the hedged tone is there to keep corporate America calm, ...no mention of either single payer or a public healthcare option to keep the corporations honest... as a result, it councils timidity, and fails to get the blood going.
3
Why isn't Medicare For All at the top of the list? Without it, it's a hopeless cause. Dems will keep losing.
8
Because even the democrats know we cannot afford it
1
We could easily afford it if we stopped cutting taxes and wasting our money on obscenely expensive weapons programs that even the military doesn't want. And maybe we could get ourselves out of a couple of wars that have depleted our national piggy bank. And how about removing the for-profit insurance companies and drug company rip-offs from our health care system?
What we can't afford is more people who think we can't afford the things the rest of the world seems to just fine with.
What we can't afford is more people who think we can't afford the things the rest of the world seems to just fine with.
1
The facts: Hillary did not run a good campaign. Bernie is not a Democrat except when he wants to run as one for President. Some Bernie supporters chose to stay home rather than support Hillary which essentially was vote for Trump. People who once had decent jobs in factories no longer have these jobs . There needs to be massive retraining and infrastructure jobs. They want to raise the minimum wage for those taking orders at McDonalds. That should be a job for a student or retiree because $15 for that mediocre work is still $15 for mediocre and does not a career make.
5
Who else can we label "mediocre" and cut their pay? How long before we get to you?
Yes, a better deal for American workers.
Again, American workers.
Not foreign workers.
So, a better deal for American workers
includes much of the traditional agenda of the Democrats,
including income taxation with progressive rates,
workplace safety laws,
consumer protection laws,
and much else.
It also includes non-discrimination laws.
But one thing it does not include is massive immigration.
Again, American workers.
Not foreign workers.
So, a better deal for American workers
includes much of the traditional agenda of the Democrats,
including income taxation with progressive rates,
workplace safety laws,
consumer protection laws,
and much else.
It also includes non-discrimination laws.
But one thing it does not include is massive immigration.
4
What about using demographics to help people select training that results in real jobs? Bring back the Civilian Conservation Corps to work on parks/infrastructure/other for youth willing to learn and relocate temporarily. They would learn new skills, develop relationship with others across the country and open their eyes. What a great gap year! A similar program for people who have lost their jobs in their 50s to work in their area and help with schools / municipal programs or other things.
5
Fine words, but were was Schumer when Sanders ran ?
6
In the Hamptons.
The American Dream was a story we told ourselves that if you worked hard and disciplined yourself, you could succeed well enough to live without worry in moderate comfort and happiness, perhaps for some they could even enjoy some luxuries.
Now the American Dream is to do the very least work possible that will generate enough money to get by lolling about. Winning the lottery is the American Dream, for real. A large majority of Americans wish they had the luxury of doing nothing all day like royalty, with the most luxurious dreams being those that required the least amount of work.
Technology has supplanted so much work we used to have to do for ourselves, and "kids these days" of all ages have been lolled into a slumber that as time progresses, we're all headed for an ever easier life despite every fact and piece of evidence to the contrary: we'll just be sitting on the sidelines with no work while robots do it all.
Yes, we'll be sitting around all day even more so than we are today, but it won't be luxurious, and the technology to serve us will cost money we won't have made by having otherwise worked hard, so we will be a mass of impoverished royals.
This whole racket that the corporations take care of us - they hire us to work and pay us for our labor so we can then turn right around walk back into the business and buy up all their goods and services we made but that we did not yet own just so we can live to the next day - is coming to an end, and so too will the dream.
Now the American Dream is to do the very least work possible that will generate enough money to get by lolling about. Winning the lottery is the American Dream, for real. A large majority of Americans wish they had the luxury of doing nothing all day like royalty, with the most luxurious dreams being those that required the least amount of work.
Technology has supplanted so much work we used to have to do for ourselves, and "kids these days" of all ages have been lolled into a slumber that as time progresses, we're all headed for an ever easier life despite every fact and piece of evidence to the contrary: we'll just be sitting on the sidelines with no work while robots do it all.
Yes, we'll be sitting around all day even more so than we are today, but it won't be luxurious, and the technology to serve us will cost money we won't have made by having otherwise worked hard, so we will be a mass of impoverished royals.
This whole racket that the corporations take care of us - they hire us to work and pay us for our labor so we can then turn right around walk back into the business and buy up all their goods and services we made but that we did not yet own just so we can live to the next day - is coming to an end, and so too will the dream.
3
LET'S GET SPECIFIC:
1. Real government works programs for
Bridges, highways, airports, buildings
2. Healthcare for women, access to Planned Parenthood,
contraceptives and maternal care
3. Making drug prices relate to costs, research and effectiveness - not marketing expenses, executive pay and share prices
4. Lower corporate taxes and bring back money from abroad
5. Apprentice programs only for skills that are needed
6. University grants tied to tuition costs to reduce long term debt of students
Get real with what is needed, not what lobbyists sell to Pelosi/Schumer
1. Real government works programs for
Bridges, highways, airports, buildings
2. Healthcare for women, access to Planned Parenthood,
contraceptives and maternal care
3. Making drug prices relate to costs, research and effectiveness - not marketing expenses, executive pay and share prices
4. Lower corporate taxes and bring back money from abroad
5. Apprentice programs only for skills that are needed
6. University grants tied to tuition costs to reduce long term debt of students
Get real with what is needed, not what lobbyists sell to Pelosi/Schumer
9
Men don't need healthcare?
Now that Democrats are not in power, their leaders publish all this drivel about what they are going to do when they are returned to power. Each time they had been returned to power, they ended up moving further right and forgetting their out-of-power promises. (remember no-medicare-for-all, chained CPI, TPP; all Dem-backed programs?)
Simply saying the system is rigged is a first step. Glad you have caught up to your constituency. But where have you been for the last 30 years, Senator? Most likely helping to rig the system.
Democrats need new leadership, not the long term seated senators and representatives who have led us into this present abyss.
Democrats need leadership that promotes the interests of all the American people, not just those of the wealthy and multinational corporations. That which is good for General Motors can no longer be considered good for the American people by default.
All this column does is show how out of touch the Democratic leadership has become.
Simply saying the system is rigged is a first step. Glad you have caught up to your constituency. But where have you been for the last 30 years, Senator? Most likely helping to rig the system.
Democrats need new leadership, not the long term seated senators and representatives who have led us into this present abyss.
Democrats need leadership that promotes the interests of all the American people, not just those of the wealthy and multinational corporations. That which is good for General Motors can no longer be considered good for the American people by default.
All this column does is show how out of touch the Democratic leadership has become.
5
Chuck: I'd have a lot more faith in your plan if you and Cory Booker and the senators and representatives from states with a strong financial industry presence were actually willing to take on Wall Street. You can't change the world for working and middle class Americans when every cent of the nation's new income is going to the ultra-rich. That requires standing up to Goldman Sachs, et al.
10
The day is still only 24 hours long and the week is still 7 days so how does the working class justify sharing in the increases in productivity that have come from investing in cutting costs, operating more efficiently and faster communications?
1
Ah, yes, cutting costs and operating more efficiently. Code for "gutting the workforce." We need more of that in America! That'll make us stronger!
2
Better Deal works - if you follow with a reform agenda that stops the crazy escalation of money in politics. If we don't move toward campaign finance reform and publicly funded elections, the drum beat toward oligarchy will be complete.
I started my own think tank to help Dems with more effective messaging - cause being literature, and honest, we're at a disadvantage to those who prefer phrasing that hits you in the gut and may or may not be true. I thought, Democrats: Progress for People would have been a good over arching theme. We are the party of vision and forward movement. Maybe we can get a little more ambitious since it is the 21st century, and pretty much everything in society need a policy overhaul.!
Good luck!
I started my own think tank to help Dems with more effective messaging - cause being literature, and honest, we're at a disadvantage to those who prefer phrasing that hits you in the gut and may or may not be true. I thought, Democrats: Progress for People would have been a good over arching theme. We are the party of vision and forward movement. Maybe we can get a little more ambitious since it is the 21st century, and pretty much everything in society need a policy overhaul.!
Good luck!
1
It's a lukewarm start, but a start, nonetheless. Please explain WHY the widening inequality of income is not the economic answer, and how a reborn middle class will make the most effective, efficient AND equitable economy. Bring the messages of Bernie Sanders and Robert Reich into the mainstream... again. I think if we understand how our economic engine can be restarted, THAT will start to resonate.
5
Good first cut. Why not consider a more robust earned income tax credit as the vehicle rather than minimum wage increase? Need something for the older worker other than programming!
Good start - keep working on it.
Good start - keep working on it.
1
I'm nearly sixty myself and the problem with older workers is the insistence that they be paid more for having experience that (a) is helpful but not essential for the job, and (b) the fact that their experience was already paid for since they accumulated it while on the clock at their previous employers. My boss is fond of saying. "It's a shame there isn't an endless supply of 18 year old orphans who would have no families to distract them, no obligations to make them ever want a raise and no reason to ever need a day off."
Why 18 year old orphans. Your boss' saying would work perfectly well with 12 year old orphans. I am sorry that the social burdens that come with living in a community so burden him.
2
It's a shame there isn't an endless supply of horrible bosses. Oh, wait, there is!
1
The better deal for American workers requires that they get richer as the wealthy are getting richer because it means consumers are buying a lot more goods and services which are providing more opportunities for investment and innovations and new jobs which could translate into better trade with the rest of the world. It's a deal that the Democrats should have been pushing for as long as the Republicans have advocated for reducing taxes and regulations. The TPP should have been modified to enable it to pass because it would have helped make jobs for American workers. And the Democratic Party should have unmasked Trump so that all could see how he really is.
1
Amen Sen. Schumer! Now Democrats have to work exceedingly hard to take back the Senate and win back a significant number of House seats, plus state houses in 2018.
2
Blah, blah, blah, blah. I couldn't read beyond Schumer's 3rd paragraph. Boring, boring, boring.
For whatever reason, whether it's their fault or not, Chuck and Nancy need to go as spokespersons for Democrats at the national level. Either retire or whatever, I'm sick of listening to you blow off without focus.
I want to hear from/look at/follow new Democrats with fresh faces and direct messages. Time for some new blood at the top and wherever Democrats have lost touch with their constitutents. Nancy and Chuck can't deal with current realities because they are so caught up in their own power and prestige. It's not about them. It just that we need a change. We want to see some new faces and hear some new voices.
For whatever reason, whether it's their fault or not, Chuck and Nancy need to go as spokespersons for Democrats at the national level. Either retire or whatever, I'm sick of listening to you blow off without focus.
I want to hear from/look at/follow new Democrats with fresh faces and direct messages. Time for some new blood at the top and wherever Democrats have lost touch with their constitutents. Nancy and Chuck can't deal with current realities because they are so caught up in their own power and prestige. It's not about them. It just that we need a change. We want to see some new faces and hear some new voices.
5
Good Start! Now get tough. Stick your necks out. Get the job done. Dems have got to fight for this. Hard. Whatever it takes.
2
The slimy Chuck Schommer retiring would be a better deal for all American citizens.
6
Schumer has avoided talking about how an absolute moron beat probably the smartest person in politics today. This election should have been a slam dunk except for the message and the messenger. #1. White America will not vote for candidates who want to take their hard earned tax dollars and give it to illegals, Hispanics, blacks, and gays, the constituency the Democrats appear to be courting. There is no future in courting illegals, Hispanics, blacks, and gays. There just aren't enough of them and, aside from the gays, you can't count on them to come out and vote. #2. White men and women shun Hillary for different reasons. White men, because she seems emasculating, white women because she stuck with Bill after he humiliated her before the world.
3
HRC not only courted the groups you noted, which is fine, but most importantly, shut out too many others with her "deplorables" arrogance.
2
First increase worker's pay. Then reduce their expensez? Obviously, Schumer does NOT understand how business works.
2
Schumer the loud mouth idiot is no Bernie Sanders, how in the heck did this guy get re-elected .
3
I only hope that with the up and coming elections the repulsives will be a thing of the past. It's time to stop talking to the 1%. It's time to make this government more in line with the average person. Time to get money out of politics and show us some new honest faces.
1
The top 10% pay 70% of federal income taxes while the bottom 47% pay none.
2
And maybe if the Walton's paid their employees a living wage rather than relying on taxpayers to subsidize their workers, they would be tax payers too!
6
The top 10% hold 76% of the wealth in this country.
How is that good for America? How is that going to "make America great again?"
How is that good for America? How is that going to "make America great again?"
1
Chuck, this is a load of garbage.
You don't care about me and people like me. We don't give you money.
You and your buddies will talk and talk and in the end you'll go with Goldman Sachs because they do give you money.
In a way you are worse than Republicans. They don't give a rat's behind and they are quite open about it.
You don't care about me and people like me. We don't give you money.
You and your buddies will talk and talk and in the end you'll go with Goldman Sachs because they do give you money.
In a way you are worse than Republicans. They don't give a rat's behind and they are quite open about it.
10
All the passion and energy of a dead donkey.
7
It's the economy, stupid.
6
OK Chuckie, who you gonna sell that vision to?? Oh yes, Manhattan, Boston, and Chicago, etc. Just like the Democrats campaigned with Hillary. Look, the Dems need to get their collective butts out of Downtown Manhattan and get out to Pennsylvania, Indiana, Illinois, the rural areas. That is where they lost big.
Now, who is going to deliver that message and what exactly is it going to be. Will it address lost jobs. Quit telling those in the Rust Belt about all that job creation that occurred in Silicon Valley and out here on the West Coast and New England. What are you going to do for those who are now unemployed. What are you going to do about student debt. Keep in mind that is the Democrats who incessantly implored everyone to get a college education and then turned out millions of graduates who can't find jobs but carry a debt load equal to buying a home!
Sorry Chuckie, but neither the GOP or the Democrats have any answers.
Now, who is going to deliver that message and what exactly is it going to be. Will it address lost jobs. Quit telling those in the Rust Belt about all that job creation that occurred in Silicon Valley and out here on the West Coast and New England. What are you going to do for those who are now unemployed. What are you going to do about student debt. Keep in mind that is the Democrats who incessantly implored everyone to get a college education and then turned out millions of graduates who can't find jobs but carry a debt load equal to buying a home!
Sorry Chuckie, but neither the GOP or the Democrats have any answers.
8
Democrat or Republican, the hangers on in the Rust Belt don't deserve any attention. The economy has moved on while they're stuck in 1972.
1
Wonderful declaration, long overdue. The flawed technocrats Gary Hart and especially the inert, campaign-pacifist Dukakis and weak advisor Estrich made it easy for the right to paint the L-word in shameful scarlet almost, it seems, forever. Ailes, Atwater, dumb Dubya, now Trump. No good for America. The heck with that. Kamala 2020.
Chuck "I-never-saw-a-microphone-I-didn't-like" Schumer always talks a good game. He's been doing it for years. As soon as they put the microphone away, he's off to something else. What he just said in front of the microphone immediately dwindles in his mind.
Just once, I'd like to see him follow through! Put up or shut up Chuck!
Just once, I'd like to see him follow through! Put up or shut up Chuck!
4
Too little, too late. Where was all this fluff and highfalutin talk during the actual campaign? Why did it take a complete rout of Democrats across the country (not just in DC) for them to wake up and smell the right-wing bat guano? Maybe, politicians in this country should be more interested in legislating for the good for the country, rather than moving from election to election trying to keep their jobs.
2
It is time for the Democratic Party to actually get back to the principles that kept FDR in the White House for over a decade. No more wishy-washy Blue Dog DINOs. It's time for the Democratic Party to start truly representing the middle class. actually all Americans who believe that everyone should benefit from the fruit of his labors, not just those who move money around. The ideas of Sanders and Warren should be at the top of the Democratic party's platform. No more trying to be just slightly left of the Republicans. Republicans have not helped the middle class. Time to Give them Hell. Why not Medicare for all? Why not government regulations that really help the environment? Why not wages that truly reflect effort, not just what the robber barons will allow? You tried wishy-washy and look where it got you. Now try bold.
10
You can learn something from a cookie, Senator.
When I was a kid there were two major brands of chocolate sandwich cookies: Oreo, the brand everyone knows today, and Hydrox
Hydrox was actually the older, original brand of this cookie type. It was also better tasting, with a bright sweet flavor that made the Oreo taste a bit dull by comparison My mother would actually apologize when she brought home Oreos instead.
"They were out of Hydrox," she would say.
Hands down Hydrox was the better cookie.
But Oreo was better at marketing. Hydrox, for all its superior taste was pretty crummy at marketing starting with that lame name.
Now Oreo is not a bad cookie. The Republican Party is a pretty terrible party full of empty pride, gleeful cruelty, greed and deceit.
But they are whip smart and ruthless at marketing.
Right now the Republicans are out to shatter the healthcare system - condemning millions to suffering death and economic turmoil, all to create yet another windfall for the very rich.
And what's the big reward their base gets out of this?
They get to bully the " libtards.*
Diehard rank and file Republicans have been carefully trained by right-wing media to get their reward from being vicious and cruel to people who don't vote Republican
Democratic voting counties produce 64% of America's GDP while Republican voting counties produce a paltry 36%
Market that.
When I was a kid there were two major brands of chocolate sandwich cookies: Oreo, the brand everyone knows today, and Hydrox
Hydrox was actually the older, original brand of this cookie type. It was also better tasting, with a bright sweet flavor that made the Oreo taste a bit dull by comparison My mother would actually apologize when she brought home Oreos instead.
"They were out of Hydrox," she would say.
Hands down Hydrox was the better cookie.
But Oreo was better at marketing. Hydrox, for all its superior taste was pretty crummy at marketing starting with that lame name.
Now Oreo is not a bad cookie. The Republican Party is a pretty terrible party full of empty pride, gleeful cruelty, greed and deceit.
But they are whip smart and ruthless at marketing.
Right now the Republicans are out to shatter the healthcare system - condemning millions to suffering death and economic turmoil, all to create yet another windfall for the very rich.
And what's the big reward their base gets out of this?
They get to bully the " libtards.*
Diehard rank and file Republicans have been carefully trained by right-wing media to get their reward from being vicious and cruel to people who don't vote Republican
Democratic voting counties produce 64% of America's GDP while Republican voting counties produce a paltry 36%
Market that.
7
And??? You think this message is going to light a fire? You don't have to exactly repeat "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore!" But, if you aren't mad as hell, and are willing to take more of the same, then we need some other folks to speak up and run for office on a new deal.
4
These are bold proposal to address the huge problems facing the vast majority of Americans? Are you kidding? As several people have noted here, these are the same cautious, boiler plate centrist Democratic proposals we've been hearing for years.
The most insulting proposal is the tax credits for retraining programs, a version of which the centrist Democrats keeps offering. I know many people who are very smart and flexible, with multiple degrees, who can't find work that pays them a living wage.
Our Revolution, Bernie Sanders group, allied with many other progressive groups, have just put out a truly bold People's Platform. It includes: Medicare for All, College for All, $15 minimum wage, equal access to abortion coverage in health insurance, automatic voter registration, bold action on climate change, reform of our criminal justice and immigration systems, and a tax on Wall Street. Most of these proposals are attached to bills that have already been introduced in the House.
We need these proposals and so much more. We need programs on the order of the New Deal and Great Society.
Will the leaders of the Democratic Party ever wake up? I'm afraid it doesn't look like it.
The most insulting proposal is the tax credits for retraining programs, a version of which the centrist Democrats keeps offering. I know many people who are very smart and flexible, with multiple degrees, who can't find work that pays them a living wage.
Our Revolution, Bernie Sanders group, allied with many other progressive groups, have just put out a truly bold People's Platform. It includes: Medicare for All, College for All, $15 minimum wage, equal access to abortion coverage in health insurance, automatic voter registration, bold action on climate change, reform of our criminal justice and immigration systems, and a tax on Wall Street. Most of these proposals are attached to bills that have already been introduced in the House.
We need these proposals and so much more. We need programs on the order of the New Deal and Great Society.
Will the leaders of the Democratic Party ever wake up? I'm afraid it doesn't look like it.
7
You just described a headlong run toward communism.
What I'm seeing in this comment section is that only Bernie Sanders, the pure lord and savior of our era, can lead us out of darkness.
To those people I would say, reality is unpleasant. Bernie Sanders will not be the future of the Democratic Party, nor should he be. Globalization isn't going away, no matter what policies we implement.
If you read this "Better Deal" policy, this is the Democratic Party playing the economic populism game. Exactly what you want to hear. All of the policies outlined are solid. Vote for Democrats in 2018 and give it a chance.
To those people I would say, reality is unpleasant. Bernie Sanders will not be the future of the Democratic Party, nor should he be. Globalization isn't going away, no matter what policies we implement.
If you read this "Better Deal" policy, this is the Democratic Party playing the economic populism game. Exactly what you want to hear. All of the policies outlined are solid. Vote for Democrats in 2018 and give it a chance.
4
Schumer's inability to get behind single-payer health insurance is an indication that he is precisely the wrong person to lead the party out of minority status in Congress, most states, and the White House. Chuck Schumer, as head of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, sold the party to Wall Street and came through for them--not Main St. As the Senator from Wall St., he pushed through the repeal of Glass-Steagall, the law that separated banking from Wall Street. That repeal propelled us to the financial meltdown of 2008 and the failure to reinstate it leaves us wide open to another crash--after which there will be no stomach for a bailout. Schumer needs to acknowledge this if he is to be taken seriously as the proponent for a "Better Deal"--a slogan that signals, "We'll do a little bit more for you, but nothing structural and major." We need BOLD leadership and a bold program for the Democratic Party--my party--or it will continue to slide into irrelevance.
11
The free market will have cycles but these are natural. In fact, savvy investors can turn a recession into a buying opportunity. I think it was Hearst who greatly expanded his real estate empire because he was liquid as the Depression began.
Mr. Schumer is leaning in the right direction, but he is what he is … a politician. The tone of his piece still reflects a contest against the Republican majority. A “We will do better, we will show them” message. To be successful, he has to lay out a vision that will cause all Americans to raise their heads and look to the future with hope and determination. With justified hope that the political and economic systems will gradually deliver a supporting environment; and with determination to fiercely make the most of the opportunities that the environment will provide us. The vision that leads us to say “Yes, together we can do this” can’t come from a politician. It has to come from a genuine leader. We have been in this position before and we can, and have to, do it again.
It will not hurt Republicans to do the same. Aren’t we all Americans? Don’t we all want to make ALL OF America Great Again? OK, let us accomplish exactly that.
It will not hurt Republicans to do the same. Aren’t we all Americans? Don’t we all want to make ALL OF America Great Again? OK, let us accomplish exactly that.
3
Dems need to prioritize universal healthcare, and Medicaid for when people need help the most! And stop using the word "better" in campaign slogans; people are aspirational, they want to hear "great," not "meh, slightly better...." Dems need much more than policies! We need the type of targeted social media outreach that the GOP used in 2016 (minus the made-up news and Russian hackers). We need strong, vocal, appealing candidates (under age 75 please!) who can attract voters nationwide. We need to play hardball because we need to WIN.
4
Nice start - especially the "earned benefits" part. None of this will happen until you get younger people engaged in government. I have warned my Millennial employees, none of whom voted in 2016, that they had a hand in throwing away their futures (though in California, their disinterest was diluted). There is no way Nancy Pelosi should be Minority Leader - the younger nominee should have been appointed, he has much more "skin in the game." I am all for senior members of the legislature mentoring their younger peers, but the future of our government should be in their hands. If the candidate is older that 65, they will not be getting my vote. My disappointment in the Democrats is only slightly less than my disgust for the GOP. Now let's turn this into some action.
4
The more I read it, the madder I get. How is this different from what Hillary Clinton promised or implied? You gotta dig deeper than this, Chuck.
8
Only Democrats would start out a letter aimed at convincing the country they have a better plan by saying: "Our party has failed to articulate a strong, bold economic program for the middle class."
Who says? Why open up that way? Republicans do the most odious things and never apologize. Democrats try to do good, and beat themselves up because it wasn't enough. It's ridiculous.
Who says? Why open up that way? Republicans do the most odious things and never apologize. Democrats try to do good, and beat themselves up because it wasn't enough. It's ridiculous.
3
UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE.
Why does it always take Democrats 1000 words when 3 would suffice?
Why does it always take Democrats 1000 words when 3 would suffice?
8
Regrettably, these policies address only economics, which is good. But what about moral and ethical policies that our demagogue president completely ignores. Happiness is not measured how many things you possess, but what is your spiritual values for community, empathy and compassion to make a word a better place. Senator Shumer: I hope you and colleagues address this critical issue to contrast amoral, narcissistic, shameful and abhorrent norms of Trump administration.
2
End the wars.
Single payer.
End Citizens United.
Single payer.
End Citizens United.
11
Why should we believe you when you opposed Bernie.
4
With this many comments it seems senseless to add another, so I'll keep it brief. Single-payer and the right to unionize.
8
You sound just like Bernie Sanders! I really hope you mean it Senator. Isn't it hard when all your donors are corporations? #medicareforall
4
Justice, Compassion, and Jobs! should be the slogan, plain and simple.
1
Good luck with that Chuck.
Republicans are offering something a lot simpler and a lot more emotional.
We trust you, the law abiding citizen, to keep and bear arms.
We will keep bad people, anti-American-values muslims and people coming to steal your jobs, out of our country.
We will let you practice your religions, particularly the main religion in this country, christianity, without government interference.
We will put bad people in jail and stop all this politically correct nonsense.
Republicans are offering something a lot simpler and a lot more emotional.
We trust you, the law abiding citizen, to keep and bear arms.
We will keep bad people, anti-American-values muslims and people coming to steal your jobs, out of our country.
We will let you practice your religions, particularly the main religion in this country, christianity, without government interference.
We will put bad people in jail and stop all this politically correct nonsense.
6
For all the tough talk of change, this is pretty boiler-plate, mainstream Democratic stuff.
This sounds like it could have been any one of Hillary Clinton's tired old speeches that got her nowhere.
Hey Chuck,
You want to really convince people that you're on their side? Here's how you do it:
1. Medicare for all
2. Guaranteed employment: if the private sector won't hire you, the government will (we did it before, we can do it again).
3. Truly affordable colleges and universities on the European (and early American) model.
That's three simple things.
It wouldn't be easy to get any of these things done. Republicans would fight you every step of the way.
But this is how you get the people back on your side.
This is how you start winning elections again.
This sounds like it could have been any one of Hillary Clinton's tired old speeches that got her nowhere.
Hey Chuck,
You want to really convince people that you're on their side? Here's how you do it:
1. Medicare for all
2. Guaranteed employment: if the private sector won't hire you, the government will (we did it before, we can do it again).
3. Truly affordable colleges and universities on the European (and early American) model.
That's three simple things.
It wouldn't be easy to get any of these things done. Republicans would fight you every step of the way.
But this is how you get the people back on your side.
This is how you start winning elections again.
6
Minimum wage jobs are great for teenagers with some spare time during the school year, or over a summer, but if you think flipping burgers is going to pay for any sort of home, food, insurance, clothing, you are living on some other planet.
For those who have not taken Economics 101, increasing the minimum wage is just going to decrease demand for whatever product or service you are providing, as the business must charge more to cover the cost of the higher wages it must pay.
The basics of a decent living standard have not changed in 50 years, but Chuck won't say so:
- stay in school
- if you are going to have children, do it as part of a committed long term relationship. Single parenting is very risky, economically speaking.
- always look to increase your marketable skills
- stay out of criminal/legal trouble
For those who have not taken Economics 101, increasing the minimum wage is just going to decrease demand for whatever product or service you are providing, as the business must charge more to cover the cost of the higher wages it must pay.
The basics of a decent living standard have not changed in 50 years, but Chuck won't say so:
- stay in school
- if you are going to have children, do it as part of a committed long term relationship. Single parenting is very risky, economically speaking.
- always look to increase your marketable skills
- stay out of criminal/legal trouble
5
Since media-savvy Ronald Reagan made the word "liberal" a dirty word, won big, and scared the Democrats, DNC messaging has not just been poorly executed, it has been nearly non-existant. Though Trump's scandals stole your mid-day media opportunity today (really Chuck? you know better timing than that) getting some good messaging out like this is an encouraging start. There's a whole lot of explaining and educating that has to be done, but it cannot be accomplished without articulating where we differ from the GOP.
There are 4 steps needed to do this. 1- On every policy issue, start with an anecdote that reflects an issue the public can relate to. Tell us about Bob and Jane. Don't be a technocrat. 2- When the anecdote is done, then be a technocrat and BRIEFLY explain what government policy or lack of policy causes or can cure the issue. 3- Get political. Briefly explain that the Democrats voted or want to vote for x,y and z, and the Republicans voted the other way. 4- Bring it back to the anecdote. If the Republican's have their way, Bob and Jane will be ill-served.
After the election, I saw a disgruntled retiree on TV complaining about the meager Social Security cost of living increases, and that's why he voted Republican. Informed voters know that he voted against his own interests. Clearly, this is a sign of Democrats failing to get their messaging across.
There are 4 steps needed to do this. 1- On every policy issue, start with an anecdote that reflects an issue the public can relate to. Tell us about Bob and Jane. Don't be a technocrat. 2- When the anecdote is done, then be a technocrat and BRIEFLY explain what government policy or lack of policy causes or can cure the issue. 3- Get political. Briefly explain that the Democrats voted or want to vote for x,y and z, and the Republicans voted the other way. 4- Bring it back to the anecdote. If the Republican's have their way, Bob and Jane will be ill-served.
After the election, I saw a disgruntled retiree on TV complaining about the meager Social Security cost of living increases, and that's why he voted Republican. Informed voters know that he voted against his own interests. Clearly, this is a sign of Democrats failing to get their messaging across.
4
Informed voters know that SS increases are tied to a formula based on a specific inflation index and have nothing to do with who is in the WH
Care to comment on the Kamala Harris coming out event in the Hamptons?
4
My husband would always say the most dangerous place to be was between Schumer and a tv camera on a Sunday . Guess this article will be the replacement for not seeing him on last evening's news.
3
Where have I heard this before? Oh yes the last election, and the one before that. You had a democrat as President for 8 years. Where were your programs for the American worker then. Why would it be different next time?
Are these promises a trick you are using to get back in power? Why did you nominate a crook as your candidate?
For the past 6 months, all you've talked about is Russia
Are these promises a trick you are using to get back in power? Why did you nominate a crook as your candidate?
For the past 6 months, all you've talked about is Russia
5
@Wilfredo....direct your ire at your do nothing GOP congress that made a full time job of obstructing Obama. The GOP essentially axed the legs out from under the ACA and then scorned at its failure to stand up. The GOP and its supporters need to be ashamed in the way they have given up supporting American people because of their blind faith in Trump. It is truly a blind faith because Trump has delivered zip....hundreds of Carrier workers can agree on that for sure.
Chuck Schumer can't be trusted to fight for ordinary people, he's obviously someone who spends all of his time with the fabulously rich, and the distinguishing quality in the senate that puts him where he is is his ability to network in a sclerotic party and among its corrupting lobbyists. Make Ellison DNC Chair and Bernie senate majority leader so that the leadership can be trusted to actually mean these words. And in the meantime, never nominate the second least popular candidate in modern history ever again.
Mainstream Dems and NYT shills are failures of both politics and policy. Bernie would have won, and you're a failure, Chuck.
Mainstream Dems and NYT shills are failures of both politics and policy. Bernie would have won, and you're a failure, Chuck.
5
Recycled pablum as "bold changes."
4
Senator, I've voted for you many times and donated to your campaigns. I agree with every word your rhetoric, and am utterly impatient with your three actual proposals. Yes, sure, those are all perfectly good small incremental measures to take to make things better. That is NOT A VISION.
Look, I did not want Bernie as our president because I did not feel he had the experience or the temperament. (God, look what we have now.) But Bernie articulated several clear, dramatic interventions in our status quo that were obviously and unarguably aimed at stopping the war on the middle class in this country.
STOP AIMING LOW, SENATOR. Tell me you're going after a major infrastructure repair project, a $15 min wage, free tuition, and single-payer healthcare. I for one would fully understand if you couldn't actually get us there. But at least I would know you were going in the right direction full steam ahead with everything you've got.
Look, I did not want Bernie as our president because I did not feel he had the experience or the temperament. (God, look what we have now.) But Bernie articulated several clear, dramatic interventions in our status quo that were obviously and unarguably aimed at stopping the war on the middle class in this country.
STOP AIMING LOW, SENATOR. Tell me you're going after a major infrastructure repair project, a $15 min wage, free tuition, and single-payer healthcare. I for one would fully understand if you couldn't actually get us there. But at least I would know you were going in the right direction full steam ahead with everything you've got.
2
Fact is, government is not always the problem.
Hey, that great "socialist" IKE-- a republican-- knew quite well that government often is not only not the problem, government can be the solution. (IE interstate highways)
I'll believe it when I see it. I predict this will follow the normal course, show lots of outrage and offence at the status quo, promise reforms, actually deliver weak reforms if they are delivered at all.
3
How about a plan to bring back manufacturing? Things we can touch instead of software and lawsuits?
2
Long, long, long overdue ... but nonetheless welcome.
2
Step in the right direction. Please acknowledge that the exodus of young people from the rustbelt states has been going on for 30 years and that these places have all but collapsed and turned back to nature.
What the Democrats don't get is that these people are turned off by talk about raising the minimum wage and a living wage. They want to do far better than that. Some have a fantasy that manufacturing jobs are going to once again earn people $50+/hr like they did in 1980.
What's going to be hard is getting them to look at the new economy of technology, biotech, data, information, and medical jobs as the replacement for manufacturing and agribusiness as the new agriculture.
Smaller cities and towns in Rustbelt states have no idea how to attract any type of business other than manufacturing, have little expertise in accessing all the federal development funds or grants, don't have the money to market themselves.
The state governments have cut their budgets to the point where they're completely irrelevant to the smaller cities and towns who get far less than they need, especially for public schools (which Republicans couldn't care less about). These towns have no media even if they wanted to market themselves because radio isn't local anymore, newspapers are run by a few national corporations, and broadband internet and cell phone coverage is just now available to mid-America.
Bring the 21st century jobs and the tech infrastructure.
What the Democrats don't get is that these people are turned off by talk about raising the minimum wage and a living wage. They want to do far better than that. Some have a fantasy that manufacturing jobs are going to once again earn people $50+/hr like they did in 1980.
What's going to be hard is getting them to look at the new economy of technology, biotech, data, information, and medical jobs as the replacement for manufacturing and agribusiness as the new agriculture.
Smaller cities and towns in Rustbelt states have no idea how to attract any type of business other than manufacturing, have little expertise in accessing all the federal development funds or grants, don't have the money to market themselves.
The state governments have cut their budgets to the point where they're completely irrelevant to the smaller cities and towns who get far less than they need, especially for public schools (which Republicans couldn't care less about). These towns have no media even if they wanted to market themselves because radio isn't local anymore, newspapers are run by a few national corporations, and broadband internet and cell phone coverage is just now available to mid-America.
Bring the 21st century jobs and the tech infrastructure.
3
When you say "In the last two elections, Democrats, including in the Senate, failed to articulate a strong, bold economic program for the middle class and those working hard to get there," it's almost like you did not watch the primaries. One candidate did offer elegant solutions to obvious economic problems. The Democrats chose not to nominate him.
4
Dear Senator Schumer:
Don't be chicken, go for it:
1) Get rid of Citizens United; get rid of the Electoral College.
2) Medicaid for all (Medicaid includes basic dental and vision).
3) Paper ballots for all elections; no more hackable voting machines.
4) No more corporate welfare
5) First two years of public college/training are free
6) Dedication to saving the planet via heavily-supported environment friendly mass transit, energy and infrastructure jobs. This what can save the economy and fight climate change at the same time.
Don't be chicken, go for it:
1) Get rid of Citizens United; get rid of the Electoral College.
2) Medicaid for all (Medicaid includes basic dental and vision).
3) Paper ballots for all elections; no more hackable voting machines.
4) No more corporate welfare
5) First two years of public college/training are free
6) Dedication to saving the planet via heavily-supported environment friendly mass transit, energy and infrastructure jobs. This what can save the economy and fight climate change at the same time.
12
7) social security in place forever, with ALL income paying into it. (take that Walton heirs!)
8) raise the number of reps in the house from the 435 faux-ceiling set in 1918 to a number in proportion to our population of today.
8) raise the number of reps in the house from the 435 faux-ceiling set in 1918 to a number in proportion to our population of today.
4
Perfect Karen, thanks!
1
Chuck Schumer is just saying the same thing the Democrats have been saying for decades. The REAL minimum wage is $0, because that’s what the federal government gives you.
1
When I think about the corporatization of politics, and its taint on the Democratic Party, in particular, your Senatorial tenure frequently comes to mind. So, well done for admitting to your participation. Accountability in leadership is first to go when money controls.
4
Need a lot more, but as a threshold, makes the mark. Will the workers (i.e., most Americans) believe it? As automation, robotics, AI, and deep machine learning begin encroaching in the American workers' economic space, w/no additional jobs created at the other end, they should not expect any respite from the extreme right controlling one of our parties. Could they expect better from the other?
Might be rhetorical, but these three points do carry urgent priority Cost containment on running wild pharmaceuticals and overall medical expenses, through enhanced competition and elimination of barriers to entry, could point to a good beginning. Riding on the crest of a productivity wave salaries will be increased...for a few. And the rest? Let them die (shrinking the denominator, thus increasing the per capita) or being creative with UBI type solutions complementing shorter working hours? Continuous training, until the interphase man-machine becomes practical, in what? How does society keep the inescapable need for agility in the re-allocation of such resources towards their most effective results and free from the hurdles imposed by ideologues from left or right?
1
I look forward to seeing proposed policies brought forward for debate and vote. Not sure why these ideas could not have been formulated and articulated during the 2016 campaign, but then again the GOP cannot formulate and articulate a health bill after 7 yrs of bellyaching.
Please, I beg you, don't let this become a debacle of intra-party divisions, like we are witnessing from the GOP. Someone has to be the adult.
Please, I beg you, don't let this become a debacle of intra-party divisions, like we are witnessing from the GOP. Someone has to be the adult.
1
Inconvenient truth revealed by Nancy Pelosi to Washington Post: the new focus “is not a course correction, but it’s a presentation correction.” Months of meetings after the biggest Democratic party loss in history and all we get is a new slogan. Same geriatric leadership, same out-of-touch program. Pretty good proof of failure and incompetence. Time for a new political party, not just new party leadership.
9
Give him some credit for making an effort. Third parties have historically had a short shelf life in our system, so like it or not, we need to allow him to put some lipstick on this pig and see what it has to offer. If you haven’t noticed, Trump has lowered the bar considerably on the entire body politic, so even the Democrats are starting to look good by comparison.
This is long overdue, democrats do not know how to articulate their policies in simple language that the ordinary American can understand and, then fight for it. For instance, though not perfect, Obamacare was a great achievement but democrats never fought nor campaigned on it. The party needs to lay out not just in intellectual terms what we stand for, but, connect the party's position in emotional terms to regular voters. Republicans even market bad policies in effective and emotional terms - - people who depend on Obamacare still vote for Republicans in Large. It is time to correct this democrats!!!
4
Government was the arbitrator between corporation and the populous. Trying to keep things balanced and fair. Now that government is bought and sold to the highest bidder the populous had been crushed.
I can see the flood of lobbyists fueling up their private jets as we speak.
Is Bernie the only one not bought and sold? Are you prepared to fight to onslaught? We hope so.
I can see the flood of lobbyists fueling up their private jets as we speak.
Is Bernie the only one not bought and sold? Are you prepared to fight to onslaught? We hope so.
3
Respectfully, I suggest that while the message is important, so is the messenger. Younger Democratic leadership is needed NOW! (See Canada, France).
6
Talk is cheap. So far, see no headlines about Democrats calling for single payer health care, getting money out of politics, or any of the other things you mentioned. The sound of crickets is deafening.
5
Thank you for expressing these initiatives. I say proceed with haste, and proceed with vigor. Fight for this with passion. We need leaders that will lead in a direction that is best for the entire country, not just a few. I hope to see Senators and Congressmen working together for these ideas, and if we can't get it perfect the first time, no problem. Let's start now, and make necessary modifications and corrections as we go to make them as good as we can. But something good START NOW. I really believe there are people on both sides of the aisle that are interested in doing good things for real Americans, and real America.
1
Dear Senator Schumer:
I know where you can get those bold policies. Check out Hillary Clinton's presidential platform -- you'll find everything you need, right there.
I know where you can get those bold policies. Check out Hillary Clinton's presidential platform -- you'll find everything you need, right there.
6
This is a good start. But, Senator Schumer didn't mention about the separation of commercial and investment banking and the regulation of derivatives. Because he is a stooge to Wall Street.
3
Outlaw Citizens United, implement single payer, use democratic funds to reverse gerrymandering, then we'll talk.
3
Sounds like more taxes and more regulations to me.
Not a word about money in politics?
Bernie Sanders almost won the primary based on this and Donald Trump did win the presidency on his promise to "drain the swamp"?
Is the Democratic leadership really this tone-deaf?
Bernie Sanders almost won the primary based on this and Donald Trump did win the presidency on his promise to "drain the swamp"?
Is the Democratic leadership really this tone-deaf?
6
YUP!!! Amazingly!
1
What's this middle class bias? Ignoring the lower class, because they find more barriers to voting?
How about for The People? -- taking our country back from The Oligarchs?
How about for The People? -- taking our country back from The Oligarchs?
3
So the Democrats have finally identified their deeply held, focus group approved principles which should last at least until their next election loss.
In sum, the Democrats intend to unemploy millions by raising the amount businesses have to pay to employ workers, then use our tax money to pay these same companies to train and hire the Americans the Democrats made too expensive to hire.
Then there is the brilliant idea of lowering the cost of goods and services by increasing the regulatory burden on businesses which provide these goods and services.
In reality, the Democrats are repackaging the same old government misdirections of the economy under a slightly reworked old title - "Better Deal" instead of the "New Deal."
Have the Democrats offered an original idea since the New Deal?
In sum, the Democrats intend to unemploy millions by raising the amount businesses have to pay to employ workers, then use our tax money to pay these same companies to train and hire the Americans the Democrats made too expensive to hire.
Then there is the brilliant idea of lowering the cost of goods and services by increasing the regulatory burden on businesses which provide these goods and services.
In reality, the Democrats are repackaging the same old government misdirections of the economy under a slightly reworked old title - "Better Deal" instead of the "New Deal."
Have the Democrats offered an original idea since the New Deal?
2
As a lifelong democrat who has never voted republican and never will: what an incoherent, insincere mess of a message. In tone and content, pandering and nothing more. If this is the best they can do, get ready for 8 more years, at least.
7
I don't believe a $15 minimum wage will raise wages; it will just reduce hours and hires. Democrats have favored open borders, which drives down wages and employment for the out-of-work of part-timing Americans. What's "the better deal" for sanctuary cities; will it still be "illegals first, Americans, meh"? Will we still have to have men in the women's gym locker room leering at underage girls under "the better deal"? Will we still have the rampant voter fraud under "the better deal?"
We tried a stimulus under Obama--all that did was line Dem bundler pockets with taxpayer lute. Sorry, Chuck Shumer, I don't believe the Dems are going to help the middle of the country.
We tried a stimulus under Obama--all that did was line Dem bundler pockets with taxpayer lute. Sorry, Chuck Shumer, I don't believe the Dems are going to help the middle of the country.
2
The Dems need simple focused policy with a national leadership team headed by a Presidential candidate. How about selecting one in 2019!
It's difficult to disagree with this post because it says so little. Senator Schumer has been in office for two decades during which political polarization and disfunction have increased steadily. It's time for new voices and new leadership. It's time to empower the moderate voices in both parties to work together towards attainable, fair, fact-based compromises.
1
The Democratic Party should go with a progressive platform, hopefully including single payer healthcare. There was a lot of excitement for Bernie Sanders' proposals, and a lot of people who liked Bernie Sanders proposals voted for Trump because Trump lied to them about what he was going to do as president. Those voters are now seeing that Trump and the GOP are only concerned about the wealthiest 10% of Americans, because they control the politicians with their campaign donations, aka bribes.
3
Treating the symptoms and not the disease.
We need to take steps to get back to a fair election process, with one person, one vote. That means
- get rid of the electoral college
- take steps to get money out of the political process. Campaign finance reform. Overturn Citizens United, etc.
We live in a time when the government is not responding to the desires of the people for simple things, like common sense gun safety laws. Why? $$$ of the NRA. Health care? $$$ for drug companies, AMA. Union labor support? $$$ for corporations.
As long as money still takes as big a role as it does now, we will be in trouble. The Democrats have the opportunity to be the party of fixing the disease, but instead come up with this. Sad.
That is why they are losing.
We need to take steps to get back to a fair election process, with one person, one vote. That means
- get rid of the electoral college
- take steps to get money out of the political process. Campaign finance reform. Overturn Citizens United, etc.
We live in a time when the government is not responding to the desires of the people for simple things, like common sense gun safety laws. Why? $$$ of the NRA. Health care? $$$ for drug companies, AMA. Union labor support? $$$ for corporations.
As long as money still takes as big a role as it does now, we will be in trouble. The Democrats have the opportunity to be the party of fixing the disease, but instead come up with this. Sad.
That is why they are losing.
3
None of this will truly change for either party until strict election & campaign finance reform is passed. Both parties are beholden to big money from corporations & wealthy individuals.
4
"Roosevelt named him (Thurman Arnold) to run the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice in 1938; by 1942, Arnold had boosted the staff from eighteen to nearly 600. He also launched a slew of new cases, bringing ninety-two in 1940 compared to just eleven in 1938. And he established clear strategic goals. Arnold agreed with Lewis Brandeis that the central aim of anti-monopoly law is to disperse political and economic power."
Barry C.Lynn / Estates of Mind
Is this what Schumer is talking about? Is it possible? And not just some cruel joke? I will believe it when I see it. Are the Democrats really willing to get out and make the case for open markets (instead of the bogus 'free markets' beloved by the Republicans?) And to take the pitiful screeching and squalling from the Plutocrats that will follow?
Barry C.Lynn / Estates of Mind
Is this what Schumer is talking about? Is it possible? And not just some cruel joke? I will believe it when I see it. Are the Democrats really willing to get out and make the case for open markets (instead of the bogus 'free markets' beloved by the Republicans?) And to take the pitiful screeching and squalling from the Plutocrats that will follow?
1
From a lifelong Democrat.
Complaining about inequitable treatment of "working Americans" vs. "vulture capitalists" without admitting that his vote in favor of permitting hedge fund billionaires to have their earnings taxed at 15% amounts to full-on hypocrisy. I have decided to stop contributing to the DNC, DSCC and other party coffers until I see specific proposals to change the current mess. I don't want to see Democratic Party leaders decide in advance which candidates should be given the party's nomination (e.g. Katie McGInnity in Pennsylvania instead of Joe Sestak). I want to see candidates who compete in fairly run primary contests and with ideas proffered that may be different than those held by the politicians in charge of the party apparatus.
Complaining about inequitable treatment of "working Americans" vs. "vulture capitalists" without admitting that his vote in favor of permitting hedge fund billionaires to have their earnings taxed at 15% amounts to full-on hypocrisy. I have decided to stop contributing to the DNC, DSCC and other party coffers until I see specific proposals to change the current mess. I don't want to see Democratic Party leaders decide in advance which candidates should be given the party's nomination (e.g. Katie McGInnity in Pennsylvania instead of Joe Sestak). I want to see candidates who compete in fairly run primary contests and with ideas proffered that may be different than those held by the politicians in charge of the party apparatus.
4
Democrats talk about it, but actually do very little. Also lets not forget that carried interest loophole that allows hedge fund managers drastically reduce their tax obligations exists largely because of Chuck Schumer. These are the people he really cares about - not disappearing middle class.
9
We have to start somewhere rather than tear down Schumer. As a fellow Brooklynite I support Schumer's vision while agreeing we have to fine tune and harden it e.g. going at Wall Street and for Universal Healthcare. I agree we should talk about what should be not what might be. Learn from the Sanders voters and take on their ideas and vision. We have to go for it. It's the only way to get the voters out on Election Day.
1
The GOP will simply turn around and tell people this will mean higher taxes and/or hurt jobs. Problem is the GOP understands basic human motivations. Specifically, they understand that fear motivates people more than any other emotion. They channel this to create a fear of higher taxes (ignoring the fact that the US has some of lowest taxes of any industrialized nation!) They create a fear of jobs being cut do to evil regulations and/or illegal aliens. They've even managed to convince people that they can't safely go grocery shopping without first arming themselves. This is why they win. They get their votes scared and angry. Once voters are scared and angry all reason goes out the door and you can manipulate people at will. Think about: the GOP complains about the "Hollywood elites" yet 2 of the past 4 Republican Presidents have been card carrying members of the Screen Actor's Guild union! That's genius.
2
The only idea that I felt made sense is the one about adjusting Trade Laws to benefit workers. But this is going to be a huge challenge even if Democrats can write the law the way they want.
I have seen many industries leave USA because cost of business is lower outside giving them maximum opportunity for profits. At the same time I have also seen how importation has raised product quality, e.g. automobiles.
I don't have a solution, but here is one idea. Allow importation of a product that competes not only in price but also in quality. Let me elaborate, the quality of cars from the big three lagged behind Toyota. So for Toyota to be able to import it must show competitiveness in quality that are manufacturer neutral. If Toyota exceeds by a certain say 20% then they could be allowed to import, else they will be imposed tariffs. This will promote quality and give domestic sufficient time to either ramp up or go out of business. In the end consumers will benefit including workers as I believe this is a fair proposal.
I am sure there are other proposals that are equally good and attractive.
I have seen many industries leave USA because cost of business is lower outside giving them maximum opportunity for profits. At the same time I have also seen how importation has raised product quality, e.g. automobiles.
I don't have a solution, but here is one idea. Allow importation of a product that competes not only in price but also in quality. Let me elaborate, the quality of cars from the big three lagged behind Toyota. So for Toyota to be able to import it must show competitiveness in quality that are manufacturer neutral. If Toyota exceeds by a certain say 20% then they could be allowed to import, else they will be imposed tariffs. This will promote quality and give domestic sufficient time to either ramp up or go out of business. In the end consumers will benefit including workers as I believe this is a fair proposal.
I am sure there are other proposals that are equally good and attractive.
Let's not forget carried interest as capital gains, and a return to Kennedy or even Reagan era federal income tax rates.
3
Too little, too late. And none of that will ever happen unless the Democrats once again control the White House and both houses of Congress. And how in the world is that going to happen with an insolvent DNC and party leadership that has forgotten that charisma is the thing candidates need to win elections? This message and this messenger will do absolutely nothing to get even one more voter to the polls. Sadly, there is only one progressive voice in this country that resonates. His name is Bernie Sanders.
5
Raising the minimum wage is pretty basic, but we'd have to spike it 1000% for any of those workers to be able to rent a 1 BR in New York or San Francisco. The most fundamental problem we have is the tax structure, that allows billionaires (with a giant societal footprint) to get off without paying taxes while the people who work for them are on the hook. Only when we return to a steep progressive tax will rich people stop weighting the market towards the ridiculously high end by dint of outbidding the working class on everything.
we can't continue with a totalitarian capitalism that pays congress for what it wants, while we, the people, go unheard. to achieve that parity, we need public campaign financing.
we can't continue with a totalitarian capitalism that pays congress for what it wants, while we, the people, go unheard. to achieve that parity, we need public campaign financing.
8
Finally, an adult in the room. Even if the Senator's "better deal" is visionary at this point, a voice of reason, thoughtful consideration and forward-thinking is so much more "of service". Which is our elected representative's job, right? Such a refreshing contrast to the daily childish rants at ghosts in the machine from our 140-character junkie President. Thank you, Senator Schumer!
3
Sen. Schumer, if you really want to offer a Better Deal that invokes FDR's legacy, get people involved and inspired. Propose an infrastructure bill offering kids fresh out of high school well-paying work that also makes the country better.
5
I would be less cynical if the Democrats, and Mr. Schumer in particular, had arcitulated a counterproposal to the Republicans' disastrous healthcare bills. It really shouldn't be as difficult as the two parties are making it. It isn't as simple as "Medicaid for all" but it could be very close:
1. Make Medicaid available to everybody who wants to buy it, retaining the current subsidies for those of low income
2. Private insurance can still coexist, and if private insurers are more efficient than our supposedly big and bloated government, then they can make a pretty penny
3. Private insurers can also offer policies that go beyond the preventive and critical coverages in Medicaid
4. Nobody would have to purchase insurance, but if they ended up needing healthcare and couldn't afford it, they would be automatically enrolled in Medicaid, having to pay back premiums and a 10% penalty for not already participating
5. Medicaid could negotiate prices just like any private insurer. Prescription drugs could be reimported from countries where they are sold at lower costs. And so on.
See? It isn't that hard. It just takes political will, which has been sorely lacking.
1. Make Medicaid available to everybody who wants to buy it, retaining the current subsidies for those of low income
2. Private insurance can still coexist, and if private insurers are more efficient than our supposedly big and bloated government, then they can make a pretty penny
3. Private insurers can also offer policies that go beyond the preventive and critical coverages in Medicaid
4. Nobody would have to purchase insurance, but if they ended up needing healthcare and couldn't afford it, they would be automatically enrolled in Medicaid, having to pay back premiums and a 10% penalty for not already participating
5. Medicaid could negotiate prices just like any private insurer. Prescription drugs could be reimported from countries where they are sold at lower costs. And so on.
See? It isn't that hard. It just takes political will, which has been sorely lacking.
6
I sure hope that you mean Medicare. Medicaid, as it is, is not an insurance that most Americans would willingly tolerate.
1
"We also failed to communicate our values to show that we were on the side of working people, not the special interests. We will not repeat the same mistake."
I'm afraid you just did repeat the same mistake: by not endorsing single-payer healthcare as a centerpiece "bold" new and improved Democratic platform, you demonstrate that the health insurance industry still has the Democratic Party squarely in its pockets.
I'm afraid you just did repeat the same mistake: by not endorsing single-payer healthcare as a centerpiece "bold" new and improved Democratic platform, you demonstrate that the health insurance industry still has the Democratic Party squarely in its pockets.
11
At some point we are going to have to stand up for what is right, not what we can get done or what is expedient. Trumpsters have shown us that being reasonable loses to bold claims, no matter how dishonest or hard to achieve.
I'm an old fashioned liberal who is sick and tired of blaming victims for what Republicans have done who switched from Bernie to Hillary last year. But even I am fed up with compromising and careful planning.
Hillary had baggage and was treated unfairly in a big way, Russians helped by Berniebuster and trolls destroyed trust in our communities, but also her careful reasonable planning and ideas were not good enough.
When it comes time to do battle on "the hill" it will be time for pragmatism and making the best of things. Now is the time for big dreams and good ideas.
We cannot survive without these ideals: the environment will destroy us if we don't act big and soon for real clean renewable energy, and what a jobs program that will be! We need clean air, water, and earth.
We need universal health care, single payer, with the power over profiteers that brings.
We need a living wage for all full time employees, and if that means cutting top wages down to what they were a generation ago, nobody will suffer except the purveyors of useless luxury goods. Remove the regressive cap on FICA.
We need universal public education, free to all, so everyone has an equal chance to succeed.
Enough havering. Corruption is intolerable.
Ideals please!
I'm an old fashioned liberal who is sick and tired of blaming victims for what Republicans have done who switched from Bernie to Hillary last year. But even I am fed up with compromising and careful planning.
Hillary had baggage and was treated unfairly in a big way, Russians helped by Berniebuster and trolls destroyed trust in our communities, but also her careful reasonable planning and ideas were not good enough.
When it comes time to do battle on "the hill" it will be time for pragmatism and making the best of things. Now is the time for big dreams and good ideas.
We cannot survive without these ideals: the environment will destroy us if we don't act big and soon for real clean renewable energy, and what a jobs program that will be! We need clean air, water, and earth.
We need universal health care, single payer, with the power over profiteers that brings.
We need a living wage for all full time employees, and if that means cutting top wages down to what they were a generation ago, nobody will suffer except the purveyors of useless luxury goods. Remove the regressive cap on FICA.
We need universal public education, free to all, so everyone has an equal chance to succeed.
Enough havering. Corruption is intolerable.
Ideals please!
6
Please note, I am a big fan of Bernie's ideals and his more reasonable followers. When I say "Berniebusters" I mean the ones who are full of hate and "my way or the highway," and who blame Democrats for what Republicans have done. The diehards who voted for awful Jill Stein (and there's an autocratic powermonger) or wrote in Bernie in the face of Trump. I simply don't believe anyone who shared Bernie's ideals could vote for Trump.
That said, I have shifted ever more towards insisting that we aim high and stop compromising.
The planet demands it. Our very survival demands it. Compromising has not worked, it's just helped Republicans move the goalposts.
But fighting with each other solves nothing and helps the real villains.
That said, I have shifted ever more towards insisting that we aim high and stop compromising.
The planet demands it. Our very survival demands it. Compromising has not worked, it's just helped Republicans move the goalposts.
But fighting with each other solves nothing and helps the real villains.
1
If you think Hillary was treated unfairly, take a good long look at how unfairly Bernie was treated! Far, far, worse!
3
Where's the beef? This is bold? Same old same old. Raising minimum wage to one value makes no sense because of widely different cost of living in different parts of the country. Why not listen to working people and cut their taxes? That will raise their income and decrease their costs. Dems need to fight for something useful that people want, and avoid the tax and spend label. Tax reform will solve the income inequity problem, and avoid more handouts to people who don't work (issue for working people who have to make big sacrifices to raise families). We need new younger Dem leadership that is not so comfortable and will actually stand and fight for important issues, including healthcare, education, tolerance, etc.
2
Hopefully, Schumer's column is more than rhetorical window dressing and represents instead a turning away from the failed Clintonian neoliberal wing of the Democratic Party to embrace what Bernie Sanders has been saying for many years. We outsiders have been aware that since the election there has been an intense debate with the Party establishment as to what direction to take. Hopefully, it will embrace a new, badly needed political language that unites rather than divides and seeks to help all who have been left out and left behind, a language that includes economic justice issues in the New Deal tradition but that also modernizes it by incorporating the social justice gains and goals of the past 50 years. They need not automatically be pitted against each other, even though many of Hillary's top operatives attempted to do just that during her campaign. It cost her a lot of votes.
3
Please, no more fancy talk. No more: us vs them, no more "better deals" and new visions. Give us A VISION! Get to the core and make it easy to understand: Single-payer Medicare for all. Living wages and good education, including college. Programs to help small businesses stay alive. Election by popular vote. The first is probably enough to get you guys into office.
8
articulate a vision ...fine. but don't promise particular actions that may not be possible. strategy to get towards the vision i fine. promises are not.
2
You omitted the big one: de-corrupting our tax system's bias against people who earn their money, by working.
Money people get by earning it, by working, is taxed far worse than money rich folks get by idling in their yachts while their money earns for them. And far worse than money rich folks get by idling in their yachts receiving inheritances.
Pass this law: Money people get by earning it, through working, cannot be taxed worse than money people get in other ways.
Money people get by earning it, by working, is taxed far worse than money rich folks get by idling in their yachts while their money earns for them. And far worse than money rich folks get by idling in their yachts receiving inheritances.
Pass this law: Money people get by earning it, through working, cannot be taxed worse than money people get in other ways.
13
Sounds like uninspiring lip service to me. It's as if the Dem's finally realized they alienated a huge chunk of the American population (i.e. white working class) through identity politics and cultural elitism, and is now saying "but really, we're on your side!". Schumer seems to grudgingly accept the fact that his party still has to cater to this demographic. My question is whether the Dem's truly believe what they are saying?
6
Well, let's hope he is sincere; who else is there? The Republicans have demonstrated to almost everyone's satisfaction, that they represent only the big donors...
4
Know what would reduce costs for everyday americans?
SINGLE PAYER.
SINGLE PAYER.
16
Several writers in the liberal online press have recently asserted that Democrats should not chase after the white working class with economic palliatives as they are primarily motivated by social issues, racism in particular. They assert that Democrats should concentrate on turnout with their base. While I think this line of thinking is in many aspects correct, I reject the concept that the party should not seek economic justice for the working classes regardless of race. In fact, the party should do and is capable of doing both economic progress and turnout.
5
Senator, this is really thin stuff. The Democratic Party does not have a narrative or even counter-narrative. Unless we start rethinking who we are and what we stand for, instead of just Trump bashing and letting the Republicans define the debate, we will continue our decline into terminal irrelevance.
JD
JD
10
Can you just read the article? This is literally him laying out a narrative for the party that doesn't involve Trump bashing or letting the Republicans define the debate. It's literally that exact thing you're bashing it for not being.
1
I went back to The Communist Manifesto of 1848 (in English and German, just to be sure) and, working forward from there, I could not find another instance of the left-leaning leading political party of a Western democracy abandoning the working class as did the Democrats under the leadership of Hillary Clinton in 2016. She huddled with wealthy donors in the Hamptons while her rival was speaking to the hearts and souls of working families. She got the support of big business, the political elite (on both sides!), academia, every major newspaper save one, and of course, Wall Street. When speaking of members of the working class, she called a large, undifferentiated mass of them a "basket of deplorables" but got specific about an entire line of business: "We are going to put a lot of coal miners and coal companies out of business." After being seen for generations as the party of working families, the Democratic Party has a very long way to undo the damage Clinton caused it in just a few short months.
11
If Trump spoke to the heart and soul of the working class then we have a bigger problem than Hillary Clinton and her rich friends in the Hamptons. Trump makes no secret of his affinity for the rich and powerful. He hangs out with them all the time. In fact he takes the country's business to Florida so he can entertain his hotel guests. Keeps the rooms filled and the restaurant busy if "Mr. President" is in house. And while he might have "spoke" to the white middle class's issues he did not do so with integrity and workable solutions. He didn't call them deplorable, he said I love the uneducated. And they cheered. A few months later when he appointed yet another billionaire unqualified to his cabinet he said "why not? Rich is better than poor, don't you think?'
Trump is an empty promise, a fraud and imho, mentally ill. his only good is to those power people, including McConnell, Ryan, Koch Bros, and pious Pence who rode him to power. But chaos planned is still chaos so now it's all as crazy as many of us thought it would be after his election. The difference is the curtain is pulled back and we see politics for the sham it has become. Maybe now we can hold these "public servants" accountable.
Trump is an empty promise, a fraud and imho, mentally ill. his only good is to those power people, including McConnell, Ryan, Koch Bros, and pious Pence who rode him to power. But chaos planned is still chaos so now it's all as crazy as many of us thought it would be after his election. The difference is the curtain is pulled back and we see politics for the sham it has become. Maybe now we can hold these "public servants" accountable.
This is far dimmer proposal on jobs than FDR's Second Bill of Rights from 1944, and Senator Sanders said he drew inspiration from that Second Bill in his Georgetown speech in late 2015.
This is also far removed from the decent, if truncated proposal put forth by the Center for American Progress for their Ideas Conference in May of this year, calling for the right to a job for those without a college degree, based on the Marshall Plan and the WPA.
Senator, surely you must be aware that labor's share of national income has been shrinking dramatically since its peak in the late 1960's, corporations are awash in profits, and they look around the world for the cheapest labor, and don't seem to care about investing in those parts of the U.S. that need the most help: urban ghettos, Red State rural America, and the older poor suburbs like Ferguson. If the U.S. Armed Forces can train the nation's high school graduates to learn sophisticated electronic systems, surely our vaunted private sector can do the same.
As for small businesses and job training, wouldn't the cost of expanding their work forces be covered in all the many programs to extend them lending upon submitting a convincing 5 year plan?
Instead, we need a new Civilian Conservation Corps and WPA to address all the work that the private sector won't undertake, and to hire the millions with former drug and prison records, who deserve a second chance.
This is also far removed from the decent, if truncated proposal put forth by the Center for American Progress for their Ideas Conference in May of this year, calling for the right to a job for those without a college degree, based on the Marshall Plan and the WPA.
Senator, surely you must be aware that labor's share of national income has been shrinking dramatically since its peak in the late 1960's, corporations are awash in profits, and they look around the world for the cheapest labor, and don't seem to care about investing in those parts of the U.S. that need the most help: urban ghettos, Red State rural America, and the older poor suburbs like Ferguson. If the U.S. Armed Forces can train the nation's high school graduates to learn sophisticated electronic systems, surely our vaunted private sector can do the same.
As for small businesses and job training, wouldn't the cost of expanding their work forces be covered in all the many programs to extend them lending upon submitting a convincing 5 year plan?
Instead, we need a new Civilian Conservation Corps and WPA to address all the work that the private sector won't undertake, and to hire the millions with former drug and prison records, who deserve a second chance.
9
Perhaps Mr. Schumer along with his Congressional members can get companies like Apple to stop hording cash and bring back manufacturing to the US. Now that would be an accomplishment.
Yeah, I know, those jobs are gone and not coming back. So much for American exceptionalism.
Yeah, I know, those jobs are gone and not coming back. So much for American exceptionalism.
5
We've heard this before when Democrats want power and think they can fool the people who's intelligence they have no respect for. Anyone over age 50 knows how much better economically the country was just 30 years ago. In the 1980s my parents were able to send me to college at a reasonable price no loans need. A four year degree at a state college cost about $6000 total in the 1980s. That's tuition, room and board over the entire four years. Much of the damage that has been done to the country is the direct result of the policies of the elites in Washington of both parties. Elites who have allowed the country to be flooded with illegal aliens. Illegal aliens who take much more out of the country then they give. Illegal aliens who are subsidize through lower wages, higher taxes, higher insurance premiums paid for primarily by the middle class. That will not be fixed by a crummy $15 hr minimum wage which will just lead to higher unemployment for low skilled workers. You will increase the wages of citizens naturally by reducing the labor pool by driving illegal workers out of the country while stopping more from flooding in. Adults know that nothing in this life is free somebody ends up paying. For too long that has been the middle class and people are tired of it. That's why we now have POTUS Trump.
5
That is so naive and unaware of the real situation. Farmers have been losing immigrant work, raising salaries, but no Americans want to do the hard work that mostly Mexican do. That is just ONE example among many. Consider getting off your high horse anti-immigrant speech and looking at the real world, please.
1
Only 5% of illegal aliens are working in agriculture the rest are working in fields like construction. Construction is one of the fields low skilled White and Black workers used to work in. Now illegal aliens are working in those jobs while undercutting the wages of law abiding American workers. That benefits big business and the elite politicians in Washington in both parties. It hurts the working class who end up subsidizing illegal workers. When I was growing up teens could actually get jobs after school to pay for things like cars and clothes on their own. My older brother worked for a while cleaning out stables at the local racetrack. That is perfectly acceptable work for a teen looking for extra money. My brother purchased a used car with his after school money. I got my first job at age 16. Now illegal aliens who have no right to even be in this country or work at any job are in those jobs. Plenty of Americans often teens used to work at those jobs. It is a lie that Americans won't do those jobs. Anyone over 50 who grew up in this country knows that.
This is wonderful and I hope you can do it.
One thing you left out however, is how do we fight the enormous, undisclosed dark funds that PACS and corporations can bring to this battle?
Campaign fund reform won't do it, because any reform law can be cancelled the next time the "bad guys" come into power. Instead, we need a constitutional amendment that does 3 things:
1. It cancels Citizens United and states a corporation has no citizen rights. Because right now, any rich man who owns corporate stock has, in effect, more than one vote. He has his own, plus a fractional vote proportionate to the amount of stocks he owns.
The law should declare that each and every US citizen gets *one* vote--no more, no less.
2. It limits the campaign funds that any citizen can donate to an amount linked to what the poorest citizen can donate. Say $50 per year? (adjustable for inflation).
3. It provides a way for candidates to access free television coverage, once they have proved by citizen signatures that they are viable candidates. They don't need to raise millions, and become beholden to funders with agendas; air time is given them for free.
4. The whole danged campaign is limited to 6 months. Elected officials should be governing, not perpetually campaigning.
Add this amendment to your platform and you've got something we can all vote for.
One thing you left out however, is how do we fight the enormous, undisclosed dark funds that PACS and corporations can bring to this battle?
Campaign fund reform won't do it, because any reform law can be cancelled the next time the "bad guys" come into power. Instead, we need a constitutional amendment that does 3 things:
1. It cancels Citizens United and states a corporation has no citizen rights. Because right now, any rich man who owns corporate stock has, in effect, more than one vote. He has his own, plus a fractional vote proportionate to the amount of stocks he owns.
The law should declare that each and every US citizen gets *one* vote--no more, no less.
2. It limits the campaign funds that any citizen can donate to an amount linked to what the poorest citizen can donate. Say $50 per year? (adjustable for inflation).
3. It provides a way for candidates to access free television coverage, once they have proved by citizen signatures that they are viable candidates. They don't need to raise millions, and become beholden to funders with agendas; air time is given them for free.
4. The whole danged campaign is limited to 6 months. Elected officials should be governing, not perpetually campaigning.
Add this amendment to your platform and you've got something we can all vote for.
2
What about single payer? What about cutting the bloated military budget and putting that money into education and curing disease? Vocational education and high tech manufacturing? What about term limits and public funding of elections? This is a good start Senator, but only a start. Be bold and let's get the USA going in the right direction.
9
As a 75 year old lifelong Democrat, I say the older leadership needs to step side, quickly. As a party with the historical record of bringing forth all the major pieces of progressive social policy, Schumer's statement lacks fire, imagination and a sense of commitment. Where is the call for universal health care, drastically simpler and more equitable tax policy, and abolishment of the Electoral College. Come on young Democrats your time is now. Believe in something other than chasing campaign contributions.
14
Agree! But I do still believe that Bernie speaks for young and old. But we need more young progressives, of whom we have seen many, come on out an RUN!
2
A start but much too timid. Start with reforming election contributions so that those elected are not beholden to corporate interests rather than the interests of all Americans. Add universal health care, increased minimum wage, affordable education, infrastructure, improved international relations etc. The democratic party needs to stop being afraid to anger the corporate sponsors who donate big money to their elections, this is what is keeping most democrats and republicans from working for the people of America.
4
Chuck, who knew governing could be so hard? I’m an independent and need Democrats to remove the current Republican Party. I need you to be what Trump, McConnell and Ryan aren’t. I need integrity, deep understanding of issues, transparency and the courage to admit the nasty truths voters may not want to hear. I’m hopeful there is more to this vision than once again throwing around money we don’t have. Admit that fiscal conservatives aren’t wrong to be concerned about the egregious debt we’ve amassed, they are wrong if their answer is a mean-spirited plan to take away from ordinary citizens useful needed social programs. Explain that properly managed universal healthcare will improve quality of coverage, significantly reduce costs and result in a more productive work force. How we can eliminate fraud in and outside of government. That without damaging our defense, we can reduce the ridiculous military spending and stop fighting unnecessary, ill advised wars. Streamline the tax system through simplification, elimination of many deductions and bravely touching the third rail by taxing the ultra-wealthy to fund programs for those through no fault of their own are not able to meet their basic needs. Have faith in the American people. Admit the hard truths along with your promises and ensure everyone will be treated fairly. By showing courage, help those Republican’s we used to respect find the courage to take back their party and together find the best vision and path for America.
8
You won't find any of what you want in the DNC and old guard Dems.
How will you do this without catering to big business interests yourself? Bernie did not accept any business donations for their campaigns. It seems awfully hypocritical to say you are going to change without making any real sacrifices on your part Senator?
Also, while I realize that you need to win over white working class voters. Please mention and assure people of color that we won't be killed by the police, deported without cause, live in fear because white supremacists control the government. Otherwise, you are not really courageous and this 'make government work for you' is basically a call for making it work for Washington insiders like you.
Also, while I realize that you need to win over white working class voters. Please mention and assure people of color that we won't be killed by the police, deported without cause, live in fear because white supremacists control the government. Otherwise, you are not really courageous and this 'make government work for you' is basically a call for making it work for Washington insiders like you.
8
All legislators are "Washington insiders" including your sainted Bernie. Time to wake up and stop blaming victims for what perps do. He's got good ideals, but he is not the perfection you aspire to, and has his normal share of human failings, including compromising to get what he can done. This blamefest is dangerous and misleading.
Shooting at each other will guarantee the Republicans win. Your ideals are admirable, but your hatred of allies is harming all of us, including yourself.
Shooting at each other will guarantee the Republicans win. Your ideals are admirable, but your hatred of allies is harming all of us, including yourself.
While I never saw fit to vote for a Democrat before 2016, I absolutely cannot since HRCs embrace of Sander's agenda.
Senator Schumer, we have to get this message out to all the people...especially, to people who don't read the NY Times. We can't keep singing to the choir. Yes, we need someone to throw us a life line. Single party payor healthcare should be written on that life line ring that the donkey is offering us. Add a living wage and a repaired/rescued USA. Keep Hope Alive....
3
I don't get it. This weekend, Mr. Schumer was all over the news shows bragging about his new "A Better Deal" position which the DNC will now be pushing. And then, surprise, surprise, Mr. Schumer has the leverage of a Op-Ed Contributor on Monday morning. I wonder what the level of "collusion" is between the Times and the Democratiic Party, but for them to claim anything else might warrant an investigation. Or is it only the magic names of Trump, Kushner and Sessions that warrant such things. It simply amazes me that Times readers never seem aware of this nonsense.
3
Talk about "nonsense"...what "collusion' are The Times and Schumer guilty of?? The Opinion Pages are just that....Opinions. So Schumer had the forethought to contact the NY Times Opinion Pages before he appeared on the talk shows over the weekend and asked them to print his piece for Monday's paper. BIG DEAL!! Are you upset that he has the forethought to plan ahead and be strategic about his messaging (something President Trump should try sometime)? OR that his message actually makes sense??
Speaking of arranging the deck chairs on the Titanic… THIS motto is all the communication passion and conviction that the Dems can generate??? Sad. I'm an old guy (as are the majority of DNC leadership) and it's clear that Chuck, Nancy, etc. refuse to let fresh voices into the mix.
Chuck’s “better deal” has the limp communication traction of someone who just discovers the “amazing” communications power of radio (it’s 2017, not 1933).
We're most likely heading for a tepid Dem win in 2018 followed by more losses in 2020 unless these purveyors of tired and flaccid messages (including sad puppet Perez) get their fingers out of the pie.
Chuck’s “better deal” has the limp communication traction of someone who just discovers the “amazing” communications power of radio (it’s 2017, not 1933).
We're most likely heading for a tepid Dem win in 2018 followed by more losses in 2020 unless these purveyors of tired and flaccid messages (including sad puppet Perez) get their fingers out of the pie.
4
All well and good until the identitarians start screaming that this plan is racist, transphobic, and ableist. Is the Democratic party going to stand up to them, or continue to pander? I wish the answer was in question.
2
So are we giving up defending minorities and
fighting racism and sexism?
I've been a lifelong democrat, but I think this is the wrong direction.
We didn't lose the election because we failed to win over the racist right. We lost because We couldn't energize the Black vote, the Latino vote and even women's votes. We don't know yet how much the Russian intervention cost us.
You're not going to win by abandoning your base and courting Trump's. I've already got one foot out the door. I still contribute to individual candidates, but I've stopped giving to the Democrats.
fighting racism and sexism?
I've been a lifelong democrat, but I think this is the wrong direction.
We didn't lose the election because we failed to win over the racist right. We lost because We couldn't energize the Black vote, the Latino vote and even women's votes. We don't know yet how much the Russian intervention cost us.
You're not going to win by abandoning your base and courting Trump's. I've already got one foot out the door. I still contribute to individual candidates, but I've stopped giving to the Democrats.
2
This is a good message, came on time, no doubt. But what people are looking for is, new breed of leaders. Democrats and independents want to see young and honest leaders that show that the party is reinventing itself. Without the face, for any political party, ideology is not enough to convert into votes; especially in these days of busy lifestyles and short news headliners.
1
Term limits and public financing of elections. Anything else/less is just rearranging the deck chairs of US democracy.
3
The moral and intellectual bankruptcy of the national Democratic Party leadership is on full display here in this piece from the Senate minority leader.
It is so blatantly obvious: the Democrats decided to abandon the poor and working class and middle class---basically everyone except a tiny economically thriving sliver of our populace--- in order to obtain and enjoy eliteness. And they cannot and will not let that identity go.
It's that simple!
The GOP has been evil for decades. No curing it. All it took was for the Democrats to abandon the moral high ground for us to bottom out. I guess they got tired of being the good guys.
So now what will roll back out of control executive pay, impotent unions, and oligarchic control of our governments at all levels? Revolution? Who has the stomach for that?
Game over, 'Merica.
It is so blatantly obvious: the Democrats decided to abandon the poor and working class and middle class---basically everyone except a tiny economically thriving sliver of our populace--- in order to obtain and enjoy eliteness. And they cannot and will not let that identity go.
It's that simple!
The GOP has been evil for decades. No curing it. All it took was for the Democrats to abandon the moral high ground for us to bottom out. I guess they got tired of being the good guys.
So now what will roll back out of control executive pay, impotent unions, and oligarchic control of our governments at all levels? Revolution? Who has the stomach for that?
Game over, 'Merica.
2
Nonsense seems to be Mr. Schumer's currency. Perhaps he is auditioning to be a writer on a show produced by his niece, Amy Schumer.
Three examples of many illustrates how Mr. Schumer and his Democratic Party cannot be trusted to offer a better deal.
In the deep economic ditch created by the 8-year term of the Bush43 administration the Democrats crafted a recovery plan that favored and fostered the banks & banksters. With Senate and House majorities, the Dems enacted that plan, to the pleasure and benefit of the banksters and other inhabitants of Wall Street.
What did the Democrats do for the far larger number of Americans who were damaged by the Bush43 wreckage? What did they do for the underwater homeowners whom Dubya drowned? What did they do for the large number of unemployed? The Democrats offered crumbs to Main Street and gold to Wall Street.
What criminal prosecutions did the Democrats undertake to punish the banksters who worked with Dubya? So few as to be forgettable, certainly far fewer prosecutions for financial crimes that for violations by immigrants of our immigration laws. Millions of our since-deported neighbors were rounded up and ripped from their families by Dems: what did immigrants do to create the Great Recession?
Last, Shirley Sherrod worked with acclaim in the USDA, but a Breitbart calumny convinced Obama to fire her summarily, all while he had a cold beer with a cop who had trashed a black man and scholar. Where were the Dems then?
Three examples of many illustrates how Mr. Schumer and his Democratic Party cannot be trusted to offer a better deal.
In the deep economic ditch created by the 8-year term of the Bush43 administration the Democrats crafted a recovery plan that favored and fostered the banks & banksters. With Senate and House majorities, the Dems enacted that plan, to the pleasure and benefit of the banksters and other inhabitants of Wall Street.
What did the Democrats do for the far larger number of Americans who were damaged by the Bush43 wreckage? What did they do for the underwater homeowners whom Dubya drowned? What did they do for the large number of unemployed? The Democrats offered crumbs to Main Street and gold to Wall Street.
What criminal prosecutions did the Democrats undertake to punish the banksters who worked with Dubya? So few as to be forgettable, certainly far fewer prosecutions for financial crimes that for violations by immigrants of our immigration laws. Millions of our since-deported neighbors were rounded up and ripped from their families by Dems: what did immigrants do to create the Great Recession?
Last, Shirley Sherrod worked with acclaim in the USDA, but a Breitbart calumny convinced Obama to fire her summarily, all while he had a cold beer with a cop who had trashed a black man and scholar. Where were the Dems then?
3
Dear Chuck--Your party has failed in so many ways other than for the American worker. Healthcare and drug prices, Wall Street crime, Big banks, immigration, education, fracking and the environment, women's rights, CIVIL rights, foreign relations, NORTH Korea, the Middle East, ISRAEL. You don't seem to have an adequate position on ANY of these topics. Get busy. So, move over. Let more imaginative people run the party, for all our sakes.
3
He calls out drug prices specifically. I'm starting to wonder if people read the piece.
"In the last two elections, Democrats, including in the Senate, failed to articulate a strong, bold economic program for the middle class and those working hard to get there. We also failed to communicate our values to show that we were on the side of working people, not the special interests. We will not repeat the same mistake."
Chuck, Chuck, Chuck! Stop apologizing. And please, please, please figure out how to create a message that makes people feel Democrats are the answer to all their worries.
It's not "Raise the minimum wage to $15.00” What the heck can I do with $15.00? It's "Giving give you more purchasing power!"
It's not "A living wage." Who the heck wants to just live? It's "Helping you live the American dream again!"
Make up your own slogans - maybe you can hire one of those political slogan craters to craft your message. And while you’re at it - please get you people on the airwaves and in the papers. Have you given a press conference lately? If you have I haven't seen it or heard it. I listen to the news; I watch the news and read the NYT. The number of quotes from you or any other Democrats on any sort are carried in the new is, well, pretty non-existent. It can't be because the media doesn't ask. No, it's because Democrats have ceded the media landscape to Republicans.
And one last thing, Chuck - Single Payer Health CARE
Chuck, Chuck, Chuck! Stop apologizing. And please, please, please figure out how to create a message that makes people feel Democrats are the answer to all their worries.
It's not "Raise the minimum wage to $15.00” What the heck can I do with $15.00? It's "Giving give you more purchasing power!"
It's not "A living wage." Who the heck wants to just live? It's "Helping you live the American dream again!"
Make up your own slogans - maybe you can hire one of those political slogan craters to craft your message. And while you’re at it - please get you people on the airwaves and in the papers. Have you given a press conference lately? If you have I haven't seen it or heard it. I listen to the news; I watch the news and read the NYT. The number of quotes from you or any other Democrats on any sort are carried in the new is, well, pretty non-existent. It can't be because the media doesn't ask. No, it's because Democrats have ceded the media landscape to Republicans.
And one last thing, Chuck - Single Payer Health CARE
2
The Democrats refuse to face the reality that a lot of jobs don't justify surviving much less making a living. I am a 1099 contractor supervising contract workers at over a dozen client sites. None of us, myself included, can make a legitimate, business oriented argument for the minimum wage must less the $10 NY requires and certainly not $15. Fantasy thinking doesn't make it so.
Corey Robin is not impressed with Sen. Schumer's piece.http://coreyrobin.com/2017/07/24/the-democrats-a-party-that-wants-to-die...
I smell a 2020 bid....and a boost for 2018 dem candidates. Don't believe any of it will ever happen. Act on it & just maybe I'll believe it. signed: o, me of little faith.
Anent Mr. Schumer's notification of a restatement of his party's priorities, the Dems are test-marketing a new slogan: Better Jobs, Better Wages, Better Future. If they add Better Sex they'll really have something.
1
Thank you for the laugh!
Thank You Chuck!
Dems need a message!
Now is the time!
Dems need a message!
Now is the time!
1
But, what can you offer the distrustful, distopic and hateful among us. You know the types, Trump voters. The voters that despise themselves and want to drag everyone down. They are collective homophobic, racist and sometimes Christian. The point is that the views are we live in a dog eat dog world and it is every man for himself. No healthcare, no pity for the hungry and everyone must tote a copy of the Ten Commandments in their pocket. Maybe it is time to join the band of political power robbers and let the sloven and worthless be used and abused by the rich and powerful. Just stop caring exactly like the management foolish at Fox News and let propaganda rein in a new political system wherein Trump becomes the new norm of Federal power. Why bother?
That dog eat dog environment has given us the greatest economic power ever held by a nation and created companies that have and will continue to change the world. Do you think Apple would be the powerhouse it has become if Steve Jobs had been a nice guy?
American workers got a better deal last November 8th, Chucky. It's been abundantly clear, for years, the Democrats could care less about the American worker and their needs, and it certainly doesn't help when your anointed candidate goes around telling coal miners she will be putting them out of work. America has finally seen the Democrat party for what it is, a bunch of power hungry individuals more concerned with getting reelected and seizing power than solving real issues facing this country. Your "better deal' is nothing more than the rebranding of your failed ideas from the past and the American public is too smart to buy a used car from you again.
3
The American people voted blue in November.
Now, the Ds just need to message and frame it correctly.
1
A rather uninspiring agenda
How about real change that excites people creates jobs supports biomedical research pushes wealthy and corporations to invest in job creating endeavors promote renewable energy
What does the Democratic Party stand for that is original and exciting?
How about real change that excites people creates jobs supports biomedical research pushes wealthy and corporations to invest in job creating endeavors promote renewable energy
What does the Democratic Party stand for that is original and exciting?
"Rich people bad. Poor people good". Yes we all read Animal Farm.
1
Mr. Schumer, your party has let America down.
The GOP, as it is now, will turn America into a fascist, Christian-fundamentalist state. It has, with deliberate planning and grassroots activism, infiltrated government at all levels, from town clerk and librarian upwards. What have the Democrats been doing? Not much. Engaging in diffuse big talk. Pretending that crime is everyone else's fault. And who are our grassroots people, at least here in Brooklyn? People like Mathieu Eugene, who shows up for photo ops but otherwise can't be reached. People like Melissa Mark-Viverito, who thinks it's okay to urinate in public and squanders valuable time promoting a FALN terrorist.
When, seeing the handwriting on the wall in the early 1990s, realizing where the GOP was headed, I left the Republican party, I became an Independent. Even then, at least here in New York City, I wondered where the Democratic party was headed.
From at least the time of the Korean grocery-store boycott and the Crown Heights riots (with an astonishing acquittal for the killer of Yankel Rosenbaum), to last year's Bernie Sanders phenomenon of blowhard, untenable promises (not to mention a strange anti-Semitism from a Brooklyn boy), lots of us have been waiting for the Democratic party to return to some semblance of sanity.
That you are, even as you are, better than the Republicans isn't saying much in your favor.
The GOP, as it is now, will turn America into a fascist, Christian-fundamentalist state. It has, with deliberate planning and grassroots activism, infiltrated government at all levels, from town clerk and librarian upwards. What have the Democrats been doing? Not much. Engaging in diffuse big talk. Pretending that crime is everyone else's fault. And who are our grassroots people, at least here in Brooklyn? People like Mathieu Eugene, who shows up for photo ops but otherwise can't be reached. People like Melissa Mark-Viverito, who thinks it's okay to urinate in public and squanders valuable time promoting a FALN terrorist.
When, seeing the handwriting on the wall in the early 1990s, realizing where the GOP was headed, I left the Republican party, I became an Independent. Even then, at least here in New York City, I wondered where the Democratic party was headed.
From at least the time of the Korean grocery-store boycott and the Crown Heights riots (with an astonishing acquittal for the killer of Yankel Rosenbaum), to last year's Bernie Sanders phenomenon of blowhard, untenable promises (not to mention a strange anti-Semitism from a Brooklyn boy), lots of us have been waiting for the Democratic party to return to some semblance of sanity.
That you are, even as you are, better than the Republicans isn't saying much in your favor.
All Democrats have to do is get back to their New Deal roots. For inspiration, try Truman's "Fair Deal" SOTU address in 1949.
2
" ...a $1 trillion infrastructure plan
...lifting the minimum wage to $15
...providing paid family and sick leave."
So this is what Bernie gets in lieu of an apology? Co-opting his platform? Don't get me wrong, I think it would be a promising first step, one that can start us down the road to fixing some things. Yet, for the time being, I'll hold on to my spot among the incredulous. Are we supposed to believe that following two decades of impotence the Party has somehow rediscovered the courage equal to its convictions?
Your fecklessness, more than any other contributing factor, gave us Trump. You've created the scenario that puts us two Senate votes away from repealing the ACA. You've stood by while Vova Putin, despotic thug of a failed state, has us jumping at shadows. And now we're supposed to buy that ya'll have come to Jesus? You're ready to build bridges and pave roads, refresh our bank accounts, and help us raise our families?
Enough talk: do something. That "plain talker" in the White House says all sorts of neato stuff, too; I'm having a hard time hearing the difference. We want you to succeed - we need you to succeed. But do you have what it takes?
...lifting the minimum wage to $15
...providing paid family and sick leave."
So this is what Bernie gets in lieu of an apology? Co-opting his platform? Don't get me wrong, I think it would be a promising first step, one that can start us down the road to fixing some things. Yet, for the time being, I'll hold on to my spot among the incredulous. Are we supposed to believe that following two decades of impotence the Party has somehow rediscovered the courage equal to its convictions?
Your fecklessness, more than any other contributing factor, gave us Trump. You've created the scenario that puts us two Senate votes away from repealing the ACA. You've stood by while Vova Putin, despotic thug of a failed state, has us jumping at shadows. And now we're supposed to buy that ya'll have come to Jesus? You're ready to build bridges and pave roads, refresh our bank accounts, and help us raise our families?
Enough talk: do something. That "plain talker" in the White House says all sorts of neato stuff, too; I'm having a hard time hearing the difference. We want you to succeed - we need you to succeed. But do you have what it takes?
1
Nice talk Chuck, but it is all talk. Under a democratic President, for 8 years American workers got fleeced while you and the rest of the democratic leadership turned a blind eye to what was going on. The free money spigot was turned on for the wealthy to take advantage of and enrich themselves further while the working class without any capital invested underwent utter economic carnage. The stock market is up nicely thanks to the money looted from savers and retirees. The housing market is booming thanks to overseas buyers parking their cash here depriving American workers the opportunity to buy a home within their budget. How the heck did you guys not do anything to stop this? Is America for sale to the highest bidder the Amercan public be damned? And thanks to the sky high stock market which has delinked from the real economy long ago, a perception has been created that the economy is booming and therefore, renters must be made to pay a ransom every month to just keep a roof over their heads. Families are struggling to choose between paying rent or buying groceries. You and your colleagues are leeches all about yourselves. You seek votes from us not to help us but to realize your dreams, to walk on our shoulders to reach your goals.
Didn't the Dems just get their butts kicked nine months ago? They were doing so well since the election keeping quiet while the GOP implodes. Now Senator Schumer with this and Congresswoman Pelosi with a similar Op-ed in the Washington Post. The Dem leadership just can't get out of their own way. Who is driving this party? So out of touch. Hollow promises from both parties. The GOP seems to be able to deliver it in a way to get people to vote for them. We don't need Trump to tell us the Dems are boring. No wonder the Dems keep loosing. It's no wonder the average person feels that the government has very little worthwhile to offer. For the Dems it might be time to change the message and definitely time to change the mesengers.
It's about time!
Democrats rediscover worker's right. Too little, too late?
3
Not one word on addressing the affects of rampant illegal immigration on American workers.
My party still doesn't get it.
My party still doesn't get it.
7
Immigration should be monitored but limiting it is a form of protectionism and protectionism is never right.
The most adequate response to this thought is the word John Malkovich repeatedly shouted in "Burn After Reading".
Magic policies from the Democrats. The only thing they left out is that these huge spending programs will somehow reduce the deficit.
There are 535 members of Congress.
There are 540 billionaires in the U.S.
How much access or influence does the common man have with elected officials when there's more billionaires than there are members of Congress?
As long as Citizens United is law of the land, what are the real chances that members of Congress are going to be doing the will of the people?
There are 540 billionaires in the U.S.
How much access or influence does the common man have with elected officials when there's more billionaires than there are members of Congress?
As long as Citizens United is law of the land, what are the real chances that members of Congress are going to be doing the will of the people?
7
"There used to be a basic bargain in this country that if you worked hard and played by the rules, you could own a home, afford a car, put your kids through college and take a modest vacation every year while putting enough away for a comfortable retirement. In the second half of the 20th century, millions of Americans achieved this solid middle-class lifestyle. I should know — I grew up in that America."
If you were a white male you grew up in that America. If you were a female of any color you didn't grow up in that America although you were led to believe that things worked that way. And, in case you hadn't noticed Senator, things got much harder for working Americans after about 1974. Our wages didn't keep pace with the actual cost of living. Our country stopped investing in us. Businesses began to look at ways to not give us decent pay for hard day's work, to avoid giving us pensions, to avoid training us, to avoid hiring us.
Most of the people born on and after 1955 will not be able to have comfortable retirements. Single people, despite making more than their parents, have not been able to afford very much. Many Americans can't plan 6 months ahead much less for retirement because of the job market. The stress that produces is incredible. Once we reach 45 or 50 we can count on being downsized and on being unemployed for a long period of time at least once. Our politicians don't see that. In their eyes we're lazy. Wrong, THEY are lazy. Too lazy to care.
If you were a white male you grew up in that America. If you were a female of any color you didn't grow up in that America although you were led to believe that things worked that way. And, in case you hadn't noticed Senator, things got much harder for working Americans after about 1974. Our wages didn't keep pace with the actual cost of living. Our country stopped investing in us. Businesses began to look at ways to not give us decent pay for hard day's work, to avoid giving us pensions, to avoid training us, to avoid hiring us.
Most of the people born on and after 1955 will not be able to have comfortable retirements. Single people, despite making more than their parents, have not been able to afford very much. Many Americans can't plan 6 months ahead much less for retirement because of the job market. The stress that produces is incredible. Once we reach 45 or 50 we can count on being downsized and on being unemployed for a long period of time at least once. Our politicians don't see that. In their eyes we're lazy. Wrong, THEY are lazy. Too lazy to care.
11
Oh, Amen and then Amen again!
I am in this group; old enough to remember when employers saw their employees as an investment, not a liability. I've watched this change over the years, accelerating faster in the past few years. My children are both college educated, both working full time and then some, and both have told me that they have little hope for having much of anything in their future.
We are well on our way to serfdom. I hope, Mr Schumer, you can do something to stop it.
I am in this group; old enough to remember when employers saw their employees as an investment, not a liability. I've watched this change over the years, accelerating faster in the past few years. My children are both college educated, both working full time and then some, and both have told me that they have little hope for having much of anything in their future.
We are well on our way to serfdom. I hope, Mr Schumer, you can do something to stop it.
3
Senator Schumer :: You must implement single-payer health care option as part of your plan. If you leave this off the table, everything else is doomed. We are ready. We have been ready for a while. Do it.
8
Start now. If you’re thinking about next year’s elections, Democrats have to be able to make the case that they could do this, even some of this—with Republicans, with President Trump. That’s a case you can—and have to—prove now.
2
Reading many of these comments makes you wonder when writing whining, negative diatribes became a national pastime. I'm not sure politicians should bear all the blame if the electorate has so little to contribute to a discussion regarding the future of the country.
2
Senator Schumer rightly points to the failure of campaign finance that all of us who lived through Watergate can recall as one of its resulting initiatives. Now we see the consequences of untrammeled power from being the richest, regardless of an agenda or lack thereof. Why are so many people unemployed or underemployed? Precisely because of this swinish greed that sees no farther than its own snout. The social contract has been irreparably broken, the one that Schumer elaborates on where we went to work, took a vacation and saved, because unions are now largely a memory. The two-party system has a lot to answer for and one wonders only if the Democrats can deliver in the face of a recalcitrant fascist party that is in the ascendancy. Inevitably a class war along the lines of Venezuela must result.
4
This is all very good ... but it's also very "wonkish." Great ideas in a boring package. Listen up, Democrats! You gotta make this "sexy"! You gotta make this exciting to the voter! You gotta put an attractive face on this! And you gotta get a memorable slogan! "Democrats will offer a better deal" is a loser.
2
The battle for the hearts and minds of the voters is won on the ground, not on the Op-Ed pages. The Koch brothers have a year-round ground force in 35 states. Where are the Domcrats? If you want to know what your voters and potential voters care about, come and talk to us, rather than among yourselves.
4
Typing in small spaces is not my forte (aging eyes). There was no "almost pun" intended: the word is "Democrats." So, Democrats, please come talk to your hard-working volunteers on the ground, and help us help our party.
It's about time. Let's start hearing these policies sooner rather than later. Empowering Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices is long overdue. There are too many drug company lobbyists in Washington and Congress People have to stop being beholden to them. In fact there are to any unscrupulous lobbyists period with their bundles of cash and too many people ready to take it. It's disgusting.
1
This country needs an economic "Marshal plan" which is long over due. The country needs to adjust to the new reality of the twenty first century. Many politicians still live in an era when America was great. That era is over and we have to move forward and deal with the issues facing us, regardless how painful they are. Elected officials have to face their constituents and tell them what we need to do in order to move ahead.
Enough with promising fancy slogans before elections. That doesn't work any more. We live for the last three decades in a fools paradise and caused a twenty trillion dollar national debt.
Enough with promising fancy slogans before elections. That doesn't work any more. We live for the last three decades in a fools paradise and caused a twenty trillion dollar national debt.
3
You are in the minority of both houses of congress because as nefarious as Republicans are at least they practice what they preach. Democrats false pretenses have become increasingly suspect to the electorate and the mask has been falling for everyone to see.
The rank and file of the Democratic Congress supported almost unanimously a 2016 presidential candidate who was the embodiment of the errors you lament. Yet the party establishment set up the DNC machine to force that choice against the people's will.
You say, "Democrats have too often hesitated from taking on those misguided policies directly and unflinchingly — so much so that many Americans don’t know what we stand for. Not after today." Yet, the same machine is still in place. What if tomorrow never comes?
The rank and file of the Democratic Congress supported almost unanimously a 2016 presidential candidate who was the embodiment of the errors you lament. Yet the party establishment set up the DNC machine to force that choice against the people's will.
You say, "Democrats have too often hesitated from taking on those misguided policies directly and unflinchingly — so much so that many Americans don’t know what we stand for. Not after today." Yet, the same machine is still in place. What if tomorrow never comes?
3
Yada,Yada. Same tune new slogan.
This is why we need term limits. More independent house and senate members who are not beholden to lobbyists. Work for your citizens.
Both parties have to work together to improve healthcare, infustructure, and jobs. Nothing is getting done. It's a morass.
I don't want slogans.
This is why we need term limits. More independent house and senate members who are not beholden to lobbyists. Work for your citizens.
Both parties have to work together to improve healthcare, infustructure, and jobs. Nothing is getting done. It's a morass.
I don't want slogans.
1
This is a start, Mr. Schumer, but it is too meager.
Right now, let us buy cheaper Canadian drugs.
Right now, breakup more than price gouging corporations, breakup massive chain stores that prevent new small businesses from starting in old small towns.
Right now, offer free college tuition to those who qualify.
Mr. Schumer, this is not the LEFT speaking. This is the center of America crying out for fairness. We are being crushed by BIG MONEY, the same BIG MONEY that is shoving dollars into Democratic pockets.
Go big, Sir, or go back home.
Right now, let us buy cheaper Canadian drugs.
Right now, breakup more than price gouging corporations, breakup massive chain stores that prevent new small businesses from starting in old small towns.
Right now, offer free college tuition to those who qualify.
Mr. Schumer, this is not the LEFT speaking. This is the center of America crying out for fairness. We are being crushed by BIG MONEY, the same BIG MONEY that is shoving dollars into Democratic pockets.
Go big, Sir, or go back home.
5
So, what Party has been in power over the last 25 years that has led to the situation Schumer now want to fix? Most of the time it was the party of Schumer!
2
I don't remember the source but this sums up my opinion of this proposal;
Do it and then brag about it.
Do it and then brag about it.
3
For decades the open border Democrats have been cheering the arrival of tens of millions of immigrants. They have driven down wages , caused housing prices to soar (this is basic economics folks), and boosted corporate profits. Democrats stood by silently as American workers were forced to train their foreign H-1B replacements. They stood by silently as nominal wages for laborers who were roofers, gardeners, painters fell below those of the 1990s. They stood by silently as those laborers suddenly had to face housing prices that more than doubled since the 1990s. When workers complained, Democrats called them racists. Today Democrats are telling us that they suddenly care about American working men and women. They have not changed their position on open borders. Is this some kind of sick joke?
2
I agree. This is a desperate attempt to recover losses. Nothing more. I want to see a written statement on how to make amends for H1b abuses. I want to see immigration enforcement in general. I want to see abusers punished rather than celebrated as a result of their financial payments to politicians.
Show us the money, Chuck.
Show us the money, Chuck.
If American IT didn't feel it was entitled to six figures, there wouldn't be a demand for H1b.
1
I just spent yesterday reading Tom Frank's ("What's the Matter with Kansas") "Listen, Liberal: Whatever Happened to the Party of the People?" This article shows that the Democrats ARE NOW listening. And that the future belongs to them, and, again, to us, the whole, united American people! If you like what Schumer has to say, you MUST read Frank's book!
I don't believe a word Charles Schumer writes. This "better deal" is a desperate attempt at rebranding from failed party leadership amid poor fundraising. Schumer and Pelosi need to go.
7
The same tired all mundane agenda that only maintains society, it doesn't make great change or inspire the public.
What you need to say is.............We Democrats have been the traditional champions of all the people of America, and given the chance, we will attain new heights in elevating society to a new level of happiness and satisfaction, free of widespread strife and at peace with ourselves and the world.
How's that Senator?
What you need to say is.............We Democrats have been the traditional champions of all the people of America, and given the chance, we will attain new heights in elevating society to a new level of happiness and satisfaction, free of widespread strife and at peace with ourselves and the world.
How's that Senator?
1
I remember being a big fan of Chuck Schumer in the 90's but by 2000's did not trust him and one of the reason I would not donate a dime to Democrat Party. Is Schumer going back to his roots? How about Debbie Wasserman Schults or the Clinton's?
We all know to well that you won't be able to get anything done for the next 3 years unless we rid ourselves of outrageously corrupt republican party and their liar in chief.
I wish you well Chuck and hope that you be forceful with corporate media to allow you to get your message out. What you are suggesting is not in their best interest as I hope you will break up the corporate media strangehold on their message and bottom line. I want my local paper back, I want my local TV stations not to be micro managed by some conglomerate in NYC or DC.
It will be a hard task as not regulating and holding people and conglomerates responsbile or accountable has reached such unrealiability and dysfunction they will not go away quietly. These sycophants want it all and want to keep getting it all
We all know to well that you won't be able to get anything done for the next 3 years unless we rid ourselves of outrageously corrupt republican party and their liar in chief.
I wish you well Chuck and hope that you be forceful with corporate media to allow you to get your message out. What you are suggesting is not in their best interest as I hope you will break up the corporate media strangehold on their message and bottom line. I want my local paper back, I want my local TV stations not to be micro managed by some conglomerate in NYC or DC.
It will be a hard task as not regulating and holding people and conglomerates responsbile or accountable has reached such unrealiability and dysfunction they will not go away quietly. These sycophants want it all and want to keep getting it all
As asemicratic voter, I implore the party to find new leadership that can connect. Schumer's nasally Long Island-accented whine and Pelosi's hard left-coast diatribes are why the party is loosing the swing counties in national elections. It's not the politics, it's the messengers.
1
I'm a Pelosi constitutent and I want her to retire. She's boring - doing the same old thing and expecting a different result. We have to win the electoral college as well as the popular vote. Most state senates are now Republican - Bad!
Chuck and Nancy are too tired to yesteryears and deep disappointments. Young people are furious and debt ridden. Time for a REAL DEAL:
1. Medicare for all except those too poor will get Medicaid.
2. Jobs through infrastructure projects using materials made in America.
3. Jobs through financing highways in red states and blue states.
4. Jobs through improving our parks and other pubic resources.
5. Jobs through paid government service for young people who can't find jobs any other way by educationg and training - repaid with low interest which can be paid off early with no interest.
6. Jobs through grants to scientific research, measuring global warming throughout the world, teaching language (English, Spanish, Mandarin, etc. etc. - learning a foreign language expands the human mind).
Chuck and Nancy are too tired to yesteryears and deep disappointments. Young people are furious and debt ridden. Time for a REAL DEAL:
1. Medicare for all except those too poor will get Medicaid.
2. Jobs through infrastructure projects using materials made in America.
3. Jobs through financing highways in red states and blue states.
4. Jobs through improving our parks and other pubic resources.
5. Jobs through paid government service for young people who can't find jobs any other way by educationg and training - repaid with low interest which can be paid off early with no interest.
6. Jobs through grants to scientific research, measuring global warming throughout the world, teaching language (English, Spanish, Mandarin, etc. etc. - learning a foreign language expands the human mind).
1
Chuck, instead of saying what you're going to do, you should talk about what the Democratic party HAS done to support workers--because there is actually a lot ,but your party is rotten at tooting its own horn with a clear message. This is more of the same. You need to hammer on the successes of your party over the years and reiterate clear messages about the future. This comes across as phony. Sorry, but it does, even though I know you and your party are sincere about this.
Reading this presumed Democratic offer, there's a slight problem in getting back to the "basic bargain" of work hard, earn the American dream,. See if you can tell what that is from this executive summary: "we’re going to increase people’s pay, . . . we’re going to reduce their everyday expenses, . . . we’re going to provide workers with the tools they need for the 21st-century economy"
Indeed Sen Schumer employs that old McDonald's jingle "we do it all for you". He's not promising rewards for work, he's promising alot for nothing. The Dems will give you your free lunch--imparting precisely the image problem they face now. A different frame is desperately needed if my party--the one that only demagogues a little less than the Republicans--is to find some resonance with a majority of Americans.
How about if Dems show a bit more concern for people's concerns with taxation and government burdens, show how they're going to pay for their "free lunch" programs, show a clearer vision of our nation than "ask what your country can do for your" (ie, the reverse of Kennedy's truism)? Clarifying that "vision thing" could be the key to a new you, Mr. Donkey.
Indeed Sen Schumer employs that old McDonald's jingle "we do it all for you". He's not promising rewards for work, he's promising alot for nothing. The Dems will give you your free lunch--imparting precisely the image problem they face now. A different frame is desperately needed if my party--the one that only demagogues a little less than the Republicans--is to find some resonance with a majority of Americans.
How about if Dems show a bit more concern for people's concerns with taxation and government burdens, show how they're going to pay for their "free lunch" programs, show a clearer vision of our nation than "ask what your country can do for your" (ie, the reverse of Kennedy's truism)? Clarifying that "vision thing" could be the key to a new you, Mr. Donkey.
1
How about repealing Taft/Hartley - lets let workers have a voice in their workplace - trainings great but $15/ hour wont cut it alone
1
This is okay, the Dems do need to learn how to fight ... but ...
It offers lollies ... pay increases and expense reduction and education ...
Each of which is useful, to varying degrees.
I would much rather see some substance, substance that justifies those lollies in terms that will further help the median/average American without hurting the poor.
But mostly, I want to see push-back on the paradigms of planned obsolescence and inequality. Planned obsolescence feeds both our bloated Military-Industrial-Complex and the rape of Planet Earth's environment.
Actions that forward inequality have resulted in corporations being guaranteed the same rights as human beings and separate tax regimes; with human beings having the more onerous regime.
These push-backs would be a fine way to implement America's national mission. That mission is laid down in the first sentence of our Constitution: "to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity".
It offers lollies ... pay increases and expense reduction and education ...
Each of which is useful, to varying degrees.
I would much rather see some substance, substance that justifies those lollies in terms that will further help the median/average American without hurting the poor.
But mostly, I want to see push-back on the paradigms of planned obsolescence and inequality. Planned obsolescence feeds both our bloated Military-Industrial-Complex and the rape of Planet Earth's environment.
Actions that forward inequality have resulted in corporations being guaranteed the same rights as human beings and separate tax regimes; with human beings having the more onerous regime.
These push-backs would be a fine way to implement America's national mission. That mission is laid down in the first sentence of our Constitution: "to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity".
Now the democrats are deal makers. All I can envision is Schumer and Elizabeth Warren in a used car lot jovially walking up to anyone that walks onto the lot and saying, "Have I got a deal for you!"
This is not a vision, this is inctedibly poor, misguided marketing.
To add insult, it is based on what your country can do for you, it does not empower people. It's like Schumer and the DNC crones don't know that a great Democrat once said, "Ask not what your country could do for you...:
This is not a vision, this is inctedibly poor, misguided marketing.
To add insult, it is based on what your country can do for you, it does not empower people. It's like Schumer and the DNC crones don't know that a great Democrat once said, "Ask not what your country could do for you...:
2
Slogan for 2018
CONGRESS IS BROKEN.
TOGETHER WE'LL FIX IT!
CONGRESS IS BROKEN.
TOGETHER WE'LL FIX IT!
1
Finally, after close to 40 years of wrong wing Republican trick-[ling], a Democratic politician comes out of the closet favoring the little people workers.
With the promise of Trump trick-[ling] having dried up to "drip down economics", maybe voters will finally find they can't eat hate.
With the promise of Trump trick-[ling] having dried up to "drip down economics", maybe voters will finally find they can't eat hate.
1
All words... What have you said here that hasn't be said before? Where is your strategy? As a Democrat, I'm totally fed up and frustrated how you keep missing every opportunity to bring in the votes. Who's out there talking, educating and changing the minds of the people in the Rust Belt? You can't win only in the cities any longer. Get working!! As for the inner cities, still a lot of work to do to ensure black vote turnout. Yet, the DNC chair in his first effort to pitch an agenda and galvanize that base, atrociously exempt a huge and influential caucus: African-American Women. You still haven't find your strategy: Whatever happened to reform campaign finance? Do you honestly think you'll get anything accomplish in Washington if you keep money in the game?
1
I welcome these words, Mr. Schumer. Now here's your mission: Find an FDR as fast as you can. If you can't, don't let the DNC dump Sanders next time.
Thanks
-Rob
Thanks
-Rob
1
The best thing for the country would be if Schumer and Pelosi made room for new leadership in their party.
2
Chuck Schumer said recently that "single payer healthcare is not on the Democratic agenda."
Why not? This is clearly something the rank & file wants & now during the ghastly sinkhole of Trumpcare is a good time to start fighting for single payer. It may be a long time coming but if Schumer & Co. won't even introduce it into the equation it will NEVER happen.
This is one of the major problems that doomed HRC with many progressive democrats. There are millions of people in this country getting sick, losing their shirts & even dying in the current health care mess. Why won't Schumer & party leadership stick their necks out & support single payer?
Whose ties to special interests would be threatened if Schumer, & Pelosi tried to solve this eternal problem for us w/ our chaotic access to healthcare?
At this point, I'm so disgusted w/ the Democratic Party that I'm out. I've been a loyal Democrat for 50 years & done much for the party. But their gutlessness, lack of initiative & continual fealty to big money & corporate donors has left them unwilling to help the American people. Their current calling card against the GOP is: "at least we're not destructive psychos."
Why can't we ask more than this from Schumer, Pelosi & others who currently have a hammerlock on this party? Without new progressive leadership, I'm done.
Schumer should be ashamed of this warm bowl of gruel he's offering. No wonder Trump beat us.
fast/furious to Chuck Schumer: drop dead!
Why not? This is clearly something the rank & file wants & now during the ghastly sinkhole of Trumpcare is a good time to start fighting for single payer. It may be a long time coming but if Schumer & Co. won't even introduce it into the equation it will NEVER happen.
This is one of the major problems that doomed HRC with many progressive democrats. There are millions of people in this country getting sick, losing their shirts & even dying in the current health care mess. Why won't Schumer & party leadership stick their necks out & support single payer?
Whose ties to special interests would be threatened if Schumer, & Pelosi tried to solve this eternal problem for us w/ our chaotic access to healthcare?
At this point, I'm so disgusted w/ the Democratic Party that I'm out. I've been a loyal Democrat for 50 years & done much for the party. But their gutlessness, lack of initiative & continual fealty to big money & corporate donors has left them unwilling to help the American people. Their current calling card against the GOP is: "at least we're not destructive psychos."
Why can't we ask more than this from Schumer, Pelosi & others who currently have a hammerlock on this party? Without new progressive leadership, I'm done.
Schumer should be ashamed of this warm bowl of gruel he's offering. No wonder Trump beat us.
fast/furious to Chuck Schumer: drop dead!
1
"And so my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country" "If enacted"
1
Why doesn't Chuck come out and tell us what he is really for: a higher cost of living, higher unemployment, more people on the dole and higher taxes on the rich to pay for it all.
1
So we all know well what the republicans wish to do and here we finally hear from the other party, but all I see is a litany of complaint; "too late", "not enough", "wrong agenda", "blah, blah, blah". It seems none on this forum remember these words; "what can I do to help".
What we desperately need are comity & compromise. I'm willing
What we desperately need are comity & compromise. I'm willing
Stop all this social engineering nonsense. Big government got us in to this mess, and when you want to get out of a hole, the first thing to do is stop digging.
What caused this mess is the corporate mantra: "less regulation, lower taxes, fewer benefits, smaller government. The lower taxes meant bigger profits, more payola, more corruption. The fewer regulations meant environmental damage, infrastructure degradation, more monopoly. And today, fewer jobs and poorer pay with no benefits.
1
High time. Where the heck have you been? The airwaves are nonstop bluster from the Twit-in-Chief and GOP reptilian lies, but the only leadership we see from the Democrats is at the grassroots level, supporting local candidates and organizing meetings, marches, and rallies. Granted that it's an uphill battle when Democrats have no propaganda organ like Fox and when the mainstream media give legitimacy to the illegitimate with their misguided notion of false equivalency.
So, Chuck, this is a start. I want to see Democrats EVERY DAY and ON EVERY MEDIUM talking up the BETTER DEAL versus the GOP RAW DEAL and coming up with succinct, clever, memorable sound bites and slogans to highlight the differences between them. Hire writers from the Daily Show if you have to, but how hard is it to say, for example, "Health care is a right, not a privilege!" You don't have to be a comedian to get to "Trumpcare is one sick puppy."
So, Chuck, this is a start. I want to see Democrats EVERY DAY and ON EVERY MEDIUM talking up the BETTER DEAL versus the GOP RAW DEAL and coming up with succinct, clever, memorable sound bites and slogans to highlight the differences between them. Hire writers from the Daily Show if you have to, but how hard is it to say, for example, "Health care is a right, not a privilege!" You don't have to be a comedian to get to "Trumpcare is one sick puppy."
I am a lifelong Democrat and I've never been more put-out -- okay, disgusted -- with the DNC than now, so much so that I'm going to change my registration to Independent. All the big urban areas in TX are blue. There was an eminently qualified candidate for governor named Wendy Davis. They abandoned her. They abandoned Bernie Sanders. This article in PR nonsense. (I'd use a stronger word if I could) Until the Democratic Party get some leadership, some chutzpah, gets away from both coast and ventures, no matter how trembling, into states like TX, they are a crock.
2
Oh how nice this would be if it was true.
Frankly, Senator Schumer it is about time the you spoke up.
The democratic party must be proactive not reactive. You need to shout these values so all can hear. You need to tell the country you can fix Obamacare. Loudly! Rally the millions of people who will listen. Forget the Trump cult like base for now. First they have to understand that facts are facts and then you can have an opinion about an issue. Again I beg you to get our democratic message out to all.
The democratic party must be proactive not reactive. You need to shout these values so all can hear. You need to tell the country you can fix Obamacare. Loudly! Rally the millions of people who will listen. Forget the Trump cult like base for now. First they have to understand that facts are facts and then you can have an opinion about an issue. Again I beg you to get our democratic message out to all.
I am a life-long Democrat. My first vote was for Jimmy Carter in 1975. I have voted straight D all my life, until 2016. My black pen hovered over Clinton's name in the voting booth, but I just couldn't bring myself to make the mark. It had nothing to do with Comey, or emails, or Trump, or wikileaks, or DCLeaks.
I lived through the Clinton presidency and saw betrayal after betrayal of my party "values,"-- The Telecommunication Act of 1996; the vindictive welfare reform so punitive to minorities; the crime bill that gave us the disparity sentencing for crack and powder cocaine; The Gramm–Leach–Bliley Act, also known as the Financial Services Modernization Act of 1999, that destroyed Glass–Steagall. These are the things that went through my head in the voting booth, fairly or unfairly, and ultimately made the decision for me. In the end I wrote in Giant Meteor-- before anyone goes nuts, I live in Texas where a vote for Hillary would have meant little to nothing nyway.
I have become one of the most vocal critics of my own party, vowing to listen to my party leaders only when they started listening to me again. This is good step in the right direction, and I'm listening again. I'll also be watching. I want you to win me back, but I'll never make the same mistake of blindly voting for a Dem because... D. I want us to win, but I want us to win for the right reasons-- a vision for America that will give my children a better future.
Give them a better deal.
I lived through the Clinton presidency and saw betrayal after betrayal of my party "values,"-- The Telecommunication Act of 1996; the vindictive welfare reform so punitive to minorities; the crime bill that gave us the disparity sentencing for crack and powder cocaine; The Gramm–Leach–Bliley Act, also known as the Financial Services Modernization Act of 1999, that destroyed Glass–Steagall. These are the things that went through my head in the voting booth, fairly or unfairly, and ultimately made the decision for me. In the end I wrote in Giant Meteor-- before anyone goes nuts, I live in Texas where a vote for Hillary would have meant little to nothing nyway.
I have become one of the most vocal critics of my own party, vowing to listen to my party leaders only when they started listening to me again. This is good step in the right direction, and I'm listening again. I'll also be watching. I want you to win me back, but I'll never make the same mistake of blindly voting for a Dem because... D. I want us to win, but I want us to win for the right reasons-- a vision for America that will give my children a better future.
Give them a better deal.
2
IAT!! Bernie and Liz have had an impact. If Chuck is pushing it, it will move forward -- at least a step or two.
It's sad that we had to have a narcissistic ignoramus as president to trigger this. For too long, the rich have dictated the policies of both parties.
It's time to stop MRGA and focus on the vast majority of Americans who should have a say.
It's sad that we had to have a narcissistic ignoramus as president to trigger this. For too long, the rich have dictated the policies of both parties.
It's time to stop MRGA and focus on the vast majority of Americans who should have a say.
1
OK Senator Schumer
TIme for you to stop taking Wall St money and cozying up to them under the guise of better business for NYC. I'm asking you ( and all Democrats) to put your money where your mouth is - that would be a start.
TIme for you to stop taking Wall St money and cozying up to them under the guise of better business for NYC. I'm asking you ( and all Democrats) to put your money where your mouth is - that would be a start.
What an utter pile of horse manure. Blah blah, blah.
"own a home, afford a car, put your kids through college and take a modest vacation every year while putting enough away for a comfortable retirement" You're not doing all of that on much less than $200,000 a year around here. The minimum wage is irrelevant. In any case, in Leave it to Beaver days minimum wage was for high school students, not home owning, college kid raising, vacation taking head of households. It is middle class salaries that have stagnated as many jobs have evaporated and lower priced labor has multiplied.
Everything Schumer proposes will only increase the burden on what is left of the middle class.
"own a home, afford a car, put your kids through college and take a modest vacation every year while putting enough away for a comfortable retirement" You're not doing all of that on much less than $200,000 a year around here. The minimum wage is irrelevant. In any case, in Leave it to Beaver days minimum wage was for high school students, not home owning, college kid raising, vacation taking head of households. It is middle class salaries that have stagnated as many jobs have evaporated and lower priced labor has multiplied.
Everything Schumer proposes will only increase the burden on what is left of the middle class.
1
The Democrats:
"Your faceless corporate overlords have agreed to loosen the bear trap around your neck by up to 5%!"
"Your faceless corporate overlords have agreed to loosen the bear trap around your neck by up to 5%!"
2
My advice, Senator, go bold and go focused..."Medicare for all" first, and all else will follow. You want to reduce medical administrative cost...Medicare for all, you want to reduce provider cost...Medicare for all, you want to reduce prescription drug cost...Medicare for all, you want to get everyone covered AND everyone paying their fair share...Medicare for all. You want to wrest legislative control away from the current band of narrow minded, short sighted Republican narcissists…Medicare for all!!!
2
Mr. Schumer,
The desperate voters and citizens bestowed the full control of the White House, the Senate and the House of Representatives upon the Democratic Party almost a decade ago...
What have you done to protect us when granted such an opportunity?
Nothing! Absolutely nothing!
Only the fools would let a snake from the same hole bite them twice...
This is an accurate statement regarding both the Democratic and the Republican Parties...
The desperate voters and citizens bestowed the full control of the White House, the Senate and the House of Representatives upon the Democratic Party almost a decade ago...
What have you done to protect us when granted such an opportunity?
Nothing! Absolutely nothing!
Only the fools would let a snake from the same hole bite them twice...
This is an accurate statement regarding both the Democratic and the Republican Parties...
1
Oh, I forgot, tax wealth, tax progressively and start a draft, that will immediately slow US military escapades. Ha! Not bloody likely
It was Chuck Schumer and the Dems whose mistaken gov't policies brought us to where we are now. Chuck wants us to accept his apology and let him and his Dem cronies try again. I don't think so. In last years presidential election Hillary and the Dems won 410 of the country's 3100 counties. The message was loud and clear...America wants change from the way Dems have been governing for 60 or 70 years, they want change from the admitted failure of Chuck Schumer's vision of what's good for America. Recent polls in Schumer's New York show his support is rapidly falling. Why is it so hard for libs to understand that Americans have experienced your failures and do not want your leadership anymore - they want you to shut-up and go away. You had a chance - many chances - and you blew it. It's over, you failed, you lost!
Ok, most sounds great. Two issues:
1) Where is Infrastructre?
2) $15 minimum wage is a job killer.
Otherwise, TACAMO . . .Take Charge and Move Out!!!
1) Where is Infrastructre?
2) $15 minimum wage is a job killer.
Otherwise, TACAMO . . .Take Charge and Move Out!!!
Dear Senator Schumer,
Like the poster that hung in Moulder's "X-Files" office said, "I WantTo Believe," but given the current political climate, I'm leaning more towards, "I'm from Missouri, SHOW ME!"
Respectfully,
Jeff (from Vermont).
Like the poster that hung in Moulder's "X-Files" office said, "I WantTo Believe," but given the current political climate, I'm leaning more towards, "I'm from Missouri, SHOW ME!"
Respectfully,
Jeff (from Vermont).
3
I think Amy Klobuchar is a great example of how to run a positive campaign. It is not good enough to merely be the party that is better than the other, which "a better deal" sounds like. :"Not Hillary" is not good enough. She did not respond to barbs and mud slinging. She just kept firmly stating what she WILL DO. And if we want to win back the people that were lost, we need to do the same. We need framing that is short and simple and includes not merely controlling prescription cost. We need to go full steam toward single payer. Other developed countries have it and their overall costs and quality of care is better. I would be glad to have taxes increase for things that help 100% of us. Such as HEALTH CARE, jobs, infrastructure and defense, with a more even handed distribution among these instead of such a huge portion going to the military. Having security about health care access and affordability will help all of us and removes the spectre of going broke over medical bills or choosing a job based on health benefits attached rather than the career on is most passionate about.
Samples:
1) "Health care for all"
2) "Workers deserve a Living wage"
3) "Tax reform for ALL incomes"/ "pay your fair share"
4) Equal rights for all Americans
5) The Economy should benefit us all
Samples:
1) "Health care for all"
2) "Workers deserve a Living wage"
3) "Tax reform for ALL incomes"/ "pay your fair share"
4) Equal rights for all Americans
5) The Economy should benefit us all
Does that mean the Democrats are going to stop taking money from the tech companies and no longer allow a tidal wave of low cost IT workers from primarily from India to continue to come over to the U.S. and destroy wages and put American citizens out of work?
When I hear Chuck talk about that I might start listening.
When I hear Chuck talk about that I might start listening.
We'll see. You would think that a bold claim, such as Senator Schumer's in this editorial, would be backed up with something more than a mild dose of "we get it".
The simple fact is that American Families don't have the "next several months" to wait for the Democrats to get it together.
Chuck: I suggest that you drop in on Bernie and get a copy of the playbook.
The simple fact is that American Families don't have the "next several months" to wait for the Democrats to get it together.
Chuck: I suggest that you drop in on Bernie and get a copy of the playbook.
3
Mr. Schumer,
If you want to do something that will truly help all American people, then put forth a motion for term limits for members of Congress.
If you want to do something that will truly help all American people, then put forth a motion for term limits for members of Congress.
1
Never happen. Most people will not cut their own revenue stream.
Nothing like another worn out, largely discredited public figure to present a half hearted plan with few specifics way way late in the game. Where's Hillary Clinton and Bill? That's what we need to re-energize the base. Let's try that again.
1
I am thrilled to read this piece by Sen. Schumer. I grew up in that same period of American greatness, when the middle class swelled in the middle years of the 20th century. In the 21st century, it is American inequality that grows, while the middle class erodes. China and India are the countries with booming middle classes. We need to create policies that offer opportunities for the MAJORITY of families in this country.
3
Chuckie, it's single payer or bust.
The ACA was a first step - but it's proved deeply problematic for many Americans (even if a majority prefer it to the abominations that Republicans are proposing).
However, what we need is a single payer system with a private option that will put an end to prescription drug price gouging, insurance company games, and the most inefficient health care system that money could buy.
If you're not getting on board the single payer locomotive, then you're not leading, you're just pandering on behalf of the usual suspects.
Elizabeth Warren in 2020.
The ACA was a first step - but it's proved deeply problematic for many Americans (even if a majority prefer it to the abominations that Republicans are proposing).
However, what we need is a single payer system with a private option that will put an end to prescription drug price gouging, insurance company games, and the most inefficient health care system that money could buy.
If you're not getting on board the single payer locomotive, then you're not leading, you're just pandering on behalf of the usual suspects.
Elizabeth Warren in 2020.
6
Very sad. This is the best Senator Schumer can do.
So let me summarize.
Spend, spend, spend ($1 trillion dollar infrastructure).
Increase the minimum wage at a time when results seem to show that workers take home less when such wages are imposed.
Increase the cost of business on small businesses by imposing paid leave so fewer workers will be hired and more companies may go out of business.
More regulations. Apparently the existing anti-trust laws aren't enough.
How about actually working with the Trump administration on those areas of common interest?
Infrastructure.
Lowering drug costs.
Trade and taxation.
I'd say Healthcare but Democrats seem to be willing to let Obamacare die and say it's the Republicans fault.
It's leadership like this that causes most people, on both sides of the aisle, to wish a pox on both your houses.
So let me summarize.
Spend, spend, spend ($1 trillion dollar infrastructure).
Increase the minimum wage at a time when results seem to show that workers take home less when such wages are imposed.
Increase the cost of business on small businesses by imposing paid leave so fewer workers will be hired and more companies may go out of business.
More regulations. Apparently the existing anti-trust laws aren't enough.
How about actually working with the Trump administration on those areas of common interest?
Infrastructure.
Lowering drug costs.
Trade and taxation.
I'd say Healthcare but Democrats seem to be willing to let Obamacare die and say it's the Republicans fault.
It's leadership like this that causes most people, on both sides of the aisle, to wish a pox on both your houses.
You had me at "special interests."
But until the horrible Citizen's United decision by the Supreme Court is reversed, this is a plutocracy, despite all the smoke, mirrors and sloganeering.
But until the horrible Citizen's United decision by the Supreme Court is reversed, this is a plutocracy, despite all the smoke, mirrors and sloganeering.
1
"Democrats will show the country that we’re the party on the side of working people". So he's saying that anyone not working will be ignored, and those who are working, such as hedge fund managers and Fortune 500 CEOs, will be supported. That's what he's saying with that statement, right?
Hey Mr. Schumer, stop emphasizing the articulation of a message and start actually doing some things that don't just benefit the banks, the war machine, the health care industry, and the fossil fuel industry. Then you won't have to be concerned with crafting your message. Word will get around.
2
Instead of platitudes, how about introducing in congress a specific bill to fix and make better health care that is nonpartisan, middle of the road and enjoys wide support among providers and insurance companies. Then voters could see better coverage and lower cost.
Reading these comments is disheartening. Surely we can all come together on something. The Dems aren't going to disappear (sorry Bernie fans and third party guys.) The R's are in another universe. The Dems (Schumer et al) have made a proposal that is a good start, but so much more is needed, kind of like the ACA. A real New Deal would also make climate change, and the radical change to a new economic model, its top priority. Unfortunately, he doesn't even mention this. Are they trying so desperately to attract Trump people that they can't mention climate change? For fear of what? The earth isn't going to pause for the Dems to get their act together. And, of course, no mention of racial justice, from police shootings of unarmed black men, to the obscene incarceration rates among minority populations. Economic justice is important, and so are many other issues, and Dems (especially all us little people) need to lead on all fronts. Justice for the Earth and the Humans that live on it. Let's make the Leap.
2
Again, Dems are still out of touch with reality and thats why we lost to a malignant narcissist who now runs our country like a banana-republic.
Dems need to fight fire,not with fire, but nuclear weapons. Dems need to rise up , take the higher road and establish the real agenda and policies, rather than be on the defensive by attacking the GOP or we will lose again and again.
'Better deal' is weak, unoriginal and reactionary to the bad deal we've been dealt with Trump.
Gotta do better than that.
Dems need to fight fire,not with fire, but nuclear weapons. Dems need to rise up , take the higher road and establish the real agenda and policies, rather than be on the defensive by attacking the GOP or we will lose again and again.
'Better deal' is weak, unoriginal and reactionary to the bad deal we've been dealt with Trump.
Gotta do better than that.
This is a start but too little too late. What should be top item is single payer health care. The Democratic leadership doesn't get it and because they are so disconnected they will again lose to anyone who is willingly to lie better than they do. For real change to come about the Democrats need to embrace health care for all as the top priority immediately and work for that change now as Republicans are imploding over the failed leadership of Trump Mcconnell.
2
Ironically, this commenter is 100% incorrect:
"Not a chance as long as Republicans control Congress..."
Keep in mind that it was the Democrats, not the Republicans, who cut a deal with the drug companies not to challenge drug prices if the drug companies would just stop opposing Obamacare. Now Chuck Schumer says Medicare should be unleashed to negotiate for better drug prices? How can Medicare do that without reneging on the Democrats' promise to the drug companies? Presumably that promise is somewhere in the Affordable Care Act, which means it will be there unless and until Republicans vote to remove it. I'm not sure the Republicans are different on this point, but at least we should stop pretending the Democrats didn't strike this deal with the drug companies.
"Not a chance as long as Republicans control Congress..."
Keep in mind that it was the Democrats, not the Republicans, who cut a deal with the drug companies not to challenge drug prices if the drug companies would just stop opposing Obamacare. Now Chuck Schumer says Medicare should be unleashed to negotiate for better drug prices? How can Medicare do that without reneging on the Democrats' promise to the drug companies? Presumably that promise is somewhere in the Affordable Care Act, which means it will be there unless and until Republicans vote to remove it. I'm not sure the Republicans are different on this point, but at least we should stop pretending the Democrats didn't strike this deal with the drug companies.
If you're going to scare the middle and upper middle classes, we had better be sure to excite the lower class enough to turn out.
I'm afraid this proposal does the former, without doing the latter.
People who vote frequently and the people who gave Trump and the special election candidates their edge are smart enough to figure out that the extra pay, reducing expenses via regulations agaisnt business, and cushier public healthcare options are going to be financed by them.
Meanwhile, the bulk of our support - poor minorities, the young, single mothers - are too burdened to be genuinely excited by such minor improvements to their lives.
I understand that really scaring the middle and upper middle classes with things like a promise to legalize all undocumented immigrants, the police calling a cease fire agaisnt black America, redistribution of resources, and Single Payer might seem risky. But proposing these things are essential if we're going to motivate the bulk of our base.
I'm afraid all this proposal does is try too hard to hold the middle of the road and not offend anyone. And as we all know, the only thing in the middle of the road is usually road kill. This "better deal" has me a little worried.
I'm afraid this proposal does the former, without doing the latter.
People who vote frequently and the people who gave Trump and the special election candidates their edge are smart enough to figure out that the extra pay, reducing expenses via regulations agaisnt business, and cushier public healthcare options are going to be financed by them.
Meanwhile, the bulk of our support - poor minorities, the young, single mothers - are too burdened to be genuinely excited by such minor improvements to their lives.
I understand that really scaring the middle and upper middle classes with things like a promise to legalize all undocumented immigrants, the police calling a cease fire agaisnt black America, redistribution of resources, and Single Payer might seem risky. But proposing these things are essential if we're going to motivate the bulk of our base.
I'm afraid all this proposal does is try too hard to hold the middle of the road and not offend anyone. And as we all know, the only thing in the middle of the road is usually road kill. This "better deal" has me a little worried.
I've read through many of the comments posted and there are two points that resonate strongly for me.
First, calling Medicare an EARNED benefit is a much stronger message than entitlement. When I read earned it made me fell stronger viscerally. The word entitlement makes me feel like an outsider and small, as if I were a lesser person. These are just gut feelings of course but aren't those the same feelings you want to instill in voters so they will get out and fight (vote) for their earned right?
Second I immediately sensed weakness in the phrase " if enacted"
All that sounds like is a hopeful squeak in the dark. Republicans seem to be the party of bullies and democrats seem willing to be bullied. Well who feels good being in the weak bullied party? It feels hopeless. In the last election the dems message was promoting Hillary with no substance behind it and no message for the poor or especially the struggling middle class. None at all, or if there was a message no one heard it. Don't base an election again on star power.........instead base it on the message. And do it STRONGLY!
My suggestion is to find in Washington a person who has an open mind, a person who is attuned to their feelings can articulate exactly those gut level reactions to your messages. You want to send messages to voters that gets them where they can feel it to their core. Words are words are words.......too many to believe. Feelings are the key.
First, calling Medicare an EARNED benefit is a much stronger message than entitlement. When I read earned it made me fell stronger viscerally. The word entitlement makes me feel like an outsider and small, as if I were a lesser person. These are just gut feelings of course but aren't those the same feelings you want to instill in voters so they will get out and fight (vote) for their earned right?
Second I immediately sensed weakness in the phrase " if enacted"
All that sounds like is a hopeful squeak in the dark. Republicans seem to be the party of bullies and democrats seem willing to be bullied. Well who feels good being in the weak bullied party? It feels hopeless. In the last election the dems message was promoting Hillary with no substance behind it and no message for the poor or especially the struggling middle class. None at all, or if there was a message no one heard it. Don't base an election again on star power.........instead base it on the message. And do it STRONGLY!
My suggestion is to find in Washington a person who has an open mind, a person who is attuned to their feelings can articulate exactly those gut level reactions to your messages. You want to send messages to voters that gets them where they can feel it to their core. Words are words are words.......too many to believe. Feelings are the key.
Dear Dems,
This is a great start but it's all meaningless if you don't also commit to radical campaign finance reform. We want you to work for us again, not your wealthy donors.
And since we're bringing power back to the people, we're gonna have to put an end to this whole Superdelegate thing. Don't tell me you're working for me and then render my primary vote meaningless. If you'd let the people pick the candidate in 2016 we probably wouldn't have Trump right now.
Also, you can't just pay lip service to your voters anymore. Millennials are more educated, because they have to be, and they are more tapped into not only the media news cycle, but also a flow of information you have no control over. You're going to have to give up your post-term fancy lobbyist jobs, big donations & ridiculous speaking fees and start working for these people or you're really done.
Whew.. that was kind of cathartic. Awesome.
This is a great start but it's all meaningless if you don't also commit to radical campaign finance reform. We want you to work for us again, not your wealthy donors.
And since we're bringing power back to the people, we're gonna have to put an end to this whole Superdelegate thing. Don't tell me you're working for me and then render my primary vote meaningless. If you'd let the people pick the candidate in 2016 we probably wouldn't have Trump right now.
Also, you can't just pay lip service to your voters anymore. Millennials are more educated, because they have to be, and they are more tapped into not only the media news cycle, but also a flow of information you have no control over. You're going to have to give up your post-term fancy lobbyist jobs, big donations & ridiculous speaking fees and start working for these people or you're really done.
Whew.. that was kind of cathartic. Awesome.
Democrats will have to institute a cap on what landlords can charge for rent also, as rents that take up 1/2 to 3/4 of one's salary are not conducive to achieving home ownership. I find that while paying my landlord's mortgage, water bill, heating bill, etc. etc. etc. I am unable to save a dime, let enough enough to be able to buy my own home. Meanwhile I'm killing myself at work every day, paying a week's salary in transportation to MTA and getting no where. My landlord and employer are profiting from my labor, me and my family are not.
Supply and demand determine rents and a particular sector such as landlords shouldn't be expected to support a social aim out of their own pockets.
Senator Shumer,
While this editorial is a good start for the Democrats, America clearly needs much bolder leadership. The Democratic platform for 2018 must address the following issues:
1. Endless war. We have been at war since 2001 with no end in sight. Whether we want to admit this or not, our society can not sustain endless war indefinitely. The sooner we bring our troops home, the better.
2. Political corruption and democratic reform. The money has to be removed from our political system. Period. And the candidate who comes in second place should never, ever, ever be able to become president again.
3. Going Green! If, for example, you want young people to flock to this Democratic plan for a "Better Deal", construct a deal that is greener than Kermit the Frog.
While this editorial is a good start for the Democrats, America clearly needs much bolder leadership. The Democratic platform for 2018 must address the following issues:
1. Endless war. We have been at war since 2001 with no end in sight. Whether we want to admit this or not, our society can not sustain endless war indefinitely. The sooner we bring our troops home, the better.
2. Political corruption and democratic reform. The money has to be removed from our political system. Period. And the candidate who comes in second place should never, ever, ever be able to become president again.
3. Going Green! If, for example, you want young people to flock to this Democratic plan for a "Better Deal", construct a deal that is greener than Kermit the Frog.
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"Bold changes" he writes. And yet nothing about universal health care. Nothing about Medicare For All at this moment when Republicans have made health care the number issue in the nation and are on the defensive. Nothing! Same ole same ole.
Medicare for all. Free public higher education and large infrastructure projects.
Otherwise this "Better Deal" is just a not quite so horrible deal.
Otherwise this "Better Deal" is just a not quite so horrible deal.
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Too timid, too vague, and too late. It is unfortunate that Schumer is the voice of this allegedly reinvigorated Democratic party because he is the Senator who has to represent Wall Street and all those wealthy New Yorkers. It is confusing to have to wonder which "voice" is he speaking in now. He's trying to wear too many hats. Pelosi and Schumer should step aside. New leaders are needed.
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Yikes. Dems are going to lose again. A news release listing current focus group results now being submitted to another focus group (that's you). This participant says: I like the old Coke. I liked the refreshing and honest Coke. I liked it when it was cold and in a transparent glass bottle and didn't change its formula whenever there was a slump in sales.
If I didn't know better I would say Chuck borrowed some of this from the Trump campaign book. It looks like maybe Chuck is coming around and is willing to work with the President on his agenda as Chuck originally said he would. If so, this country will be roaring a head in no time. I hope Chuck and his team are sincere. I do wonder why they didn't take this approach to put Americans first when they held both majorities and the WH.
Yes, Senator Schumer, it's time Democrats stopped being snooty and listen to ordinary citizens like me in my own language. I need a decent job to put food on the table, an affordable mortgage, good healthcare that will not bring me and my family to the streets and a car just good enough to take me to work. Stop being disdainful when when we cannot understand your stats and percentages. And don't get waylaid by bathroom issues when we live in fear of what new catastrophe, each day will bring us. Prioritize!
Move to China. They have an increasing middle class thanks to both Democrats and Republicans selling out the American labor force to communist China.
We need a party for the people, not against it and right now neither Democrats or Republicans are for the people. Well unless you contribute thousand of dollars to their reelection campaign and can afford $10,000 a plate dinner parties to spend time with your Representative.
Shame on both parties!
We need a party for the people, not against it and right now neither Democrats or Republicans are for the people. Well unless you contribute thousand of dollars to their reelection campaign and can afford $10,000 a plate dinner parties to spend time with your Representative.
Shame on both parties!
Things to do;
1. Start owning, and stop defending the Party's accomplishments
2. Start doing a better job of reaching out to rural America.
3. If push comes to shove, the Democratic Party needs its own version of Lee Atwater.
1. Start owning, and stop defending the Party's accomplishments
2. Start doing a better job of reaching out to rural America.
3. If push comes to shove, the Democratic Party needs its own version of Lee Atwater.
I am most disheartened by a majority of comments by Democrats because we as Democrats seem to argue against anything that we find less than perfect. We may be able to actually move the needle both politically and economically as a voting base if we push for the best of Sanders, Merkely, Harris, Ellison, Franken & Warren, & get the two still very strong minority leaders Schumer & Pelosi to get on board with Universal Healthcare & negotiated drug pricing; big infrastructure pkg inclusive of job retraining half- paid for by major corporate funding of public education in rust belt regions, guaranteeing jobs at wages far above $15 minimum wage; & calling out the Koch Bros & the Roberts- Alito-Thomas-Gorsuch Supreme Court as UNAMERICAN for destroying our democratic voting system via CitizensUnited. The messaging must be about raising a strong & better-educated middle class...not about social issues, gun control, women, etc., despite their importance to so many of us. To win, we must unite the country, not just NYS with CA!
Full disclosure: I'm a 65 year old Lefty who votes Democratic 99.99% of the time.
This sounds like a broad brush campaign platform full of sound and fury and providing no details. Sure, I agree with most of the premises and goals, but need some details on exactly what you are promising.
I heard Sen. Markey (D-MA) supporting this "Better Deal" on TV this morning, but all he could spout were the talking points outlined in this printed piece. Even in response to some softball questions,he continued along the same qoutes as though he had a copy of this op-ed piece in front of him. This is my senator that I voted for.
I havent heard the actual unveiling of the "Better Deal", and perhaps the details will be revealed then, but for now, I'm merely hearing more of the same that helped the Republicans take control of the government acoross the board.
It's a good start, Senator, but it's only the first sentence. Be bold and daring and lay out an actual plan. We really do want to hear it. You're on the right track, but you haven't rolled up to the starting gate yet.
This sounds like a broad brush campaign platform full of sound and fury and providing no details. Sure, I agree with most of the premises and goals, but need some details on exactly what you are promising.
I heard Sen. Markey (D-MA) supporting this "Better Deal" on TV this morning, but all he could spout were the talking points outlined in this printed piece. Even in response to some softball questions,he continued along the same qoutes as though he had a copy of this op-ed piece in front of him. This is my senator that I voted for.
I havent heard the actual unveiling of the "Better Deal", and perhaps the details will be revealed then, but for now, I'm merely hearing more of the same that helped the Republicans take control of the government acoross the board.
It's a good start, Senator, but it's only the first sentence. Be bold and daring and lay out an actual plan. We really do want to hear it. You're on the right track, but you haven't rolled up to the starting gate yet.
#ABetterDeal Schumer mentions $1 trillion infrastructure, minimum wage, paid family and sick leave, negotiate drug prices, anti-trust, I don't see education-it is a social investment in Americas competitive economic future, single payer, workers right to organize or climate change, nor do I see, most importantly, a categorical statement as to how to pay for it and on that I don't know of many dems in power with the eggs to say what is required, that the billionaire class, MUST pay their taxes. This group of real and for the moment corporate persons must pay their taxes, taxes which are in proportion to their wealth, income and profits! #BringBack91 percent that is marginal tax bracket.
I seem to recall, back when i lived in New York, that Senator Schumer was called the patron saint of Wall Street, and for good reason.
That might account for certain glaring omissions in this "better deal."
That might account for certain glaring omissions in this "better deal."
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Perhaps Bill & Hillary can make a down payment from the $100 million plus bank account they accumulated during the last 15 or so years. The democrats & republicans are beholden to the plutocrats, the rich, and the powerful forever and ever, amen - not to the voters and the "common" man. Despite Schumer's pronouncements, I don't see the situation changing anytime soon.
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My thoughts are that I wish the Bernie Sanders supporters would stop hijacking every post here at the NY Times. The comments that focus only on single payer are nauseating. There are bigger problems - or problems just as big as that but because that's what Bernie wants that's all they talk about. Meanwhile coral reefs are dying. Ice sheets are melting. The planet is getting hotter. Net Neutrality is going down. No one seems to care anymore about gun control because Bernie doesn't care. Roe V. Wade is about to be overturned but Bernie doesn't care so they don't care. No one is putting mass incarceration or the specific needs of the black community front and center because Bernie doesn't care. Single payer is fine and all but it's not an immediate need since we're fighting to keep the ACA which just needs a few adjustments like expanded medicaid in all states and lower deductibles. I do not want the DNC to become the party of Bernie because then it becomes a religious movement for single payer and only single payer. Enough.
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The time to address the consequences of a massive loss of manufacturing upon the great majority of Americans whose prosperity depended upon it have a century ago was half a century ago. That was when it might have been possible to assure that any loss of manufacturing jobs in one sector could be offset by another. Instead, circumstances led to massive and permanent loss of jobs in manufacturing and nothing to replace those jobs that was equivalent. This country decided that it would not seek to have nor follow any overall economic strategy but to leave it up to the private sector to work it out. The private sector had no interest nor inclination to consider the effects of their behavior upon the whole country and so they did not. Our government was concerned with some macroeconomic factors but ignored the creation of new wealth, leaving it to the private sector, which could not respond. Now our country is facing nothing but slow growth for the near future.
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This is a small slither toward a more progressive Democratic Party program, Mr. Schumer. Now, you should forthrightly advocate significant revision of the tax code, to make it less regressive. And yesterday, you said on TV that "single payer" health care is "on the table." But do you advocate publicly financed health care, ending "health care insurance" as a privater, for-profit business? If you aspire to continue your leadership of the Democratic Party, please advocate,, not just accept, policies such as these, in a practical and progressive Democratic Party platform.
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I wish it wasn't labeled as a "deal". This isn't a "deal". It's what people deserve (opportunity, fairness, etc.).
Typical Dem attitude that people deserve (read are entitled to) things vs actually earning them.
Sorry, I no longer listen to Chuck Schumer after his remarks from yesterday. He insulted every voter who voted for the winning candidate Hilary Clinton. His pandering to the Bernie Sanders(never a democrat) bunch has ensured that I no longer consider anything he says.
Senator Schumer: Your Op-Ed piece makes me think of only one thing: time for a third party. Bernie Sanders was the last viable chance to recapture the soul of the Democrat party. The leadership stabbed him in the back. And this is the best that you can come up with?
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That was my thought, too. If this is what they're offering, create a third party fast!
On a second read, I thought what Sen. Schumer wrote sounded fine as a set of short-term goals. But as the party message, as a rallying cry and a sign pointing toward the future, it's tepid and dismaying. It's not enough, not by a long shot. And it's couched in language that shows a reluctance to take on the imminent threats to our electoral system and our democracy.
On a second read, I thought what Sen. Schumer wrote sounded fine as a set of short-term goals. But as the party message, as a rallying cry and a sign pointing toward the future, it's tepid and dismaying. It's not enough, not by a long shot. And it's couched in language that shows a reluctance to take on the imminent threats to our electoral system and our democracy.
"This is the message that Democrats have been waiting for."
Huh? Democrats need a message -- that's long been clear. But "A Better Deal?" That's the message? Is that really something that's going to win over voters? Good luck with that.
Huh? Democrats need a message -- that's long been clear. But "A Better Deal?" That's the message? Is that really something that's going to win over voters? Good luck with that.
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Innocent explanation for this:
"Why can't Senator Schumer bring himself to use the term 'working class'?"
Obviously he prefers "middle class." He recognizes two key facts:
1. Nobody gets elected by appealing to the "working class." You call everyone "middle class." Even people who are members of the "working class" refer to themselves as "middle class."
2. This happens at the high end too. No American (at least publicly) refers to himself or herself as "upper class." It's always "upper middle class." More often, of course, they even leave off the "upper:" It's just "middle class."
"Why can't Senator Schumer bring himself to use the term 'working class'?"
Obviously he prefers "middle class." He recognizes two key facts:
1. Nobody gets elected by appealing to the "working class." You call everyone "middle class." Even people who are members of the "working class" refer to themselves as "middle class."
2. This happens at the high end too. No American (at least publicly) refers to himself or herself as "upper class." It's always "upper middle class." More often, of course, they even leave off the "upper:" It's just "middle class."
Hard to imagine how Democrats settled on "A Better Deal" which is a clunky, non-memorable, do-gooder attempt to evoke the "New Deal" and passed over "A Real Deal" which accomplishes the same thing but sounds better, is more memorable, calls out Republicans for their hypocritical attempts to claim that they do anything for ordinary people and exposes Tump's " Art of the Deal" as empty self-promotion. I hope they don't pay people to come up with such worthless slogans.
Really, this is it? Im a lifelong Democrat and thoroughly disgusted with my party, who is clearly in the deep pockets of special interests...
Drug prices? You think that's what people want to hear... They need affordable healthcare...plain and simple. Premiums are eating people alive, even with subsidies. Why not at least say you'll introduce a lower cost government option?
Crumbling infrastructure..? Obama tried to do some of that fixing when our economy was crumbling and it all got bogged down in special interests, state governments, and no clear plan..In stead of looking backward, look forward. Lets build the infrastructure of the future, like super speed broadband in every rural county so American so people can work from where they live. Maybe we don't have to outsource to India if customer service jobs can be done from peoples homes right here in America.
Anti-trust? Is that the biggest yawn ever. It may be important - but it will not resonate with the majority of Americans...Just say you will work until you drop to get rid of Citizens United.
I was a Hilary voter from the get go. She had dozens of great ideas as did Bernie, including alleviating debt from young people so they could begin to build their lives... Find a way to make the gig economy to work for people (you can't stop it)...
This is just #sad.
Drug prices? You think that's what people want to hear... They need affordable healthcare...plain and simple. Premiums are eating people alive, even with subsidies. Why not at least say you'll introduce a lower cost government option?
Crumbling infrastructure..? Obama tried to do some of that fixing when our economy was crumbling and it all got bogged down in special interests, state governments, and no clear plan..In stead of looking backward, look forward. Lets build the infrastructure of the future, like super speed broadband in every rural county so American so people can work from where they live. Maybe we don't have to outsource to India if customer service jobs can be done from peoples homes right here in America.
Anti-trust? Is that the biggest yawn ever. It may be important - but it will not resonate with the majority of Americans...Just say you will work until you drop to get rid of Citizens United.
I was a Hilary voter from the get go. She had dozens of great ideas as did Bernie, including alleviating debt from young people so they could begin to build their lives... Find a way to make the gig economy to work for people (you can't stop it)...
This is just #sad.
Senator, I admire you greatly.
But if the best the Democratic Party can come up with is a sound-bite called a "Better Deal", then you deserve to fail.
The party needs to transform itself into a more dynamic, adversarial, and progressive party if they are to retain any relevance.
A Better Deal is dead on arrival.
But if the best the Democratic Party can come up with is a sound-bite called a "Better Deal", then you deserve to fail.
The party needs to transform itself into a more dynamic, adversarial, and progressive party if they are to retain any relevance.
A Better Deal is dead on arrival.
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Senator Schumer is the senator from Wall Street. His job : get Wall Street money for the Democratic Party . How he will square this with having a pro worker's platform is difficult to understand. (Before him, Hillary Clinton was the senator from Wall Street. That didn't go well for the working class.)
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First we need younger, more vibrant leadership. Political visionaries like Gov Martini O'Malley and Sen Tammy Duckworth. Then we need all of you to work together. Stop griping at the other party. They are our teammates.
State your message in simple, declarative sentences and take it to the people in small towns, rural areas and big cities. Take it to the many, not the few. The New York Times is the few.
State your message in simple, declarative sentences and take it to the people in small towns, rural areas and big cities. Take it to the many, not the few. The New York Times is the few.
Clinton, Sanders, Warren, and probably Schumer all need to get of leadership. Same old group, "hey, now we're relevant" message. Pathetic. The old leadership is the problem. Clean house. No one over 50 in leadership. (I'm over 50, BTW.) I'm a lifelong unaffililated leaning left on social, center on fiscal. I gave to Hillary to defeat Trump. She was so bad, and the Democrats so weak and feckless that we have Trump. All the groups I gave to called for more. I asked to be removed from their lists. I give to the ACLU and Planned Parenthood. And I wait for any kind of credible noises from the left. I say again, pathetic.
Okay Chuck. You've batted a single to first base. The trick is to get the batter home.
Are the Democrats like Schumer sponsoring a balloon festival?
Seems like it cause even with his written words there is enough hot air to raise a fleet of hot air balloons.
He is out of touch and to think he hasn't any special interest groups that pay to keep him in office is a fallacy.
Seems like it cause even with his written words there is enough hot air to raise a fleet of hot air balloons.
He is out of touch and to think he hasn't any special interest groups that pay to keep him in office is a fallacy.
"This is the start of a new vision for our party, one strongly supported by House and Senate Democrats."
This is why many of us left the Democratic Party after last year's extraordinary primary and general election. We could have had that "new vision" as it was better described by Bernie Sanders, but party leaders had other ideas. Senator Schumer's "new vision" had always been the essence of what the Democratic Party, that I knew, claimed to stand for.
As a long-time Democrat, today's party seems dominated by those who are primarily motivated to win the next election rather than taking the trouble to understand the issues and why the voters who sent them care about them.
None of this is news for anyone who has been paying attention. The Democratic Party as a whole has spent the last year and a half doing its utmost not to hear what voters want while focusing solely on delivering their pre-chosen candidate.
A waste of everyone's time...a negative.
This is why many of us left the Democratic Party after last year's extraordinary primary and general election. We could have had that "new vision" as it was better described by Bernie Sanders, but party leaders had other ideas. Senator Schumer's "new vision" had always been the essence of what the Democratic Party, that I knew, claimed to stand for.
As a long-time Democrat, today's party seems dominated by those who are primarily motivated to win the next election rather than taking the trouble to understand the issues and why the voters who sent them care about them.
None of this is news for anyone who has been paying attention. The Democratic Party as a whole has spent the last year and a half doing its utmost not to hear what voters want while focusing solely on delivering their pre-chosen candidate.
A waste of everyone's time...a negative.
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I have always believed Democrats cared about the regular people (social security, unions, Medicaid and Medicare, etc.) and Republicans mainly cared about the rich getting richer as in tax cuts and a bloated military industrial complex. Democrats believe that most poor people need help and that it is good to help them, and Republicans believe most poor people are lazy and caused their own misery. I understand these are generalizations, but their policies speak for themselves.
Bernie spoke to many of us who want the money the super-rich are parking overseas to return it to our treasury in the way of paying their fair share of taxes. Follow the money. The ultra-wealthy are running away with it and cheating our middle class with an undue tax burden. We need to undo Citizen's United so we know which of these rich people are controlling who we vote for. We need to raise taxes on the wealthy, cut college debt, support Universal Health Care, and definitely raise the minimum wage. Our country needs to strongly support the middle class. We need free public college for those who qualify.
Put the money back in the people's hands and they will save some and spend more. Let's keep the economy moving for all of us, not just the top earners.
Bernie spoke to many of us who want the money the super-rich are parking overseas to return it to our treasury in the way of paying their fair share of taxes. Follow the money. The ultra-wealthy are running away with it and cheating our middle class with an undue tax burden. We need to undo Citizen's United so we know which of these rich people are controlling who we vote for. We need to raise taxes on the wealthy, cut college debt, support Universal Health Care, and definitely raise the minimum wage. Our country needs to strongly support the middle class. We need free public college for those who qualify.
Put the money back in the people's hands and they will save some and spend more. Let's keep the economy moving for all of us, not just the top earners.
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Not bad, but weak and inadequate. For example, M. Schumer doesn't mention support for labor unions, who are instrumental in gaining middle class incomes for workers. Or how about if the Democratic Party vows to discourage companies from moving jobs to foreign countries and refuses to negotiate trade deals that penalize our workers. Other readers have also mentioned health care, Citizens United and environmental protection.
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No no no no no.
None of these proposals is a vote-getter. They are just the same old laundry list the Dems always trot out.
The most important thing on Americans' mind, according to the polls, is single payer health care, followed closely by wages and retirement.
Americans also want to see higher taxes on the rich and corporations.
Tax breaks for businesses? Not a high priority to voters, and never proven to be a job creator.
Schumer is leading a movement as inspiring a dull knife, against a GOP razor-sharp saber.
If this is all we can expect from the Democrats, goodbye 2018.
None of these proposals is a vote-getter. They are just the same old laundry list the Dems always trot out.
The most important thing on Americans' mind, according to the polls, is single payer health care, followed closely by wages and retirement.
Americans also want to see higher taxes on the rich and corporations.
Tax breaks for businesses? Not a high priority to voters, and never proven to be a job creator.
Schumer is leading a movement as inspiring a dull knife, against a GOP razor-sharp saber.
If this is all we can expect from the Democrats, goodbye 2018.
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A column about a 'new direction' for Democrats, and not one word about healthcare as a right for all Americans and the commitment to pass a single-payer, universal healthcare program that will eject profit-oriented business from the field. You could have mentioned HR 676 and pledged that the party would make it the central plank in its policy statement. You could have pledged to return capital gains taxes to the level they were in 1980. You could have stated that the progressive income tax rates will return to the levels seen in the early 1980s, before Ronald 'Government is the Problem' Reagan sent us down the path of social chaos. Forgive me, but the new plan sounds just like the old one: talk a good game, but make sure that corporate donors also hear that none of this will change a thing.
4
I like Schumer's stand-up better than Amy's.
Can't argue with the assertions that today "Americans believe they’re getting a raw deal from both the economic and political systems in our country." The remedies offered by Senator Chuck hardly match this dire reality. Raise the minimum wage. End prescription drug price-gouging. Worker training. Gimme a break. This is warmed-over leftovers from the (Bill) Clinton era. It's gonna take a stronger brew - - free college tuition, medicare for all, genuinely progressive taxation, end to Citizens United etc. - - to revive the sclerotic Dem. Party.
5
Hanley is right on. Schumer's plan is inadequate and too timid to have an impact on the voters we need and also on the problems which plague not just this group of voters but our country. Bite the bullet Schumer! We need to redistribute income.
The minimum wage idea is bad and will negate any benefit the tax reductions on business may have had. The prescription drug idea is bad and will disincentivize big pharma from R&D.
1
Three of the items on The Dem's list ( drug costs, infrastructure, and skill training programs) are also on The presidents list. If the Democrats are serious, why not start there by working with the President and any willing Republicans. Otherwise, to many of us , you look a lot like the the Republicans when Obama was President.
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One could also work on vulture capitalists who use leveraged buyouts and stripping pension funds to take wealth from communities and workers.
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