By concentrating money and effort on the presidency, democrats are neglecting federal, state and local elections ... the republicans are not ...
2
I didn't see Al Franken in the article. I will take that as a sign of his good judgment and prudence, and hope he is considering.
1
is it November 8, 2020 yet?
7
US voters are both compassionate and progressive. They just don't like to be labeled as either liberal or left, both of which are perceived as some kind of alt-right slur. Trump and the Russians stole the 2016 election. No amount of illegal gerrymandering will save them from a defeat in 2020. Pick any of the following and it won't matter, they will win: Franken. Warren or Michelle Obama. Even kindly grandpa Biden or DINO Cuomo would trounce Trump. I wager that Colbert could even win.
8
"And Representative Tim Ryan of Ohio says he has been traveling to Iowa and New Hampshire in part because “I like being out around the country.”
We need to demand Congress prevent sitting Congressman from campaigning on the public nickel. The guy has a job, just like all the hopefuls before him.
Congressmen using their public paycheck and time off is a travesty of justice to the election process. At a minimum, they need to repay any income they make from the USG for each day they are away from their jobs.
We need to demand Congress prevent sitting Congressman from campaigning on the public nickel. The guy has a job, just like all the hopefuls before him.
Congressmen using their public paycheck and time off is a travesty of justice to the election process. At a minimum, they need to repay any income they make from the USG for each day they are away from their jobs.
9
If the Democratic Party doesn't want a Big Tent with Bernie people and all progressives seriously involved, it will be dead -- again.
17
Previous reply post.
When democrats get smeared in the press or by conservatives, it is usually on made up B.S. and ha;f cooked lies. Having said that, if you spend more time at big ticket fundraisers that you do on the campaign trail meeting ordinary people, that is seen as being not genuine at all. Before running for president, Bernie spent years out with and speaking to people and picketing with unions. If you are a Democrat running for president, take a lesson from Bernie. Get out early and often. Be seen with unions. Don't be afraid to offend corporate interests. And meet with the untouchables in this country like the working poor.
When democrats get smeared in the press or by conservatives, it is usually on made up B.S. and ha;f cooked lies. Having said that, if you spend more time at big ticket fundraisers that you do on the campaign trail meeting ordinary people, that is seen as being not genuine at all. Before running for president, Bernie spent years out with and speaking to people and picketing with unions. If you are a Democrat running for president, take a lesson from Bernie. Get out early and often. Be seen with unions. Don't be afraid to offend corporate interests. And meet with the untouchables in this country like the working poor.
15
As much as I hate to admit it, one of the single most important things a prospective candidate can do is get out there and measure interest. In this case, they're measuring interest in the form of money. It seems to them that the more money that can come up with, the greater chance they have of winning whatever race it is they're trying to win. Especially in this country, it becomes necessary to do this early, and it really seems to be getting only earlier, especially with these particularly divisive political times. The fact these candidates are getting out there so early and are being supported shows just how divisive it has come, and how discontent so many people are with the current political atmosphere. At this point, people are so sick of all the current stuff thats happening that they feel they can only look toward the future, instead of focusing on the now. I don't think this is a bad thing, it's simply a trend I've noticed over the last couple of elections that more and more people are hopping on the bandwagons earlier and earlier. In my opinion, it really is all a result of the increasing divisiveness and when the two parties are able to find a way to work together again, not only will all this early work become less common, but the fight over how much money a candidate can earn and how quickly and from who will move out of the spotlight and be replaced with substantive solutions that people can get behind and support.
How about "United We Stand" for a Democratic slogan in 2018 and beyond? United as in across racial divides, across religious divides, across class divides. Working together, as one country, toward a better future.
3
I am more interested in a long list of things that Democratic party must do for the people first that I will ever consider a candidate from the Democratic party.
5
Do you apply that same criterion to the Republican Party?
7
Here's a ticket no one seems to mention for 2020: Clinton Sanders. Call me crazy but I think that could work, and win.
3
I wouldn't say "crazy." More like "suicidal."
13
1. Medicare for all.
2. Tax the rich.
3. End the wars.
Repeat this and mean it and we will win.
2. Tax the rich.
3. End the wars.
Repeat this and mean it and we will win.
16
The Democrats should take the next four or five election cycles off. I mean, they've done more than enough damage in the last 60 years. The next 60 should be OUR turn.
3
Dems 2020 - Al Franken - President, Michelle Obama - VP - that team will win.
NYT pumps Kamala Harris to avoid mention of Michelle Obama.
NYT pumps Kamala Harris to avoid mention of Michelle Obama.
7
Gillibrand, the one who was advised to awkwardly read extremely vile curse words simply to try and curry favor with Millennials. She's out before she begins. Harris, from the failed socialist state of California? She's also gone before she begins. Next!
5
As a NY resident, Gillibrand is barely seen or heard from. She was picked by a former governor to be the upstate balance to his ticket. Nothing more. He is gone and we are stuck with her.
3
Yo! Democrats considering a run.....here's the thing. If you do one thing that you have done in the past....if you say one thing you have said in the past...if you pursue money without a clear and new and inclusive platform....forget about my support. Hear me. I am your 2018 and 2020 voter. Do not think I...or most everyone else...wants the same pablum you have dished out before. We are exhausted by the misogynistic bully in the WH and terrified of his incompetence...but we also are fed up with your consistent failure to renew your message...and consistent tired faces. Show me something new...and then, AND ONY THEN, I'll show you the money!
6
Until then he's voting for Trump! Lol!
10
"Contenders." How exciting. Not.
1
How so typical of loony lib Dems with presidential aspirations to make their very first campaign forays into Martha's Vineyard and the Hamptons. Yeah, they are down for the cause, and are ready to do battle with those evil Republicans who are only interested in the rich! Shouts volumes as to their hypocrisy.
11
Yes. Trump is the picture of decency and erudition. Please. Anyone of them is far better than the status quo.
12
Higher wages, more jobs, single-payer healthcare, investment in infrastructure, child-care assistance, substance use disorder treatment, and criminal justice reform. Legalize marijuana and you're in the White House.
Going after money has proved both risky and a failure for both parties, as they become captive to corporate interests - corporations that do not repay their debts to society unless ordered to in a court of law.
We need to invest in the public, and stop diverting taxpayer funds to private corporations and contractors. The Democrats can get a lot done while staying on message. Selling out to monied interests will do nothing compared to an aggressive campaign in all 50 states that addresses the average citizen's needs and works to fix mass inequality and abysmal education funding.
Going after money has proved both risky and a failure for both parties, as they become captive to corporate interests - corporations that do not repay their debts to society unless ordered to in a court of law.
We need to invest in the public, and stop diverting taxpayer funds to private corporations and contractors. The Democrats can get a lot done while staying on message. Selling out to monied interests will do nothing compared to an aggressive campaign in all 50 states that addresses the average citizen's needs and works to fix mass inequality and abysmal education funding.
9
After reading the article and the list of "candidates" all I can say is good luck. None of these people will get voters outside of the Democrat strongholds that weren't enough last time around.
8
Maybe I'm the only person in the country who disdains the Democrat party, but I'll have nothing to do with them. They are exponents of the American oligarchy, just like the Republicans, but painted with hypocrisy. "Donorcrats" is a better name for them.
8
Forget about looking for candidates! We need to work on our election PROCESS - and the right candidates will then follow. For instance:
1) open primaries
2) election news blackout periods
3) campaign finance reform
If we bring these three things in line with that of the world's democracies we would have less corruption and FAR better candidates - and increased voter participation.
1) open primaries
2) election news blackout periods
3) campaign finance reform
If we bring these three things in line with that of the world's democracies we would have less corruption and FAR better candidates - and increased voter participation.
8
Money is not everything. Democrats raised more and outspent Trump and yet they lost.
I see no willingness among the Dem elite to confront the actual tough questions. It's all navel gazing all the time. They will lose again unless they reconsider their willingness to be led by the unholy alliance of corrupt old style aparatchiks, immigration advocates and identity partisans.
I see no willingness among the Dem elite to confront the actual tough questions. It's all navel gazing all the time. They will lose again unless they reconsider their willingness to be led by the unholy alliance of corrupt old style aparatchiks, immigration advocates and identity partisans.
15
Since I'm currently in Sin City, aka Las Vegas, may I give some random thoughts to those who place bets on political races (even though it is illegal)? Joe Biden would have won the election if he had been the Democratic nominee. Hillary Clinton could have won, but her campaign mistakenly focused almost exclusively on "women's" and LGBTQ issues, and she had NO support from working-class heterosexual males, many of whom felt she placed them in a "basket of deplorables." The lesbian population of the USA is not large enough to elect a candidate to national office. And many folks thought that both Bill and Hillary Clinton had sold out to Wall Street and the Saudis. Senator Bernie Sanders, whom I respect and admire, would not have been allowed to become President because he has for decades consistently supported working people and criticized Wall Street, Big Pharma and our ruling-class establishment. Something would have happened to Bernie if he had been the Democratic nominee and appeared to have a chance at winning the Presidency. Remember JFK, MLK and Bobby Kennedy? The wealthy ruling-class establishment of the USA, which dominates BOTH major parties, will not allow an honest person and a socialist to become President. I respect Senator Elizabeth Warren, due to her hard-fought victory in establishing the much-needed Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, but she will need to answer the question, "What have you done for us lately?"
7
Hahaha ,I laugh.
Democrats forget the what happened when McGovern or Mondale
lost badly losing in 49 states. Far left wingers cannot win.
2020 election will be similar to that of 1972 or 1984.
Whoever the D nominee is, he or she will lose to our president
very badly.
Democrats forget the what happened when McGovern or Mondale
lost badly losing in 49 states. Far left wingers cannot win.
2020 election will be similar to that of 1972 or 1984.
Whoever the D nominee is, he or she will lose to our president
very badly.
5
Democrats forgot what happened in 1972 and 1984.
Whoever runs against the president, far left candidate will lose
badly.
I believe 2020 will be similar to that of 1972 or 1984.
Whoever runs against the president, far left candidate will lose
badly.
I believe 2020 will be similar to that of 1972 or 1984.
2
Money, again, trumps what's good for the country.
Maybe we can invent a way to make all this, and the force and violence over which people contend, irrelevant.
Maybe we can invent a way to make all this, and the force and violence over which people contend, irrelevant.
3
I can not believe the GOP Republicans with no response to Donald J. Trumps actions to date. Republicans and Democrats are AMERICANS!!
Health care experts from across the political spectrum— liberal, moderate, and conservative —agreed that the House Republican health care bill was unworkable and suffered from fatal flaws, although specific objections varied depending on ideological perspective.[26] Experts agreed that the bill fell far short of the goals laid forth by Trump. "Affordable coverage for everyone; lower deductibles and health care costs; better care; and zero cuts to Medicaid"—because the bill was (1) "almost certain" to reduce overall health care coverage and increase deductibles and (2) would phase out the Medicaid expansion.
2016 – Donald J. Trump – Republican was elected by Electoral Vote. All the members of the Electoral College were to choose a president from popular vote as history proves. From 1888 to 2000 presidents were elected by popular vote. For 112 years until George W. Bush!! Then Donald J. Trump!
Health care experts from across the political spectrum— liberal, moderate, and conservative —agreed that the House Republican health care bill was unworkable and suffered from fatal flaws, although specific objections varied depending on ideological perspective.[26] Experts agreed that the bill fell far short of the goals laid forth by Trump. "Affordable coverage for everyone; lower deductibles and health care costs; better care; and zero cuts to Medicaid"—because the bill was (1) "almost certain" to reduce overall health care coverage and increase deductibles and (2) would phase out the Medicaid expansion.
2016 – Donald J. Trump – Republican was elected by Electoral Vote. All the members of the Electoral College were to choose a president from popular vote as history proves. From 1888 to 2000 presidents were elected by popular vote. For 112 years until George W. Bush!! Then Donald J. Trump!
2
And all while organizing committees, meeting donors, planning trips and visits,raising money, and on and on and on - one question remains.
Who is doing the work they were hired (elected) to do?
Is it any wonder nothing gets done. Shame.
Who is doing the work they were hired (elected) to do?
Is it any wonder nothing gets done. Shame.
7
How many times has Biden run for President? Three? Please run Pocahontas. Please!
5
Democrats priority in the last ten years is to cater primarily to their corporate donors, hence, they have just become a "Republican Lite" Party that offers no alternative to "real" Republicans. The loss of almost 1000 seats at all government levels during that time and now being left with virtually no real power just confirms it, yet, this column proves that corporate/establishment democrats continue to repeat the same mistakes. They are still relying on the "hope" of a Trump implosion as the ticket to future electoral success, yet, with Trump still having a rock-solid base in key states no matter what he does or says, this "hope" still offers only a pretty thin chance of assuring any future substantial increases in the voting booth. It just is NOT good enough.
Forget the money, Sanders proved that if the party has the message and the commitment, they can get the money from individual donors and eliminate the need to genuflect at the alter of corporate donors. The centrist approach and the continued desire to go after big money donors is a ticket to political non-existence. It seems that many in the democratic party STILL fail to understand that reality. Continually dismissing the fact that for several months now Bernie Sanders has been the most trusted and popular politician in the country is doing so at one's political peril.
Forget the money, Sanders proved that if the party has the message and the commitment, they can get the money from individual donors and eliminate the need to genuflect at the alter of corporate donors. The centrist approach and the continued desire to go after big money donors is a ticket to political non-existence. It seems that many in the democratic party STILL fail to understand that reality. Continually dismissing the fact that for several months now Bernie Sanders has been the most trusted and popular politician in the country is doing so at one's political peril.
14
I didn't trust Bernie Sanders who used GOP talking points against Clinton. And, I really did not trust his wife who destroyed a small Vermont university when she managed their finances; she purchased worthless beach front property in which she had a vested interest. Bernie and wife need to retire to their expensive vacation home. Trump lost the popular vote by 3M. Mueller will expose Trump's loans from Russian oligarchs, and his ties to Putin. Tillerson also has old ties to Putin with drilling rights all over Russia and the Balkans. Mnuchin aka the foreclosure king. And, the EPA guy who sued the agency numerous times when they fought his polluting of the Gulf. We would have to return to Andrew Jackson to dig up a more dishonest bunch of grifters.
6
Linda,
Maybe those that don't like GOP talking points shouldn't use them against Dem. allies, eh?
Brady Toensing, vice chairman of the Vermont Republican Party who happened to be Donald Trump’s campaign manager raised this issue and initiated this investigation. Toensing has a history of filing frivolous complaints and carrying out a “crusade” against Vermont Democrats and other left-wing politicians. When asked about the case against Sanders Toensing said "investigative leads are often hearsay..." Rumor and innuendo is more accurate.
If you care to dig deeper you will see that Brady's mother and father run the Washington law firm diGenova and Toensing. The firm that Brady works for. The same firm that was involved in Bill Clintons witch hunt amongst many others.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/politics/special/clinton/stories/co...
Talking points indeed.
As far as the expensive vacation home, $575.000 for a 1800sqft. home on Lake Champlain in Vermont is hardly expensive. My tract home here in Ca. goes for the same.
http://www.realtor.com/news/celebrity-real-estate/bernie-sanders-buys-ve...
Shall we now discuss the Clintons 2 multi-million dollar homes?
Enough with the Sanders hate. He is a Dem. ally and a huge champion for the American working man/women.
Maybe those that don't like GOP talking points shouldn't use them against Dem. allies, eh?
Brady Toensing, vice chairman of the Vermont Republican Party who happened to be Donald Trump’s campaign manager raised this issue and initiated this investigation. Toensing has a history of filing frivolous complaints and carrying out a “crusade” against Vermont Democrats and other left-wing politicians. When asked about the case against Sanders Toensing said "investigative leads are often hearsay..." Rumor and innuendo is more accurate.
If you care to dig deeper you will see that Brady's mother and father run the Washington law firm diGenova and Toensing. The firm that Brady works for. The same firm that was involved in Bill Clintons witch hunt amongst many others.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/politics/special/clinton/stories/co...
Talking points indeed.
As far as the expensive vacation home, $575.000 for a 1800sqft. home on Lake Champlain in Vermont is hardly expensive. My tract home here in Ca. goes for the same.
http://www.realtor.com/news/celebrity-real-estate/bernie-sanders-buys-ve...
Shall we now discuss the Clintons 2 multi-million dollar homes?
Enough with the Sanders hate. He is a Dem. ally and a huge champion for the American working man/women.
4
We could really use a president like Harry S Truman, whatever the ethnicity or gender, who actually knows how to cut a deal in Washington and staff a government.
3
Great! Start to create confusion and obfuscation by layering all sort of irrelevant "alternatives" so you again sabotage the only qualified candidate for President, Bernie Sanders. Perhaps Kamala Harris (once people figure out who she really is) as his running mate (or Elizabeth Warren). Is there any chance you can get behind them now and help make history, or is it again the good old wishy washy New York Times, having learned nothing from backing Hillary Rodham Clinton, on elf the most flawed candidates for President ever from the Democratic Party on grounds that she would be the "won't rock the boat" sure bet? The country is reeling under the worst President ever and we cannot afford another term of this bozo or Pence if he decides that he wants to run. Wake up!
2
Blunt:
I think it has been pretty obvious for quite some time now that Bernie Sanders and his "working mans" policies, have always represented a threat to the corporate establishment, hence, regardless of his immense and growing popularity, it has been quite obvious, the corporate medias intentional actions to continually marginilize him. How often do you ever see a "progressive" democrat on news television? How often do you see a progressive write a column in this newspaper? Jeffrey Zucker would have none of it. CNN would rather have Kelly Anne Conway and until recently, Jeffrey Lord on the air to continually rattle off their lies.
Incidentally, a few of whom, by the way that fall in to that category of corporate/establishment media, are the owners of this publication, need we say more?
I think it has been pretty obvious for quite some time now that Bernie Sanders and his "working mans" policies, have always represented a threat to the corporate establishment, hence, regardless of his immense and growing popularity, it has been quite obvious, the corporate medias intentional actions to continually marginilize him. How often do you ever see a "progressive" democrat on news television? How often do you see a progressive write a column in this newspaper? Jeffrey Zucker would have none of it. CNN would rather have Kelly Anne Conway and until recently, Jeffrey Lord on the air to continually rattle off their lies.
Incidentally, a few of whom, by the way that fall in to that category of corporate/establishment media, are the owners of this publication, need we say more?
7
After looking at the contenders, it will be trump in 2020. The Democratic spokespeople (Antifa) are really making things look good.
6
Al Franken for President.
9
The last thing our nation needs is a president perpetually lashing out.
5
Any of them can beat Trump
4
I bet that's what you said about Hillary
3
Another boomer speaking here echoing what many in my cohort have already stated clearly: We need young blood with a cohesive vibrant message.
Dream Team: Kamala Harris (CA) and Tim Ryan (Ohio).
Message: Put American Workers First!
Plan:
1. Medicare for All
2. Minimum wage $16.00 per hour to start
3. National service for all at age 18
4. Community service requirement starting in elementary school
5. Viable community-based alternatives to incarceration for non-violent felony offenders
6. Elimination of religious institution tax exemptions
7. Strengthen Consumer Credit Protection Bureau
8. Reinforce support for human rights spectrum: individual, privacy, civil, and voting rights
9. Sensible immigration policy: focusing on skills and substantive commitment to American values and work ethic.
10. Tax Reform: Progressive tax system with no income cap at the uppermost bracket, thus placing highest burden on highest income earners.
Dream Team: Kamala Harris (CA) and Tim Ryan (Ohio).
Message: Put American Workers First!
Plan:
1. Medicare for All
2. Minimum wage $16.00 per hour to start
3. National service for all at age 18
4. Community service requirement starting in elementary school
5. Viable community-based alternatives to incarceration for non-violent felony offenders
6. Elimination of religious institution tax exemptions
7. Strengthen Consumer Credit Protection Bureau
8. Reinforce support for human rights spectrum: individual, privacy, civil, and voting rights
9. Sensible immigration policy: focusing on skills and substantive commitment to American values and work ethic.
10. Tax Reform: Progressive tax system with no income cap at the uppermost bracket, thus placing highest burden on highest income earners.
8
All of this will cost a lot of money, so companies will trespond by shipping jobs overseas. Ironically this is just what the globalists in the Democratic party want but don't want to own it. Trump will respond by ripping the Democratif Party to shreds. So by all means proceed with your suicide agenda.
2
2. Nonstarter unless you really want your kids to never get a job until they graduate college.
3/4. Sounds great. If you live in a place that forces people to do something. Last time I checked US was still a free country.
8. Voting rights? For who? Pretty sure it's simple enough to vote for anyone that's LEGALLY able to vote already.
9. Good idea. Democrats will NEVER agree to it. Their voters are at stake.
10. This is already the case. If you're thinking about SS the cap is around $120k but that's a "pay as you go" system. Change it at your own risk.
3/4. Sounds great. If you live in a place that forces people to do something. Last time I checked US was still a free country.
8. Voting rights? For who? Pretty sure it's simple enough to vote for anyone that's LEGALLY able to vote already.
9. Good idea. Democrats will NEVER agree to it. Their voters are at stake.
10. This is already the case. If you're thinking about SS the cap is around $120k but that's a "pay as you go" system. Change it at your own risk.
1
Forget 2020. What about 2018 and gubernatorial contests. Itz about budgets and who controls allocations
9
Wish I could feel more sanguine about Democratic prospects with a woman candidate for President in 2020. Many of those who voted against Hillary were voting against her personally, to be sure: of course they'd vote for a woman, just not *that* woman. But the sad reality in this country is that many men will never vote for a woman--she'll always be *that* woman. She'll always be too aggressive, too unfeminine, too uppity, harsh, shrill, maybe too ethnic--or too weak, too feminine, prone to hysteria, time-of-the-month, blahblahblah. It's infuriating that we waste the talent and energy of more than half the population, but the folks most dedicated to keeping them down are the ones who vote most religiously--and who want to impose on the rest of us their religious convictions about the place of women in relation to men. There's a huge chunk of this country that isn't ready for a woman in the White House, unless she's serving tea or advocating for orphans.
So, Democrats--grit your teeth and be pragmatic. Do what it takes to get elected without compromising traditional Democratic principles. We need a solidly FDR progressive, grass-roots funded, Midwestern or Northwestern, youngish, non-Muslim, non-black man with an open record, ample experience, and no skeletons, who will select a similarly solid Hispanic VP. Coupled with a bold platform--include Citizens United/campaign finance reform, federally funded infrastructure training and jobs, Medicare for all. They'll be elected.
So, Democrats--grit your teeth and be pragmatic. Do what it takes to get elected without compromising traditional Democratic principles. We need a solidly FDR progressive, grass-roots funded, Midwestern or Northwestern, youngish, non-Muslim, non-black man with an open record, ample experience, and no skeletons, who will select a similarly solid Hispanic VP. Coupled with a bold platform--include Citizens United/campaign finance reform, federally funded infrastructure training and jobs, Medicare for all. They'll be elected.
8
You're really gonna go there? Obama was president. I voted for him. If there was a woman qualified and deserving of the office of POTUS she'd get elected. Find one. Hint hint - it wasn't Clinton and it isn't Warren or Harris.
2
So sad R Nelson and so many others are more interested in a woman president and than a good president.
2
I think that the Democrats will win all of the states Hillary Clinton won in 2020. They must concentrate on the big three they lost: Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania. Which of the candidates showing interest now in a Presidential run can win those states? Joe Biden has a good chance because he is popular with working people. Democrats must realize that they may be right on every issue and still lose against the Reality TV popularity of Donald Trump.
2
"Top Democrats Have 2020, and Money, on Their Minds"
Yes, money for an election is, unfortunately, necessary. But, I hope these Democrats are serious now about having the issues straight and an acceptable set of goals.
For 2018 and 2020, I don't want the Democrats to be distracted by the demagoguery and lies of Trump and I don't want them to be distracted by the Independent Bernie Sanders claiming to be a Democrat when he wasn't and isn't.
The 2018 and 2020 elections must be about middle class and poor issues and must be a 50 state effort. And it must be a "your vote is most important" push that every voter and their vote is important.
Yes, money for an election is, unfortunately, necessary. But, I hope these Democrats are serious now about having the issues straight and an acceptable set of goals.
For 2018 and 2020, I don't want the Democrats to be distracted by the demagoguery and lies of Trump and I don't want them to be distracted by the Independent Bernie Sanders claiming to be a Democrat when he wasn't and isn't.
The 2018 and 2020 elections must be about middle class and poor issues and must be a 50 state effort. And it must be a "your vote is most important" push that every voter and their vote is important.
4
The junior senator from California's high opinion of her capabilities speaks volumes about why people feel the way they do about Californians. Jerry Brown is the only California homeboy I have any respect for since his wings melted trying to reach the sun once a long time ago and he saw the light and stayed grounded here and has done a lot of good as governor, AG, Oakland mayor and now governor again. As for Moonbeam's crazy bullet train notion . . .probably after effects from a slight case of heat stroke he got while flying up so high.
5
I'm as excited about this article and the names mentioned as much as cleaning out the litter box.
I have no idea Who would be a good candidate. But I do know that the message should be short simple and strong.
Let's face it right now this is Trump's game. He will go low and dirty and mean and he can keep it going folks! Whoever takes him on had better be ready.
Who knows what his record will look like in 2019? Lots of time for the whole game to change.
What will not change is Trump, his karma at rallies and the GOP party of dirty politics X 10.
Get ready Democrats to roll in the mud and swing your fists. You can not assume anything. Trump has changed everything for the Worst.
I have no idea Who would be a good candidate. But I do know that the message should be short simple and strong.
Let's face it right now this is Trump's game. He will go low and dirty and mean and he can keep it going folks! Whoever takes him on had better be ready.
Who knows what his record will look like in 2019? Lots of time for the whole game to change.
What will not change is Trump, his karma at rallies and the GOP party of dirty politics X 10.
Get ready Democrats to roll in the mud and swing your fists. You can not assume anything. Trump has changed everything for the Worst.
5
The last Democrat to act selflessly for the good of the country, knowing it would eliminate any chance of another term was LBJ. After signing the Civil Rights Act of 1964 he acknowledged that Democrats had just lost the South for generations. Yet, the very next year LBJ signed the Voting Rights Act, further driving the southern racists deeper into the Republican base. But, despite laying the groundwork for Nixon's victory, LBJ knew he had done the morally right thing.
The only significant blot on LBJ's copybook was his handling of Vietnam. He inherited the war, which really began in 1956 when Eisenhower refused to honor the Geneva Accords, which called for reunification & a national election. Instead, he declared South Vietnam a separate nation & installed Nixon's friend, the dictator Ngo Dinh Diem. The first names on the Wall are from the '50s. JFK then put 15,000 "advisors" into southern Vietnam & more names went up on the Wall. Johnson was given bad, even false (Tonkin Gulf) advice by McNamara & others & found himself trapped. The only time to get out of a war is to not get in (as Bush & Obama learned). Once the first life is lost, there's no way to get out without saying to grieving parents, "Your child died for a mistake." We can hear LBJ anguishing about the war on White House tapes, but not being able to come up with a way out that wouldn't dishonor the already dead. As Trump is about to learn, a war is like B'rer Rabbit's tarbaby. Once in, you can only go deeper.
The only significant blot on LBJ's copybook was his handling of Vietnam. He inherited the war, which really began in 1956 when Eisenhower refused to honor the Geneva Accords, which called for reunification & a national election. Instead, he declared South Vietnam a separate nation & installed Nixon's friend, the dictator Ngo Dinh Diem. The first names on the Wall are from the '50s. JFK then put 15,000 "advisors" into southern Vietnam & more names went up on the Wall. Johnson was given bad, even false (Tonkin Gulf) advice by McNamara & others & found himself trapped. The only time to get out of a war is to not get in (as Bush & Obama learned). Once the first life is lost, there's no way to get out without saying to grieving parents, "Your child died for a mistake." We can hear LBJ anguishing about the war on White House tapes, but not being able to come up with a way out that wouldn't dishonor the already dead. As Trump is about to learn, a war is like B'rer Rabbit's tarbaby. Once in, you can only go deeper.
8
As the Trump campaign taught the political world, it takes more than money to win the nomination and more than money during the campaign. Mr. Trump was very media savvy and his antics and absurdities garnered Billions of dollars in free media coverage. His appeal was it improved the ratings of the media and hence increased the media's advertising rates. No one lost money and most of the media, made a lot of money and were returned to greater profitability.
I am not suggesting that Democrats can't beat, "the constant tweeter" but the candidate who takes him on must authentically be both "honest and wise" as John Adams wrote to his wife immediately after he first moved into the White House in 1800, when he was reflecting on the awesome responsibilities of the office that he had won.
Adams was no lightweight, he was experienced and chose to dedicate his life to public service, serving after his Presidency in the House of Representative until his death, which followed a few days after he collapsed in what is now Statuary Hall.
The exact quote, "I pray Heaven to bestow the best of blessings on this House, and all that shall hereafter inhabit it. May none but honest and wise men ever rule under this roof."
Honesty is a simple virtue that can be achieved by all candidates but wisdom is a special virtue that comes from experience and authentic desire and curiosity about how to make life better for all.
So to all candidates, now is the time to start growing the message.
I am not suggesting that Democrats can't beat, "the constant tweeter" but the candidate who takes him on must authentically be both "honest and wise" as John Adams wrote to his wife immediately after he first moved into the White House in 1800, when he was reflecting on the awesome responsibilities of the office that he had won.
Adams was no lightweight, he was experienced and chose to dedicate his life to public service, serving after his Presidency in the House of Representative until his death, which followed a few days after he collapsed in what is now Statuary Hall.
The exact quote, "I pray Heaven to bestow the best of blessings on this House, and all that shall hereafter inhabit it. May none but honest and wise men ever rule under this roof."
Honesty is a simple virtue that can be achieved by all candidates but wisdom is a special virtue that comes from experience and authentic desire and curiosity about how to make life better for all.
So to all candidates, now is the time to start growing the message.
8
"the Trump campaign taught the political world" that Trump was right about on thing and one thing only. "republicans are so stupid they'll believe anything I say"
10
Now, a serious and realistic political thinker would say, "May none but honest and wise men and women ever rule under this roof."
2
How about an age limit for Democratic candidates for President? Say 70?Ronald Reagan was 69 and 341 days when he was inaugurated while Donald Trump was 70. No more of these oldsters! [I'm 70 so I can say that.] Fresh blood, fresh ideas, not 40 years of baggage.
4
I haven't heard any fresh ideas coming out of that group.
Millennial's are the sorriest group of all. Coddled all they're live by helicopter parents.
Millennial's are the sorriest group of all. Coddled all they're live by helicopter parents.
12
I hope Hillary is NOT in the List. Actually Hillary is the reason, why Trump got elected.
8
Gerrymandered voting districts in key States is why Trump got elected. Clinton won the popular vote by 3M. Trump squeaked in with the Civil War Reconstruction antiquity aka the Electoral College. Get rid of the EC, and go with a popular vote. The GOP will lose a national election with a popular vote.
7
The odds may change for the Democrats if they stop to take the "left" voter (whomever that is) for granted. The Democrats thought they had a lock on the middle class, the thought they had a lock on the gays and lesbians, and the thought they had a lock on any non-Republican.
Sabotaging Bernie Sanders (by the DNC) in favor of Hillary Clinton was the final straw. And I'm unanimous in that.
Sabotaging Bernie Sanders (by the DNC) in favor of Hillary Clinton was the final straw. And I'm unanimous in that.
15
Bernie Sanders and his bros tried to sabotaged Hillary Clinton by repeating right wing talking points and giving them credibility.
She took on every white man in the race including Bernie and the Russians and beat them all by at least 3 million votes.
Bernie and his bros are just like Trump claim the election was rigged. Banana republic tactics by both.
She took on every white man in the race including Bernie and the Russians and beat them all by at least 3 million votes.
Bernie and his bros are just like Trump claim the election was rigged. Banana republic tactics by both.
8
Bernie used old GOP talking points against Clinton. He siphoned off stupid votes from those too young to know that an "Independent Socialist" tag was not a national winner. Bernie put Trump in the WH; now, he just needs to go away.
5
Why don't they all push instead for limits on campaign finances from ALL sources and outlaw the dark money and then they wouldn't have to be bothering us already for fundraising. And while they're at it, how about a message, an identity, something to strive for as Democrats? An inspiring idea, slogan, something that actually means something? Why should we finance the next round of unimaginative, Wall street striving candidates from the party that completely lost its way? Give us somebody and something that's worth donating to.
6
because the badly written campaign finance law McCain Finegold is why the limits on campaigns money sources were overturned.
3
Who said, when talking about Obama,
"I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy," It wasn't Trump. It was good old Joe. Who mourned the death of the Irish Prime Minister's mother, who was very much alive? Nope, not Trump, but good old Joe again. These are just a couple of Biden's encyclopedia of gaffs. Hilary ran on the theme of "Now it's my term." Joe's two favorite words are "I" and "me." One news agency counted those two words as Biden questioned a nominee for confirmation. They were used more than there were minutes during his time of questioning. Hillary ran on the theme "Now it's my term." Joe will be seen as an old school democrat who runs on the "I and "Me" platform," Thump ran on the theme that now it was time to turn the power "back to you the people". The DNC will love Biden just liked they loved Clinton. They are the DNC's favorite kind of people. Trump ran against the RNC as well as the party leaders and won not just the nomination but the presidency. The Democrats need someone who will run against the DNC and mean it. Is there anyone on the Horizon they could nominate? Not right now but hope springs eternally.
"I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy," It wasn't Trump. It was good old Joe. Who mourned the death of the Irish Prime Minister's mother, who was very much alive? Nope, not Trump, but good old Joe again. These are just a couple of Biden's encyclopedia of gaffs. Hilary ran on the theme of "Now it's my term." Joe's two favorite words are "I" and "me." One news agency counted those two words as Biden questioned a nominee for confirmation. They were used more than there were minutes during his time of questioning. Hillary ran on the theme "Now it's my term." Joe will be seen as an old school democrat who runs on the "I and "Me" platform," Thump ran on the theme that now it was time to turn the power "back to you the people". The DNC will love Biden just liked they loved Clinton. They are the DNC's favorite kind of people. Trump ran against the RNC as well as the party leaders and won not just the nomination but the presidency. The Democrats need someone who will run against the DNC and mean it. Is there anyone on the Horizon they could nominate? Not right now but hope springs eternally.
2
@Ron Virginia:
It will be a long time, my friend.
40 years in the wilderness.
# # #
The Democrats need someone who will run against the DNC and mean it. Is there anyone on the Horizon they could nominate?
It will be a long time, my friend.
40 years in the wilderness.
# # #
The Democrats need someone who will run against the DNC and mean it. Is there anyone on the Horizon they could nominate?
1
The democrats will lose again because they refuse to listen to their base. The greed of Hillary blew it last time. There is only one way to win...Bernie. He is the golden ticket.
6
The question is, who is their base now? What do you mean by "their base"?
4
You're killing me! Sanders will be even more ancient next time around. And no one in Congress on either side will support his Socialist ideas.
7
Biden will be 78 in 2020!
4
Shameful the Democrats combing the country gathering cash to enrich their political careers - while playing dead duck roles in Washington, and failing to provide a helping hand to the Texans in their time of need. Biden on the sideline hungering for another do-nothing political stint, and Elizabeth Warren stirring yet more vitriol claiming the party "should avoid a temptation to moderate its views." Also, can the NYT tell us why anyone cares about the letter left by Obama for President Trump? Enough of Obama with his hunger to get back on the world stage. It is time he got a real job . . . perhaps the Clinton Foundation has a role for him.
7
Dear NY Times,
Please quit jumping the gun and attempting to anoint the next Democratic nominee. This does not serve your readers. Just report the news.
You did us all a real disservice over the last two years by blindly supporting the Clinton machine, and downplaying the issues that Bernie Sanders brought to the forefront. Look where that got us.
I'm not certain if Mr. Sanders would have won the Democratic nomination if you had covered his campaign more fairly. But if had been the nominee, it is pretty clear that he could have defeated Mr. Trump.
Let the process play out. And listen to pulse of the people on the ground, including your readership. Your gossip coverage of the Hamptons and Martha's Vineyard fundraisers and machine politics are not helping.
Please quit jumping the gun and attempting to anoint the next Democratic nominee. This does not serve your readers. Just report the news.
You did us all a real disservice over the last two years by blindly supporting the Clinton machine, and downplaying the issues that Bernie Sanders brought to the forefront. Look where that got us.
I'm not certain if Mr. Sanders would have won the Democratic nomination if you had covered his campaign more fairly. But if had been the nominee, it is pretty clear that he could have defeated Mr. Trump.
Let the process play out. And listen to pulse of the people on the ground, including your readership. Your gossip coverage of the Hamptons and Martha's Vineyard fundraisers and machine politics are not helping.
19
Discrepancies between the exit polls and the recorded vote show that Bernie won the primary. It was stolen from him (and the American people) through the one/two punch: voter suppression and manipulation of the electronic voting machines.
Read the conclusion of:
Democracy Lost: A Report on the Fatally Flawed 2016 Democratic Primaries
http://www.p2016.org/chrnothp/Democracy_Lost_Update1_EJUSA.pdf
Jonathan Simon: Donald Trump Warned Of A ‘Rigged’ Election, Was He Right?
http://www.mintpressnews.com/donald-trump-warned-of-a-rigged-election-wa...
Josh Mitteldorf: The 2016 Election
https://www.opednews.com/populum/pagem.php?f=Election-Theft-2016-Part-by...
Read the conclusion of:
Democracy Lost: A Report on the Fatally Flawed 2016 Democratic Primaries
http://www.p2016.org/chrnothp/Democracy_Lost_Update1_EJUSA.pdf
Jonathan Simon: Donald Trump Warned Of A ‘Rigged’ Election, Was He Right?
http://www.mintpressnews.com/donald-trump-warned-of-a-rigged-election-wa...
Josh Mitteldorf: The 2016 Election
https://www.opednews.com/populum/pagem.php?f=Election-Theft-2016-Part-by...
2
I hope whoever the Democrat's select continues to call people who disagree with them racists, sexists, xenophobs, nazis, KKK, deplorables, bla, bla, bla.
This continuation of progressive and left wing intolerance and hate will ensure a Trump victory in 2020.
And if you don't think he will make it to 2020, keep dreaming.
This continuation of progressive and left wing intolerance and hate will ensure a Trump victory in 2020.
And if you don't think he will make it to 2020, keep dreaming.
18
Well Larry G interesting generalization, the fact Trump ,not everybody ,is a racist , sexist, liar. The fact that this individual got elected ( lost the popular vote) should I add narcissist to the attached labels he lies he did not) is truly amazing.
So far he has accomplished NOTHING. His Presidency is in complete disarray, non sense tweets, now harsh words for South Korea while the
North is running amok . No tax reform , no viable health care plan.
The Hilary hate was an issue but you can like a liar, a sexist a total ignoramus re history is I will just say is phenomenal
So far he has accomplished NOTHING. His Presidency is in complete disarray, non sense tweets, now harsh words for South Korea while the
North is running amok . No tax reform , no viable health care plan.
The Hilary hate was an issue but you can like a liar, a sexist a total ignoramus re history is I will just say is phenomenal
6
Trump will he gone well before 2020. Lie down with Nazis, get Nazi fleas.
4
Sorry Alan, Larry pretty much nailed it. The generalization wasn't from him, it was from your side. Trump's already accomplished the only thing we cared about - he nominated someone who wasn't a Commie to the Supreme Court. Mission accomplished! As for the rest of it - the Dems DO call anyone that has an opinion other than their's "Misogynist, Racist, Xenophobic, Sexist..." You get the point? If we disagree with you we get labeled something awful. We're really not. But you can keep on pretending we are. And keep on losing elections because you really don't get it.
Lost the popular vote? CA alone pushed the popular vote to Clinton's side. What are the regulations for voting in CA? Do they automatically register anyone that gets a driver's license? Oh, that's right they do. Oh, can an illegal immigrant get a driver's license there, oh, that's right, they can... I took basic math back in the day - 1+ 1 = fraud. Have a nice day.
Lost the popular vote? CA alone pushed the popular vote to Clinton's side. What are the regulations for voting in CA? Do they automatically register anyone that gets a driver's license? Oh, that's right they do. Oh, can an illegal immigrant get a driver's license there, oh, that's right, they can... I took basic math back in the day - 1+ 1 = fraud. Have a nice day.
2
It doesn't matter who runs. They are all Democrats. The problem is that they are Democrats...liberals; and liberalism and Democrats have been losing election after election...because they are Democrats. Solution? Become Republicans.
7
How about a strong third party
1
The problem is not that they're liberals. They're not! They're just old fashioned politicians lining up money and influence. That's all they care about no matter what they say.
6
Al Franken.
The man would make Trump cry and look the fool. Nobody mocks better than Franken. Plus he is a great liberal Dem.
(Just as Pres. Obama did at the Correspondence Dinner.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8TwRmX6zs4
The man would make Trump cry and look the fool. Nobody mocks better than Franken. Plus he is a great liberal Dem.
(Just as Pres. Obama did at the Correspondence Dinner.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8TwRmX6zs4
8
I love the idea of Franken running, easy win for Trump!
5
They get it wrong every time!
SpeechNow v. FEC was the court case that allows unlimited contributions/fundraising by independent political groups, NOT Citizens United. Citizens United had to do with expenditures and speech blackouts.
"What's the difference?" I am sure many a progressive/liberal will ask.
Well, the difference is if you actually read these cases and understand what they actually say and stand for, you'd realize they are correct and that campaign finance reform is just speech control by and for incumbents, primarily.
This would be a far cray from the current position of most Democrats/liberals which is hysterically yell out "Citizens United!" "Citizens United!" and think you are actually saying something of meaning, which are not whatsoever.
SpeechNow v. FEC was the court case that allows unlimited contributions/fundraising by independent political groups, NOT Citizens United. Citizens United had to do with expenditures and speech blackouts.
"What's the difference?" I am sure many a progressive/liberal will ask.
Well, the difference is if you actually read these cases and understand what they actually say and stand for, you'd realize they are correct and that campaign finance reform is just speech control by and for incumbents, primarily.
This would be a far cray from the current position of most Democrats/liberals which is hysterically yell out "Citizens United!" "Citizens United!" and think you are actually saying something of meaning, which are not whatsoever.
4
@Karl
Well, obviously, you (still) didn't catch the finer points of distinction between the 2 cases, Karl. They're flip sides of the same coin, to be sure, one involving the raising of money, the other involving the spending of money.
The thread between the two cases is defining Money as Speech. whether in the raising or the spending thereof. That is an ideological CHOICE that some otherwise smart jurists are taking to adjudicate these cases in favor (increasingly) of unlimited raising and spending. But that isn't the same as saying the opposite choice is somehow just 'hysterical' raving about nothing of consequence.
Just as far too many can't imagine that the 2ndA EVER suggested anything BUT a personal right to bear arms (was not even an issue until the 1950's, much less 'self-evident') so too is it not written in stone that even a democracy with a Free Speech amendment can't see (and legislate) the sense in limiting the 365/24/7 campaigning that has made governing that much more difficult than it already is for a 50-state federation of states. Allowing Capital such an overbearing influence on the electoral system is bound to affect that electoral system. What that effect is, and whether we want it, is the conversation we're NOT having.
Well, obviously, you (still) didn't catch the finer points of distinction between the 2 cases, Karl. They're flip sides of the same coin, to be sure, one involving the raising of money, the other involving the spending of money.
The thread between the two cases is defining Money as Speech. whether in the raising or the spending thereof. That is an ideological CHOICE that some otherwise smart jurists are taking to adjudicate these cases in favor (increasingly) of unlimited raising and spending. But that isn't the same as saying the opposite choice is somehow just 'hysterical' raving about nothing of consequence.
Just as far too many can't imagine that the 2ndA EVER suggested anything BUT a personal right to bear arms (was not even an issue until the 1950's, much less 'self-evident') so too is it not written in stone that even a democracy with a Free Speech amendment can't see (and legislate) the sense in limiting the 365/24/7 campaigning that has made governing that much more difficult than it already is for a 50-state federation of states. Allowing Capital such an overbearing influence on the electoral system is bound to affect that electoral system. What that effect is, and whether we want it, is the conversation we're NOT having.
3
Electing Trump has made us into a joke.
No reason to continue the trend by electing comedian Franken (as much fun as he is).
Can't the Democrats find a serious qualified candidate?
These lightweights and sleazoids are not what we need.
No reason to continue the trend by electing comedian Franken (as much fun as he is).
Can't the Democrats find a serious qualified candidate?
These lightweights and sleazoids are not what we need.
4
Messrs. Biden and Sanders should only raise funds in support of a Democrat who has a chance of running twice. We need Democrats who have a chance of being electable for two terms. It will take a heck of a lot of work to get our country back to being the shining symbol we once thought we were.
5
It will take more than a Democrat.
2
They had better do something about the narcissistic liar in chief or there won't be a 2020 to worry about. And yes, that means fighting just as dirty and dishonest as Republicans.
6
If everyone took public funding, elections would be about the candidates, not their wealthy supporters. Warren's call to avoid Wall Street money falls short of the ideal and is designed to take advantage of her superior fund raising ability, which will well exeed federal limits. It is mostly a self-serving strategy to make herself look independent while collecting enormous amounts of money. Money shouldn't decide elections, whether it's from Wall Strait or the friends of Harvard Law School.
2
How soon you forget - it was none other than candidate Obama who refused to participate in accepting public funding for his presidential run!.
3
I'll never forget the look on Bernie Sanders face as he watched Hillary Clinton anointed as the Democratic candidate for president. He knew he could have beaten Trump. Bernie drew the big, pumped up crowds that Hillary never could. Who do I want to run? Any qualified Democrat who can pack them in at venues across the country, who can inspire us and get people cheering at rallies and marching to the voting booths.
18
I beg to differ; a bunch of college kids making a lot of noise at a Bernie convention did not constitute a winning crowd. Hillary attracted plenty of supporters of all ages, genders and races. Your claim that Sanders would have won is about as shortsighted as Trump claiming he had "millions and millions" of supporters at his inauguration. Hillary could not/did not win but Bernie certainly wouldn't have done any better. Bernie's ideas are good but he'd have had as much trouble carrying out his plans as any of Hillary's plans and ideas would have been if she won. It's easy to say after the fact that he "would have won," but I don't think it would have happened.
5
Patricia Clayton: It looks like Clinton supporters can't stop calling anybody who doesn't agree with them names. First of all, there were a lot of older Bernie supporters. Secondly, aren't a 'bunch of college kids' as important as anybody else ore may be even more important since they are the countries future?
8
Dear Renate: Who's calling anyone names? It is well known that many of Sander's supporters were young college kids; is that name-calling in your book? The fact that I brought up young college kids is that they for the most part had never before voted for a president so they lack experience in recognizing candidates with good judgment vs those without, while the older among us have seen numerous presidents--some good some awful--come and go over the years. I was a boomer in college in the 60s and we all thought we knew everything but we later learned there is more to life and candidacy than ideals, as well as how to recognize a promise that could be kept vs one that would be impossible in this day and age. Why so sensitive?
3
Any Democrats who don't come out 100% for labor & trade unions for fear of chasing away their corporate contributors won't see a penny or a vote for me.
"Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost."
-- John Quincy Adams
The only candidate since FDR who has come even close to my principles was Bernie Sanders and I watched the neoliberal Democratic establishment elite use the DNC, the Super Delegates, & their own belief that Hillary had been somehow anointed to win, cut Sanders off at the knees. The result is that we now have Trumpnado.
Today's Democrats have no coherent core of values and principles. They have learned all too well how to triangulate each issue for disparate constituencies and, in the end, you are clueless about what their vision is of how the country should be organized and run. Let's hear core principles, not just tinsel programs carefully polled and forum-tested ala the GOP. The Democrats from Bill Clinton, Al Gore, John Kerry, Barack Obama through Hillary Clinton have practiced the fine art of putting flamboyant labels on empty luggage.
We need to know where they will stand on today's critical issues, but we also need some way to understand how their principles will be applied to issues of the future. Unfortunately for us, darn few of them have anything even tangentially related to principles.
"Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost."
-- John Quincy Adams
The only candidate since FDR who has come even close to my principles was Bernie Sanders and I watched the neoliberal Democratic establishment elite use the DNC, the Super Delegates, & their own belief that Hillary had been somehow anointed to win, cut Sanders off at the knees. The result is that we now have Trumpnado.
Today's Democrats have no coherent core of values and principles. They have learned all too well how to triangulate each issue for disparate constituencies and, in the end, you are clueless about what their vision is of how the country should be organized and run. Let's hear core principles, not just tinsel programs carefully polled and forum-tested ala the GOP. The Democrats from Bill Clinton, Al Gore, John Kerry, Barack Obama through Hillary Clinton have practiced the fine art of putting flamboyant labels on empty luggage.
We need to know where they will stand on today's critical issues, but we also need some way to understand how their principles will be applied to issues of the future. Unfortunately for us, darn few of them have anything even tangentially related to principles.
18
Amnesty for undocumented immigrant workers and better movie roles for transgender actors will be the winning platform for Democrats in 2020! You either believe in this or you are racist xenophobe!
20
Obviously, NYT loves Kamala Harris because she's African American, female, and from Cali. Why was there no mention of midwesterners or westerners anywhere in this article? Does NYT STILL not get it that millions of Americans are sick to death of coastal political royals and limousine liberals telling them what to think? And further branding the Democratic Party as a solely for African Americans probably isn't a winning strategy, either.
23
Al Franken would be my favorite. He already has established himself as having a passed the tests most would desire. He is experienced in the DC world, he can work with "the other side" as he already has done, he is even tempered and has common sense. He can make a case without insulting the opposition and generating negative headlines.
Also, he is one smart guy. A little clever humor adds to the mix.
Also, he is one smart guy. A little clever humor adds to the mix.
8
Comedian Franken vs. Thugs Putin & Xi sounds like a terrible mismatch.
Agree Melvin; nice to have a president with a sense of humor but that's not necessary or a guarantee of success here or abroad.
1
Al Franken as a contender... comedy would be a the bottom of the list of his traits, with smarts & a desire to do right by the country being at the top. (replying to Melvin)
3
A las Barricadas! These comments wallow in veneer-thin identity politics. If the Democratic party does the same in 2020 we will again lose - maybe in a landslide if the Republican candidate is a relative centrist like Rubio or Jeb Bush. After the shock of Trump is over will we consider that any other Republican would have beaten Clinton in a landslide because the Times, the rest of the media, and the party insiders chose Hillarty the day after the 2012 election (as they chose her to be Senator from New York) and she was a bad candidate. It was a compelling narrative - first African American followed by the first women - but the whole thing highlights the inescapable truth: identity politics dont resonate well off campus or east of Berkeley/west of Amherst. Progressive/centrist policies, integrity, and the integrity of the process are our chance.
9
Why not a "first African-American followed by a first woman" as president? This is supposed to be America, a place here dreams can come true. Apparently, only for the the incredibly exceptional African American man and super easily for the rich white guy, and but not a woman. It's amazing to note so many responders who don't see their own prejudice when it comes to "what a woman needs to win." Don't see any women, including Elizabeth Warren--a woman with conviction who deserves the office--following the slime trail that Trump will leave behind.
4
You just don't get it do you? Mostly ivory tower academics and main stream media people are obsessed with identity politics. Everone else judges other people as individuals.
2
"“He is thinking about how he plays in this moment as a former vice president,”
Vice President "Being There" Bidet will ...be there. Onward through the fog! They may even still be thinking about advancing Democrat ! Veterans!! Like John-John Kewwy and Ramsey Powell. Two very Communistic Communists have emerged as Party leaders Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.). They come from the two leading leftist bully -states and Harris is a follower of Bernie Sanders.
Vice President "Being There" Bidet will ...be there. Onward through the fog! They may even still be thinking about advancing Democrat ! Veterans!! Like John-John Kewwy and Ramsey Powell. Two very Communistic Communists have emerged as Party leaders Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.). They come from the two leading leftist bully -states and Harris is a follower of Bernie Sanders.
2
Ramsey Clark not powell
Call me old fashioned, but what the Democrats need is someone with executive branch governing experience, whose job is solving problems that arise out of everyday crises, not partisan warfare. None of those mentioned in the article has this background (unless you count Bernie Sanders's stint as mayor of Burlington, Vt.). Barack Obama was an aberration, a Senate rookie with off-the-charts intelligence, dazzling rhetoric and a fairy tale personal story. The Democrats should be looking to dynamic governors and mayors. Think Dan Malloy of Connecticut, Terry McAuliffe of Virginia and Mayor Mitch Landrieu of New Orleans.
4
You had me until McAuliffe. He and his buddy/frenemy Haley Barbour should be in prison.
8
Mayor Mitch Landrieu gave a very compelling speech as to why it was time to take down the Confederate Statues in New Orleans this past May. It as not hysterical nor did he resort to name calling or labelling. It was considerate and accurate.
I would go for him over all mentioned in this article.
I would go for him over all mentioned in this article.
1
Al Franken in 2020.
"I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and gosh darn it, people like me."
Indeed they do.
"I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and gosh darn it, people like me."
Indeed they do.
8
At this point, I do not care who the Democrats run in 2018 and 2020. So long as they are not dishonest and are not sociopaths nor psychopaths, I am voting for their candidates.
I am just so tired and disgusted with "winning" the Trump way. The Trump way is essentially dismantling and starving the federal government's essential services to citizens and draining our Treasury for his own family's benefit. Never has a president ripped us off for so much in so little time. By the time his four year term is up, he may have another bankruptcy to his credit: the US federal government.
I am fed up to here (holding hand a foot over my head).
I just wish more voters out there were as fed up as I am.
I am just so tired and disgusted with "winning" the Trump way. The Trump way is essentially dismantling and starving the federal government's essential services to citizens and draining our Treasury for his own family's benefit. Never has a president ripped us off for so much in so little time. By the time his four year term is up, he may have another bankruptcy to his credit: the US federal government.
I am fed up to here (holding hand a foot over my head).
I just wish more voters out there were as fed up as I am.
8
Never forget well documented and publicized Democrat shenanigans during the presidential election of President Trump, and Ms. Clinton: The cheating of Democrat Brazile sharing Second Debate Questions With Clinton - U.S.
blogs.wsj.com/.../dncs-brazile-shared-primary-debate-questions-with-clin... Oct 31, 2016 - A second email surfaced that appears to show Democratic consultant Donna Brazile sharing a debate question with Hillary ...*Undercover Footage Shows Clinton Operatives Inciting ...
anarchy 1. Cached Oct 18, 2016 - The video documents violence at Trump rallies that is traced to the ... An undercover video produced by James O'Keeffe's Project Veritas shows ... Democratic National Committee and the Hillary Clinton Campaign. ... Trump supporters have frequently been the victims of real, as opposed to staged, violence.
blogs.wsj.com/.../dncs-brazile-shared-primary-debate-questions-with-clin... Oct 31, 2016 - A second email surfaced that appears to show Democratic consultant Donna Brazile sharing a debate question with Hillary ...*Undercover Footage Shows Clinton Operatives Inciting ...
anarchy 1. Cached Oct 18, 2016 - The video documents violence at Trump rallies that is traced to the ... An undercover video produced by James O'Keeffe's Project Veritas shows ... Democratic National Committee and the Hillary Clinton Campaign. ... Trump supporters have frequently been the victims of real, as opposed to staged, violence.
1
Let's get real. Trump "won" because he sold his uniformed supporters a bill of goods, i.e., the "other" was to blame for their troubles and because he worked with Russia to rig the the election, just like he said it was rigged. The rest of the GOP field has even less to offer other than another round of discredited policies (I'm looking at you, trickle down economics) and failed attempts to repeal and replace, build the wall, reform the tax code, blah, blah, blah...They might as well hang a "going out of business" shingle on their headquarters and call it a day.
5
Just what this country needs a woman with backbone,you have my vote Senator Harris
4
Has everyone been asleep for the last 3 years? Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders were much more popular than their establishment counterparts because people absolutely despise Washington right now.
Voters vote for the candidate who understands their problems (or successfully pretends to). It's purely gut-level. Liberals and immigrants are ruining our country; the 1% is evil; the economy is rigged. It doesn't matter what your script is or how much money you raise, that's what makes you popular.
We don't need a fresh young face for the party, we don't need a platform that reaches out to all those disaffected white males out there. We need anger, we need passion, we need someone who will take the stage with a bully like Trump or Christie and run him off the stage. Nobody mentioned in this article even comes close.
Voters vote for the candidate who understands their problems (or successfully pretends to). It's purely gut-level. Liberals and immigrants are ruining our country; the 1% is evil; the economy is rigged. It doesn't matter what your script is or how much money you raise, that's what makes you popular.
We don't need a fresh young face for the party, we don't need a platform that reaches out to all those disaffected white males out there. We need anger, we need passion, we need someone who will take the stage with a bully like Trump or Christie and run him off the stage. Nobody mentioned in this article even comes close.
10
A presidential election is only three years away and the Democrats have accomplished little, sitting back and watching what they perceive as a Republican implosion re: the Russia mess.
If Trump survives the Russia investigations, either he or his surrogates wil perpetuate the thinking that brought him to the White House, guaranteeing that the ugliness that has become a mainstay in the public forum will continue in the 2020 elections.
In the meanwhile, it would serve the Democrats well if they let the voters know how they differ fromt the party in power. And to do that they have to actually have a plan that makes sense.
By now the Democrats should know that voters have a short memory and money doesn't matter as much as it once did. It's a different time and a whole new game.
If Trump survives the Russia investigations, either he or his surrogates wil perpetuate the thinking that brought him to the White House, guaranteeing that the ugliness that has become a mainstay in the public forum will continue in the 2020 elections.
In the meanwhile, it would serve the Democrats well if they let the voters know how they differ fromt the party in power. And to do that they have to actually have a plan that makes sense.
By now the Democrats should know that voters have a short memory and money doesn't matter as much as it once did. It's a different time and a whole new game.
7
The first thing they need to do is get the Clintons far, far away.
29
Here we go again, my friends, down the inimitable American electioneering rabbit hole. US citizens are thoroughly disgusted with this supposedly democratic process.
How could it be otherwise within a "democracy" wherein, thanks to the Citizens United decision, the influence of money in politics is virtually unregulated? How could it be otherwise: When "corporations are legal persons" and money is just another mode of free speech? When any attempt to limit the length of the campaign season is deemed a threat to the aforementioned freedom? When politicians must devote at least one-third of their time begging donors to fund their next campaign and must start doing so before the exhilaration of a latest electoral victory has scarcely subsided? When so many politicians rely heavily upon gerrymandering and voter suppression to keep themselves in office? When reform efforts within the Federal Election Commission, like so much else within our political system, are stymied by partisan obstructionism?
Only those who profit most from the current system--notably politicians, their advisors, their donors, media moguls and members of the Supreme Court--are satisfied with the system as it is. Is our nation so far down the road to plutocracy and oligarchy that meaningful democratic election reforms are now virtually impossible?
How could it be otherwise within a "democracy" wherein, thanks to the Citizens United decision, the influence of money in politics is virtually unregulated? How could it be otherwise: When "corporations are legal persons" and money is just another mode of free speech? When any attempt to limit the length of the campaign season is deemed a threat to the aforementioned freedom? When politicians must devote at least one-third of their time begging donors to fund their next campaign and must start doing so before the exhilaration of a latest electoral victory has scarcely subsided? When so many politicians rely heavily upon gerrymandering and voter suppression to keep themselves in office? When reform efforts within the Federal Election Commission, like so much else within our political system, are stymied by partisan obstructionism?
Only those who profit most from the current system--notably politicians, their advisors, their donors, media moguls and members of the Supreme Court--are satisfied with the system as it is. Is our nation so far down the road to plutocracy and oligarchy that meaningful democratic election reforms are now virtually impossible?
6
Hello? In case you haven't noticed, several of Trump's "rallies," including the one in Phoenix recently are officially CAMPAIGN EVENTS, paid for with reelection committee funds.
He is running, or at least lumbering, to a relection campaign. Or, one could say, he never stopped the 2016 campaign.
He is running, or at least lumbering, to a relection campaign. Or, one could say, he never stopped the 2016 campaign.
10
NYT forgot another potential top democrat candidate for 2020: Trump! No one plays both sides of the fence like him, and he has beaten all opponents. He has a better chance as a democratic candidate than Kamala Harris, Sanders, Warren, Booker.
Kidding aside, once a candidate promises higher taxes, they almost guarantee a loss, as the opposing side can spin it forever, similar to open borders. Increasing taxes as a platform, even just for the rich, will mean Trump 2020.
Kidding aside, once a candidate promises higher taxes, they almost guarantee a loss, as the opposing side can spin it forever, similar to open borders. Increasing taxes as a platform, even just for the rich, will mean Trump 2020.
4
@Satishk
Another kiss of death for any candidate:
Telling voters that their problems are mainly of their own creation. We don't want truth. We want scapegoats.
Another kiss of death for any candidate:
Telling voters that their problems are mainly of their own creation. We don't want truth. We want scapegoats.
3
I've got it !!!
The dream ticket!
Al Franken and Josh Stein!
Think of the bumper stickers!
FRANKEN STEIN 2020
The dream ticket!
Al Franken and Josh Stein!
Think of the bumper stickers!
FRANKEN STEIN 2020
17
So Franken Stein v. Frankenstein?
9
Paul--You must mean: "Franken-Stein vs. Frankenstein's Monster"
1
Thanks for the laugh! I needed that.
2
Sure, fundraising. Isn't this the problem, though? Because fundraising basically means selling out the people's best interests to the moneyed interests.
With the degree of income inequality already present in this country, I'm reluctant to vote for anyone who has had to depend on wealthy donors to get elected.
With the degree of income inequality already present in this country, I'm reluctant to vote for anyone who has had to depend on wealthy donors to get elected.
11
So, they're just going to leave Trump to it, then? Focusing on themselves and their one (long) shot at the White House, rather than building a convincing and hopeful alternative narrative for 2018 and making sure that credible and message-coordinated Democratic candidates stand a chance at changing the Legislature, heh? Best gift Donald the Magnificent could ask for! By 2020 his deconstruction teams will have done their worst, both at the national and at the state level. Just go on and raise money, if you let him be in the mean time, DJT will just get reelected or worse, Mike Pence will take over. Dumb Democrats.
4
The Dems have a real problem that was exemplified in the Georgia special election. It's Bernie. His attack of Ossoff was unacceptable. Ossoff may not be exactly what Bernie wants, but he was a Dem with a real chance to win a red state, and Bernie hurt Ossoff's chances. Bernie's less than enthusiastic support for Hillary, hurt the cause. While I do admire how principled Bernie is, he is stubborn, uncompromising, and played sore loser after the primaries.
Hillary was a bad choice the Dems must own up to, but they can not continue with one of their most prominent voices (even though Bernies not a Dem anymore officially) fracturing the party.
Hillary was a bad choice the Dems must own up to, but they can not continue with one of their most prominent voices (even though Bernies not a Dem anymore officially) fracturing the party.
5
Bull Moose 2020,
What attack exactly did Sen. Sanders launch against Ossoff? Are you referring to Sen. Sanders refusing to call Ossoff a "progressive"? Because Ossoff himself refused to be called such. He referred to himself as a "pragmatic moderate". In fact Ossoff never even asked for Bernie's endorsement.
Sanders and Ossoff agreed, Bernie’s endorsement would not have helped in the first round, Ossoff wanted to collect as many moderate Republicans as he could in that round. When it got to only the two candidates, Bernie’s endorsement would've helped. This is politics 101 when dealing with southern electorates. Both Bernie and Ossoff did exactly the right thing both before the first round and after.
As for support for HRC, he delivered more voters to "She that cant lose", than Hillary delivered to Pres. Obama. Dems lost because Dems stayed home.
Hurt the cause, sore loser? Who is still out there banging the drum? Who is speaking out, still, repeatedly for The People?! But then you go and admit that Dems messed up. Yet you blame Bernie. The most liked and respected liberal voice, for fracturing the party? Maybe "The Party" needs to be shook up. The track record and seats lost is nothing to be proud of. The fracture has taken place because the electorate has serious doubts about who the Democratic Party represents. The fact they refuse to respond in a positive way, such as your comment, to those left of the Dino's in charge says a lot about them.
What attack exactly did Sen. Sanders launch against Ossoff? Are you referring to Sen. Sanders refusing to call Ossoff a "progressive"? Because Ossoff himself refused to be called such. He referred to himself as a "pragmatic moderate". In fact Ossoff never even asked for Bernie's endorsement.
Sanders and Ossoff agreed, Bernie’s endorsement would not have helped in the first round, Ossoff wanted to collect as many moderate Republicans as he could in that round. When it got to only the two candidates, Bernie’s endorsement would've helped. This is politics 101 when dealing with southern electorates. Both Bernie and Ossoff did exactly the right thing both before the first round and after.
As for support for HRC, he delivered more voters to "She that cant lose", than Hillary delivered to Pres. Obama. Dems lost because Dems stayed home.
Hurt the cause, sore loser? Who is still out there banging the drum? Who is speaking out, still, repeatedly for The People?! But then you go and admit that Dems messed up. Yet you blame Bernie. The most liked and respected liberal voice, for fracturing the party? Maybe "The Party" needs to be shook up. The track record and seats lost is nothing to be proud of. The fracture has taken place because the electorate has serious doubts about who the Democratic Party represents. The fact they refuse to respond in a positive way, such as your comment, to those left of the Dino's in charge says a lot about them.
10
bernie "I am not a Democrat! I am a Socialist!" only borrowed the label to run. He has never been a Democrat, no matter that his name appeared on primary ballots.
3
Norma,
He's certainly is closer to what The Democratic Party used to be, should be, than most of those leading and running. Being Republican Lite won't win. Ossoff found that out. Just as the moderate, status quo, Wall Street sweet heart found out. The most liked and respected, trusted liberal is Sanders. By the by, the Independent Party is the largest political party and growing. Why do you think that might be Norma?
Keep blaming the hippies and punching left like all Dino's seem to do, and you will continue to lose seats and voters.
He's certainly is closer to what The Democratic Party used to be, should be, than most of those leading and running. Being Republican Lite won't win. Ossoff found that out. Just as the moderate, status quo, Wall Street sweet heart found out. The most liked and respected, trusted liberal is Sanders. By the by, the Independent Party is the largest political party and growing. Why do you think that might be Norma?
Keep blaming the hippies and punching left like all Dino's seem to do, and you will continue to lose seats and voters.
8
I am skeptical about Democratic Party whether it would win in election 2018 if democratic is still representing the big corporation and special interest. In my opinion, Bernie Sanders is the perfect candidate for running president for 2020 because his proposals like free college tuition and universal healthcare are truly for Americans. By the way, his campaign funds are mostly contributed by small donors. Therefore, he is the one who enables our voices heard.
10
Neither Bernie Sander or Donald Trump raised the amount of money "traditional" Democrats obviously hope to raise. What makes them traditional, you ask? The amount of money they seem to need. Didn't help Hilary.
11
Y'all libbies think the road to The White House is paved in gold. The gold y'all mine in The Hamptons, on Martha's and in The Hollyweed Hills. Not to mention Omaha, The Valley and The Street.
Y'all may well buy back Washington in 2020, who knows. But if you do, quit screaming about Citizens United, corporate capitalism, economic inequality and buying back the working class vote.
Y'all are nothing more than the Political Establishment. Big Money talks, and there is lots of Big Money on the Left. Lots more than on the Right.
Y'all may well buy back Washington in 2020, who knows. But if you do, quit screaming about Citizens United, corporate capitalism, economic inequality and buying back the working class vote.
Y'all are nothing more than the Political Establishment. Big Money talks, and there is lots of Big Money on the Left. Lots more than on the Right.
5
The Koch Brothers own the Republican Party. End of story.
10
"Y'all" have a pretty confused, simplistic view of 'libbies."
"Y'all" don't know what you're talking about.
"Y'all" don't know what you're talking about.
13
GLC,
LOL...
Thanks for the chuckle. You sounded just like those maroons (as B. Bunny would say) on the Right. Y'all even got the syntax nailed. To funny.
Big money of the Left y'all....oh my...good stuff.
(You are joking right?)
LOL...
Thanks for the chuckle. You sounded just like those maroons (as B. Bunny would say) on the Right. Y'all even got the syntax nailed. To funny.
Big money of the Left y'all....oh my...good stuff.
(You are joking right?)
4
Maybe we should give Bernie another shot, huh?
8
No
But here's hoping Bernie's babies are happy with Trump
But here's hoping Bernie's babies are happy with Trump
4
Yes!!
Here's hoping that Bernie runs again. Integrity and good policy trumps age (and Trump).
To Brad's point: The "inevitable candidate" lost to a candidate with the highest negative ratings ever. That's because Hillary's negative numbers were just as high. Polls at the end of the primary showed Bernie beating Trump by double digits, while Hillary was only ahead by low single digits.
Here's hoping that Bernie runs again. Integrity and good policy trumps age (and Trump).
To Brad's point: The "inevitable candidate" lost to a candidate with the highest negative ratings ever. That's because Hillary's negative numbers were just as high. Polls at the end of the primary showed Bernie beating Trump by double digits, while Hillary was only ahead by low single digits.
8
Sure, as long as he runs as an independent or a socialist and not as a Democrat, which he has vehemently denied he is...at least before he decided he should be president and stole the label.
2
Even a janitor is a better choice than the mentally disturbed coward who dodged the draft five times, never fought for his country but has no problem in sending other to die, just like Dick Cheney. By the way, the latter is still looking for weapons of mass destruction.
10
Reading the NYT Picks makes one thing very clear. Democrats have no idea what to next.
14
Why is the Times once again focusing on the soap opera instead of the substance? Why an essentially speculative piece barely a cut above gossip?
This is part of what got the Times in deep trouble this last election: not focusing on what voters actually wanted. The paper seems to still not understand that Trump won because he ran a completely bird-flipping, in-your-face campaign, not his ever-changing slogans, tweets, and non-policies.
None of the Democrats mentioned in this article can compete with Trump, when it comes to style. Unless there is a candidate that can combine style with an issue 2020 voters will care about -- not what pundits or the candidates think they should care about -- he or she will probably lose. America will have managed to survive four years of Trump, and that will take the edge off the fear factor motivating many marginal anti-Trump voters.
If someone wants to be President in 2020, he or she should start crisscrossing America at ground level without an entourage. If the Times wants to be relevant in 2020, it should have some of its least ideological reporters do the same.
This is part of what got the Times in deep trouble this last election: not focusing on what voters actually wanted. The paper seems to still not understand that Trump won because he ran a completely bird-flipping, in-your-face campaign, not his ever-changing slogans, tweets, and non-policies.
None of the Democrats mentioned in this article can compete with Trump, when it comes to style. Unless there is a candidate that can combine style with an issue 2020 voters will care about -- not what pundits or the candidates think they should care about -- he or she will probably lose. America will have managed to survive four years of Trump, and that will take the edge off the fear factor motivating many marginal anti-Trump voters.
If someone wants to be President in 2020, he or she should start crisscrossing America at ground level without an entourage. If the Times wants to be relevant in 2020, it should have some of its least ideological reporters do the same.
10
All Democratic candidates need to have a stronger message other than that they are against Trump. They also need to start hitting big and calling out on all those hypocritical turn-coat Republicans who were against all what Trump stood (and stands) for but are now prostrate before him and colluding to shaft a large percentage of Americans for their own benefit.
7
If Democrats want to win in 2020, they need first to concentrate on winning majorities in Congress -- *and then* demonstrate, by using their power in Congress, that they deserve the trust of ordinary Americans.
This demonstration must be concrete, because Democrats have, to too large an extent, become the party of talk and promises. It must be palpable: Democrats and the Obama Administration, for example, did an abysmal job of informing the public about Obamacare's advantages (for example, my daughter was stunned when she learned her annual medical check-up was free under Obamacare). And the demonstration *must be seen* to benefit everyone, not only groups favored by political correctness.
This will necessitate prioritizing substance over style, a wrenching change for many politicians.
Emphasizing fundraising at this time means becoming beholden to rich people, which works against the Democratic Party's conceit that it's the party of "the people".
This demonstration must be concrete, because Democrats have, to too large an extent, become the party of talk and promises. It must be palpable: Democrats and the Obama Administration, for example, did an abysmal job of informing the public about Obamacare's advantages (for example, my daughter was stunned when she learned her annual medical check-up was free under Obamacare). And the demonstration *must be seen* to benefit everyone, not only groups favored by political correctness.
This will necessitate prioritizing substance over style, a wrenching change for many politicians.
Emphasizing fundraising at this time means becoming beholden to rich people, which works against the Democratic Party's conceit that it's the party of "the people".
5
Really a free medical check up? Got to love that free stuff whether from Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny or fairy godparents.
The ones that would stand out, sadly decide not to run. They feel they are better of in the senate and while this perhaps might be true, it will leave the Democratic party vulnerable.
Imagine a Warren/Franken ticket or a Franken/Warren ticket. That would be a force to be reckoned with.
Imagine a Warren/Franken ticket or a Franken/Warren ticket. That would be a force to be reckoned with.
2
Yeah, on Saturday Night Live.
6
Have to agree with Melvin. I think Elizabeth Warren and Al Franken are doing great jobs but I have a gut feeling the public regards them as entertainers because so many TV talk show hosts (Saturday Night Live, Bill Maher, etc) have showcased them and that has whittled away at their seriousness, even though they apparently are serious about their ideas and solutions. TV is entertainment and will do that to a person...that is, every person except the incompetent in the White House; somehow, it worked for him among the angry and the nasty among us. And for me, it's all the more reason to dislike this so-called administration with his Miss Universe and You're Fired background. Maybe Democrats are just more serious than the GOP when it comes to presidential elections but it is still a mystery to me as to where the faith and trust came from to get him into office even among the inane.
2
The problem with almost all of these Democrats is that they have "Money" on their minds and not the needs of the underemployed,working class,and ever shrinking middle class. These potential candidates seem to be just one more batch of puppets auditioning to cater to the whims of their corporate masters. If that is the case then no real need to even begin a campaign.The results of our last Presidential election are a strong indication that the country has tired of the establishment running things in both parties. If you are not bringing fresh ideas.a commitment to workers and real change to the table. Do us all a favor and stay out of the 2020 Presidential race.
9
Crazy idea: have a real primary in which the voters as opposed to the super delegates get to pick the candidate.
10
Let's win back the house, first, then the senate, in 2018, then impeachment, then work on 2020. And I agree, no old folks, sorry. (I'm fifty). Anyone 70 and older should probably just step aside.
5
You haven't been reading the news if you think there is much difference between the two major parties. Both parties love to spend money. Republicans like to borrow the money they spend while democrats want to tax people for the money they spend. Candidates play to the bases of both parties, The dems placate the socialists while the Republicans appeal to the fascists. Moderate candidates still collect most of their money from special interest groups, mostly in the defense and banking business.
3
I hope that having a lot of candidates, and hopefully a lot of ideas, will help us see where we want to go as a nation.
The prolonged battle between Bernie and Hillary divided the party and some formed bitter resentments, which was a shame since they were a lot more alike in ideas than people gave them credit for.
In vying for the nomination, they tried to set themselves apart from one another and highlighted their differences - this, in the end, exaggerated things to the point of the absurd and caused some to dig in their heals to the detriment of all of us in the end - my opinion.
I think a big field of candidates is what we need. It will get less personal - hopefully - and be more about the vision for our future.
The prolonged battle between Bernie and Hillary divided the party and some formed bitter resentments, which was a shame since they were a lot more alike in ideas than people gave them credit for.
In vying for the nomination, they tried to set themselves apart from one another and highlighted their differences - this, in the end, exaggerated things to the point of the absurd and caused some to dig in their heals to the detriment of all of us in the end - my opinion.
I think a big field of candidates is what we need. It will get less personal - hopefully - and be more about the vision for our future.
2
This article misses the key point. Trump did not win because he raised more money. In fact, he raised and spent less than half what Hillary did!
The Democrats lost because they tried to sell even more of the same and, by and large, the public wasn't buying it. That won't change by 2020!
Sanders will disappear as a serious candidate. Half of his support came from people fed up with Hillary. (Remember Rick Santorum. Half of his support in 2012 came from cross over Democrats. Where was he in 2016?) Already, Sanders is diminished as a spokesman.
Hillary and Bill are silent and their foundation is going out of business. Hillary is keeping a low profile and hoping not to be indicted which is still possible depending on what comes out.
If Trump is unsuccessful in draining the swamp, or at least substantially reducing its depth, he may not run in 2020. After all, he really doesn't need the bother. Think what that will do to the Democrats!
Just remember, the approval rating of Congress is less than the President's.
A lot can happen by 2020. 2018 will give us a hint.
The Democrats lost because they tried to sell even more of the same and, by and large, the public wasn't buying it. That won't change by 2020!
Sanders will disappear as a serious candidate. Half of his support came from people fed up with Hillary. (Remember Rick Santorum. Half of his support in 2012 came from cross over Democrats. Where was he in 2016?) Already, Sanders is diminished as a spokesman.
Hillary and Bill are silent and their foundation is going out of business. Hillary is keeping a low profile and hoping not to be indicted which is still possible depending on what comes out.
If Trump is unsuccessful in draining the swamp, or at least substantially reducing its depth, he may not run in 2020. After all, he really doesn't need the bother. Think what that will do to the Democrats!
Just remember, the approval rating of Congress is less than the President's.
A lot can happen by 2020. 2018 will give us a hint.
4
And when does he plan to start draining the swamp? I don't know what your definition of "the swamp" is but he seems a to me a very swampy creature himself. He lies constantly, he cheats ( like most repubs) on almost every thing, even the silly stuff and most of all he is mainly focused on increasing his wealth. But I guess you can't see all that.
4
Indicted for what? They've been trying to indict her for years. Jason Chaffetz is apparently making it his personal mission to lock her up.
Trump is the swamp. The best thing he could do to drain it is go home.
Maybe you'd vote for Mitch Landrieu, I've been plugging for him. I used to wonder about political families like his, and what kind of skeletons they may have in the closet that could torpedo him, but after Trump, none of that matters. You can be the biggest grifter sleaze on planet earth and still win, so there's nothing Mitch or his well known Louisiana family could have done. I'm thinking GA could flip blue if somebody like Landrieu was the nominee.
Trump is the swamp. The best thing he could do to drain it is go home.
Maybe you'd vote for Mitch Landrieu, I've been plugging for him. I used to wonder about political families like his, and what kind of skeletons they may have in the closet that could torpedo him, but after Trump, none of that matters. You can be the biggest grifter sleaze on planet earth and still win, so there's nothing Mitch or his well known Louisiana family could have done. I'm thinking GA could flip blue if somebody like Landrieu was the nominee.
3
Republicans again showed their brand of "compassionate conservativism" as an empty promise. Reality promotes wealth transfer from middle class upward to those who are the most wealthy, and least needing of government services and extra income. Supply-side economics: income inequality trends have shown, none of this works. When do Republicans stop shilling for failed policies, including wars of choice, under guise "We're the smartest people in the room"?
Democrats can't run merely as a Party against Trump and blowback of outrage of stupid/arrogant policies of McConnell, Ryan, and Trump. (Trump has no policies - a narcissist cheerleader who can't lead.)
My advice:
1. Be for SOMETHING that benefits middle class and poor. Articulate in simplest and most direct way possible - even for Trump supporters to get it.
2. Infrastructure. Creates jobs AND rebuilds crumbling needs of the nation's electrical grid, telecommunication, roads, bridges, dams, reservoirs, water treatment systems, airports, rail systems, ports.
3. Education. US can't be world class leader unless it has a well educated workforce, including vocational training. K-12, Community colleges, Pre-K.
4. Immigration. ALL People welcome to come and contribute.
5. Tax policy. Reward real things creating national wealth. Labor equal to capital; reward savings & investment. Top 1% to pay more.
6. Justice. Equal protection. Equal prosecution
7. Voting rights, registration. Protect voting & results.
8. Affordable health care.
Democrats can't run merely as a Party against Trump and blowback of outrage of stupid/arrogant policies of McConnell, Ryan, and Trump. (Trump has no policies - a narcissist cheerleader who can't lead.)
My advice:
1. Be for SOMETHING that benefits middle class and poor. Articulate in simplest and most direct way possible - even for Trump supporters to get it.
2. Infrastructure. Creates jobs AND rebuilds crumbling needs of the nation's electrical grid, telecommunication, roads, bridges, dams, reservoirs, water treatment systems, airports, rail systems, ports.
3. Education. US can't be world class leader unless it has a well educated workforce, including vocational training. K-12, Community colleges, Pre-K.
4. Immigration. ALL People welcome to come and contribute.
5. Tax policy. Reward real things creating national wealth. Labor equal to capital; reward savings & investment. Top 1% to pay more.
6. Justice. Equal protection. Equal prosecution
7. Voting rights, registration. Protect voting & results.
8. Affordable health care.
4
Agree with everything except...ALL people? All 7.5 billion on the planet? I have nothing against them, I'm sure they're fine people (certainly using Trump's measurements) but at some point, the lifeboat philosophy is going to have to kick in.
6
All people as in situations where our nation doesn't throw up ridiculous impediments, false policy choices, and statements such as "You are not welcome because of your skin color, ethnicity, religion, etc"
People who WANT to emigrate to the United States are willing to leave behind their "knowns" and network of security. Think about it for a moment - you are probably a child of immigrants, and your parentage (unless they're Native Americans) gave up much to start in a new country. Immigrants typically are willing to endure risk and work harder - than present population - to achieve a better life. This drive builds wealth in the nation; it creates jobs, and raises the standard of life.
Complacency and nativism stifle growth and restrict a growing economy. (Japan for example.) If we believe our nation is a meritocracy where hard work, investment in education, willing to take risks, and just get the job done are important, I would argue it's in best interests of the US to embrace immigrants.
The "lifeboat" analogy is more of a straw man argument. People will come to our nation - if we truly believe it is the best system around. Competition is a very good thing.
People who WANT to emigrate to the United States are willing to leave behind their "knowns" and network of security. Think about it for a moment - you are probably a child of immigrants, and your parentage (unless they're Native Americans) gave up much to start in a new country. Immigrants typically are willing to endure risk and work harder - than present population - to achieve a better life. This drive builds wealth in the nation; it creates jobs, and raises the standard of life.
Complacency and nativism stifle growth and restrict a growing economy. (Japan for example.) If we believe our nation is a meritocracy where hard work, investment in education, willing to take risks, and just get the job done are important, I would argue it's in best interests of the US to embrace immigrants.
The "lifeboat" analogy is more of a straw man argument. People will come to our nation - if we truly believe it is the best system around. Competition is a very good thing.
Democrats can line up, but they're going no.where and neither is President Trump. Get used to it It's now just a regional party of has-beens with ideas that have been proven failures.
5
Abolish the Super PACS; put a ceiling on campaign spending for prospective Democratic nominees; and, above all, start paying serious attention to the grassroots of the Party.
Hopefully, the Dems have learned from their folly that it's not simply a question of who has the most money and thereby won't default to nominating another lemon for their presidential nominee.
Hopefully, the Dems have learned from their folly that it's not simply a question of who has the most money and thereby won't default to nominating another lemon for their presidential nominee.
3
This emphasis on raising money ignores the fact that HRC outspent Trump by lots. And, what did that money buy? Lots of hefty paychecks for her team and Trump for the rest of us. Let's just keep on doing the same old thing. Just expect the same old results.
11
Democrats have a very strong bench for President, especially compared to what the Republicans have put up. But it infuriates me that at the same time pundits blast “the establishment” and the old (experienced) guard, they push forward Joe Biden who, though a phenomenal statesman and public servant, is the old guard, and Bernie Sanders who despite being in Congress for decades, is somehow considered an outsider despite having a meager record beyond tilting at windmills. Frankly, I would prefer Al Gore try again - why is he being overlooked? What is worse is when pundits suggest that Democrats put up a Trump-like candidate – a billionaire celebrity showboat businessman with no government, military or public service experience but an outsider! Or, they push forward Kamala Harris – why? Pundits overlook a whole huge list of outstanding individuals, and then say they have little name recognition. Here’s my wish list:
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse
Rep. Adam Schiff
Sen. Amy Klobachar
Sen. Elizabeth Warren
Sen. Jeff Merkley
Sen. Richard Blumenthal (Ct)
Sen. Chris Murphy (Ct)
Sen. Chris Van Hollen
Gov. Andrew Cuomo
VP Al Gore
Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsome (vp)
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse
Rep. Adam Schiff
Sen. Amy Klobachar
Sen. Elizabeth Warren
Sen. Jeff Merkley
Sen. Richard Blumenthal (Ct)
Sen. Chris Murphy (Ct)
Sen. Chris Van Hollen
Gov. Andrew Cuomo
VP Al Gore
Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsome (vp)
1
I like the Al Gore idea. The campaign slogan can be, "You elected him President once, why not again?"
7
I would vote for Gavin Newsome
1
I keep up, so to speak, and the names that jump out at me are Adam Schiff, Amy Klobuchar, and Richard Blumenthal. Solid, highly intelligent, attractive, decent and kind.
It look like the Democrats have yet graped why Clinton lost to Trump, and why the GOP dominates Congress, state legislatures and governorships. They continue to blame gerrymandering, FOX News, conservative commentators and "false news". Never the mind they spent the better part of 40 years on wedge issues, political correctness, and pushing their own brand of conservatism. The throw in wealthy vs wealthy, celebrity vs celebrity to make sure the 1% continues to ravage 99% of the population.
What die hard Democrats forget, they passed the Reagan and Bush tax cuts, starting the road to income inequity. And, they help pass the repeal of Glass-Stegall repeal creating the Great Recession and the largest wealth redistribution in US history (repealed by Bill Clinton).
They have played lip service to working America since the Reagan Administration, with the help of the GOP.
So, their goal fro 2020, elect a woman president; and continue the policies of Clint on and Obama. Plus, raise lots of money from the 1% to fight the GOP backing 1%. All fro a power game.
So, in 2018, and 2020, it is possible the Democrats my regain power, not because they deserve it, because the GOP would have created another mess like we had in 2008. Meanwhile, 99% of America will languish.
What die hard Democrats forget, they passed the Reagan and Bush tax cuts, starting the road to income inequity. And, they help pass the repeal of Glass-Stegall repeal creating the Great Recession and the largest wealth redistribution in US history (repealed by Bill Clinton).
They have played lip service to working America since the Reagan Administration, with the help of the GOP.
So, their goal fro 2020, elect a woman president; and continue the policies of Clint on and Obama. Plus, raise lots of money from the 1% to fight the GOP backing 1%. All fro a power game.
So, in 2018, and 2020, it is possible the Democrats my regain power, not because they deserve it, because the GOP would have created another mess like we had in 2008. Meanwhile, 99% of America will languish.
10
What I never get about people like you is that you don't understand that Republicans are the party of the 1%. All they want to do is cut taxes on the wealthy. Trickle down is GOP policy. Period. Democrats may have paid only lip service to working America, but it's been the sole objective of the Republican Party to crush working America. If you're going to tell me Democrats are responsible for what's happened to our labor unions in this country, then you are out to lunch.
The GOP did it all with the unwitting help of the stupid Democrats. The stupid Democrats bought into this "rising tide will raise all boats" theory of globalization, then did nothing when it was turning out that only the yachts were rising. Personally, I think it's sad that it took cranky old Bernie Sanders to point out to the Democrats that they've lost their spine and their reason for being.
What irritates me is that people like you didn't go to your tea party Republicans and complain about income inequality if you were oh so aware of it. You bought into all that trickle down economics, union busting and liberal bashing. Now, you're going to blame this all on Democrats? What chutzpah.
The GOP did it all with the unwitting help of the stupid Democrats. The stupid Democrats bought into this "rising tide will raise all boats" theory of globalization, then did nothing when it was turning out that only the yachts were rising. Personally, I think it's sad that it took cranky old Bernie Sanders to point out to the Democrats that they've lost their spine and their reason for being.
What irritates me is that people like you didn't go to your tea party Republicans and complain about income inequality if you were oh so aware of it. You bought into all that trickle down economics, union busting and liberal bashing. Now, you're going to blame this all on Democrats? What chutzpah.
1
CF,
People like you don't get it. Bernie Sanders would have won the election, and the Democrats would have the Senate, if it were not the Democrats running Clinton and their out of touch agenda.
People like you don't get it. Bernie Sanders would have won the election, and the Democrats would have the Senate, if it were not the Democrats running Clinton and their out of touch agenda.
4
Get good candidates for 2018--and get their campaigns well backed.
That is number one for strategy going forward.
That is number one for strategy going forward.
2
The focus needs to be on 2018, not 2020 because timing is cruicial. Clearly a cover up of immense proportions is being perpetrated by trump himself and his henchmen. It's obvious that Putin won trump the election and expects pay back. Trump's next move will be to disembowel the FBI itself, the same way the EPA is being gutted, removing all remnants of its investigation into his Russian connections. With new director Wrey (a Christie cohort essentially), expect funding cuts, resignations and dismissals. Doubtless this cleansing is already afoot with the deliberate sabotaging of all related records throughout the entire administration.
The GOP is using its wider powers to shove their voter suppression scheming into high gear through blatant gerrymandering and tampering with voting rights and mechanisms to colluding with Russian meddling and have become quite adept at stealing elections. At this very monent they are expanding the "Interstate Crosscheck" that has already illegally and unconstitutionally denied over 1 million poor, minority, and inner city people their right to vote. Deliberately demagoguing the supreme court will also entrench this
skulduggery for generations.
The GOP is using its wider powers to shove their voter suppression scheming into high gear through blatant gerrymandering and tampering with voting rights and mechanisms to colluding with Russian meddling and have become quite adept at stealing elections. At this very monent they are expanding the "Interstate Crosscheck" that has already illegally and unconstitutionally denied over 1 million poor, minority, and inner city people their right to vote. Deliberately demagoguing the supreme court will also entrench this
skulduggery for generations.
4
The Dems need not only a leader to voice the will of the people, but
also must have the leadership to back that person. Case in point:
Berny was by far the most popular candidate, backed by donations
from millions of people, with a message that resonated with those
voters. So what did the (so called) Dem leadership do? Pushed
the more vulnerable candidate to replace him. NOT VERY SMART!!!
also must have the leadership to back that person. Case in point:
Berny was by far the most popular candidate, backed by donations
from millions of people, with a message that resonated with those
voters. So what did the (so called) Dem leadership do? Pushed
the more vulnerable candidate to replace him. NOT VERY SMART!!!
19
Pick off some of the most destructive people: find and fund very good candidate to boot Ted Cruz out of office, for example.
6
Hillary won the popular vote and would have won the election if not for the Russians. The Clintons have not gone away. Hillary will be the nominee in 2020. The little people that vote in the primaries have no more to say about it in 2020 than they did in 2016. Shut up and do what you're told by the DNC.
.
As for the nonsense in the first sentence: that's not mine. Just repeating the MSM nonstop burbling since election night. Playing right into the Clinton's hands.
.
Enjoy
.
As for the nonsense in the first sentence: that's not mine. Just repeating the MSM nonstop burbling since election night. Playing right into the Clinton's hands.
.
Enjoy
4
Democrat party: Where all the criminals they won't let into the Republican party reside. It's a real college of clowns. Please nominate Joe Biden. I will have to start saving now for the hernia surgery from splitting my side laughing.
5
Only because they are amateurs unlike the professional, hard-core, born and bred criminals who are running the Republican Party.
2
Run Joe, run.
1
A centrist is the key to victory, and the medicine the country needs.
Democratic pandering to the identity politics extreme left is just more counterproductive poison.
Harris and Warren have nothing to offer, except four more years of Trump.
Democratic pandering to the identity politics extreme left is just more counterproductive poison.
Harris and Warren have nothing to offer, except four more years of Trump.
2
Democrats pandering to the extreme left?
You have no idea what an extreme left is. By global standards Clinton was substantially right of the mid.
The point is: find somebody authentic. Without make-up. And intelligent.
You have no idea what an extreme left is. By global standards Clinton was substantially right of the mid.
The point is: find somebody authentic. Without make-up. And intelligent.
2
It would be nice if Democrats can figure out how to win back the Congress and some governorships and state houses before they go after the 2020 election.
4
It would be nice if the Democratic party could apologize for giving us Donald. You all know what I mean. Many Democratics are not aware that the Democratis gave us neoliberlism which is one of the cruelest ideologies we could have but we do. It makes it much easier for the rich while the middle class collapses and the poor die. We can thank the Clintons for that. And cutting out welfare which they did also. Obama, elegant as he is gave us many unneeded wars which cost our children's education from kindergarten to PHDs. They helped break up unions which is has set up back a hundred years. They have coddled the rich just as the Republicans do. In face Democrats are Republicans with a formerly progressive name. But they are not progressive and I cannot see any hope of them returning to helping the sick, the poor, the children their own go to private schools). We've been duped so I won't support them. Look at the gang they have put together to bring down everyone. They insisted on putting up Hillary when we hated her and they knew that. Has anyone but me noticed how outrageously expensive colleges have become? No accident. it was the Democrats. Let's boycott until they come around to admitting their huge mistakes.
4
Yeah, well, Trump voters hated Hillary Clinton and you are probably one of them.
2
Oh, for heaven's sake. Obama didn't bring us wars. He tried to end the wars that Bush handed him. We went from 140,000 troops in conflict areas to 15,0000 troops. Democrats did not break up unions.
I'm a Democrat, old enough to have gone to a public university for free, and I assure you they are as expensive as they are now because of Republican policies, not Democratic policies. Seriously, I wish some of you people actually knew what you were talking about.
I'm a Democrat, old enough to have gone to a public university for free, and I assure you they are as expensive as they are now because of Republican policies, not Democratic policies. Seriously, I wish some of you people actually knew what you were talking about.
3
Any Dem who spends even one day in the Hamptons or Hollywood fundraising should be automatically eliminated from consideration.
15
Hillary's 2016 war chest did her lots of good. Has to be a candidate for change and I don't mean the usual hot air, that Middle America feels they can take a chance on.
4
Most any Democrat would be a better candidate than Hillary Clinton. Very few could match her corruption and routine deceitfulness.
7
I'm so sick of Democratic politicians begging me for money in a non election year. I wish the campaign rules were changed so there's a cap to how much each candidate gets to spend and how long they have to campaign. The money spent on presidential campaigns is obscene. Some of the problems these same politicians are proposing to fix, could be greatly alleviated by the money spent on campaigns.You can't run for office anymore unless you're rich, have rich contributors or spend most of your time raising funds rather than solving problems. It's pretty sickening and certainly not what a democracy should be about.
7
I am hoping so much that the Democrats have the good sense in 2020 to nominate someone with the competency, judgement and the courage of their convictions to represent true traditional progressive goals of economic justice for all American instead of the phony neo-liberal third-way nonsense they have been pushing for too long now. Please Dems, let's not make 2020 just an "identity" election. At this point in time survival is more important than making a point. Let's nominate and run to WIN.
6
What volumes this article speaks about the tragic depths to which our political system has sunk. It seems all that matters is money. Only money. Not one word about qualifications. Not one word about policy and convictions. Only money. Not one word about what the Democratic party can do for the American people between now and 2020 to gain their support. Nope. Only how much money they are raising.
How about a commitment to positive legislative policies? And I don't mean those which are proposed for show but which in reality have no chance of success. Republicans do that all the time. I mean concrete proposals that are carefully thought out and that are designed to optimize bi partisan cooperation. Yes, Republicans may claim credit for any successes, just as Democrats would do in a Democratic administration. That's part of the game.
I of course could say that the Republicans should show the same constructive bi-partisan commitment, and they should. But this article is about Democrats, so I am addressing them.
The American people will not be served by the time and effort devoted to raising money. The only way to serve the American people is to serve them, to try to accomplish things that they need and from which they will benefit; to be constructive; to fight against the partisan forces and do something that really matters.
That can and should be the road to the White House. I will hold out the shred of hope that this is possible.
How about a commitment to positive legislative policies? And I don't mean those which are proposed for show but which in reality have no chance of success. Republicans do that all the time. I mean concrete proposals that are carefully thought out and that are designed to optimize bi partisan cooperation. Yes, Republicans may claim credit for any successes, just as Democrats would do in a Democratic administration. That's part of the game.
I of course could say that the Republicans should show the same constructive bi-partisan commitment, and they should. But this article is about Democrats, so I am addressing them.
The American people will not be served by the time and effort devoted to raising money. The only way to serve the American people is to serve them, to try to accomplish things that they need and from which they will benefit; to be constructive; to fight against the partisan forces and do something that really matters.
That can and should be the road to the White House. I will hold out the shred of hope that this is possible.
7
The idea of many small donors v a few large ones is a good start however the Democrats need to have more to say than they are 'not Trump'. Trump dominated the last campaign by being outrageous and both the Democrats and the media gave him more free publicity than he could ever have paid for. This must be reversed if there is to be any hope of advancement and the mid-terms will be a good time to test a new strategy. Beyond that, an effort to avoid imploding as the field gets thinned would be nice and maybe some sort of an honest look at the DNC's part in the last election might help. So good luck Democrats, may you do well, assuming Trump hasn't blown us all up by then.
3
We need more promising Democrats in the pipeline. Losing those congressional, state legislative seats and governorships has really hurt the Democratic party.
2
Given that Trump promises everything (better/cheaper health care, lower debt, lower taxes, etc), he will be a difficult candidate to beat, as many will vote for him out of the appeal for lower taxes alone.
4 keys in my opinion:
1. Immigration: The current portrayed democratic policy of open borders will need to be directly addressed for the left to have any chance. They need to move to the middle and come out anti-illegal immigration and pro merit based legal immigration. Without it, they will simply lose the entire midwest again, where this is a critical issue.
2. Pro america: Trump was able to win on his catchy slogans (MAGA) and America First. Dems are portrayed as embarrassed to put the US first and be proud to be american.Left candidates have to go on attack and actually go interview on fox news, yes, fox news.
3. Pro hard work: The right retains a large amount of the working class, as the left seems removed from the merits of self responsibility and drive. The left has to come out with pro working class policy, not just socialistic/welfare policies, such as free college and single payer. The US citizens, especially in flyover country, are strongly against socialism and its consequences.
4. Trump: The russia ordeal won't stick. They need to hit him hard on his endless golf vacations and corrupt dealings with his own clubs for events. This was how he beat HRC, so turn it against him.
Biden/Bloomberg/Tim Ryan will likely win. Sanders and Warren will lose big in midwest.
4 keys in my opinion:
1. Immigration: The current portrayed democratic policy of open borders will need to be directly addressed for the left to have any chance. They need to move to the middle and come out anti-illegal immigration and pro merit based legal immigration. Without it, they will simply lose the entire midwest again, where this is a critical issue.
2. Pro america: Trump was able to win on his catchy slogans (MAGA) and America First. Dems are portrayed as embarrassed to put the US first and be proud to be american.Left candidates have to go on attack and actually go interview on fox news, yes, fox news.
3. Pro hard work: The right retains a large amount of the working class, as the left seems removed from the merits of self responsibility and drive. The left has to come out with pro working class policy, not just socialistic/welfare policies, such as free college and single payer. The US citizens, especially in flyover country, are strongly against socialism and its consequences.
4. Trump: The russia ordeal won't stick. They need to hit him hard on his endless golf vacations and corrupt dealings with his own clubs for events. This was how he beat HRC, so turn it against him.
Biden/Bloomberg/Tim Ryan will likely win. Sanders and Warren will lose big in midwest.
5
Hillary lead by example. Her legacy will always be the woman who first brought universal healthcare into the public domain. And her compassion for women and children has resulted in more good than mother Theresa. She will always be the most feared person by the Republicans in the 20th century. And on into the 21st. The so called Bern had 15 minutes comparatively.
7
Is this the same Hillary who attacked the women who were victims of Bill's molestation? The same Hillary who was a member of the board of directors of Walmart? The same Hillary who when she is asked to chat with college kids demands hundreds of thousands of dollars? The same Hillary who cause the Dems to loose control of the US House of Reps for the first time in a generation with her bungled Hillarycare?
I just unsubscribed to several Democratic Party organization newsletters, etc, because I am tired of being asked for money. When I think of all my contributions and those of others who tried so hard to support Hillary Clinton's run for president last go round, I can't believe it was all spent (and wonder what it was spent on, considering she lost so miserably). In this day and age it is never to early for the Democratic Party to introduce and promote whomever it is they believe can beat the imbecile we have in office today; I still wake up thinking I have had a nightmare until I realize this incompetent man is pretending to lead my precious country, but unfortunately, there he and is cronies are...day after day, dumb decision after dumb decision. I have little faith left in the system in general so the Democratic Party had better come up with someone who is impressive ASAP; that person, if elected, will have one unbelievable mess to contend with if elected after the destruction of our democracy foisted upon us by Trump & Co and his spoiled, unprepared and undeserving family who he has placed on his personal chessboard we used to call our government. Don't know if Joe Biden can do it--the rest of the people mentioned in this article are strangers to most Americans. The United States seems to have become 50 distinct and separate countries that are more and more loosely bound as the days pass; in fact, "united" barely fits as part of the country's name at this point.
3
Al Franken could beat anybody and is younger than the rest. It's the intelligence, sense of humor, and historically grounded Democrat who can win the presidency and bring us back together to work and laugh.
That is what will wash us clean from the current quagmire.
That is what will wash us clean from the current quagmire.
4
I love him, but he is not a good speaker, believe it or not. Slow to get the point across. This was Hillary Clinton's biggest weakness...you need to spit it out, fast.
I like Biden best, but isn't he too old --- not for me but the electorate?
2
So they are raising money, to get elected, so they can raise taxes? Seems like the obsession with money is nothing new for these sycophants... but their obsession is always about taking someone ELSE's money.
4
The big Democrat donors are already buying their candidates. God help us...
7
Trump. Do we really want -- Can our nation long survive -- a president stuck perpetually "lashing out"?
4
Instead of spending time "raising money", they should spend their time doing things that "make a difference. They've got their hands out already. Despicable.
19
"Major donors figure to play an outsize role in the 2020 Democratic race." Change it to past tense, and you have a perfect epitaph for the Democratic Party and its hopes for 2020.
10
To win the White House in 2020, Dem primary voters (who tend to be significantly left of the party's overall base) will need to nominate a non-coastal, non-elitist white male who can win back the alienated former Obama voters who (gasp!) voted for Trump in 2016. That's the only way Dems can recapture the essential Rustbelt states they lost with HRC.
Dig into the data on a county-by-county basis...you'll see how agonizingly true this is. Numbers don't lie on election night. You win the Midwestern "firewall states," plus Florida and Pennsylvania, you win the White House. Period. Almost all of the other states are either solid Dem or solid GOP over the last 50 years, with some minor exceptions here and there.
So will the lefty so-called "Progressive" primary voters nominate a white male moderate from the heartland who can reconnect the party with the working-class voters who left in droves last year? Fat chance!
Dig into the data on a county-by-county basis...you'll see how agonizingly true this is. Numbers don't lie on election night. You win the Midwestern "firewall states," plus Florida and Pennsylvania, you win the White House. Period. Almost all of the other states are either solid Dem or solid GOP over the last 50 years, with some minor exceptions here and there.
So will the lefty so-called "Progressive" primary voters nominate a white male moderate from the heartland who can reconnect the party with the working-class voters who left in droves last year? Fat chance!
7
So the rustbelt state voters are racist, sexist, tribal and anti-science after all, is what you're implying. Why else would they have a problem with a qualified, highly educated minority woman from a coastal state? Why would Democrats want to pander to that at all? That would be hypocritical!
2
A male or female true Progressive not beholden to the millionaires, billionaires, corporations and wealthy elites...that is what we need. I couldn't care less what "color" they are as you seem to be hung up on.
3
Al Franken (Midwest, MN) for president. We need the intelligence and the laughter he would bring.
2
This tells me that they have themselves, and only themselves, on their minds. Seems to me the key to success is to at least pretend that you are interested in the people.
9
Sounds familiar. Think Bernie bros and Republicans have much in common? Hillary envy!
3
I think Biden would have a good chance to beat Trump. Age doesn't seem to matter these days. I hope the Dems don't shoot themselves in the foot with infighting. Bernie is still out there and has a following. As for Harris and Warren, Harris is barely known and Warren can be strident and an easy target. Boy are we getting ahead of ourselves. 2018 comes first and should be the focus.
7
Kamala Harris can have her fundraisers in the Hamptons and Martha's Vineyard if she wants, but evidently she skipped the part where you're supposed to do something first for the people who elected you. Other than play to the media during hearings I can't think of anything that she's done.
20
@ed
Kamala had a good time with Willie Brown.
That was her crucial and only "accomplishment."
Kamala had a good time with Willie Brown.
That was her crucial and only "accomplishment."
2
Who is this woman? Does she mean anything to people who do not live in Martha's Vineyard or Massachusetts? I don't think so. Already we are putting our eggs in the wrong basket. We need to introduce and develop a respect and appreciation of a candidate right now if we plan to win in 2020; Kamala means nothing to me here in New Jersey; doubt if she means much to anyone even further west in the country. Sounds like a mistake in the making to me.
5
the communist party, er the democratic party, is North Korea only in our homeland and will, thankfully, soon be dust
2
The Dems seem to be putting the cart before the horse.
What is their message? "A Better Deal"? They need to do much better.
Trump has solidified a small but solid base and he's smart enough to maintain that, in spite of a horrid start. The Dems are well advised to put a message and strategy in place, and it has to be something other than "We're Not Trump".
What is their message? "A Better Deal"? They need to do much better.
Trump has solidified a small but solid base and he's smart enough to maintain that, in spite of a horrid start. The Dems are well advised to put a message and strategy in place, and it has to be something other than "We're Not Trump".
8
Do no be fooled: the 'hype' around Kamala Harris is ONE HUNDRED PERCENT manufactured, thank to our pliant 'free' press.
She may one day prove to be a good senator, and perhaps even a good presidential candidate, but right now she is utterly unproven at the national level. However, she checks the 'identity' boxes and seems willing to play ball with big donors...get ready for her to be 2020's Hillary Clinton: chosen by the donors, and ultimately to fail. It's coming.
She may one day prove to be a good senator, and perhaps even a good presidential candidate, but right now she is utterly unproven at the national level. However, she checks the 'identity' boxes and seems willing to play ball with big donors...get ready for her to be 2020's Hillary Clinton: chosen by the donors, and ultimately to fail. It's coming.
22
Like I said bernie bros and republicans have a lot in common.
3
How do you list "top Democrats" without mention of Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard? She's young, has populist appeal, was an original Bernie supporter, and has a real, an anti-establishment, pro-American vision. None of the candidates mentioned in the article are capable of even capable of beating Hillary Clinton, much less taking votes away from Donald Trump. Rep. Gabbard, or someone like her, is the future of the party.
7
Tulsi Gabbard supported Bernie Sanders and told the Corporate Dems where to go....that's why she is "not listed" as one of the top Democrats....she is "not" on the "pre-approved" list by Goldman Sachs and the other wealthy donors to the Democratic Party.
8
Anti establishment is only useful is you had a legitimate way of getting things done. Bernie boy had none. That's why the Democrats rolled they're eyes about him. That's why Republicans loved him.
3
Quintas, you said "The Democrats need to convince voters that they are different from the Republicans." To achieve that end, the Democrats will need to do a couple of things they've shown no signs of doing (so far): Abandon large campaign funding sources, which enable the wealthy to co-opt and corrupt the party; replace their old-guard leadership that has overseen a significant collapse of the Democratic Party's representation in government at the local, state, and federal levels.
11
I thought the dreamers were illegal children?
2
Scanning your article I didn't see the name of the mayor of New Orleans, Mitch Landrieu. He has certainly impressed me with his recent appearances on national TV, i.e. the removal of statutes in New Orleans and on coverage of the devastation resulting from Hurricane Harvey.
6
Another name/man who means nothing outside of his own jurisdiction; we need a candidate who has shown they have a sensitivity and understanding of the entire nation, not just their own little neck of the woods. Landrieu is meaningless to me.
1
Very few Americans had heard of Barack Obama in 2005.
Based on the "list" in this article, I sincerely hope that next elected President of the United States is similarly someone most of us are unaware of today.
Based on the "list" in this article, I sincerely hope that next elected President of the United States is similarly someone most of us are unaware of today.
10
He came through his state Senate, then the US Senate.
Strength in good candidates at all levels is critical.
Strength in good candidates at all levels is critical.
1
When the man spoke he introduced the country to who he was and what he stands for and it was far bigger than the state of Illinois. The names being bandied about now do not have that widespread appeal, certainly not to me in New Jersey, while Pres. Obama had a worldliness and sense of nationality that is required for one to be an effective leader...by the way, something that this incompetent nitwit we are forced to refer to as president currently in the White House has never had and still has not developed, even if allowed a learning curve.
3
The Democrats should acknowledge that Barack Obama beat John McCain because the economy melted down in October 2008 just about one month before election day. Voters rightly blamed the Republicans for the disaster.
Obama was a fresh face who was charismatic and articulate. He campaigned on a bumper sticker slogan - Change We Can Believe In.
The Democrats can't expect the Republicans to hand them the presidency so easily again. They need to understand that in 2018 many voters who are busy watching Netflix and You Tube will not be influenced by television commercials. Getting favorable treatment on comedy shows, podcasts and all of the other social media will soon determine elections. Democrats, through their actions, need to brand themselves as the party of the 99%,
run on a few popular issues like income and wealth inequality, and they must disavow the divisive identity politics and political correctness of the far left. They
If they want my vote they should stop tearing down statues and blaming white men for all of the social ills of this country.
Obama was a fresh face who was charismatic and articulate. He campaigned on a bumper sticker slogan - Change We Can Believe In.
The Democrats can't expect the Republicans to hand them the presidency so easily again. They need to understand that in 2018 many voters who are busy watching Netflix and You Tube will not be influenced by television commercials. Getting favorable treatment on comedy shows, podcasts and all of the other social media will soon determine elections. Democrats, through their actions, need to brand themselves as the party of the 99%,
run on a few popular issues like income and wealth inequality, and they must disavow the divisive identity politics and political correctness of the far left. They
If they want my vote they should stop tearing down statues and blaming white men for all of the social ills of this country.
7
The "far left" want: Medicare for all, a livable minimum wage, money out of politics, free college tuition, and clean energy. All of these are overwhelmingly popular among American citizens.
2
You're living in a bubble...
Most Americans do not want "free" college tuition. They know who will be paying for all the "free" stuff...
Most Americans do not want "free" college tuition. They know who will be paying for all the "free" stuff...
2
Not so overwhelmingly. Many are more involved with the hierarchy of needs of today. Many folks want affordable college and the means to attend it. If you want to promote your ideas, fine. But, please solve folks immediate problems first.
2
With the tragedy that Trump's White House has become almost anybody but him can win in 2020.
2
"they are making their cases to wealthy donors"....that's says it all !! For the last 40 years, the D Party has embraced the millionaires, the billionaires, Goldman Sachs and the politically well connected. God forbid they should visit a union hall (what's left of them thanks to both parties). So in the end, as usual, we will end up with a candidate that is "pre-approved" by the wealthy elites....and an agenda that dishes out "crumbs" and "incrementalism" for the masses, while serving up filet mignon legislation as a thank you for their big money donors. We desperately need a powerful new party that works FOR the people....period!
10
Have you forgotten how the propaganda of the Republican Party has dominated the airwaves? The Democratic Party never stopped being inclusive. It just had fewer millionaires and had to raise money to compete with the Koch brothers, etc.
Republicans used their money to take over SCOTUS and propagandize every action of the Democrats that they could use to their advantage with a Fox News-watching electorate.
This is an important consideration too often overlooked. And have you thought about Merrick Garland? About voter suppression so presumed Democrats cannot vote?
It is difficult for a Democrat to believe the lengths that Republicans will go to in order to keep corporations, many of whom prey on ordinary people, and themselves, in power. That has become far more important than the people they are sworn to serve. Look at the "business model" in government. It has brought massive corruption (outsourcing, contractual arrangements unchecked) in every administrative branch. Another Republican endeavor for big business.
When you look at US history since WWII, you can see that the best economic times for everyone were under Democratic administrations. That fact is even occasionally reported on nightly news.
Republicans used their money to take over SCOTUS and propagandize every action of the Democrats that they could use to their advantage with a Fox News-watching electorate.
This is an important consideration too often overlooked. And have you thought about Merrick Garland? About voter suppression so presumed Democrats cannot vote?
It is difficult for a Democrat to believe the lengths that Republicans will go to in order to keep corporations, many of whom prey on ordinary people, and themselves, in power. That has become far more important than the people they are sworn to serve. Look at the "business model" in government. It has brought massive corruption (outsourcing, contractual arrangements unchecked) in every administrative branch. Another Republican endeavor for big business.
When you look at US history since WWII, you can see that the best economic times for everyone were under Democratic administrations. That fact is even occasionally reported on nightly news.
1
I never voted for the GOP and never would. With that being said, the D Party has turned its back on working people, embraced corporate funding and has allowed pro corporate legislation to pass....for years now. So much so that there is not much contrast with the GOP....the Dems have become the party of Goldman Sachs with a rainbow flag....that's the only contrast.
3
The DNC will foist whoever they want upon us, regardless of the wishes of grassroot democrats. When the party shunned the mostly white, blue-collar unions because of identity politics, they guaranteed defeat. Get back to your real base.
7
Since Reagan in 1980, the Republicans have been telling us that, "Government IS the problem."
Well, the G.O.P. has demonstrated that, when they control the White House and both houses of Congress, government is indeed the problem. Their incompetence and inability to govern is a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Well, the G.O.P. has demonstrated that, when they control the White House and both houses of Congress, government is indeed the problem. Their incompetence and inability to govern is a self-fulfilling prophecy.
5
The Democrats need to convince voters that they are different from the Republicans. They shoulsd work on branding themselves as the party that wants to protect the middle class from the greed of the 1%. Rather than aligning themselves with the richest Americans by raising money in the Hamptons, they should be focused on solutions to income and wealth inequality in the United States.
The only solution to such inequality is higher taxes for the wealthiest and substantial tax cuts for everyone else. Bernie Sanders proved that politicians can raise money without resorting to large contributions.
The only solution to such inequality is higher taxes for the wealthiest and substantial tax cuts for everyone else. Bernie Sanders proved that politicians can raise money without resorting to large contributions.
20
Republicanism! Decry it and run against it. I am an "Anti-Republican" more than I am a Democrat. An astonishing majority of white Christians vote Republican - and have done so for many decades. Turn these folks off to the GOP and you will get a sea-change in American politics. Scream about how Republicans routinely vote for more military spending, environmental destruction, the exhalation of the wealthy and the blaming of the poor for their poverty. There are great moral issues to protest! Do it! But the biggest problem with Republicanism is their economic policy. Go left!
3
The Democrats must begin representing the middle-- they must go back to their roots from the time of FDR. They had no message in the last election, and they dumped on the man who did have a message: Bernie Sanders. They must learn that the socialism is not a bad word anymore, that Milenials and other Progressives want to have a socialist democracy, similar to what we see in different European countries. They must stop being the corporate party- message to Chuck Schumer- and btw- that is how the elections was lost last time.
16
Please distinguish between "socialist" and "social democrat".
Invest in us. Well-paying, plentiful jobs for a range of brains, education and drive. We need repairs and cleanup, clean energy, addiction and mental health care. Education - if you can get in, you can go. Loans with good terms. Security - no one should be here illegally. Enforce eVerify with jail time and high fines for employers. Single payer health care is an investment in us. If the Dems ran on that kind of centrist platform, they'd have a chance.
7
Definition: Particide
The killing of a party by announcing that they are paid for by and have the full support of the Hamptons and The Vineyard crowds.
The killing of a party by announcing that they are paid for by and have the full support of the Hamptons and The Vineyard crowds.
17
Reading this article and the comments, it appears that even NYT readers are awakening to the hypocrisy in the media. What a great day for the United States.
Trump was the worst possibly president of the candidates in 2016... except for all the others!
Trump was the worst possibly president of the candidates in 2016... except for all the others!
6
We had a superb candidate in 2016. She was inadequately supported by all the factions inside the big Democratic tent, especially the Progressive wing, so she lost by a hairsbreadth despite getting many, many more votes than her opponent. Sad. The progressives pining for septuagenarians have no chance nationally in 2020.
8
Thank you so much. As President Obama said she was the most qualified person in history. What would the progressives know? They like simple slogans? Well turns out so do Republicans.
4
As Michelle said, Hillary was the "most qualified person" to run for the office of President in our lifetime, but what Michelle neglected to say was that Hillary was the "greatest leader" for our time. Obviously Hillary wasn't and isnt, so Michelle's words, as carefully chosen as they were, were the most damming things that could be said about Hillary's candidacy. America got the message.
1
Hillary let by example. Her legacy will always be the woman who first brought universal health care into the public domain. And her compassion for woman and children has resulted to more good than Mother Teresa. She will always be the person most feared by Republicans in the 20th century. And right into the 21st century. Bernie had 15 minutes comparatively.
4
Elizabeth Warren is a great senator and I support her completely for another senate run. However, I would NOT support her as a presidential candidate.
She is seen by many as a devisive character and is not electable as President when we need to pull the country together.
I do not want to lose another presidential election because the Dems put up a person who cannot win.
She is seen by many as a devisive character and is not electable as President when we need to pull the country together.
I do not want to lose another presidential election because the Dems put up a person who cannot win.
8
I am a feminist liberal. dems need to focus on 2018 midterms. dems when timely need to find a male moderate to be our presidential candidate. no woman can win.
4
No more Boomer Presidents.
Like in 2008, Democratic primary voters need to prevent the Boomer candidates from getting the nomination.
The Boomers have ruined quite enough about America. It's time to end their stranglehold on this once-great nation and start the Post-Boomer Reconstruction!
Like in 2008, Democratic primary voters need to prevent the Boomer candidates from getting the nomination.
The Boomers have ruined quite enough about America. It's time to end their stranglehold on this once-great nation and start the Post-Boomer Reconstruction!
4
That's the generation that put Trump in the presidency.
The Bernie people are more responsible for Trump than anyone. But neither did teach them anything and Bernie won't either.
The Bernie people are more responsible for Trump than anyone. But neither did teach them anything and Bernie won't either.
5
Whatever you think of Trump, the Republicans have a message that resonates with most Americans: (a) reduce taxes, (b) get the role of runaway government out of our lives, (c) enforce immigration laws, (d) let Americans succeed on their own merits, rather than classifying them as "identity" groups with group rights. Americans perceive the Democratic party as standing against every one of these principles (and their perceptions are not incorrect). Yes, I know, Hillary won the popular vote, but that is only because Trump has a big mouth and is a bit of a nut. Any other Republican (Marco Rubio, for example) would have won the popular vote, too.
4
She won the popular vote because Democrats "waste" votes by piling them up in California and NYC.
Hillary won the popular vote by 3 million votes. She won California by 4 million votes.
What does that tell you about how the rest of the country voted?
Hillary won the popular vote by 3 million votes. She won California by 4 million votes.
What does that tell you about how the rest of the country voted?
5
Well, with all their money, the Dems could have moved 12,000 people into key states into rental housing, put their kids in school for a year, registered the parents to vote and could have won the election. It's either that, or get rid of the electoral college.
Elizabeth Warren has a lot of gall to say that Democrats "shouldn't grovel on Wall Street." During the 2016 primaries, when Bernie presented a campaign exclusive of Wall Street, she was silent. When Hillary (Ms Wall Street herself) finally stole the nomination, Warren's embarrassing pandering to the Clinton machine revealed her for what she is; just another opportunistic pol. Just a hint, Elizabeth, after you announce, stay away from issues of integrity.
10
If Senator Lisa Murkowski switches parties like Sen. Jeffords did and runs as a Democrat in 2020- she'd win.
5
Establishing who is interested in running in 2020 is a good thing. The candidates have to build name recognition. Martin O'Malley and Jim Webb, both qualified candidates, were not given their due in 2016 because the Clinton-as-anointed, Sanders-as-insurrectionist narrative was just too compelling for the media to consider other possibilities. Neither O'Malley nor Webb established themselves as viable alternatives to that narrative early enough to get the media and voters' attention.
But those looking to gain entry to the race are making a mistake starting with fundraisers among billionaires. The disdain for Trump is so widespread and deep, rank-and-file Democrats will pour their money into the 2020 election. Fundraising will not be a problem. For now, they should be out there speaking on college campuses and to grass-roots organizations, defining themselves and convincing audiences that the parties are not the same. The myth that there is no meaningful difference between the Republican and Democratic parties is by far the most potent technique of voter suppression.
But those looking to gain entry to the race are making a mistake starting with fundraisers among billionaires. The disdain for Trump is so widespread and deep, rank-and-file Democrats will pour their money into the 2020 election. Fundraising will not be a problem. For now, they should be out there speaking on college campuses and to grass-roots organizations, defining themselves and convincing audiences that the parties are not the same. The myth that there is no meaningful difference between the Republican and Democratic parties is by far the most potent technique of voter suppression.
38
If Democrats want to win they have to become more interesting.
================================================
Yes, money talks but Trump did not get elected with money but with interest.
Trump got elected by twiddling his thumbs, on his cell phone!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Obama was "no drama" and Hillary was a boring policy wonk. Why not learn lessons from Trump about how to stay in the spotlight, as a clown:
The press elected Trump, because he was an interesting character. When are Democrats going to wake up? How many more elections must they lose?
================================================
Yes, money talks but Trump did not get elected with money but with interest.
Trump got elected by twiddling his thumbs, on his cell phone!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Obama was "no drama" and Hillary was a boring policy wonk. Why not learn lessons from Trump about how to stay in the spotlight, as a clown:
The press elected Trump, because he was an interesting character. When are Democrats going to wake up? How many more elections must they lose?
2
If you want to lose women, people under 30 and people of color, run Jim Webb, who never even bothered to mount a serious campaign. Webb's "appeal" was he was a pro-military proud white guy from a southern state. Jim Webb should have run as a Republican. He was totally out of touch with most Democrats except for the old-fashioned white men who now belong to Donald Trump's base.
1
There is no meaningful difference between the parties on economic issues. Too many representatives and senators are millionaires looking out for themselves and people wealthier than they are that give them money.
Marc Lasry is absolutely right. "Not Trump" didn't work in 2016, it won't work in 2018, and it won't work in 2020. Wall Street is running the country. Democrats need to embody a clear, progressive program.
47
Yes, because liberalism is so popular.
Competition is good even in politics. But the Dems need to drop the loosing agenda of bathrooms for people who want to pretend they're the opposite sex, Confederate statues, and conflating a handful of racists in Charlottesville with all registered Replicans, including Trump. All of the above are great ways to loose elections and continue to see the Dem party / influece shrink and shrink and shrink.
P.S. The DNC policy on illegal immigration is opposite that of the electorate.
P.S. The DNC policy on illegal immigration is opposite that of the electorate.
11
Any Dem in a Trump tweet storm will do.
Unlike many naive Bernie supporters who jumped ship, and had the gall to vote for for Trump out of spite, this Dem remains a loyalist. Since JFK, I have never voted Republican, even though we New Yorkers and New Englanders had Republicans who came close: Ed Brooke of Massachusetts, Lowell Weicker of Connecticut, and Jacob Javitts of New York to name a few.
Sorry to say, those days are long gone. With the country not this divided since the Civil War, it has come down to playing power party politics. We know now how Supreme Court Justices will vote 90% of the time. We know how someone will vote based on party affiliation. We see a major party throw out all common sense and nominate a complete incompetent idiot as its candidate for president. claiming this was the will of of the rank and file. The rank and file were as wrong as the Southern segregationists Dixiecrats were in the Sixties. The majority throughout history has been wrong too many times to take note. It was up to leaders to lead, to show some courage and educate their semi-literate constituents. The Republicans are now invested with representatives from a hard right mindless Freedumb Caucus, a cabal of rabid zealots who believe their Randian philosophy trumps practicality.
There was nothing wrong with Hillary. Those who voted Trump and consider themselves smart have a lot to learn. You were wrong, dead wrong, admit it. Be a mensch.
DD
Manhattan
Unlike many naive Bernie supporters who jumped ship, and had the gall to vote for for Trump out of spite, this Dem remains a loyalist. Since JFK, I have never voted Republican, even though we New Yorkers and New Englanders had Republicans who came close: Ed Brooke of Massachusetts, Lowell Weicker of Connecticut, and Jacob Javitts of New York to name a few.
Sorry to say, those days are long gone. With the country not this divided since the Civil War, it has come down to playing power party politics. We know now how Supreme Court Justices will vote 90% of the time. We know how someone will vote based on party affiliation. We see a major party throw out all common sense and nominate a complete incompetent idiot as its candidate for president. claiming this was the will of of the rank and file. The rank and file were as wrong as the Southern segregationists Dixiecrats were in the Sixties. The majority throughout history has been wrong too many times to take note. It was up to leaders to lead, to show some courage and educate their semi-literate constituents. The Republicans are now invested with representatives from a hard right mindless Freedumb Caucus, a cabal of rabid zealots who believe their Randian philosophy trumps practicality.
There was nothing wrong with Hillary. Those who voted Trump and consider themselves smart have a lot to learn. You were wrong, dead wrong, admit it. Be a mensch.
DD
Manhattan
8
Totally agree. One thing Democrats can learn from diehard Trump supporters its to stick with their candidate, otherwise the Democratic Party doesn't need Republicans to lose the election.
1
Nothing wrong with Hillary? She started slipping in the polls when the Times and other news outlets broke the story about her email server in March, 2015, and her decline continued through election day. Today her popularity is two points lower than it was on election day. It should have been clear to the Democratic establishment that she was would be a losing candidate, but they stuck with her anyway, and they are the reason that the country has to suffer under the present administration. There are thousands of bright and experienced people in this country who would better Presidents than Clinton and Trump put together. If the Democrats nominate one of them next time instead of another member of their elite, they'll defeat Trump.
7
AMEN, Brother!
1
Someone mentioned Bloomberg. Great idea. This Republican would vote for him in heartbeat despite his hypocritical limousine liberal stance on gun control and his goofy big gulp soda policy. Everyone one has at least a few warts. Could vote for Biden or Sander but no body else metioned in the article. Of had to vote against Hillary. It it was Hillary vs Hitler it would be a tough choice.
3
The ugly truth is that the Democratic Party began tilling its grave over the last several decades by turning its backs on the lower & middle classes and fleecing them, albeit more quietly and gradually than Republicans. I hope November 2016 was the end of this chapter and the start of a more self-aware party, but I'm doubtful. "Soft" neoliberal policies of deregulation, austerity, anti-union, anti-wage increase, the rights of for-profit colleges, prisons, and hospitals to exist, and the "reform" of social services ("reform" meaning "demolish or "chip away" in the actual sense) reign supreme, and damn anyone willing to criticize the Democratic Party for doing this in a more covert way than the other side.
Contrary to popular belief, this isn't complicated at all. Conservatives like to say the Democratic Party is socialist, which is a laughable claim when you look at the funding sources of Hillary Clinton's blockbuster 1 billion campaign - why would GAFA (what the Europeans call Google, Amazon, Facebook, Apple), for example, throw money into a socialist campaign? What is just as laughable is the Democrat's claim that the current incarnation of their party is that of a representative democracy, not oligarchy. Remember when Debbie Wasserman-Schultz ROLLED BACK the ban on campaign contributions from certain lobbyists?
It might be too late. The Democrats need Big $$$ to fight Trump. The cost is total erasure of the party's roots. Shame on us for letting it getting to this point.
Contrary to popular belief, this isn't complicated at all. Conservatives like to say the Democratic Party is socialist, which is a laughable claim when you look at the funding sources of Hillary Clinton's blockbuster 1 billion campaign - why would GAFA (what the Europeans call Google, Amazon, Facebook, Apple), for example, throw money into a socialist campaign? What is just as laughable is the Democrat's claim that the current incarnation of their party is that of a representative democracy, not oligarchy. Remember when Debbie Wasserman-Schultz ROLLED BACK the ban on campaign contributions from certain lobbyists?
It might be too late. The Democrats need Big $$$ to fight Trump. The cost is total erasure of the party's roots. Shame on us for letting it getting to this point.
9
Dems don't under estimate Trump. The liberal media is so consumed with hate that he beat Queen Hillary that they can't see he is mostly bark and no bite. He did RE develoment in Manattan the center of Nimbyism he's very cunning and crafty and knows how to get what he wants. Trump also is like a magician constantly creating distractions from what he is really doing. And the media sucks up the distractions like a kitten lapping up warm milk.
5
The Democrats need UNITY, heavy grassroots involvement, their supporters need to be out there encouraging & mobilizing inactive supporters to register & vote. The midterms are all about numbers, If we are going to change the direction this country is he heading for, we all need to get involved in some way.
4
Senator Murphy from Connecticut is worth a long look.....
4
Line up? To get embarrassed thats about it..might as well bill it as "send in the clowns"..they are part of the Senate and House...at 8% approval rating
2
Schumer wrote a new platform for the Democrats without any reference to tax fairness (capital gains etc.) Seems strange.
2
Schumer came out with a ghostwritten book in 2007, just prior to his campaign, called "Positively American: Winning Back the Middle-Class Majority One Family at a Time". Well, that really turned things around! Just shows you how long the Pluto-Dems have been spouting this tripe. The man is a smarmy fraud and whenever I hear supposedly sophisticated New Yorkers lament the benighted rubes who voted for Trump, I remember that they keep sending Wall Street's mole, Schumer back for another term. And why? Because he appears relentlessly on TV, discussing non-issues that are as distracting as any nonsense Trump comes with and that are guaranteed to have no adverse effects on his wealthy benefactors. Shame on us!
4
thanks, Stan! Bill Benton
My suggestion? Tom Colicchio.
He's tough but compassionate, honest but open, and has years of experience streamlining staff, production, and public relations. He knows how to communicate and listen. He isn't just a successful entrepreneur, he's a progressive whose heart and brain are in the right places-- he changed his restaurant's name because of its connections to an ugly past.
Colicchio, like the-president-who-must-not-be-named, would be a political outsider. But unlike the Oval Office's current squatter, Colicchio is a can-do success story who wouldn't back down from the fights that need fighting.
Tom, you reading this?
He's tough but compassionate, honest but open, and has years of experience streamlining staff, production, and public relations. He knows how to communicate and listen. He isn't just a successful entrepreneur, he's a progressive whose heart and brain are in the right places-- he changed his restaurant's name because of its connections to an ugly past.
Colicchio, like the-president-who-must-not-be-named, would be a political outsider. But unlike the Oval Office's current squatter, Colicchio is a can-do success story who wouldn't back down from the fights that need fighting.
Tom, you reading this?
All of this makes me sick. Instead of doing the jobs for which they were elected, be it governors or in Congress, they're focusing on 2020 and meanwhile nothing is getting done. But what makes me even more sick is that all the money they are and will be spending, mostly on failed campaigns, could be so much better used helping people. As long as there is poverty and need in the United States, this wastefulness should not be encouraged.
4
As distasteful as distasteful as it is, I will give to the democrats for my first ever political contribution. Our future as a democracy is at stake.
3
I hope the Democrats not fall into the same vicious pit of poisonous snakes like the Republicans resulting in a nominee totally unsuited and unfit for the ultimate job in the Land. Democrats who consider themselves intelligent, knowledgeable should have learned by now that a house divided cannot stand on itself. If there is a raucous, mud-slinging feist in the primaries to gain the nomination then it would be a repeat of 2016 - with Democrats. Instead they should rally around a single candidate who connects with and understands the needs of all people, experienced, politically savvy and above all - intelligent. If the Democrats are really smart as they claim to be they will forgo individual glory and work towards winning as a Party. Too many cooks spoil the broth. United you rise, divided you fall. I'm running out of metaphors. I hope all those intelligent, smart Democrats get that!
2
The majority of opinions expressed here for the attributes they hope the democratic presidential candidate to possess relate to behavioral characteristics like communication skills, empathy, honesty, vigor, unifying, intelligent etc., all traits the present presidents either lacks or misuses, and may be called out for that reason. Governing experiences seems to be a less mentioned prominent attribute, and little is mentioned about diplomatic savvy and a strategic global perspective. I my view the latter two are extremely relevant for the US president, especially in view of the failures in international relations of the Trump presidency. Global friction, based on economic issues (such as trade), nationalistic ambitions, mass migrations, food shortages, pandemics and the increasing consequences of climate change will far outweigh the internal problems the new president will face. And to effectively neutralize the ambitions of China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, to name the key adversaries, and to improve the damaged relations with our traditional allies requires a skill set that none of the wanna-be candidates seem to excel at, they are all too inward focused.
1
democratic party organization needs to become an open field tsop appointing candidates backed by big money. It's unseemly to read how many Democrats can buy their way to candidacy. We need a totally fresh approach to campaigning. Sen tammy Duckworth ran great Congressional and Senate races. She has a genuine American story.
2
Tammy Duckworth has been my choice for the first American woman to be president since I started getting her emails and paid attention to her. Maybe she needs more time in the Senate but she should certainly be added to the list of young and promising Democrats with the potential to become president. The history of service in her family goes back to the Revolution.
1
Are there any lessons learned by the Democrat from the failed election when Hillary had raised far more money than Trump. The hackneyed message of “Tax and spend”, “Uncle Sam knows all with unlimited Government” and “overzealous political correctness” are no longer resonate with the general public. Financial resources without connected messages with new leaderships for the changing public will guarantee more defeats in the future and recent loss in Georgia6 is a vivid example.
4
Hillary outspent Trump more than 2 to 1.
In politics, money is not everything or Jeb Bush would have won the primary.
In politics, money is not everything or Jeb Bush would have won the primary.
1
If those are the 'top', I can't wait to see the 'bottom'. They can't hold a turnip to Trump!
4
What is the DNC infatuation with Kamala Harris? She spent her entire term as California AG campaigning for Boxer's Senate seat- she's hasn't completed 1 term in the Senate and now she wants to be President? If you guys don't want to see Trump as President in 2020- then I wouldn't put too much faith Harris for President- she'll get trounced..
In fact there is nobody on the Democratic bench who is capable of unifying the party. Their agenda is too frayed and unfocused. The far left has hijacked the party and moderate Democrats are no longer accepted. It's not enough to be pro-gay rights- you have to show proof of a gay thought- it's not enough to support DACA- you have to support Amnesty for all illegals- it's not enough to help the homeless- you must insist their food is "farm to table" - It's not enough to support conservation and environmental reforms- you have to meticulously tend and cultivate a backyard compost pile.
Lastly, pay close attention to what Bannon said before he left the White House
“The Democrats, the longer they talk about identity politics, I got ’em," I want them to talk about racism every day.".. "If the left is focused on race and identity, and we go with economic nationalism, we can crush the Democrats.”
Agree with it or not- Bannon is 100% correct. it will be GOP wins in 2018, 2020 and beyond. The Democrats just don't get it..
In fact there is nobody on the Democratic bench who is capable of unifying the party. Their agenda is too frayed and unfocused. The far left has hijacked the party and moderate Democrats are no longer accepted. It's not enough to be pro-gay rights- you have to show proof of a gay thought- it's not enough to support DACA- you have to support Amnesty for all illegals- it's not enough to help the homeless- you must insist their food is "farm to table" - It's not enough to support conservation and environmental reforms- you have to meticulously tend and cultivate a backyard compost pile.
Lastly, pay close attention to what Bannon said before he left the White House
“The Democrats, the longer they talk about identity politics, I got ’em," I want them to talk about racism every day.".. "If the left is focused on race and identity, and we go with economic nationalism, we can crush the Democrats.”
Agree with it or not- Bannon is 100% correct. it will be GOP wins in 2018, 2020 and beyond. The Democrats just don't get it..
12
Actually, Trump's voters are literally dying off.
A material perfectage of the angry old Boomers who got him elected will be incapacitated or no longer with us in 2020.
That's the problem with waging generationL warfare in politics...the elderly side loses by attrition!
Trumpcare would have accelerated the trend, but sometimes one's own incompetence ends up providing unintented protective benefits.
A material perfectage of the angry old Boomers who got him elected will be incapacitated or no longer with us in 2020.
That's the problem with waging generationL warfare in politics...the elderly side loses by attrition!
Trumpcare would have accelerated the trend, but sometimes one's own incompetence ends up providing unintented protective benefits.
2
@Bruno
Did you see the nationalist mobs in Charlottesville? There weren't too many old men in that group- a lot of young angry white males- That's the secret deception of the GOP - Everyone is a racist and it's generational.
Did you see the nationalist mobs in Charlottesville? There weren't too many old men in that group- a lot of young angry white males- That's the secret deception of the GOP - Everyone is a racist and it's generational.
2
I remember the Democrats crowing for years about "demography is destiny."
The country is getting "browner" and the old conservatives are dying off... no way that Republicans can ever win the White House again -- it's demographically impossible...
Democrats kept repeating this during eight years of Obama. I think that's why they are still in shock that Hillary did not win.
Keep singing that tune... there will always be people of all ages and colors that are turned off by higher taxes, identity politics, and government as an agent of social engineering.
The country is getting "browner" and the old conservatives are dying off... no way that Republicans can ever win the White House again -- it's demographically impossible...
Democrats kept repeating this during eight years of Obama. I think that's why they are still in shock that Hillary did not win.
Keep singing that tune... there will always be people of all ages and colors that are turned off by higher taxes, identity politics, and government as an agent of social engineering.
2
No one should be surprised by this situation - the only thing more important than re-election is if not elected, will they be able to refill their campaign coffers that the law as it stands allows them to tap into as personal income/wealth; will they be able to write a book; star on their own reality TV show; be a contestant on You're Fired; and get a few million likes on Anti-Social Media. Of course, even if not re-elected, they still get healthcare for themselves and their families for life, their retirement packages rival the best of most Fortune 500 companies, and since they can act upon insider information from markets and corporations that they were supposed to have some oversight on, their stock portfolios have some of the greatest gains and percentage increases - all cumulative to boost their wealth and power.
Which is what it's really all about.
Dang, it's great to be a Gangsta!
Which is what it's really all about.
Dang, it's great to be a Gangsta!
4
Now THERE's the answer!
"California Governor Jerry Brown/Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren is a winning team."
After all, Jerry Brown has already run for President and done pretty well in the primaries. Of course, that was 1992, a whopping 28 years before the next election -- but if voters think he's too old (just because he'll be getting close to 80 by then), he'd have that spring chicken Elizabeth Warren as his running matter. She'll only be 71.
Wise up, Democrats! Your future does not lie with a bunch of septuagenarians and octogenarians. Get some new blood!
"California Governor Jerry Brown/Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren is a winning team."
After all, Jerry Brown has already run for President and done pretty well in the primaries. Of course, that was 1992, a whopping 28 years before the next election -- but if voters think he's too old (just because he'll be getting close to 80 by then), he'd have that spring chicken Elizabeth Warren as his running matter. She'll only be 71.
Wise up, Democrats! Your future does not lie with a bunch of septuagenarians and octogenarians. Get some new blood!
6
Money matter for sure, but the vast obscene amounts of money spent during the last election may actually have become a turn-off. Constant pulse checking via polls makes people feel manipulated and not in a good way.
I hope that in the next go-round, Democrats will concentrate on a few good candidates (under 70) with clear ideas who are ready to offer fresh solutions to the real problems of the whole nation while staying out of the weeds and away from the edges. Unless they can do better, pithy slogans like “Better Together” are almost an insult. The most recent one is so bland and meaningless that I already forgot it.
Right now Democrats should be grooming articulate, smart, direct, ethical, fearless candidates who are as above pandering as humanly possible. A sense of humor (which we sorely need!), would be helpful especially when it comes to deflecting the likes of Trump. A candidate should have the courage to be able to define him or herself without polls. These are all qualities the country will badly need to deal with the damage inflicted by Trump's presidency.
I hope that in the next go-round, Democrats will concentrate on a few good candidates (under 70) with clear ideas who are ready to offer fresh solutions to the real problems of the whole nation while staying out of the weeds and away from the edges. Unless they can do better, pithy slogans like “Better Together” are almost an insult. The most recent one is so bland and meaningless that I already forgot it.
Right now Democrats should be grooming articulate, smart, direct, ethical, fearless candidates who are as above pandering as humanly possible. A sense of humor (which we sorely need!), would be helpful especially when it comes to deflecting the likes of Trump. A candidate should have the courage to be able to define him or herself without polls. These are all qualities the country will badly need to deal with the damage inflicted by Trump's presidency.
3
I have a definite age bias toward any candidate running for President who will be over 70 years old. That's just too risky in my opinion, to have someone who is healthy both in body and in mind. Democrats, let's put someone younger in there. Bernie is currently 75 years old! Even Warren will be 72 at that time.
And Bernie - how about trying to unite Democrats this time instead of dividing them?
And Bernie - how about trying to unite Democrats this time instead of dividing them?
7
How about supporting the most popular politician in the USA? Bernie Sanders.
5
Bernie tried to turn the Democratic Party into a destruction derby. Republicans will always love him for that.
3
In a free and fair election (i.e., one "live" legally voting man, one vote), and under current election rules (electoral college), I don't think anyone can beat Trump. Apart from Trump, though, I'd say the Dems have a chance. Therefore, assuming Trump stays on, 2020 will see Trump re-elected.
Trump is at record-low approval ratings, under criminal investigation, and quite objectively the least prepared, most incompetent, and mentally unhinged president in generations...and yet you still think he can get re-elected?
Even American Boomers aren't that irresponsible.
Besides, it won't be as hard to get non-Republicans to the polls this time, even against Kremlin and KKK opposition!
Even American Boomers aren't that irresponsible.
Besides, it won't be as hard to get non-Republicans to the polls this time, even against Kremlin and KKK opposition!
2
Democrats will keep losing until they get back to basics: voter registration, winning local elections and standing for bold initiatives. Pining for the white working class to return to the party after four decades is a waste of energy and resources. They aren't coming back. Move on.
3
They would come back if there was a reason to return. So far there has not been.
4
If you give us lots of money, we promise we might create some kind of platform., at some point in the future.
7
Senator Warren's stance is reminiscent of the Clinton phenomenon, which failed to attract sufficient moderate voters to her candidacy. Warren's declaration to "avoid a temptation to moderate" their far-left views effectively eliminates the support of moderates. The only circumstance in which my vote would go to her is one where she was running against Trump, or someone like him. I simply can't reconcile myself to some of her positions.
3
I sure hope Joe Biden make a run in 2020. Before people bring up his age Trump will be 74 in 2020. We need Joe, his connection to working people is genuine and he knows foreign affairs. Joe Biden is the Real Working man's
Candidate.
Candidate.
2
Joe Biden let America down when we needed him.
Now, it's too late.
Baby Boomers need to go enjoy their retirements, not continue to despoil the once-great nation their parents handed them tied in a bow.
Now, it's too late.
Baby Boomers need to go enjoy their retirements, not continue to despoil the once-great nation their parents handed them tied in a bow.
Biden didn't let America down. He was told, by Obama, to step aside for Hillary.
1
This list is a great guide to who supports social elitism, socialism and communism.
When they are subject to the legal scrutiny they deserve and the miscreant behavior is exposed, hopefully by an honest media, the republic will be better, stronger, greater and yes... more prosperous.
When they are subject to the legal scrutiny they deserve and the miscreant behavior is exposed, hopefully by an honest media, the republic will be better, stronger, greater and yes... more prosperous.
2
Trump's miscreant, even illegal, behavior didn't turn off his angry old uneducated xenophobic sexist voters.
Maybe we're in a Trumpian political age beyond qualifications, honesty, and resisting grabbing other citizens by their genitals.
What's good for the goose...
Maybe we're in a Trumpian political age beyond qualifications, honesty, and resisting grabbing other citizens by their genitals.
What's good for the goose...
1
i look at parties all over the world with some sort of social democratic tradition. And see them all morphing into office seeking, grovelling money grubbers. No interest in the fears and problems of their former voting base. Leaving scared people to run to Trump like candidates or worse. It isn't just an American problem.
2
Does that mean that the Democrats are counting on their money returning to them to Golden Eras of President Albert Gore and President Hillary Clinton?
4
what al and hillary have in common is that they both won their elections. that is actually the core problem for all future dem electoral success.
2
There is a questionnaire circulated by the Democratic Party with items on it like 'do you think president Trump is doing a good job?' It went on and on in this vein throughout. It was infuriating, so it was sent back to them without a check and the question, 'is this all you've got?', because if it is, we are surely doomed. We don't need to waste time on being convinced that what we have now in the White House is a horrifying and mad abomination. We do not need to engage in bashing the opposition, let that be their signature.
We need someone whose ethics come to the fore with immediate and inspiring certainty, as if second nature. We need someone who knows that there is not much that is more important than our common well being and it doesn't involve some odd theory that the solution is to give people who have more money than they could ever need even more money.
We need someone who does not need to be guided and coached into projecting empathy and basic compassion or a belief in and respect for justice.
We need a clear path to recovering our national dignity. Work on this clear path.
One thing that is not helping is that the current president is now campaigning on our dime. No speech, no event, no public appearance is without his need to be reelected. It's like Mexico paying for the Wall, it has that same flavor in this case; make Democrats and the entire nation pay for landing him in the White House a second time.
And, why is this being tolerated?
We need someone whose ethics come to the fore with immediate and inspiring certainty, as if second nature. We need someone who knows that there is not much that is more important than our common well being and it doesn't involve some odd theory that the solution is to give people who have more money than they could ever need even more money.
We need someone who does not need to be guided and coached into projecting empathy and basic compassion or a belief in and respect for justice.
We need a clear path to recovering our national dignity. Work on this clear path.
One thing that is not helping is that the current president is now campaigning on our dime. No speech, no event, no public appearance is without his need to be reelected. It's like Mexico paying for the Wall, it has that same flavor in this case; make Democrats and the entire nation pay for landing him in the White House a second time.
And, why is this being tolerated?
6
Democrats have no one like yoj describe!
1
Why are good candidates focused so much on the presidency? What is the problem with being a good member of Congess? A good Majority or Minority leader can make a big difference. We need people who work for their district. We don't need more power crazed politicians.
15
And yet again, another example of why the country is in a downward, right-spiral. How can elected representatives be expected to fulfill their many promises when they must dedicate so much of their time for "fundraising" which in reality are political bribes renamed "campaign contributions?"
Fortunately, though no one wants to acknowledge it, there are better countries to raise children, and by the looks of things, there will be more and for quite some time.
Fortunately, though no one wants to acknowledge it, there are better countries to raise children, and by the looks of things, there will be more and for quite some time.
7
The lessons of 2016 were abundantly clear for Democrats: It is time to drop the old school candidates and look for younger, more centrist candidates that can work across the aisles. Time to clean house. Clearly the old ways are...old. And don't work. At the risk of sounding discriminating, the people who have been in the old Democratic party (Biden -whom everyone loves as grandpa joe, Warren, Sanders, Pelosi, etc) are just old school and more of same-o, same-o. We NEED some smart, fresh faces, like Booker or Klobuchar, to pull in voters. Presidential candidates who are clean of scandals. There are many of us who are tired of hearing the same old messages. The future is with our young people. Are we going to continue to let DT and his associates undo all of the good that Obama did and pull us backwards as a nation? To the DNC, listen up.
7
Any centrist candidate will be slammed by the far left. Even if they have an 86% liberal rating like Hillary.
7
Those ultra liberals cannot win.
2
Booker is about as pro Wall Street you can get. Do you really believe Cory Booker would deliver "real" changes for the better for working people? If our future is with young people, well, they voted overwhelmingly for Sanders in the primary....not the "centrist" Clinton.
6
Say, that is great. They have money. Demographics. People like the issues that the Dems support. And the GOP has an astounding record of failure, having had control of Congress 19 of the last 25 years. The GOP is the establishment.
Too bad so few people connect those issues (better health care, better pay, better education) with the Democratic Party or their candidates. Too bad the Dems are so hapless with their messaging.
Too bad so few people connect those issues (better health care, better pay, better education) with the Democratic Party or their candidates. Too bad the Dems are so hapless with their messaging.
6
Maybe it's not the messaging... maybe it's the message. The Democrats are the party of identity politics, political correctness, redistribution of wealth, and higher taxes.
Sanders needs to face reality. Although there is a very liberal wing in the party that supports his policies, there are many more moderates that believe he goes too far and too fast. When phone banking for the last election, many Sanders supporters said they would not vote because Sanders did not get the nomination. Compromise and solidifying behind one candidate will be of utmost importance in the next presidential election. Hopefully, Sanders has learned what happens when you refuse to face reality and for the good of the country will stay out of it this time.
5
For the "good" of the country Sanders shouldn't run? You must mean for the good of the moneyed interests that control the Democratic Party, Sanders "better not" run...that's what you really mean.
6
Exactly which issues of Sanders do you disagree with?
Ignore the man. Ignore those among his supporters who stayed home on election day. Focus on the issues.
If you substantially disagree with Mr. Sanders' policy positions, I have to question if you would fit in better with the Republican Party.
Ignore the man. Ignore those among his supporters who stayed home on election day. Focus on the issues.
If you substantially disagree with Mr. Sanders' policy positions, I have to question if you would fit in better with the Republican Party.
7
No. Trump is what happens when you refuse to face reality.
3
The Dems won 16 states in 2016. You don't take back the country winning 16 states. The base has to be expended... beyond New York and Cali. And the candidates and the orthodoxy has to become - God forbid - more inclusive. So far the party is mired in obstruction, the usual suspects as possible candidates and the same orthodoxy. CHANGE, BABY. CHANGE... or it's more of the same.
3
The vast majority of voters vote along with party, not persons. Learn to understand that almost genetically, or perhaps instinctively, people are evenly divided between Conservative and liberal personality traits. A moderate has a better chance of winning as they appeal to both persuasions in most people. With that as a given, it matters less who the candidate is and more what the campaign platform is. A good platform to appeal widely to both sides and the in the middle Independents.
As I see it, the basic dynamic of preceding elections is that the Republican party fires up the voters to vote for them at the polls because the Republicans appeal to their hatreds and angers..............just like Trump did.
As it is now, the Democrats are the weak party and not many people want weak leaders. Sure, they're dignified and reserved, but that won't get people to the polls. A really good platform will.
As I see it, the basic dynamic of preceding elections is that the Republican party fires up the voters to vote for them at the polls because the Republicans appeal to their hatreds and angers..............just like Trump did.
As it is now, the Democrats are the weak party and not many people want weak leaders. Sure, they're dignified and reserved, but that won't get people to the polls. A really good platform will.
So, the baby-boomer Democrats are still trying to be President. Hillary Clinton (don't count her out for the 2020 race), Joe Biden & Liz Warren are all over 65, current front runners, and all pining to get the Dem nomination. Bernie Sanders, not yet even a Democrat, may still make another run for the nomination, despite being even older than the rest. Maybe we should start to call the Democrats the "old people's" party.
Of course, they are all thinking that just about any Democrat will be able to beat the current, quite unpopular, incumbent. The GOP thought that they could beat Bill Clinton in 1996 with just about any nominee. They nominated Bob Dole and found out otherwise. An unpopular incumbent in his first year in office (Clinton & Trump) may not be that unpopular when the general election comes around three years later.
Maybe the Dems should seriously think about nominating a young, dynamic outsider for a change. Give the younger members of their party a chance to see what they can do. They probably can't do worse than the party did in 2016. That is a low bar to surpass!
Of course, they are all thinking that just about any Democrat will be able to beat the current, quite unpopular, incumbent. The GOP thought that they could beat Bill Clinton in 1996 with just about any nominee. They nominated Bob Dole and found out otherwise. An unpopular incumbent in his first year in office (Clinton & Trump) may not be that unpopular when the general election comes around three years later.
Maybe the Dems should seriously think about nominating a young, dynamic outsider for a change. Give the younger members of their party a chance to see what they can do. They probably can't do worse than the party did in 2016. That is a low bar to surpass!
5
I think Liz Warren can do it, though Wall St. will spend like crazy to stop her. All she has to do is keep reminding people that she taught Sunday School in Oklahoma before she became a Harvard Law prof.
2
The Church of Satanic Ritual?
1
And she qualified for Affirmative Action because she was a Native-American.
How many boring Democrats who don't realize the rank and file have moved ahead of them will continue to court working class White Republicans and driving Progressives, minorities and women to stay home and not bother to vote?
Have the Democratic "leadership" learned nothing in 40 years? I listen to Tom Perez and I hear the same losing arguments I heard when Mondale was losing to Reagan, when Dukakis was losing to Bush I, when Tom Foley was losing to Newt Gingrich, when Allison Grimes was losing to Mitch McConnell, and when Hillary Clinton was losing her slam-dunk win to Donald Trump and Jon Ossoff was losing a sure seat in Georgia.
Einstein defined insanity as doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. I would define it as a lack of true intelligence, the refusal to learn. The people know where the Party needs to go. The leaders of the Democratic Party refuse to learn from the people of the Democratic Party.
Have the Democratic "leadership" learned nothing in 40 years? I listen to Tom Perez and I hear the same losing arguments I heard when Mondale was losing to Reagan, when Dukakis was losing to Bush I, when Tom Foley was losing to Newt Gingrich, when Allison Grimes was losing to Mitch McConnell, and when Hillary Clinton was losing her slam-dunk win to Donald Trump and Jon Ossoff was losing a sure seat in Georgia.
Einstein defined insanity as doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. I would define it as a lack of true intelligence, the refusal to learn. The people know where the Party needs to go. The leaders of the Democratic Party refuse to learn from the people of the Democratic Party.
7
Absolutely. Those voters are not coming back and they did not elect Obama. The Obama voting Republican is a myth the Democrats can't seem to shake.
5
Rather than accepting that Obama got people (Democrats and Democrat-adjacent) to vote for him who wouldn't otherwise have voted. Then these same people stayed home in 2010, 2014, and, of course 2016.
This is why the "leadership" of the party isn't leading. Their "consultants" tell them go after the elusive Republican. When the team keeps losing, year after year, it's time to fire the coaching staff, and probably the general manager and the management staff as well.
This is why the "leadership" of the party isn't leading. Their "consultants" tell them go after the elusive Republican. When the team keeps losing, year after year, it's time to fire the coaching staff, and probably the general manager and the management staff as well.
1
With only 55% of eligible voters participating in the 2016 Presidential election and with the dislike of Mrs. Clinton, it won`t take much to throw out Mr. Trump and the GOP. The bar is set pretty low, let`s hope the Democratic Party in 2020 does not blow this opportunity to reach out to Americans who felt left behind.
4
The first line of this article demonstrates one of the many reasons why I would never consider a Democratic Party presidential candidate again: "Aides to Senator Kamala Harris of California say that her fund-raisers in Martha’s Vineyard and the Hamptons this summer have been all about helping Democrats in 2018." The wealthy elite of Martha's Vineyards and the Hamptons could care less about Americans who do not belong to their upper class circles. They care only about themselves. They want to impose outrageous laws upon ordinary Americans, laws from which their wealth will insulate them. Democrats, like Warren, criticize the %1, big banks, and wall street, yet they court their wealth, demonstrating that they are phonies, hypocrites. In fact, Warren, Sanders, and others, are themselves part of the %1! So their rants against them are rants against themselves. It cannot understand why ordinary people would vote for these phonies. It says to me that they are phonies themselves. How can these people live with themselves?
8
I agree with you about the hypocrisy of the Democrats at these fund raisers.
But yet you support the other party whose only major agenda is cutting taxes for the rich.
But yet you support the other party whose only major agenda is cutting taxes for the rich.
4
@MidtownATL,
Yep.
Yep.
1
Republicans proved they will vote for any clown they throw up there.
Democrats proved that they would denigrate even mother Theresa.
Democrats proved that they would denigrate even mother Theresa.
5
Well, after all that we have seen in 2016, the corporate democrats are still bent on ignoring working people and rush to the Hamptons and Martha's Vineyard! Worse yet, when a Wall street banker (as quoted in the article) gets it more than the supposed politician, then you know we're in trouble! No wonder people voted for Trump. And by the way, they'll vote again for him if the democrats are still the corporate party and doesn't become (again?) the people's party. Go Bernie!
7
Fund raising should follow not precede development of a coherent program that lays out how we get to universal coverage, how we attack the problems of inequality, how we work to reverse the effects of racism, how we encourage the vigorous growth of unions with the immediate aim of providing representation for at least 60% of labor, how we combat the problems associated with global warming, how we provide all women with safe and comprehensive family planning, and how we break up internet based monopolies like Google and Facebook. Did I mention the need to diminish the poisonous effects of the military industrial complex?
If the Democrats think they can win with vague promises not to be Trump they might be right, but America, as both a country and an idea, will lose.
Jim Mamer
If the Democrats think they can win with vague promises not to be Trump they might be right, but America, as both a country and an idea, will lose.
Jim Mamer
38
This should be good for some laughs, watch them all stab each other in the back, an there the ones who are suppose to be the party that does not hate, yer right, spend all the money you want but in the end it will be TRUMP 2020
GO Trump
GO Trump
8
Glad you are getting such a kick out of The Con Don destroying The United States of America, Dave. The vast majority of us aren't.
If we can't get him for Treason we will put The Con Don - and his Robber Baron brethren - in prison for tax evasion. That is how to deal with the International Mafia.
If we can't get him for Treason we will put The Con Don - and his Robber Baron brethren - in prison for tax evasion. That is how to deal with the International Mafia.
7
From prison?
2
Not impressed with the list so far. C'mon Dems, let's find somebody.
11
Eric Garcetti
1
If we can't get past the 2018 midterms we're toast.
9
Tammy Duckworth for President. She has the stuff that Republican chickenhawks will never have.
4
But which comes first?
"...a party still focused on fund raising when it has not a clue what it stands for..."
The message seems to be: "Give us gobs of money so we can afford to figure out what we stand for."
"...a party still focused on fund raising when it has not a clue what it stands for..."
The message seems to be: "Give us gobs of money so we can afford to figure out what we stand for."
14
"We have to vote for it to see what's in it"......sound familiar?
2
Anyone who negotiates one penny, directly or indirectly, to the wall, Con Don said Mexico will pay for, will not get my vote.
3
After reading comments below I have one of those rare moments when I have nothing to add. They say it all. It's déjà vu all over again. Our political elite is impotent. No new ideas. Nothing. Zilch. Will this newspaper ever publish anything that has even a touch of something new? I very much doubt it.
10
Oh, Democrats make my teeth hurt. They should run on national health care, campaign finance reform and impeachment. But they won't.
Trump won votes by bringing seemingly rational people to his irrational cause. He wasn't an ideologue, but only because he doesn't know anything about government or politics.
Dems don't have the sand for that. Still, we can hope....
Trump won votes by bringing seemingly rational people to his irrational cause. He wasn't an ideologue, but only because he doesn't know anything about government or politics.
Dems don't have the sand for that. Still, we can hope....
3
This list is full of people who all want to run. Let's be real. The Democratic Party had no platform. Any person or thing associated with the Clintons is toxic to a potential Democratic candidate. I could tell you what's great about them and go on about their talents but that doesn't matter. Their brand needs to be shelved. Kamala Harris is great for CA. and someone who knows the US Constitution is attractive however a black woman will not win period. Her fund raise with the wealthy in Martha's Vineyard is not a plus and the Sessions inquiry while memorable is no basis. The world is in a critical and even catastrophic state. Kamala Harris will becomean emotional favori and we will lose./
5
Much as I'd like to see a female candidate for President, I'm not sure any woman can beat a man in the presidential race. This last election demonstrated that an ignorant, bigoted, mentally unstable, lying con man can beat a highly qualified woman. America remains a backward country where women are still viewed as little more than Adam's rib. It's a sad state of affairs, but I'd rather see an ex-military man as the Democratic candidate because I don't want to risk giving this lying madman currently in office another term. If for some reason lying Don leaves office before the next election, I may change my mind.
1
Lots of Americans would vote for someone like Thatcher, Merkel, etc.. just not Hillary. Her idea of public service: When asked to chat with college kids she puts her palm out and demands hundres of thousands of dollars.
5
Democrats will continue to lose if they don't understand voters. The reason I did not vote for Hillary (I'm Ian's wife) has nothing to do with Hillary being a woman.
Democrats will keep losing if they continue to think, "If you didn't vote for a woman, you are a misogynist."
There are some of us who who consider the shape of a candidate's genitals an irrelevancy.
Democrats will keep losing if they continue to think, "If you didn't vote for a woman, you are a misogynist."
There are some of us who who consider the shape of a candidate's genitals an irrelevancy.
1
That may very well be, but the choice was still pretty obvious between lying Don and HRC. HRC's sex was definitely a factor.
2
What makes these opportunists that they stand a chance? The democratic voters are too savvy to fall for gimmicks unlike trump's.
Democratic voters would definitely want their candidates to show proof aka good track record and some conviction. That means, that these folks will have to crawl to their day jobs and work atleast 9-5 and show some results, just the way an average citizen.
Do I ever get promoted w/o doing any work?
Being brown woman legal immigrant, with three master degrees, patents and publications in prestigious journals, I think most stable job with least qualification is to be politician and you do not have to do any anythIng to get a paycheck.
Democratic voters would definitely want their candidates to show proof aka good track record and some conviction. That means, that these folks will have to crawl to their day jobs and work atleast 9-5 and show some results, just the way an average citizen.
Do I ever get promoted w/o doing any work?
Being brown woman legal immigrant, with three master degrees, patents and publications in prestigious journals, I think most stable job with least qualification is to be politician and you do not have to do any anythIng to get a paycheck.
3
We gotta beat Trump (or Pence). How 'bout a George Clooney--Joe Kennedy III ticket. Don't automatically dismiss it. Consider it. for a while; it's gonna grow on you.
1
Why would Clooney be the presidential candidate on that ticket when it is Kennedy who is the politician and has the experience and service record in Congress? Clooney has a villa on Lake Como and a glamorous wife. Expensive dinners with the Clooneys helped wreck the Clinton Coronation. Why should the Clooney connection be used again to potentially injure another young Democrat who may (or may not) have a future as a party leader.
2
After what Republicans have done to this country with Trump there is not a snowball's chance in Hades I would vote for anyone of them. Yes indeed, I have become a Yellow Dog Democrat, and proud of it. Woof, woof.
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
4
You and me both dog. Now if we can get the petulant far left to grow up.
3
Bernie is the most popular politician in America based on his long-standing and unwavering support for progressive policies the citizens want. So, tell me again which part of the Democratic party is being whiny and petulant?
1
Hillary won 20 states in November. There is no way Bernie would have won even that many.
3
2018, 2020 good grief! We have no assurance of being here tomorrow. Roll up your sleeves and spend time with those affected by Harvey. Then folks will know you are for them and haven't become numb to the pain of others. Practice what you preach.
1
So sad reading all the people here who actually believe in politicians, who actually think any of them have our best interests in mind. Pols are the bane of mankind. Until we figure out we don't need "leaders," that they don't give us anything we don't already have, every evil - injustice, inequality, poverty, wars, et al.
Don't support professional politicians. Any idiot is better, including the one we got now.
Don't support professional politicians. Any idiot is better, including the one we got now.
1
C'mon Democrats! MONEY or MESSAGE? Cart first, or horse?
Regards,
JV
Regards,
JV
3
Biden and Sanders are probalby the Dem's only hope.
Kamala Harris - criminals' best friend. Look at her record as San Fran DA. She refused to go after cop killers. Great video of Diane Feinstein critizing Harris for that.
Elizabeth Warren - almost as scripted as Hillary. Too much of a weasel to endorse Hillary or Bernie BEFORE the Dem. primary in Mass. Such leaderhip NOT
Terry McAuliffe - part of the Clinton sleaze machine
Krisien Gillinbrand - like Hillary a political weather vane - no core beliefs.
Galvin Newsom - had a tawdry affair with "best friend's" wife. Won't play well in Peoria.
Kamala Harris - criminals' best friend. Look at her record as San Fran DA. She refused to go after cop killers. Great video of Diane Feinstein critizing Harris for that.
Elizabeth Warren - almost as scripted as Hillary. Too much of a weasel to endorse Hillary or Bernie BEFORE the Dem. primary in Mass. Such leaderhip NOT
Terry McAuliffe - part of the Clinton sleaze machine
Krisien Gillinbrand - like Hillary a political weather vane - no core beliefs.
Galvin Newsom - had a tawdry affair with "best friend's" wife. Won't play well in Peoria.
6
Really! After Trump anything plays in Peoria.
2
Biden? Warren? Sanders? Here we go again. I love them all, but are the Dems really so thickheaded to have learned nothing from 2016? GOP is running roughshod over this country, Trump is doing whatever he wants, all while Dems make sad faces and sit cloaked in righteousness. This progressive Dem is almost resigned to GOP keeping House and Senate in 2018, and Trump being a two-termer. Somebody in Democratic leadership needs to shake things up. Maybe Harris can do it, but beginning her efforts in Martha's Vineyard and Hamptons -- stomping grounds of Hillary & Co., does not a revolution suggest.
3
Democrats lost the last election because 6MM of them sat out the election. Add to that the Berniers who couldn't come down from their "mad", and the Steiners. But bottom line, the Dems did not come out. The polls show the minority voters who should have been expected in particular did not come out.
It's all in the numbers.
It's all in the numbers.
5
Democrats lost the election because they have become a coastal party. Hillary won the popular vote because she won California by more than 4 million votes.
Our Founding Fathers knew what they were doing... the Electoral College prevents one state from deciding the presidency.
Our Founding Fathers knew what they were doing... the Electoral College prevents one state from deciding the presidency.
1
It may be time to resurrect candidate selection by party leaders in the proverbial smoke filled rooms. Primaries degenerate into beauty contests. The 2016 GOP primary season resulted in a real beaut.
2
"Primaries degenerate into beauty contests."
The 2016 GOP primary degenerated into an ugly contest.
The 2016 GOP primary degenerated into an ugly contest.
4
The Democrat party is a death cult. Abortion to euthanasia, soup to nuts.
But why? Because egalitarians always bring a guillotine to the party.
Why? Because somebody's always more equal.
Why? Because egalitarian socialists believe life is a zero sum existence and they're invariably competing for the status of the more or most
equal.
Why? You have to ask whoever struck God from the party platform.
Democrats, no matter how smart, can't accept cause and effect, the natural law, and cannot therefore reason from point A to point B.
Why? Because moral values are closer to intelligence than intellectual values.
Why? Because moral values are personal values and individual by nature, and the good rests in knowing what is yours and what is not.
Socialism is the ultimate confusion of what is mine and what isn't.
Why? Because the nature of the eternal is connected inexorably with free will, which is inevitably and indelibly, mine. All decisions are based on what the individual thinks of eternity.
Why? Because the last things are temporally speaking to us about eternity. If you can tell time, which is change, you have an understanding of what is fixed, without which you couldn't grasp change (or tell time).
And God is eternal. And God is a being whose effect is a person. Each of us. Without exception.
Reality is unconditional. The Democrat party is unable to communicate the truth of existence; love and mercy. Life.
But why? Because egalitarians always bring a guillotine to the party.
Why? Because somebody's always more equal.
Why? Because egalitarian socialists believe life is a zero sum existence and they're invariably competing for the status of the more or most
equal.
Why? You have to ask whoever struck God from the party platform.
Democrats, no matter how smart, can't accept cause and effect, the natural law, and cannot therefore reason from point A to point B.
Why? Because moral values are closer to intelligence than intellectual values.
Why? Because moral values are personal values and individual by nature, and the good rests in knowing what is yours and what is not.
Socialism is the ultimate confusion of what is mine and what isn't.
Why? Because the nature of the eternal is connected inexorably with free will, which is inevitably and indelibly, mine. All decisions are based on what the individual thinks of eternity.
Why? Because the last things are temporally speaking to us about eternity. If you can tell time, which is change, you have an understanding of what is fixed, without which you couldn't grasp change (or tell time).
And God is eternal. And God is a being whose effect is a person. Each of us. Without exception.
Reality is unconditional. The Democrat party is unable to communicate the truth of existence; love and mercy. Life.
2
The 2020 presidential election will not matter if the country doesn't organize itself in mass and flush the GOP in the 2018 midterms. Overcoming the gerrymandered districts and getting through to the low-information voters will be the key DNC test to turn the ugly and dysfunctional momentum that the GOP has built for themselves since 2000 census.
As great as Biden is and was a VP, he will always be viewed as a DNC re-tread from the Obama era. Might as well ask Gore if he wants to run...I am sure Bill would be happy to campaign for him. Rolling out a series of “see if they stick” candidates to appeal to minorities and women, while legitimate in reasoning, is not going to be a winning hand when this country is clearly divided (wounded) on those easy red-meat GOP issues. Now is not the time to find the next great _____ hope...Trump's candidacy and the 2016 election proved that.
Michael Bloomberg did not run in 2016 out of respect to Hillary, but he should consider 2020. Although he is associated with New York City, he is the antidote to Trump...by making his own fortune and building a legitimate business, has been both a Democrat and a Republican, knows how to govern, and has the cool, calm "adult in the room" temperament, intelligence, and vision to take on, beat Trump and work between the aisles in Washington.
As great as Biden is and was a VP, he will always be viewed as a DNC re-tread from the Obama era. Might as well ask Gore if he wants to run...I am sure Bill would be happy to campaign for him. Rolling out a series of “see if they stick” candidates to appeal to minorities and women, while legitimate in reasoning, is not going to be a winning hand when this country is clearly divided (wounded) on those easy red-meat GOP issues. Now is not the time to find the next great _____ hope...Trump's candidacy and the 2016 election proved that.
Michael Bloomberg did not run in 2016 out of respect to Hillary, but he should consider 2020. Although he is associated with New York City, he is the antidote to Trump...by making his own fortune and building a legitimate business, has been both a Democrat and a Republican, knows how to govern, and has the cool, calm "adult in the room" temperament, intelligence, and vision to take on, beat Trump and work between the aisles in Washington.
4
Stop identity politics and obsessing over transgender bathrooms. You can't wn elections with the blue coastal states alone. The Midwest states won't vote for a woman. You have to pick your battles.
3
The Midwest will vote for a woman -- but not a left-of-center woman. A Republican woman can win.
Michigan recently voted twice for Jennifer Granholm as Governor. Yes, we will vote for a liberal woman. We have.
Michigan also voted in the primary for Bernie. That's because we'll vote for a liberal over a woman if it is either/or.
Michigan also voted in the primary for Bernie. That's because we'll vote for a liberal over a woman if it is either/or.
2
The Democratic Party needs to return to its roots, along the lines of FDR and JFK. Optimism. Opportunity for All. A Brighter Future.
We need to discard the Republican-Lite agenda that the Clintons foisted upon us starting in 1992. "The era of big government is over." "We're gonna end welfare as we know it." Dick Morris and triangulation. Repeal of Glass-Steagall. Goldman Sachs and Wall Street. Big Macs and SUVs.
Thanks, Bubba and Hill for ruining the Democratic Party. You cut a deal with the devil, and the chickens have now come home to roost. It is time for the rest of us to take the Party back.
We need to discard the Republican-Lite agenda that the Clintons foisted upon us starting in 1992. "The era of big government is over." "We're gonna end welfare as we know it." Dick Morris and triangulation. Repeal of Glass-Steagall. Goldman Sachs and Wall Street. Big Macs and SUVs.
Thanks, Bubba and Hill for ruining the Democratic Party. You cut a deal with the devil, and the chickens have now come home to roost. It is time for the rest of us to take the Party back.
10
Trumpite, Republican and Democrat politicians, when I think of you I feel unimpressed. I would like it if you turned over a new leaf, listened to the people, replied to correspondence, and began to act more responsibly. I would like it if you reattached to reality. I prefer democratic principles to plutocracy. Uness you change your ways, I am not voting for any of you. Mr Moneybags is right. There needs to be a message. Love to all.
Please. - no Bernie. Democrats - next time just vote. No matter who the candidate - just vote. No 3rd Party. No I'm gonna sit out and send a message.
No Jill Stein (where she been squirreled away?). No Gary "Aleppo". Just vote for the Dem and end this nightmare.
No Jill Stein (where she been squirreled away?). No Gary "Aleppo". Just vote for the Dem and end this nightmare.
7
Corporate Democrats out early kissing up to rich people. Sure glad those rich people are so nice they want nothing in return for their money. I love democracy at work!
3
If protecting women against sexual harassment is this country's biggest problem, then Kirsten Gillibrand should be President. Beyond that single issue, she's a nullity.
1
What a long list of liberal losers.
3
Honestly, I am infuriated with the Democratic party. It seems to be obsessed with symbolism than substance. If anyone had any brains in this entire establishment they would focus their efforts on taking back the house and the senate. What a bunch of self-serving morons!!
2
Holy "Let's Run Before We Can Walk," Batman!
Before the Dems put 2020 in their political sights how about winning a few elections first! Like taking back some seats in the House and the Senate in 2018. Or how about taking back some state legislatures and governorships?
The Democratic Party lost this past one in November largely because it lost touch with its social platform. To get out of a hole you have to first stop digging.
Before the Dems put 2020 in their political sights how about winning a few elections first! Like taking back some seats in the House and the Senate in 2018. Or how about taking back some state legislatures and governorships?
The Democratic Party lost this past one in November largely because it lost touch with its social platform. To get out of a hole you have to first stop digging.
3
I joked with friends the day after the election last year in November 2016, in less than a year the political hookers would be out pandering and begging for money. How is it Europeans don't spend BILLIONS electing their leaders?
3
They have campaign finance laws and time constraints.
2
One of the problems with the dysfunction of Congress is that no leadership has surfaced in a way that allows them to claim much in the way of accomplishments. I'm suspicious of all the hub-bub over Kamala Harris (and she's my senator and I like her) because much as I liked Obama, his biggest drawback as President was his inexperience. He'd have done better with an entire term (or two) under his belt. What really has Harris done, except aggressively question Sessions and been chastised by Richard Burr? Now she's jumping on the 'Medicare for all bandwagon' to steal Bernie's base in CA, but it seems to me that her lack of legislative accomplishments and her lack of national knowledge at this point in time ought to be disqualifiers for now. She's not (nor was Hillary, though at least Hillary had more claim to it) the most qualified candidate ever to run for President. But she's a woman! she's mixed race! --- and so the rest of us are just supposed to jump on the bandwagon because somewhere some consultant sees her as the ideal candidate for a diverse party? Or is it that some consultant can see a way to 'sell' her multiple factors (oh yes, she's attractive too -- but there is that SF and Willie Brown tie) and raise enough money in our corrupt system to get her elected? Could we look at electing someone with some stature who uses their VP pick to elevate someone like Harris for subsequent runs? Biden-Harris? A one-term wonder?
1
But.....but....but Clarice, she's a woman.....and Black....how can she NOT win?
1
Yeah, how about that?
"...Amazing how England, Germany and others can elect women to power, but we seem so insecure and limited in this."
You're actually understating your case here. Several countries have elected female leaders more than once (the Brits, for example). But not here. Hmmm -- it's almost enough to make you wonder whether the merits of the candidates had something to do with it. Could it be possible -- not likely, certainly, but just possible -- that German voters have considered Angela Merkel to be the real deal but American voters consider Hillary Clinton to be nothing but a poll-driven mediocrity who wouldn't be given the time of day if she weren't married to a former two-term President?
"...Amazing how England, Germany and others can elect women to power, but we seem so insecure and limited in this."
You're actually understating your case here. Several countries have elected female leaders more than once (the Brits, for example). But not here. Hmmm -- it's almost enough to make you wonder whether the merits of the candidates had something to do with it. Could it be possible -- not likely, certainly, but just possible -- that German voters have considered Angela Merkel to be the real deal but American voters consider Hillary Clinton to be nothing but a poll-driven mediocrity who wouldn't be given the time of day if she weren't married to a former two-term President?
6
Britain has elected two female prime ministers -- both conservative.
Maybe a woman can win in this country if (1) she doesn't run on her sex and (2) she's not a lefty.
Maybe a woman can win in this country if (1) she doesn't run on her sex and (2) she's not a lefty.
Politicians like Congressman Tim Ryan of Ohio understand the people who reside between the East and West coasts; a failure of Mrs. Clinton. The Democrats need to put forth such a candidate.
2
The Democratic Party first needs to have an agenda and then worry about a candidate. Right now the party is badly split between the progressive Bernie Sanders wing and the establishment Clinton-Schumer wing. The "Better Deal" proposed by Senator Schumer was in reality a rather Tepid Deal reflecting a party that can't even agree on their version of health care reform. Will it be the Sanders' "Medicare for All" or just fixing Obamacare? Given the centrality of this issue, the Dems have to reach a consensus before rushing to fund candidates of mostly unknown (other than Kamala Harris' endorsement of Medicare for All) positions on this and other issues. Clearly, the electorate is tired of "politics as usual" and establishment candidates like Hillary Clinton. It may be time for "Change We Can Believe In," but just what change do the Democrats propose other than defeating Donald Trump?
2
Have you checked the ages of these three?
"Biden, Warren, and sanders need to go home."
All will be over 70 in 2020. Biden and Sanders will be closer to 80, and Sanders isn't even a Democrat. This is the Democratic Party?
"Biden, Warren, and sanders need to go home."
All will be over 70 in 2020. Biden and Sanders will be closer to 80, and Sanders isn't even a Democrat. This is the Democratic Party?
3
How much did Hilary spend on her campaign?
3
How much did Bernie Sanders spend slamming her?
Not to mention the Republicans and the Russians.
The Republicans should put up a statute Bernie Sanders for helping them like he did.
Not to mention the Republicans and the Russians.
The Republicans should put up a statute Bernie Sanders for helping them like he did.
3
Mick, there were plenty of people out there who disliked Clinton long before they ever heard of Bernie Sanders. She ran in 2008 remember. The DNC chose to overlook her wide unpopularity outside of that place where she won 3 million votes. She did not and still does not have deep national appeal. She and the party as well as her never say die fan need to remember that in 2920. Don't be conned by the book tour. And keep blaming Sanders instead of figuring out what you did wrong won't lead to a 2020 win either. Clinton's book will most likely be too full of blame for everbody else to be much help.
As for the 6 million who did not vote changing anything, it seems to be the assumption that those votes would have gone to Clinton.Why? If people wanted to vote for her they would have gotten out and voted. It was a chance to be part of history, voting for the first woman for president. It was the way I felt when I voted for Obsma. If all of those people had voted, Trump's victory might have been bigger than it was.
As for the 6 million who did not vote changing anything, it seems to be the assumption that those votes would have gone to Clinton.Why? If people wanted to vote for her they would have gotten out and voted. It was a chance to be part of history, voting for the first woman for president. It was the way I felt when I voted for Obsma. If all of those people had voted, Trump's victory might have been bigger than it was.
4
I'm very impressed with Representative Tulsi Gabbard of Hawai, who has all the right politics and credentials (Military - so important to late empire voters) and the appeal of a Macron or a Trudeau.
1
The initial wave will be a scary collection. But beware of the finalist. That person will be unknown, clean as a whistle on the outside and look like Lenin's tomb on the inside ...and will be lavishly funded by George Soros and the owner of the Washington Post.
1
Howard Dean for......... DNC party chair.
Tom Perez and Keith Ellison do not have the skills to rebuild and organize the Democratic Party.
To the comment from the lady in Atlanta, Eric Garcetti is an intriguing and fresh suggestion for a Presidential nominee.
Time for a fresh face.
Tom Perez and Keith Ellison do not have the skills to rebuild and organize the Democratic Party.
To the comment from the lady in Atlanta, Eric Garcetti is an intriguing and fresh suggestion for a Presidential nominee.
Time for a fresh face.
2
With each presidential election cycle, the campaigning has begun earlier and earlier. I consider myself a committed voter, never having missed an election, but even I start to tune out. "Campaigning" nowadays seems to be a euphemism for "fundraising." The Democrats need to come up with some solid ideas and some fresh blood, rather than jetting around the country begging for money. And they need to concentrate on 2018. Plus, no stupid slogans. I voted for Clinton, but "I'm With Her" was the worst. Not on my car! The new motto from politicians should be "I'm With You," not what can you do for me.
4
Ooops. I meant to end with the phrase "not what I can do for you."
2
OK. I think it's a bit too early to start talking about 2020.
Never mind that the Democrats don't have a definitive message. Never mind that they don't yet have a definitive candidate to run for POTUS.
For the sake of argument, let's just suppose that one way or another, Trump isn't the POTUS by that time.
Now, you'd have to deal with Mike Pence.
While on paper, he's what Republicans in Congress are all but openly yearning for, considering he appears to be more in lockstep with their philosophy, if not agenda.
I hope the Democratic Party can prepare itself for that possibility.
Hey....it could happen.
Never mind that the Democrats don't have a definitive message. Never mind that they don't yet have a definitive candidate to run for POTUS.
For the sake of argument, let's just suppose that one way or another, Trump isn't the POTUS by that time.
Now, you'd have to deal with Mike Pence.
While on paper, he's what Republicans in Congress are all but openly yearning for, considering he appears to be more in lockstep with their philosophy, if not agenda.
I hope the Democratic Party can prepare itself for that possibility.
Hey....it could happen.
1
Jockeying for position in the Democratic Presidential primaries seems a bit premature. Don't Democrats have to heal the wounds from the last presidential primary before moving on to the next? My fear is that they are going to do what they did last time--openly back a candidate who is well-connected with all the "right" people but unpopular with everyone else and alienate his or her opponent's followers.
My ideal candidate would combine the youth and energy of a Kamela Harris or a Cory Booker with the deep range of political and administrative experience and accomplishments of a Joe Biden, an Al Gore or a Jerry Brown. He or she would have the political savvy of a Bill Clinton and the passion of an Elizabeth Warren combined with the authenticity and charisma of a Bernie Sanders.
My ideal candidate does not exist at least not among this list. Can't we look at someone outside the normal group of well-connected people whose ambition outweighs their experience. Surely the Democrats have a highly accomplished governor or mayor somewhere (maybe from the rust belt or the west) who is popular, free of scandal and not pushing 80.
Whoever wins the nomination I hope that he or she articulates a compelling vision of what this country should be along with a plan to make that vision a reality. Democrats win when they focus with joy and energy on a better future for all Americans. They lose when they don't. C'mon guys, don't blow it again.
My ideal candidate would combine the youth and energy of a Kamela Harris or a Cory Booker with the deep range of political and administrative experience and accomplishments of a Joe Biden, an Al Gore or a Jerry Brown. He or she would have the political savvy of a Bill Clinton and the passion of an Elizabeth Warren combined with the authenticity and charisma of a Bernie Sanders.
My ideal candidate does not exist at least not among this list. Can't we look at someone outside the normal group of well-connected people whose ambition outweighs their experience. Surely the Democrats have a highly accomplished governor or mayor somewhere (maybe from the rust belt or the west) who is popular, free of scandal and not pushing 80.
Whoever wins the nomination I hope that he or she articulates a compelling vision of what this country should be along with a plan to make that vision a reality. Democrats win when they focus with joy and energy on a better future for all Americans. They lose when they don't. C'mon guys, don't blow it again.
4
All the money, talk, campaigning will do no good unless the Democratic Parity's agenda offers to the people what it did not offer in 2016, a 15$ minimum wage, government sponsored health-care, free college tuition in the state colleges, and control over the rampant policies of the big banks.
2
We need someone very pure with no baggage so we can feel good about ourselves when we vote for this pure and perfect person. I nominate my five year old niece. Addded bonus: she has sent no emails yet
3
The driving influence in our leaders lives.
Donald Trump is a Hitler worshiper (Mein Kampf & Hitler’s Speeches): Has said he “loves war” “we have nukes, why don’t we use them” and now wants to increase military spending along with increasing our nuclear stockpile and abilities.
Steve Bannon (the alt-president) is a Strauss and Neil Howe (general theorists) worshiper: Strauss and Neil argued that American history operates in four-stage cycles that move from major crisis to awakening to major crisis. These crises are called “Fourth Turnings”. Bannon, in interviews, speeches and writing — and especially in his embrace of Strauss and Howe — he has made clear that he is, first and foremost, an apocalypticist. Bannon believes that war is inevitable.
Paul Ryan worships Ayn Rand (Atlas Shrugged): Rand’s thinking is “sorely needed right now” because we are “living in an Ayn Rand novel”, “the reason I got involved in public service,” that he makes it (Ayn Rand) “required reading in my office for all my interns and my staff,”
Ayn Rand:
“I ask them if they believe in God. And if they say they do-then, I know they don’t believe in life.”
Ayn Rand bristles against the notion of shared sacrifice/shared rewards. She argues that individuals are not their brothers’ and sisters’ keepers; that one must only do unto oneself; that personal happiness is paramount; and that one’s greatest good is what is good for oneself rather than for the greatest number of people.
What influences Dems?
Donald Trump is a Hitler worshiper (Mein Kampf & Hitler’s Speeches): Has said he “loves war” “we have nukes, why don’t we use them” and now wants to increase military spending along with increasing our nuclear stockpile and abilities.
Steve Bannon (the alt-president) is a Strauss and Neil Howe (general theorists) worshiper: Strauss and Neil argued that American history operates in four-stage cycles that move from major crisis to awakening to major crisis. These crises are called “Fourth Turnings”. Bannon, in interviews, speeches and writing — and especially in his embrace of Strauss and Howe — he has made clear that he is, first and foremost, an apocalypticist. Bannon believes that war is inevitable.
Paul Ryan worships Ayn Rand (Atlas Shrugged): Rand’s thinking is “sorely needed right now” because we are “living in an Ayn Rand novel”, “the reason I got involved in public service,” that he makes it (Ayn Rand) “required reading in my office for all my interns and my staff,”
Ayn Rand:
“I ask them if they believe in God. And if they say they do-then, I know they don’t believe in life.”
Ayn Rand bristles against the notion of shared sacrifice/shared rewards. She argues that individuals are not their brothers’ and sisters’ keepers; that one must only do unto oneself; that personal happiness is paramount; and that one’s greatest good is what is good for oneself rather than for the greatest number of people.
What influences Dems?
3
Some worry that the Russians may be influencing our elections. My anger stems from the fact that, with potential candidates having to go hat-in-hand to the Hamptons and Wall Street, the rich are deciding which candidates will be viable in 2020.
Do people really think that, given the record levels of inequality leading to a disappearing middle class, that the wealthy vetting our candidates is a good idea?
If I had to name the greater danger, Russian attempts to influence our election or the 1%'s stranglehold on our politics, the former doesn't even show up on my radar.
Do people really think that, given the record levels of inequality leading to a disappearing middle class, that the wealthy vetting our candidates is a good idea?
If I had to name the greater danger, Russian attempts to influence our election or the 1%'s stranglehold on our politics, the former doesn't even show up on my radar.
62
And you believe that those two are completely separate entities?
Exactly True! We have needed serious Election Reform for a couple of decades, and the environment only gets worse. Washington remains gridlocked in favor of business as usual with income inequality only getting worse every year. What laws do get passed line up almost perfectly with what the 1% of the 1% would want -- and that small group has more accumulated wealth than the bottom 90%. We need open primary elections in all 50 states to give young people a voice -- because the vast majority of people under 40 do not like party-politics. We need to put caps on how much any one candidate and super Pacs can spend on an election or else be brave enough to move to public-funded elections. Think about this: It used to be that every candidate got EQUAL TIME on television.
2
The Russian threat was never really hacking DNC email & releasing real, doctored, & phony emails. It was their attempts (many successful) to hack into at least 21 states' election databases & change just enough data on people in big Democratic wards that they would be turned away from the polls. It is the Republicans and the Russians working to suppress Democratic voters that is the true voting fraud in this country.
Take strongly Democratic Dallas, TX as an example. Records show a number of hacks into the voter rolls by computers with IP addresses known to be Russian. There was considerable confusion & consternation when the electronic data disqualified thousands of Dems. In some precincts, where they had the older paper voter records & could turn to them instead of their computers, voting was slowed down, but at least the data was correct. Still, the long waits forced many prospective voters to give up and leave for their jobs or to return home to take care of their kids. Expect attacks like this in just about every significant Blue district in 2018.
Every American should be registered at birth or naturalization and that information be kept safe & addresses updated in a timely manner before each election if we want to preserve State & District elections for Congress (a dubious idea). And, we should stop the practice of giving people provisional ballots, which are rarely counted & just thrown away.
Take strongly Democratic Dallas, TX as an example. Records show a number of hacks into the voter rolls by computers with IP addresses known to be Russian. There was considerable confusion & consternation when the electronic data disqualified thousands of Dems. In some precincts, where they had the older paper voter records & could turn to them instead of their computers, voting was slowed down, but at least the data was correct. Still, the long waits forced many prospective voters to give up and leave for their jobs or to return home to take care of their kids. Expect attacks like this in just about every significant Blue district in 2018.
Every American should be registered at birth or naturalization and that information be kept safe & addresses updated in a timely manner before each election if we want to preserve State & District elections for Congress (a dubious idea). And, we should stop the practice of giving people provisional ballots, which are rarely counted & just thrown away.
1
Why is it that news about every midterm election is buried? The most important election right now is not in 2020 -- it's in 2018. All efforts need to be focused on that election and encouraging voters to turn out in larger numbers than ever. The lack of news and emphasis on the midterm elections has always hurt the Democrats -- that needs to change right now. We have a president and cohorts in the House and Senate who have every intention to build an authoritarian state. We need to stop them, and we stop them by voting Democrat in 2018.
5
Right in the middle of the bullseye!
2
It should not require rocket science for Democrats to win in 2020. After all, their views are more mainstream than the Republican Party. However, they do need to:
Nominate a competent candidate who can sincerely express compassion.
Show a greater than or equal concern for American citizens as they do for illegal residents and aspiring citizens.
Understand that every government program they dream up requires my (our) tax money or comes from borrowing (printing) money.
Nominate a competent candidate who can sincerely express compassion.
Show a greater than or equal concern for American citizens as they do for illegal residents and aspiring citizens.
Understand that every government program they dream up requires my (our) tax money or comes from borrowing (printing) money.
3
There are some very good Democrats out there that could make a good run for president. Elizabeth Warren is not one of them. The way she sat on the sidelines through the primaries playing politics, and her shrill voice totally disqualifies her. Thank God there's no mention of Bernie Sanders. Bernie and his Bros are the main reason that Donald Trump is president right now. Bernie did all he could to bring down Hillary and the Democrats. His 15 minutes of fame are way, way over.
4
I see the postings in support of Elizabeth Warren, Al Franken and others viewed by many as far left liberals. If the Democrats are foolish enough to nominate a candidate to the far left, they will suffer another defeat in 2020. But go ahead; have at it.
1
Sounds like a who's who of nobodies and washed up politicians. The Democrats blatant pandering and identity politics has lost them over 1000 seats of power in the country and the White House and it appears they still have not learned from it.
3
Have any of these candidates a notion of how to put together a winning combination of voters to give the Party not only the Presidency and Congress but also Governorships and State Houses?
In my opinion the only way to do this is to formulate a class based position and so instructed policies. The GOP has done this on behalf of the wealthy.
In my opinion the only way to do this is to formulate a class based position and so instructed policies. The GOP has done this on behalf of the wealthy.
1
I believe starting the "campaign season" this early in the election cycle turns off and tunes out voters. The endless political campaigning causes fatigue and may be part of the reason for low voter turn out especially in the primaries. Like advertisements and store displays for Halloween in August, Thanksgiving in September, and Christmas in October, the public has become immune to the hype. Hawking politicians seem to have the same effect. Other countries limit their political campaigns to three months prior to the election. The US should adopt that practice and see how this effects voter turn out. Voters have a short memory and attention span especially in our current political environment.
1
Politics might be more engaging if it were about something other than cash. While money is an easy metric tons monitor, it doesn't get people to the polls.
4
"Long List of Top Democrats Have 2020, and Money, on Their Minds"
And that is why Democrats will keep losing.
The vast majority of Americans are desperate for candidates that work for them…..not the "Money".
A candidate with a people's message is all that is needed…..and the "money" will pour in from ordinary citizens.
Consultants, PAC's, political operatives, wealthy billionaires (Marc Lasry) and endless fund-raising events all result in the antithesis of a people's candidate.
And that is why Democrats will keep losing.
The vast majority of Americans are desperate for candidates that work for them…..not the "Money".
A candidate with a people's message is all that is needed…..and the "money" will pour in from ordinary citizens.
Consultants, PAC's, political operatives, wealthy billionaires (Marc Lasry) and endless fund-raising events all result in the antithesis of a people's candidate.
3
Isn't the upcoming mid-term more important? Congress
has, is, proving that it can hamper any President.
has, is, proving that it can hamper any President.
3
What is Bloomberg up to? He can't be much older than Trump (and probably is in better shape). He combines experience in business and politics, is a genuine self made billionaire, has the gravitas of a leader and has demonstrated with his philanthropy that he genuinely cares about the welfare of our citizens. And he doesn't have to worry about fund raising. What's not to like?
1
The advantage of having such a large number of potential candidates is that the Republicans cannot start smearing them effectively until the field is significantly narrowed -- at which point there will be much less time to smear. Even before this point in the 2016 race (to be precise, in January 2013), Republicans were already going after the Democratic front-runner with repeated Benghazi hearings. They were effective. By the time of the election, Hilary Clinton, who had previously been viewed as a decent human being and qualified potential leader, was badly damaged. Unlike her husband, she was not a good enough politician to continue to connect with voters. She never recovered. Right now, Mr. Trump is too busy smearing senators of his own party to pay any attention to Democrats.
1
GOD help us!
Hopefuls lining up to kowtow to Wall Street billionaire Lasry, fund raisers in the Hamptons and Martha's Vineyard, meetings with a Boston financier, Virginia real estate developer and Hollywood moguls...
If the DEMs want to lose in 2020 all they need to do is more of the same.
Only 2 things need to be done to win and neither involve the usual genuflecting at the feet of the above, first, a major effort to get unregistered citizens registered to vote, and to the polls, and second, to develop a platform and select suitable candidates to appeal to the swing voters in the swing states.
In short, what is needed is to pay attention to the people that VOTE, rather than those who write the $1 million checks.
Will it happen? I am NOT hopeful.
Hopefuls lining up to kowtow to Wall Street billionaire Lasry, fund raisers in the Hamptons and Martha's Vineyard, meetings with a Boston financier, Virginia real estate developer and Hollywood moguls...
If the DEMs want to lose in 2020 all they need to do is more of the same.
Only 2 things need to be done to win and neither involve the usual genuflecting at the feet of the above, first, a major effort to get unregistered citizens registered to vote, and to the polls, and second, to develop a platform and select suitable candidates to appeal to the swing voters in the swing states.
In short, what is needed is to pay attention to the people that VOTE, rather than those who write the $1 million checks.
Will it happen? I am NOT hopeful.
2
This article makes it abundantly clear that the Democratic Party continues to ignore the lessons of 2016. Part of the reason Hillary Clinton lost is that she prioritized fundraising among wealthy donors over engaging with everyday Americans on their problems. As a result, she appeared aloof and out-of-touch, giving independent voters and progressive Democrats little to inspire them to get out to the polling station on election day.
The recent elite fundraising activity of several Democratic presidential hopefuls, including Kamala Harris and Kirsten Gillibrand, suggests the party is about to make the same mistake once again. Americans on both sides of the political spectrum are increasingly cynical of big, moneyed interests, and for these candidates to be shamelessly cozying up to wealthy donors this early in the process demonstrates a shocking lack of tact and strategic thinking. All it will do is ensure that the Democrats will mount another disunited and chaotic campaign for President in 2020, with corporate Democrat/Establishment hacks and progressives at each other's throats. It will also open the door for Trump to once again fraudulently cast himself as more in touch with the average voter than the Democrats and their big money donors.
The recent elite fundraising activity of several Democratic presidential hopefuls, including Kamala Harris and Kirsten Gillibrand, suggests the party is about to make the same mistake once again. Americans on both sides of the political spectrum are increasingly cynical of big, moneyed interests, and for these candidates to be shamelessly cozying up to wealthy donors this early in the process demonstrates a shocking lack of tact and strategic thinking. All it will do is ensure that the Democrats will mount another disunited and chaotic campaign for President in 2020, with corporate Democrat/Establishment hacks and progressives at each other's throats. It will also open the door for Trump to once again fraudulently cast himself as more in touch with the average voter than the Democrats and their big money donors.
4
The Democratic Party could learn a lot from Ralph Waldo Emerson's quote: "Who you are speaks so loudly I can't hear what you're saying." When Democratic politicians take large campaign contributions, their future actions will be affected, even controlled, by the desires of whoever gave those large contributions.
In a speech he gave in 2009 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgYyrw426q4), Ralph Nader (another Ralph) listed a whole series of benefits, demanded by voters in Western Europe in the aftermath of WWII, including universal healthcare for all, paid daycare, four weeks paid vacation, decent public transit, and tuition-free university education. The voters in Western Europe got all of those benefits.
The U.S. population has gotten none of those benefits, even though the Democratic Party has claimed to be the party of the lower and middle classes, and Democrats have historically championed many of these benefits. Why? I believe a big part of the reason is the corrupting influence of large campaign contributions on the Democratic Party.
The Democratic Party's continuing focus on large campaign contributions assures its politicians will only be working on behalf of the American people to the extent they can concurrently keep their most generous donors happy.
Democrats need to eschew large campaign contributions, so they can free themselves from the control of big-money contributors, and work wholeheartedly on behalf of the American people.
In a speech he gave in 2009 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgYyrw426q4), Ralph Nader (another Ralph) listed a whole series of benefits, demanded by voters in Western Europe in the aftermath of WWII, including universal healthcare for all, paid daycare, four weeks paid vacation, decent public transit, and tuition-free university education. The voters in Western Europe got all of those benefits.
The U.S. population has gotten none of those benefits, even though the Democratic Party has claimed to be the party of the lower and middle classes, and Democrats have historically championed many of these benefits. Why? I believe a big part of the reason is the corrupting influence of large campaign contributions on the Democratic Party.
The Democratic Party's continuing focus on large campaign contributions assures its politicians will only be working on behalf of the American people to the extent they can concurrently keep their most generous donors happy.
Democrats need to eschew large campaign contributions, so they can free themselves from the control of big-money contributors, and work wholeheartedly on behalf of the American people.
4
With an incumbent like President Donald Trump there are some real interesting ingredients in the 2020 race.
1. Ripe for a single term knock out.
2. Cued up for a sitting President or a non elected Pence being Primaried with a damaged Republican Party.
3. Republicans smashed into pieces.
4. The very likely run of the Democrat that wins the primary becoming President.
This 2020 Mid term could throw off the cycle of 8 years back and forth with Vice President Biden, Jerry Brown or another older candidate promising a single term while Elizabeth Warren, Kamala Harris or Cory Booker etc ran as VP to prepare for a 12 year domination.
1. Ripe for a single term knock out.
2. Cued up for a sitting President or a non elected Pence being Primaried with a damaged Republican Party.
3. Republicans smashed into pieces.
4. The very likely run of the Democrat that wins the primary becoming President.
This 2020 Mid term could throw off the cycle of 8 years back and forth with Vice President Biden, Jerry Brown or another older candidate promising a single term while Elizabeth Warren, Kamala Harris or Cory Booker etc ran as VP to prepare for a 12 year domination.
1
What about Al Gore? He's really developed since his run in 2000 -- much more personal and engaging. And he is building a support network with his environmental work.
By 2020, dealing with Climate Change is likely to be the topic above all others ... including (and especially) draining the D C Swamp of the creatures Trump has loosed there.
By 2020, dealing with Climate Change is likely to be the topic above all others ... including (and especially) draining the D C Swamp of the creatures Trump has loosed there.
No talk of Cuomo? Surprised.
The only thing that kept him from running in 2016 was his close friendship with the Clintons, he's gotten everything from the Obama agenda passed in NY.
I think he could do very well.
The only thing that kept him from running in 2016 was his close friendship with the Clintons, he's gotten everything from the Obama agenda passed in NY.
I think he could do very well.
1
I'll just keep saying it. The Democrats will not win if they do not stop pandering to the 1%. If they STOP it now, and FINALLY unify under the WORKING CLASS Agenda with Mr. Sanders, then and only then do they stand a chance! Millions of young people and independent minds are refusing to Vote for the DEMS, so long as Pelosi and Schumer continue down this RICH only matter path. Pelosi was in NJ on Friday. WHY? Will she EVER WAKE UP to REALITY of the working class? I hope so, but it does not look promising. Schumer certainly isn't waking up. He sleeps in his tranquil MYTH that the Wall Street Gang will keep him in power. Americans have been burned one too many times. WAKE UP Democratic Party!
5
It should be mandatory that all candidates take a basic I.Q test or a SAT test and have a mental check. I am serious. We have a lot of loose cannon, candidates out there. It is a very dangerous world and we need the best of the best.
2
What this article doesn't mention is that Hillary could beat them all, is way more qualified, and deserves it.
5
No ideas. No ideals. That's the democratic party, I see. Not a candidate I would vote for on the State or local level. And I live in FL where the bar ain't too high.
1
How sad, that a story about democracy is all about money. Somehow, we must not evaluate everything political in the lens of money. Cold the Times write a political report on politics without mentioning money? If so, try it. If not, why not?
2
As a Californian, I am shocked that Kamala Harris is actually considering running for president. As far as I can tell, she has accomplishment nothing during her less than one year in the Senate. And by the way, chutzpah and a vastly inflated ego are not qualifications for the presidency, unless, of course, you are Donald Trump.
2
"Trump's greatest asset is his ability to be underestimated by the people he just outsmarted."
Only a Democrat could misunderstand Trump's greatest accomplishment: defeating the entire establishment and persevering against the MSM, the barrage of false claims about Russian interference; The Democrat wing of the Republican party.
In that light:blue Here's to the remaining 7 years of Trump, eight of Pence, and the defunding of the enigmatic, self- defeating and yes, racist, Planned Parenthood. L'chaim!
Only a Democrat could misunderstand Trump's greatest accomplishment: defeating the entire establishment and persevering against the MSM, the barrage of false claims about Russian interference; The Democrat wing of the Republican party.
In that light:blue Here's to the remaining 7 years of Trump, eight of Pence, and the defunding of the enigmatic, self- defeating and yes, racist, Planned Parenthood. L'chaim!
2
Bob, I must respectfully disagree - Trump's greatest asset is his ability to tap into the racist and misogynistic underpinnings of just less than half of the electorate. He is nothing less than an idiot savant.
1
I wish there was one good candidate among the crowd.
1
No more liberals need apply. This administration can't get traction because of left over liberals from obama, corruption rhino's and leftist obstructionist. Why ad more trouble by adding more liberals? Makes no sense.
1
Democrats should recruit Gov. Charlie Baker. Republicans got the vile Trump; Dems, try to get the calm, intelligent, skilled Baker - also the most popular governor in America.
A long list of top Democrats have 2020 and money on their minds? That's the first whiff from a party that has been missing in action since November? One would have hoped that there would be more on their minds than money for their campaigns.
Where are the grand ideas? The inspiring new voices? Should they not be first? Everyone knows it takes money to run a successful campaign. That's not news to anyone and shouldn't be the first thing we hear about from a party who claims to have 2020 on their minds.
Where are the grand ideas? The inspiring new voices? Should they not be first? Everyone knows it takes money to run a successful campaign. That's not news to anyone and shouldn't be the first thing we hear about from a party who claims to have 2020 on their minds.
40
Agreed. If/When Democrats have a compelling message, the money will follow. Until then, it's all noise...
California Governor Jerry Brown/Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren is a winning team. I love Elizabeth Warren but am convinced a "mere woman" cannot win right now. Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton was the most qualified PERSON to ever run to be President, according to President Obama (including he and Bill) and SHE was robbed by The International Mafia who installed The Con Don and Bernie Sanders. They started their campaign against Senator Warren the minute she gained traction.
However, Jerry Brown and the democratic State Legislature has turned California around - again - after years of attempts to destroy it by BIG money. He - and a democrat controlled United States House/Senate - can turn America around. Senator Warren would prove her value and gain valuable experience. SHE would win in 2024 or 2028.
All it take is for WE THE PEOPLE to get out the vote for them. I'm in. Are you?
However, Jerry Brown and the democratic State Legislature has turned California around - again - after years of attempts to destroy it by BIG money. He - and a democrat controlled United States House/Senate - can turn America around. Senator Warren would prove her value and gain valuable experience. SHE would win in 2024 or 2028.
All it take is for WE THE PEOPLE to get out the vote for them. I'm in. Are you?
3
I want to clarify something wrote in this comment. In my opinion Bernie Sanders helped the Russians/International Mafia get The Con Don elected - and defeat the most qualified PERSON, Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton - because he and his supporters knew Russians were hacking their facebook pages and planting hate-bots against her and said nothing. That, to me, is as treasonous as what the Russians did. I will never vote for Sanders.
2
Warren is much, much better at the showmanship politicking than Clinton ever was. Touting being most qualified was in fact damning Clinton with faint praise, suggesting that unlike her husband and Obama, she had to work harder and longer to be a fit President than either of them.
I
I
No. Hillary Clinton was the most corrupt, plutocratic, political wife ever to run for the presidency (not to mention a total failure as secretary of state).
4
What is the Democratic message that will win elections? I didn't hear it last year, I haven't heard it since we lost the last election at all levels. "We have lots of money" didn't work. "It's my turn" was less than compelling. "We're good people and Donald Trump isn't" didn't work in 2016 when everyone had a good view of exactly what Donald Trump is like.
Could candidates please figure out what they are going to do before they start piling up big money? My wallet is closed for now and will remain closed until the Dems show they can craft a path to winning elections.
Could candidates please figure out what they are going to do before they start piling up big money? My wallet is closed for now and will remain closed until the Dems show they can craft a path to winning elections.
57
Warren is honing the message and platform she has been working on her entire academic career. She has been going all around the state of Massachusetts and giving talks laying out her case. She did it at the democratic convention as well. Why she gets summarily dismissed as a socialist is beyond me.
Democrats are already starting to self sabotage by adopting critiques posed by Republicans, even though it is clear that republicans have a double standard when it comes to their own politicians.
Democrats are already starting to self sabotage by adopting critiques posed by Republicans, even though it is clear that republicans have a double standard when it comes to their own politicians.
3
My wallet is closed until the Dems show that there is good reason to put them in office as my representatives. What good is winning if you are just bringing same-old-same-old to the table? Just crafting a path - any path - to winning is no virtue. Trump certainly proved that.
Show me you represent me, my principles, and my ideals, and I'll help you.
I expect that, having never really had a full representative democracy (read the original Constitution closely, it slants to moneyed white men and away from what Madison in the Federalist papers dismissed contemptuously as "the leveling influence of the masses"), forward-thinking people should be debating what we can do to replace our coarse, corrupt, and undemocratic (anti-democratic) system.
Show me you represent me, my principles, and my ideals, and I'll help you.
I expect that, having never really had a full representative democracy (read the original Constitution closely, it slants to moneyed white men and away from what Madison in the Federalist papers dismissed contemptuously as "the leveling influence of the masses"), forward-thinking people should be debating what we can do to replace our coarse, corrupt, and undemocratic (anti-democratic) system.
Dems need a clear, simple message.
1. Medicare for all.
2. Tax the rich. (no more 'carried interest', Cayman Islands accounts & Mitt Romney accumulating $100M+ in his IRA...how did THAT happen?)
3. Stop the wars.
Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.
1. Medicare for all.
2. Tax the rich. (no more 'carried interest', Cayman Islands accounts & Mitt Romney accumulating $100M+ in his IRA...how did THAT happen?)
3. Stop the wars.
Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.
1
Oprah, are you reading the comments here?
No way. Oprah is just another BIG money master, ego-driven like The Con Don. WE need someone with 99% of us in mind.
6
Have the democrats learned nothing? Your article describes a party still focused on fund raising when it has not a clue what it stands for or who its voters really are.
Please.....no more Sanders, Warren, or even Biden and no more nominating the candidate who thinks it is "their turn." Now, more than ever, my party needs a grass root uprising.
Please.....no more Sanders, Warren, or even Biden and no more nominating the candidate who thinks it is "their turn." Now, more than ever, my party needs a grass root uprising.
7
Peggy, FYI: Sanders' candidacy WAS a grassroots uprising.
7
A "long list"? No way too short. Se the piece in this morning's CNN.
http://www.cnn.com/2017/05/02/politics/2020-democrats-donald-trump/index...
It lists 22. Most arre more or less left of center except dear old Joe Biden who represents the Democratic party's past, not its future. Can Liz Warren win? Wall St. will spend whatever it takes to make sure she won't. But let's bid a fond farewell to Clintonism. It's gone.
http://www.cnn.com/2017/05/02/politics/2020-democrats-donald-trump/index...
It lists 22. Most arre more or less left of center except dear old Joe Biden who represents the Democratic party's past, not its future. Can Liz Warren win? Wall St. will spend whatever it takes to make sure she won't. But let's bid a fond farewell to Clintonism. It's gone.
3
The Democrats have no clear message other than "Hey did you see the other guy". I'm with Her (Warren).
1
Good strategy. Money really helped the Dems in 2016. Not.
4
Al Franken's name should have been on the list. He looks like he is getting ready to run as well.
1
Forget Warren and Sanders; both socialists are way too extreme for the majority in this country. Biden is too old to make a run and he has had his day. The democrats need new blood and Kirsten G (NY) is not known, liked or pertinent. Views on excessive taxation, socialism will not cut it in 2020.
4
People who call Sanders extreme clearly have NO IDEA of his agenda and how it is ALL ABOUT YOU - The PEOPLE of the USA. He is the closest mind to the needs and the urgent changes needed by this nation. Let us not be ignorant and lacking in any study of the Agenda he has put forth, which is all about turning around our economic downturns and our lack of HUMAN KINDNESS. We all need Mr. Sanders. Now more than ever. Common Sense is not Extreme. It is just pure logic, in the case of Bernie Sanders.
3
They're are not too extreme, they're just too stupid. Hillary had the same views that they had. She just knew how to get there without mentioning them. Of course the petulant far left couldn't figure that one out.
3
America's "socialism" is what is enabling the recovery in Texas. Young voters don't see socialism as a negative thing, but a positive. There will be more and more comments from bots like this as we go forward, discouraging people from supporting the most popular of all politicians and almost the only one with integrity, Sanders.
1
I don't understand. If you are condemning the potential candidates mentioned and you are a Republican and Conservative... ok, I get it. If you are a Democrat and are attacking people like Elizabeth Warren, Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, Kirsten Gillibrand... well, why? For a couple of them, I get it, age. But these are people who have either experience, vision, or both. How about we liberals don't self-destruct again and we have debates about issues and plans. Let's be the grown-ups in the room and stop eating each other to the point we feed the opposition. We need to start now so there is a voice of opposition to the Republicans and the President-- a common voice or, a voice debating what can be done instead of what can be destroyed. That's why we start now. And, anyone who doesn't think a person running for President doesn't need a huge (yet, healthy) ego is deluded. Yes-- all of these folks need to believe they are better than any one else to run the country. But, they need to do so, paradoxically, with a bit of humility. Anyway, let's stop complaining and start discussing.
2
Because, as long as money drives American elections, the only winners are the billionaire and corporate donors that buy our politicians and control policy that benefits them. The corporatist establishment Democrats are paid by the same donors the Republicans are, yet the donors support weak Democrats that won't upset the status quo. I will be voting for Bernie and Justice Democrats that refuse money from billionaires and corporations. Only by getting money out of politics will our representatives in government actually represent our needs rather than those of the donors that are destroying the planet with greed. Wolf-PAC is fighting to get money out of politics state by state and my money will go to them as well. If the Democrats want to win, they should be supporting the most popular politician in America--Bernie Sanders.
4
I have to laugh ever time I read the feeble excuses Hill Clinton used explaining her loss. Think of it, Hillary Clinton, who is married to Bill Clinton, one of the greatest politicians of all time, lost the election to Donald Trump.
The Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, the Washington Post, CNN, and numerous political figures all told us in no uncertain terms that Donald Trump was not fit to be president. Even the polls and the British and Irish Bookies proclaimed that Hillary Clinton would be the winner.
A funny thing happened. The neglected Middle Class, the people who depended on decent jobs, went absolutely nuts and voted for Donald Trump. Why? Well, here is the answer: "It's the Economy, Stupid."
People don't want four years of Hope and Change. They don't want to hug trees or worry about Transgender bathrooms, they want a leader with guts.
And, most importantly of all, they want....are you ready for this???? Jobs.
Barack Obama sold the United States down the river. He let all the jobs go overseas. He did nothing about terrorism and illegal immigration. And, he couldn't be bothered to get off the golf course during Hurricane Sandy.
So, the Democrats ought to get past their message that "The Republicans are bad" and start to do something for the WORKING CLASS VOTERS.
Now, had Barack Obama been another FDR Hillary Clinton might have won. Had Hillary Clinton been another FDR she might have won.
The Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, the Washington Post, CNN, and numerous political figures all told us in no uncertain terms that Donald Trump was not fit to be president. Even the polls and the British and Irish Bookies proclaimed that Hillary Clinton would be the winner.
A funny thing happened. The neglected Middle Class, the people who depended on decent jobs, went absolutely nuts and voted for Donald Trump. Why? Well, here is the answer: "It's the Economy, Stupid."
People don't want four years of Hope and Change. They don't want to hug trees or worry about Transgender bathrooms, they want a leader with guts.
And, most importantly of all, they want....are you ready for this???? Jobs.
Barack Obama sold the United States down the river. He let all the jobs go overseas. He did nothing about terrorism and illegal immigration. And, he couldn't be bothered to get off the golf course during Hurricane Sandy.
So, the Democrats ought to get past their message that "The Republicans are bad" and start to do something for the WORKING CLASS VOTERS.
Now, had Barack Obama been another FDR Hillary Clinton might have won. Had Hillary Clinton been another FDR she might have won.
6
Feeble excuses? How about a rigged election curiosity of Russians and fake news. Decades of fake news, BTW.
1
Oh come on. are you serious? There was everyone but the kitchen sink telling people NOT to vote for Trump, from the Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, CNN, Barack and Michelle Obama, Joe Biden, Bernie Sanders, and Elizabeth Warren all proclaimed loud and clear in no uncertain terms that Trump was "Unfit to be President." The Polls even proclaimed Hillary Clinton in the lead. The British and Irish Bookies gave odds that Hillary would win.
So, you are asking me to believe the American People are so stupid as to follow a recommendation from the Russians?
The American Middle Class thought otherwise because people were broke. The bottom line is jobs, jobs, jobs and more jobs.
So, you are asking me to believe the American People are so stupid as to follow a recommendation from the Russians?
The American Middle Class thought otherwise because people were broke. The bottom line is jobs, jobs, jobs and more jobs.
2
Bloomberg! Mike, the nation needs you.
Caution does not work. Dems need to be fearless in their message. The money will follow.
4
Ringling Bros could have used this pack of clowns...however, they aren't that funny, I guess....
We HAD a candidate who would have beaten Trump - Bernie Sanders. That is a fact. Another fact is that the DNC corruption exposed on Wikileaks has not been recognized or dealt with. Another fact is that this paper, in this article, is clearly pushing, pushing, pushing Harris. (The black Obama woman - do you really think we're still that stupid?) Paragraphs about Harris and a photo of the weakest candidate who gave the banks a pass. That says it all. In contrast, there are two paragraphs on Sanders, the most popular politician in the U.S.A. Say hello to four more years of Trump, neoliberals, if this is the path you're determined to take. Don't say you weren't warned. (But then, you were warned when we said that Clinton would lose . . .)
6
Let's just please hope Mrs. Clinton doesn't decide to throw her hat in the ring once again.
3
No Democrat could beat her. She is still the most qualified.
4
Sherrod Brown + Kamal Harris is a winning ticket.
Brown - Harris 2020
Brown - Harris 2020
1
The Democrat Party has become the Party of divisiveness and lunacy as it has aligned with the Alt-Left Antifa terrorists who have been burning and attacking EVERYONE for a year. Better for the Party and country if they go to crushing defeats in 2018 and 2020 so identity politics can finally die.
2
Hillary Clinton, a woman who did a lot for the disable children and was shut by male colleagues when tried to introduced health care, ended up winning the popular vote by about 3 million votes more... but look what we got as a president...
I have no words to describe the "thing" that I didn't choose to represent me but the dysfuctional electorate college did...
Not only people in this county are not mentally prepared yet for a female president but tends to settle for so little...
Europe is going forward, while the US is going backwards... Make no mistake, the US is not the place that it used to be... It doesn't take much to realize that many European and other countries in the American continent, are now the places to do business with, to have your children go to school there and to live there...
Very depressing and discouraging... unless you are very happy with your situation there where you live...
I have no words to describe the "thing" that I didn't choose to represent me but the dysfuctional electorate college did...
Not only people in this county are not mentally prepared yet for a female president but tends to settle for so little...
Europe is going forward, while the US is going backwards... Make no mistake, the US is not the place that it used to be... It doesn't take much to realize that many European and other countries in the American continent, are now the places to do business with, to have your children go to school there and to live there...
Very depressing and discouraging... unless you are very happy with your situation there where you live...
1
There are no miracle policies or candidates to counter Trump. Trump's election underscores the omnipresent emotional issues of alienation and racism. How do you fight in a country that elected a self-admitted sexual predator, bigot, and liar?
You can offer brilliant and positive solutions and sparkly candidates that ooze enthusiasm, but unless Dem politicians understand the undercurrent of anger and the arrogance of ignorance little matters.
You can offer brilliant and positive solutions and sparkly candidates that ooze enthusiasm, but unless Dem politicians understand the undercurrent of anger and the arrogance of ignorance little matters.
4
Most accurate assessment! Truth to the ignorant leaders of the Democratic Party - they just don't want to acknowledge it. Well said!
1
Read All Franken's Giant of the Senate. Laugh. Cry. Think. Hope.
1
Here's the winning formula for the Democratic party:
1. Keep pushing to remove confederate statues
2. Boycott states that won't support transgender bathrooms
3. Advocate that all Americans be classified by race/ethnicity and require that all employment and school populations match those proportions precisely (and create a vast government bureaucracy to insure compliance)
4. Denounce the border wall and support free flow of illegal immigration across both the southern and northern border
5. Curtail free speech rights of those who advocate "incorrect" political opinions (and deputize "Antifa" to enforce this on campuses and in the streets)
6. Oh, and run Hillary again in 2020. The campaign slogan? "Her We Go Again!"
1. Keep pushing to remove confederate statues
2. Boycott states that won't support transgender bathrooms
3. Advocate that all Americans be classified by race/ethnicity and require that all employment and school populations match those proportions precisely (and create a vast government bureaucracy to insure compliance)
4. Denounce the border wall and support free flow of illegal immigration across both the southern and northern border
5. Curtail free speech rights of those who advocate "incorrect" political opinions (and deputize "Antifa" to enforce this on campuses and in the streets)
6. Oh, and run Hillary again in 2020. The campaign slogan? "Her We Go Again!"
8
The Democrats may have 2020 on their minds, but better have am all inclusive message that includes the middle and working classes of America, not aimed at their left wing constituency of "identities." I do not support their constituency of "identities," I don't have time with that kind and as far as I am concerned they are drag on our nation. I will support Donald J. Trump again. Thank you.
2
I just wish the birther issue could be put to rest by removing the requirement that our President be a natural born citizen. Then maybe Ted Lieu could be our candidate? I believe he one of the better qualified candidates to actually make America great again. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ted_Lieu
Good, the more the merrier and the more the worse the back biting will become. Trump 2020!
When piling up the bucks gets into full swing, all the politicians should recall, Hillary and Jeb had piles and piles of money.
2
Some one tough, charismatic and intelligent; a fresh face -- how about Sally Yates.........
Whatever the Democrats do, they need a black man on the ticket. African-Americans are an important voting block. If they had supported Hillary as they did Obama we would not have the disaster we now have in the White House.
After dem donors spent over $1billion non-tax deductible $$$ on Hillary you'd think the dems would have learned a very costly lesson. All of the candidates are "coastal" elites who have no clue on the voters who matter. Kamsla is hardly a "top" democrat having only been in office for less than a year..,and Obama haters would vote for anybody but kamala who most likely wouldbe a divider on social issues ala Obama and Eric holder. Giidebrand and Mcauliffe pretend to be moderate, but are as far left as warren. Again, coastal , progressive elites. Biden? Could be the stongest candidate yet with Ryan from Ohio on the ticket. From this list, republicans are a shoo-in for 2020
1
Unless the Democrats promote better candidates and focus on issues of interest to American society (not transgender bathrooms, or PC speech), they will be ignored, once again.
Both Republicans and Democrats are responsible for the failure that has marked this last election cycle and I really do not see a change in this course yet – both parties are on the path towards failure.
Both Republicans and Democrats are responsible for the failure that has marked this last election cycle and I really do not see a change in this course yet – both parties are on the path towards failure.
2
I look forward to supporting Elizabeth Warren in 2020. She would be the perfect foil for Trump. She is everything Trump is not - smart, informed, genuine and a genuine American success story.
She knows how to be strategic, and knows how to play the game, and for that she is perceived as particularly dangerous by Republicans. Democrats should not self sabotage by taking their criticism to heart and discounting Warren.
She knows how to be strategic, and knows how to play the game, and for that she is perceived as particularly dangerous by Republicans. Democrats should not self sabotage by taking their criticism to heart and discounting Warren.
1
Not to mention she is Native American rather than nativist!
1
If the Democratic nominee spends more time fundraising than campaigning in person, and if that nominee is unable to relate to voters making less than $50,000 a year, which means convincing them that the nominee personally understands and will fight for their concerns, the Democrats will lose again. It doesn't matter whether the nominee is leftist or centrist; a poor campaigner who hides among wealthy donors instead of meeting voters will be crushed.
5
“Everybody believes they can be the person who will stack up great against Trump. I tell them all that it’s way too early, and that they need a clearer message about what they want to do, not just about opposing Trump.”
Yes, the problem with being a candidate for the democratic party is that the core belief is social and economic justice for ALL Americans. The vast majority of Americans want the same thing but it's difficult to message because people are often mired in their own personal issues.
Perhaps the real answer is for democratic candidates to ask the people at every meeting what THEY value most about OUR democracy then give a simple, short answer with an example of how democrats - and the candidate - are already fighting for that. A small, true American civics lesson.
It is time for teamwork - not individual, ego-driven dribble - if WE THE PEOPLE want to preserve/restore true democratic governance in America. NOW is the time.
Yes, the problem with being a candidate for the democratic party is that the core belief is social and economic justice for ALL Americans. The vast majority of Americans want the same thing but it's difficult to message because people are often mired in their own personal issues.
Perhaps the real answer is for democratic candidates to ask the people at every meeting what THEY value most about OUR democracy then give a simple, short answer with an example of how democrats - and the candidate - are already fighting for that. A small, true American civics lesson.
It is time for teamwork - not individual, ego-driven dribble - if WE THE PEOPLE want to preserve/restore true democratic governance in America. NOW is the time.
7
If the party's stands for ALL Americans as you say, they do a poor job communicating that. Identity politics may garner votes here and there but does not signal ALL but some. Every time I heard HRC run through her list of special interest groups, it was like a finger nail on a chalkboard. Who is speaking the inclusive message now? Anyone?
4
Democrats: The message is the money.
3
I figure they will be looking for another peanut farmer. A working man's working man. Someone who can say one thing to fool everyday working Americans but do another after election to the delight of Wall St., Hollywood and freeloaders foreign and domestic.
4
Biden, Warren, and sanders need to go home. Neither one proved helpful to democrats in 2016. They deserve zero support in 2020. I'll stay home like the Bernie whiners did in 2016.
5
Not only that, they're too old.
Age in 2020:
Biden: 78
Sanders: 79
Warren: 71
Yeah, Trump is too old too, but he did manage to become the incumbent.
Age in 2020:
Biden: 78
Sanders: 79
Warren: 71
Yeah, Trump is too old too, but he did manage to become the incumbent.
2
Don't blame these three. Your girl Hillary lost on her own.
4
And you will then be part of the problem, sir! How about trying to part of the solution instead, so much more satisfying in the long run.
1
This entire article is about money, from the first sentence regarding "fund raisers" through almost every paragraph except the very last one. So, the plan is, with or without a credible idea, "l (fill in the name) am going to begin packing the bank with cash."
How does this make the Democrats any different from the Republicans?
We are tired, New York Times, and starting 2020 election speculation now is simply going to make me (and perhaps others) tune out for a couple of years.
How does this make the Democrats any different from the Republicans?
We are tired, New York Times, and starting 2020 election speculation now is simply going to make me (and perhaps others) tune out for a couple of years.
9
The main problem in American politics remains the two party system which doesn't fit in our times (as has been already proved). Try to establish more parties.
After the coming elections to the Bundestag, our correspondent to your House of Representatives, we will have seven parties being seated. They are from the Right to the Left:
AfD Alternative for Germany
CSU Christian Social Union
CDU Christian Democratic Union
FDP Free Democratic Party
SPD Social Democratic Party of Germany
Die Grünen The Green Party
Die Linke The Left Party
After the coming elections to the Bundestag, our correspondent to your House of Representatives, we will have seven parties being seated. They are from the Right to the Left:
AfD Alternative for Germany
CSU Christian Social Union
CDU Christian Democratic Union
FDP Free Democratic Party
SPD Social Democratic Party of Germany
Die Grünen The Green Party
Die Linke The Left Party
4
I respectfully disagree. Parliamentary systems and coalition-building can often yield the same results. The root problem is a lack of federal control over improper (yet legal) financial contributions from top donors, and the mess of misinformation and distortion of real issues that this entails.
3
Sorry to break it to you Dems, but the 2020 Dem candidate has already been chosen, just that nobody knows it yet.
Senator Al Franken
And remember you heard it from a Trump supporter first!
Senator Al Franken
And remember you heard it from a Trump supporter first!
6
"Long list of Democrats Have 2020 and money on their minds "........this NYT headline.........clearly "says it all " about the "power and money" driven American political system...........IRRESPECTIVE OF PARTY ..............If Americans accept the premise of this headline.America.........then they deserve the BEST POLITICIANS THAT MONEY CAN BUY !!! .
5
Go on, raise all the money you want. Much good that did Mrs. Clinton.
6
If she wants it, Elizabeth Warren has my complete support. I'm all for the Democrats building a bench of younger candidates but there isn't anyone I see that is more committed to the working class than Elizabeth Warren and she's not afraid to stand up to a bully like Trump.
2
Representative Joe Kennedy III of Massachusetts
4
My thoughts exactly.
1
Oh please, the man doesnt even believe all of the scientists and research that vaccines DONT cause autism
Wrong Kennedy, you're thinking of Robert Kennedy.
1
God bless and protect President Trump and his family. The Democrats listed in the column are hateful and divisive. I will have no problem voting for Trump in 2020.
1
He can't serve from jail!
4
I'm looking forward to the articles from the NY Times and other liberal publications stating Donald Trump has no chance in 2020. The Times will have graphics and publish a percent chance of Trumps defeat. The liberal newspapers will say the popular vote and electoral college are looking like a complete landslide for the democrat nominee. It will be an historic victory for the Democrats. LOL LOL LOL
4
Please! 2018 first.
5
"the Republicans are continuously developing their rising stars"
And where are they now??? Trump trumped them all....
And where are they now??? Trump trumped them all....
3
It's a shame the Times didn't take advantage of this article to acknowledge its extreme bias against Sanders throughout the 2016 primary campaign. Does anyone sincerely imagine it will be different with Warren? Or has electing Trump taught the Times something? Sanders did of course argue that Clinton would have nothing to combat Trump's outsider status. How prescient his campaign is in hindsight!! And yet the Times still serves up dinosaurs like David Brooks!!
7
Biden/Warren or Biden/Harris
1
Save us, Minnesota! Give us Franken/Ellison in 2020! What would be more effective against Trump than a serious comedian and an all-American Muslim?
2
If Democrats won't take a hint and realize we're beyond party politics, then someone else will. Crisis times call for crisis measures. This is myopic and, frankly, unpatriotic behavior from the only party capable of changing things.
3
Problem: there is no Democratic Party any more. It is the Socialist Workers Party now. It is the party of anarchists, communists, and globalist. Americans will not vote for that any more.
4
So, how come they got more votes than the Republicans? (Even with extraordinary help from the Kremlin to support their boy Trump.)
3
Undo the original sin: recruit and elect Al Gore.
2
Wow this is the best that Dems can do? Yikes.. Does not look good
4
Wanted: 2020 Democratic candidate with the fire of Elizabeth Warren, the common sense and resolve of Bernie Sanders, the courage of John McCain, the good humor and wit of Lindsey Graham, the political chops of Bill Clinton, the presence of Barack Obama, the charisma of Ann Richards and Mario Cuomo, and the vision of John Kennedy.
Wanted: 2020 Republican candidate with the reptilian charm of Ted Cruz, the astounding lack of intellect of Devin Nunes, the treachery of Mitch McConnell, the slavishness and hypocrisy of Michael Pence, the self serving and self loving of Paul Ryan, the insanity of Donald Trump.
Wanted: 2020 Republican candidate with the reptilian charm of Ted Cruz, the astounding lack of intellect of Devin Nunes, the treachery of Mitch McConnell, the slavishness and hypocrisy of Michael Pence, the self serving and self loving of Paul Ryan, the insanity of Donald Trump.
5
No mention of Sanders hundreds of FEC violations? Did he ever answer the complaints or are the responses with his tax returns? Really tired of NYT lumping him in with Democrats when he is not a Democrat and all he is doing is raising money for his PAC
1
OK - you missed badly last time out. First, find a spine - that will be useful to project strength. Second, find some policy issues that aren't only about gays and abortion - stuff like economics, climate change, and fair taxation will help introduce you to some new voters. Third, don't try and out Republican the Republican's - that is a losers game.
Hillary who? had the entire establishment on her side, and was brought down by a liar, a cheat, a groper, a person incapable of providing, let alone projecting, empathy. Your brain trust is pretty much brain dead - disconnect from the mother ship, and do visit folks around the country. It's a nice place, and most of us are really OK.
By the way - good luck.
Hillary who? had the entire establishment on her side, and was brought down by a liar, a cheat, a groper, a person incapable of providing, let alone projecting, empathy. Your brain trust is pretty much brain dead - disconnect from the mother ship, and do visit folks around the country. It's a nice place, and most of us are really OK.
By the way - good luck.
6
Run Harold Ford, Jr. .
1
Kim is, cheering them on...
Kamela, Maxine, Hillary? The democrats have squandering money on their minds. But who cares when you can be hired as a democratic consultant for millions?
3
As horrific as the rise of Trump has been, what would be even worse is a repeat in 2020 due to infighting between Democrats, progressives and liberals. I've read the article and about 50 posts and every single name mentioned, from the elderly Bernie Sanders to the young Chris Murphy, from seasoned veterans like Joe Biden to rising stars like Kam Harris and everyone in between, are infinitely better than what the Republicans are likely to offer. Do not tear each other apart and do not let the perfect be the enemy of the good. Unite behind any of these credible candidates and focus all criticism on those who are hellbent on repealing the 20th century.
3
The question is what kind of money is what everyone needs to ask is it corporate money just like the Republicans have.
2
So, you’re sitting at home going over the budget and are trying to work out how to pay for adding a new room to the house…but, all of a sudden one of the children get really ill…requiring hospitalization for some time. Child's life, new room, child's life, new room...What would it say about you to just build the new room instead or even having to go back and forth to figure out which one to do?
See, when you actually make running a country more like running a family, choices should become more moral, ethical, decent, empathetic, caring. Then of course if your parents are drug or alcohol addicted with mental illness, the room will probably get built.
See, when you actually make running a country more like running a family, choices should become more moral, ethical, decent, empathetic, caring. Then of course if your parents are drug or alcohol addicted with mental illness, the room will probably get built.
3
Biden might be your only hope. Put up Ms. Harris and Trump will win again.
2
The DNC apparently does not see a resonate message when they see it based on their horrible dismissal and undermining of Bernie Sanders in 2016. While Bernie's message may have been too far left, it is now clear that trump's craziness was not too far right. I see no clear message from the Democrat party and obviously just an anti-Trump theme will not be enough. Keep the Democrat celebrities out of the limelight please. Trump is dismantling every value for which our country has fought and his appeal to hatred, destructiveness and use of bigger lies as days pass are the markers of fascist dictators and make me sick. A "fair deal" is not a weapons grade message, just as Clinton's ephemeral campaign for "everyday people" early in her campaign did not connect. Stop with the identity politics and speak directly to the problems that confront people daily. Certainly, the Clinton platform had many useful elements, but they were lost in the personality war promulgated by trump that became the focal point of the presidential campaign. Hate to admit it, but he adroitly manipulated the media, as crude, inarticulate and clumsy as he is. Obama's soaring rhetoric was inspiring, but sadly Trump's stereotyping and hate mongering was apparently equally inspiring to far too many. Yes, he basically appealed to everything anti-Obama, so appealing to everything anti-Trump should be part of the message, but only by reference to concrete and fair policy to which the majority of Americans can relate.
5
Bernie's message wasn't too far left it was too far stupid.
You have to tell people how are you going to get these things done. Bernie like The Donald just had simple slogans with no remedies.
You have to tell people how are you going to get these things done. Bernie like The Donald just had simple slogans with no remedies.
3
Go to YouTube, watch ANY of Bernie's town halls deep in Trump Country and you will hear him explain exactly how these things get done.
3
None of these people is capable to bringing the party or the country together. Think about that.
5
At the rate we are going I don't know if we will make it to 2020. Seriously.
5
Run a governor, not a senator.
2
Top Democrats should be focused on nothing, nothing, but 2017 and 2018 at this point. If they win in 2017 in the states and 2018 in Congress and the Senate, 2020 will take care of itself. They should also be dropping the mindless pursuit of Wall Street money. Don't these people ever learn that this is one of the things that killed them in 2016?
10
Trump crushed 12 smooth-talking Republican rivals.
The only Democrat who can beat him in 2020 is the magnificent Elizabeth Warren, who, happily for Trump, will be shunted aside by all the Wall Street and banking lobbyists who loathe her, just like they loathed socialist Bernie.
Americans enjoy rough-talking billionaire Donald take on the brain-dead establishment in DC. He shoots straight, and doesn't pull his punches. He is an equal opportunity face-smasher: Republicans get it just as hard as Democrats.
Trump will crush his Democratic opponent in 2020, as long as it isn't Elizabeth Warren, after wiping out Republican opposition to him in 2018.
The only Democrat who can beat him in 2020 is the magnificent Elizabeth Warren, who, happily for Trump, will be shunted aside by all the Wall Street and banking lobbyists who loathe her, just like they loathed socialist Bernie.
Americans enjoy rough-talking billionaire Donald take on the brain-dead establishment in DC. He shoots straight, and doesn't pull his punches. He is an equal opportunity face-smasher: Republicans get it just as hard as Democrats.
Trump will crush his Democratic opponent in 2020, as long as it isn't Elizabeth Warren, after wiping out Republican opposition to him in 2018.
2
More like a police line up than a list of potential Democrat 2020 candidates.
4
Joe Biden and Cory Booker is the ticket.
1
"Top Democrat?" What makes for a bottom democrat?
2
With hope that Trump will not plunge the world into a nuclear war in the coming months, the Democrats need to stop being the party that strives to be the opposite of the Republicans – or they will lose again. And the survival of our nation cannot afford that to happen. They need to find their moral compass and work to solve problems that affect all Americans, including the disaffected whites who voted for President Two-Scoops. We are all in this together. Our nation is facing tough challenges - lost manufacturing, broken healthcare system, mounting federal debt, a sub-standard public education system in rural and urban America, and decaying infrastructure. But most of all, much of our nation is losing its moral fiber. Never in my 63 years have I seen or felt so much hatred, greed, and lack of empathy for our fellow Americans. If the Democrats can unite the country, then I am hopeful they will win in 2018 and they, WORKING TOGETHER with Republicans (who are facing their own moral crisis) will be able to start solving these problems. Trump, and the Republican party that exploited the fears and concerns of white America over the past 20 years is destroying our country. The slogan for the Democrats in 2018 should be “Make American Great Again”.
The big problem Democrats have is that they need the far left but they certainly cannot depend on them. They are a whiny petulant group that will always disappoint as they did with the doofuses Nader and Sanders.
3
And of course the Trump supporters waving confederate flags and carrying firearms to protests are not whiny snowflakes.
1
The Democratic Party is a party in decline. Every election Dems are losing ground at the local, state and national level. If they don't find a way to reverse the trajectory, it won't matter if they win the presidency in 2020 because beyond winning, they must have the opportunity to govern.
In the past 30 years or so, our corrupt political duopoly has perfected the art of impeding governance and creating gridlock. No matter what you think of Obama and his plan for America, he was thwarted his entire 8 years in office. If HRC won she would have been thwarted her entire time in office. Democracy, along with an established decorum and adherance to constitutionally established standards have been decimated in each party's quest for power and influence. Politicians long ago ditched the old Golden Rule for a new one – those who have the gold, make the rules.
Obviously, the real losers in all this is the vast majority of Americans who struggle to survive and succeed in an economy and society that has been systematically eviscerated resulting in unprecedented income and wealth inequality. Unless or until the system changes and truly representative democracy is restored, it won't matter who runs or wins the presidency - at least for the vast majority of citizens in this country. Good governance should not be accorded nor measured by winners and losers. Good governance should be conducted on the basis of a rising tide lifts all boats equally.
In the past 30 years or so, our corrupt political duopoly has perfected the art of impeding governance and creating gridlock. No matter what you think of Obama and his plan for America, he was thwarted his entire 8 years in office. If HRC won she would have been thwarted her entire time in office. Democracy, along with an established decorum and adherance to constitutionally established standards have been decimated in each party's quest for power and influence. Politicians long ago ditched the old Golden Rule for a new one – those who have the gold, make the rules.
Obviously, the real losers in all this is the vast majority of Americans who struggle to survive and succeed in an economy and society that has been systematically eviscerated resulting in unprecedented income and wealth inequality. Unless or until the system changes and truly representative democracy is restored, it won't matter who runs or wins the presidency - at least for the vast majority of citizens in this country. Good governance should not be accorded nor measured by winners and losers. Good governance should be conducted on the basis of a rising tide lifts all boats equally.
9
If there's still a USA in 2020 - I'm not holding my breath and neither is Kim Jong-un - then IMO the next president should be Eric Garcetti, the mayor of Los Angeles. He's been elected twice; in the last election he received 81 percent of the vote. He's younger, at 46. He's a white man who is also actually Mexican, Italian, and Jewish from his immediate family roots. (I'm a black woman, but anybody who thinks 2020 is going to produce a woman or visible minority president in this currently divided country is dreaming.) Mayor Garcetti is part minority - while still being a white male. It's identity politics that won't be identity politics...because the visible identity is white male. It's inadvertent genius.
Mayor Garcetti is the Democrats' best bet; all these other candidates can battle for VP. They're not going to win a presidential race so why waste time on a zillion people who have no chance to beat Trump or Paul Ryan? (Forget John Kasich, he's not in the picture - as it should be, because he's got some horrible policies under his belt despite his "I'm the sensible guy here" act.)
Go Garcetti. I'm dead serious. Democrats need to coalesce by 2018 to battle whatever's left of Trump. If the candidates are in the ring already, then pick one (Garcetti). Infighting will only result in President Charles Koch in 2020 - oops, I meant President Paul Ryan. That's no better than Trump.
http://www.politico.com/story/2017/05/23/eric-garcetti-isnt-running-for-...
Mayor Garcetti is the Democrats' best bet; all these other candidates can battle for VP. They're not going to win a presidential race so why waste time on a zillion people who have no chance to beat Trump or Paul Ryan? (Forget John Kasich, he's not in the picture - as it should be, because he's got some horrible policies under his belt despite his "I'm the sensible guy here" act.)
Go Garcetti. I'm dead serious. Democrats need to coalesce by 2018 to battle whatever's left of Trump. If the candidates are in the ring already, then pick one (Garcetti). Infighting will only result in President Charles Koch in 2020 - oops, I meant President Paul Ryan. That's no better than Trump.
http://www.politico.com/story/2017/05/23/eric-garcetti-isnt-running-for-...
8
So the corruption starts. Democrats, once supporting the working class, taking donations from "top donors," wealthy persons and organizations and corporations and wall street.
Now why do you suppose the working class has deteriorated over the last 3 or 4 decades? Their jobs disappear, their medical insurance weaken, their life spans decrease and their drug use increase?
And why do you think the wealthy donors contribute to democratic candidates?
Now why do you suppose the working class has deteriorated over the last 3 or 4 decades? Their jobs disappear, their medical insurance weaken, their life spans decrease and their drug use increase?
And why do you think the wealthy donors contribute to democratic candidates?
7
Joe Biden would beat Trump easily but he'll be close to 80 years old.
Beating Trump wearing a prison jumpsuit can be done by anyone. Even Bernie.
3
The US needs presidential candidates that have to prove to the average American that they have not been corrupted by big donor money. Fortunately for us, the electoral corruption instituted by the US Supreme Court can be overcome, and if it was another attempt to make the US a true oligarchy, it may have backfired. Bernie Sanders achieved this through an effective small donation fund-raising organization. Any candidate that raises funds from Wall Street or has fund-raising dinners at the Hamptons should be immediately disregarded by the American electorate as a corrupt candidate. To a great extent, it is recognizable that Hillary Clinton partially lost the election following the big donor recipe. If the Democratic Party wants to commit political suicide selling out to the .1% that is their problem. Beyond party labels, I hope there are young Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders types coming down the pipe to save the country because, for now, we are clearly becoming a Banana Republic run by dangerous Buffoons.
1
The Democrats have an enviable position: the current administration is in disarray, led by an incompetent with the lowest approval rating in history. But in order to win in 2020, they need a candidate who is non-polarizing. That eliminates Bernie and Ms. Warren. They need charisma and political experience, both domestic and foreign. That eliminates many others. It's not a beauty contest -- this is the one chance we have as a country to reverse the debilitating damage the current administration is doing. This now will not be a popular opinion: the Dems need a man, a white man, a man who represents fiscal as well as social responsibility. A man who can heal our wounds and take us back to world leadership. Why a man? Because it's about the numbers. There is too much hate and prejudice in the electorate to elect a woman or a black, especially a candidate with far left principles. Win. Win the office, take back the country.
2
These people are all great candidates for the second spot on the ticket except for Mr. Biden, who shouldn't be running at all, but may be the best hope for the Democratic party to unseat Mr. Trump.
Trump is a negative campaign against himself. Don't get in his way.
Social issues are divisive and split the country down the middle. They energize the right base.
On economics most people are on the "left," which means that they will forgive the government for helping them.
In polls that don't mention parties or candidates, more than 2/3 , of the People say they want:
Money out of politics. Push for an amendment that tells the Supreme Court, "Corporations are Not People and Money is Not Speech" You need voters more than you need billionaire dollars.
Tax the billionaires. People are figuring out who is keeping them poor. This is not 1980. They see the massive inequality and still have had nothing trickle down to them for 40 years.
Subsidized education. Invest in children and adults. Employees complain they can't find qualified candidates because we don't educate our workforce.
Infrastructure. Shorten our commutes.
Renewable energy. Skip global warming. Explain how people can generate their own energy and sell it to the grid. Nearly free energy is popular.
Universal healthcare. When you are sick, you don't care about market solutions.
Subsidized education. Employers complain they can't find qualified candidates because we don't educate our workforce.
Infrastructure. Shorten our commutes.
Renewable energy. Nearly free energy is popular.
The working people are the natural base of the Democratic Party. Work to fill their needs and the base will be 60% of the population.
Social issues are divisive and split the country down the middle. They energize the right base.
On economics most people are on the "left," which means that they will forgive the government for helping them.
In polls that don't mention parties or candidates, more than 2/3 , of the People say they want:
Money out of politics. Push for an amendment that tells the Supreme Court, "Corporations are Not People and Money is Not Speech" You need voters more than you need billionaire dollars.
Tax the billionaires. People are figuring out who is keeping them poor. This is not 1980. They see the massive inequality and still have had nothing trickle down to them for 40 years.
Subsidized education. Invest in children and adults. Employees complain they can't find qualified candidates because we don't educate our workforce.
Infrastructure. Shorten our commutes.
Renewable energy. Skip global warming. Explain how people can generate their own energy and sell it to the grid. Nearly free energy is popular.
Universal healthcare. When you are sick, you don't care about market solutions.
Subsidized education. Employers complain they can't find qualified candidates because we don't educate our workforce.
Infrastructure. Shorten our commutes.
Renewable energy. Nearly free energy is popular.
The working people are the natural base of the Democratic Party. Work to fill their needs and the base will be 60% of the population.
3
The Democrats are as indebted to a few rich donors as the Republicans, and raise as much money that way. Whatever the merits of the Citizens' United decision, it hasn't favored the rich or corporations.
The only major figure whose campaign was chiefly supported by small donations was Trump. This is the unpleasant truth for "progressives" who think they speak for the "little man" against the "rich". The little men chose Trump.
The only major figure whose campaign was chiefly supported by small donations was Trump. This is the unpleasant truth for "progressives" who think they speak for the "little man" against the "rich". The little men chose Trump.
1
The little minds chose dt rather than the little men- along with the help of Russia. We are learning more and more that Russia was much more influential in rigging the votes than earlier suspected. And they are still at it!
1
Here are some of the Billionaires who back Trump and the so called "MAGA" agenda:
Peter Thiel - Silicon Valley
Carl Ichan - Billionaire GOP Activist
Stephen Feinberg - Financial Banker (private equity firm)
Sheldon Adelson - Las Vegas Magnate
Robert Mercer - Hedge Fund Billionaire (with daughter Rebekah
Darwin Deason - Tech Billionaire
There are many more, but what they all have in common is how each would greatly benefit from the Trump (GOP) Administration policies. They also share a disdain for the poor, working and middle classes.
Can the Democratic party compete with this, I doubt it. It's a changing world. This type of money buys media which directly influences voters. I fear that even if Trump is forced to resign, we still have a huge number of politicians eagerly willing to sell themselves and their souls. Think Pence, Cruz, Rubio, Huckabee...
Peter Thiel - Silicon Valley
Carl Ichan - Billionaire GOP Activist
Stephen Feinberg - Financial Banker (private equity firm)
Sheldon Adelson - Las Vegas Magnate
Robert Mercer - Hedge Fund Billionaire (with daughter Rebekah
Darwin Deason - Tech Billionaire
There are many more, but what they all have in common is how each would greatly benefit from the Trump (GOP) Administration policies. They also share a disdain for the poor, working and middle classes.
Can the Democratic party compete with this, I doubt it. It's a changing world. This type of money buys media which directly influences voters. I fear that even if Trump is forced to resign, we still have a huge number of politicians eagerly willing to sell themselves and their souls. Think Pence, Cruz, Rubio, Huckabee...
1
This one is the Democrats' to lose. Americans can certainly elect a woman, and some of the potential candidates mentioned here are real contenders. HRC simply had too much baggage. But anyone tied closely to the progressives' most odious platform - identity politics - will hand another victory to the Republicans, and quite possibly Trump. This is a doozy of an internal problem for the Democrats, especially in primaries, which tend to bring out each parties' fringe. The Republicans know this dynamic all too well, and it will be assumed in their plans for the Democrat hopefuls.
2
The Democratic candidate in 2020 has to address Donald Trump's lies, distortions, attempts at obstruction of justice and failed policies that are unconstitutional and challenged every time he signs an executive order. This has to be a big part of the platform and presented by a sharp, intelligent and perhaps even crass at times candidate. Single payer healthcare should also be a large part of the platform and an honest assessment of how a program of that nature would benefit the entire country. No more bankruptcies as a result of a medical emergency, no co-payments, astronomical premiums, worries about preexisting conditions and necessary drugs at prices no one can afford. The absurdity of the wall must be pointed out in no uncertain terms and immigration reform that's reasonable should be introduced. Perhaps a review in the lottery system now used, but not mass deportation. Alternative energy and climate change are also a very important part of a potentially successful platform. And the candidate has to double down on these approaches to government while protecting and funding social security. This has to be repeated over and over again. The simple minded word salad Trump and the Republicans use will not be able to stand up to the truths of a platform that exposes Trump for who he is and the damage he's doing. I think Ms. Harris could pull it off and would support her but calling Trump out on his lies and crimes must be a solid part of the platform.
Hopefully, there will be no Trump to beat in 2020 as Mueller is closing in more and more on the various crimes and collusions in trump's closets. And the most highly anticipated is his tax returns. Can't wait to hear about the bombshell lurking there!
2
1) Anyone who's swanning around Martha's Vineyard or the Hamptons, or groveling on Wall Street, is compromised and tainted in my book' i might be forced to vote for one of them, just as I ended up having to vote for Hillary, but I'm not going to expect much. Again. Bernie didn't do it, and no one else with a message needs to either.
2) Speaking of message, see Nick Hanauer's TED talk. Revolutionary, in more ways than one. www.ted.com/talks/nick_hanauer_beware_fellow_plutocrats_the_pitchforks_a...
3) Let's please get over the messianic idea of the presidency. We have a lot of state, local and congressional candidates to elect first, or it won't matter much who's president.
2) Speaking of message, see Nick Hanauer's TED talk. Revolutionary, in more ways than one. www.ted.com/talks/nick_hanauer_beware_fellow_plutocrats_the_pitchforks_a...
3) Let's please get over the messianic idea of the presidency. We have a lot of state, local and congressional candidates to elect first, or it won't matter much who's president.
2
But for prejudice against Italian-Americans, which the media condones and fosters, Andrew Cuomo would be a very viable candidate.
I will send you some money IF you will stop taking money from corporations, Like Bernie Sanders. In the meantime, I'm supporting the Justice Democrats and Our Revolution.
4
Amen. Their platform includes increasing minimum wage to $15, Medicare for all, free college tuition. All of which are hugely popular with a majority of Americans.
2
"...they need a clearer message about what they want to do, not just about opposing Trump.”
110% correct. Simply opposing Trump was a failed strategy in 2016 and, if relied upon, it will fail again in 2018 and 2020. For now, the D party is both leaderless and headless.
110% correct. Simply opposing Trump was a failed strategy in 2016 and, if relied upon, it will fail again in 2018 and 2020. For now, the D party is both leaderless and headless.
3
Dear "Top Democrats",
- If I wanted tax cuts, I would vote Republican.
- If I wanted policy that favors Wall Street, I would vote Republican.
- If I wanted to increase the already bloated Pentagon budget, I would vote Republican.
No more Republican-Lite. These milquetoast positions are not winning over any independents. Instead, they are pushing away the base of the Democratic Party.
Give us a bold, optimistic agenda of opportunity for all and a brighter future, along the lines of FDR. Instead of the politics of blame, tell us what we CAN do. Give us something that inspires us.
- If I wanted tax cuts, I would vote Republican.
- If I wanted policy that favors Wall Street, I would vote Republican.
- If I wanted to increase the already bloated Pentagon budget, I would vote Republican.
No more Republican-Lite. These milquetoast positions are not winning over any independents. Instead, they are pushing away the base of the Democratic Party.
Give us a bold, optimistic agenda of opportunity for all and a brighter future, along the lines of FDR. Instead of the politics of blame, tell us what we CAN do. Give us something that inspires us.
5
“It’s gotten ridiculous,” Mr. Lasry said. “Everybody believes they can be the person who will stack up great against Trump. I tell them all that it’s way too early, and that they need a clearer message about what they want to do, not just about opposing Trump.”
Mr. Lasry says it all, which should have been used for the opening of this article.
Mr. Lasry says it all, which should have been used for the opening of this article.
2
I think it would be great for these would-be contenders to focus more on supporting younger candidates interested in running for political office
As long as the DNC and its wealthy supporters continue to pay people to riot, burn and cause mayhem they will continue to lose. We have seen this in the special elections 4-0 for Trump. Smart phone videos on YouTube will show the destruction of private and public property along with the assaults on Trump supporters by paid DNC storm troopers. All this hate speech from elected democrats has led to the targeting assassination of Republican congressmen, something that the MSM directly helped in. If democrats continue to use this Obama model there will be 300 republicans in the house and 62 in the senate in 2019 and a Trump win in 2020 that will be as big as Reagan’s 1984 victory.
3
Please provide evidence of paid DNC storm troopers. Evidence of violence is not enough; you need receipts or pay stubs. Absent evidence, all you have is over-the-top rhetoric making charges convenient to your preexisting opinion.
In case you don't know, the charge that rioters are paid is as old as rioting.
It discredits the protesters and deflects attention from the reason for the protest. It turns out you don't have to pay people to fight, and emotions often get out of hand during confrontation.
In case you don't know, the charge that rioters are paid is as old as rioting.
It discredits the protesters and deflects attention from the reason for the protest. It turns out you don't have to pay people to fight, and emotions often get out of hand during confrontation.
2
If you were born in the FDR, Truman, or Eisenhower administrations it is time for you to step aside and let younger candidates take the lead. Americans will not be well served by a battle of 75 year olds in 2020.
4
I will watch what potential candidates do to turn Congress blue. Any candidate that is not interested in changing both branches of government and not leading the way forward does not deserve any consideration. The candidates that help the most in other candidates' election 2018 should be getting the recognition. The DNC has continued it's losing tactics and is turning into the worst liability for progressives.
2
Yes, the Democrats need a message even more than they need money, but they also need a new messenger.
If they're relying on Sanders, Warren, or Biden (especially Biden) at the top of the ticket, they can forget about reclaiming the White House in 2020.
If they're relying on Sanders, Warren, or Biden (especially Biden) at the top of the ticket, they can forget about reclaiming the White House in 2020.
1
Tulsi Gabbard, anyone?
1
One of the great charts of 2016 was the popularity ratings of Sanders & Trump.
Sanders led by 10-15 points for the entire year, & would have beaten Trump easily if the party had chosen him instead of the donor-beholden Hillary.
Perhaps they wish to make the same error in 2020.
Sanders led by 10-15 points for the entire year, & would have beaten Trump easily if the party had chosen him instead of the donor-beholden Hillary.
Perhaps they wish to make the same error in 2020.
6
In this article, the obvious Democratic party candidate, was mentioned endlessly as a historic figure, but not once as a potential candidate.
What sane person could possible think, that when, on May 15th, 2017, Hillary Clinton launched her "Onward Together" operation - a 501c4 organization with an affiliated super PAC - that she was not, once again, focusing on the Democratic Party nomination?
She said she was starting up Onward Together to:
"...to encourage people to get involved, organize, and even run for office."
The "people" she was referring to is "Her"; a couple of months after her announcement, Onward Together had already hired on Emmy Ruiz and Adam Parkhomenko, two top level players in HRC's failed 2016 bid.
Clinton is, in effect, already running a 2020 campaign funded by tax deductible contributions.
A second HRC candidacy will be a political disaster of "Harvey" magnitude - the perfect storm that will make Trump a two term president.
What sane person could possible think, that when, on May 15th, 2017, Hillary Clinton launched her "Onward Together" operation - a 501c4 organization with an affiliated super PAC - that she was not, once again, focusing on the Democratic Party nomination?
She said she was starting up Onward Together to:
"...to encourage people to get involved, organize, and even run for office."
The "people" she was referring to is "Her"; a couple of months after her announcement, Onward Together had already hired on Emmy Ruiz and Adam Parkhomenko, two top level players in HRC's failed 2016 bid.
Clinton is, in effect, already running a 2020 campaign funded by tax deductible contributions.
A second HRC candidacy will be a political disaster of "Harvey" magnitude - the perfect storm that will make Trump a two term president.
15
Of course you're right. Does anyone think the book tour is simply a cash grab? She's a multitasker.
2
I think it's time the obsession with Hillary Clinton was put to rest.
Pam,
Sure, it would be great if her name became as forgotten as that of the guy who cheated in the Tour de France; but her own actions make that impossible.
The bike guy doesn't go on any kind of tour any more - book, bike or otherwise, and he hasn't started a new tax deductible non-profit.
Sure, it would be great if her name became as forgotten as that of the guy who cheated in the Tour de France; but her own actions make that impossible.
The bike guy doesn't go on any kind of tour any more - book, bike or otherwise, and he hasn't started a new tax deductible non-profit.
2
Ageism is so prevalent in our culture, however, Bernie probably would have won the election had he been nominated. If he didn't make another presidential run, he could always run as VP and that might be enough to seal the deal with a strong person at the top. Millenials absolutely have to be swayed and they love Bernie. They outnumber Boomers and can make or break an election.
1
Several in this article and in these comments remark on how premature these steps toward candidacy for 2020 are. I agree, but let's not forget that Mr. Trump, before his "American Carnage" speech dissipated into the ether, had filed to run in the next election and has been holding campaign rallies ever since.
The democrats need to sweep the 2018 mid terms. They need a 50 state solution to achieve that essential goal. The presidential field will sort itself out after the democrats wrestle back the power to check the regressive republican agenda. That agenda is very unpopular and people will begin to see clearly that they need to go all in with the democrats once they get the floor back, and the increased attention that will go along with that. They need a leader to run that aggressive and smart campaign strategy to compete and win in all 50 states, which Howard Dean successfully achieved in 2006, leading to the election of Barrack Obama in 2008.
3
This is simple. Obviously a Democratic candidate needs multi-millions in the campaign coffers from multi-millionaires to finance alerting the electorate that they aren't beholding to multi-millionaires.
5
I Will have nothing more to do with either party red or blue.. Red is obvious why not and blue simply because they are true blue to the 1%er's oligarchy.. Time we face the real problem of our constant recycling divisional forces... From this day forward only Candidates that will attract my vote, will be those that vigorously pursue the demise and or complete muzzling of our 1%er's oligarchy.. Remove them from government and they are to remain separate from our government.. Just as the Scandinavian Nations have done.. anything less is unacceptable..
4
I'm not voting for anybody who tells me their candidacy is an inspiration to anybody.
Or that it's their turn--implicitly or explicitly
Or that race or gender is a qualification in and of itself
Or that being related to somebody is a qualification
Or who calls people names if they don't agree with them
Or that it's their turn--implicitly or explicitly
Or that race or gender is a qualification in and of itself
Or that being related to somebody is a qualification
Or who calls people names if they don't agree with them
33
So you were against Trump and his it's our turn for the white nationalist set? How about the the blue collar voters who decided that it was their turn to put someone in office to bring back the jobs they had 30 or 40 years ago? How about the business leaders who pushed Trump because it was their turn for a massive tax cut? Trump was not elected to lead all Americans. He is there to serve a base that is the other of people who don't accept that the domination of white men is over. The people who elected Trump don't realize that the inclusiveness that has been building for decades is the strength of America, not a weakness.
2
So, you're not a Trump guy.
Or doesn't show their tax returns.
2
Instead of focusing on early fundraising for the 2020 presidential election, wouldn't it be better if the DNC focused on fixing itself? This would be a good time for them to eliminate the super-delegates and to ensure that we'll never see the likes of the last head of the DNC.
47
The last head of the DNC had a spine, Tom Perez does not. Bernie's campaign stole data and did not meet its contractual obligations. Of course Bernie wants open primaries and caucuses because when less Democrats vote he wins (just like the GOP).
1
One of the most serious issues that Trump voters had against Hillary was related to financial support. And here's the New York Times again helping Mr. Trump and/or the Republican Party for 2020. Thank you, New York Times. Sincerely, from a subscriber of yours.
11
Kamala Harris, Terry McAuliffe, Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden and heaven only knows how many more narcissistic "Corporate Democrats" preening and jockeying for position are a complete turn-off. Tom Perez and Rahm Emanuel manuevering to be king makers are even worse. When I was a kid my father was a union activist and was a "real" Democrat back in the 1960's. One late afternoon I came home from sports practice and Caesar Chavez was sitting at my parents' kitchen table. He was on a national tour to seek Democrats' support for the UFW. Chavez was a REAL Democrat unlike these upper class peacocks from Harvard and other elite colleges. Poor and working class Americans, black, white and brown are not stupid. I will not contribute a dime nor will I volunteer a single day to get any Corporate Democrat elected. Neither will my adult children. You'll probably find the same attitude in every
voter who doesn't have an "elite resume" and who does work hard every day to put food on the table. If these Corporate Democrats don't get a clue pretty fast, and unify behind a populist Democrat 2002 is going to be a re-run of the 1968 Presidential election, and we all know how well that turned out. Hubert Humphrey, the choice of the Democratic Party machine that year, was trounced by Richard Nixon, the second worst President in my lifetime.
voter who doesn't have an "elite resume" and who does work hard every day to put food on the table. If these Corporate Democrats don't get a clue pretty fast, and unify behind a populist Democrat 2002 is going to be a re-run of the 1968 Presidential election, and we all know how well that turned out. Hubert Humphrey, the choice of the Democratic Party machine that year, was trounced by Richard Nixon, the second worst President in my lifetime.
44
kudos!
4
He wasn't trounced. Go back and look
This is the best roster the Dems can come up with?
20
That's why the Republicans win!
3
Before we have a good candidate (and nobody stands out in the current field to me) Democrats need a clear program that both wins back working-class Americans, does not alienate middle-class suburban voters, and retains various minority voters.
Trump has supplied some ammunition in his various repellent tweets, the majority in Congress has supplied more through their inability to legislate, and more may come in the form of cuts to taxes for the wealthy and benefits for the rest of us. But opposition alone won't do it for me nor gain my financial support.
I want to hear concrete ideas from my party about what they want to accomplish. Infrastructure, improved health care, bolstering Social Security and Medicare should all be on the list. Where is that clearly and simply stated agenda?
Trump has supplied some ammunition in his various repellent tweets, the majority in Congress has supplied more through their inability to legislate, and more may come in the form of cuts to taxes for the wealthy and benefits for the rest of us. But opposition alone won't do it for me nor gain my financial support.
I want to hear concrete ideas from my party about what they want to accomplish. Infrastructure, improved health care, bolstering Social Security and Medicare should all be on the list. Where is that clearly and simply stated agenda?
11
I agree with Wilton but would add "how they would pay for it" to the last paragraph.
If you had bothered to look up the easily accessible Democratic Platform for the 2016 elections, you might have found it.
1
The candidate needs to get out there and push the platform, not calling her opponent and his supporters names, of basking in the Hamptons for the summer or dining with the Clooneys.
1
The Times can get an early start throwing Bernie under the bus. They have plenty of experience.
30
Bernie is not a Democrat.
2
Bernie can get an early start by registering as a Democrat.
Bernie threw himself under the bus by not producing his taxes and raising money for his PAC instead of building the only party that would help him with his plans. PS this is an article about Democrats, which Bernie himself said it would be hypocritical of him to run as a Democrat but I guess he's too lazy to build a party of his own. Plus they made him look good in this article they didn't even mention the hundreds of FEC violations he incurred in his presidential run.
2
That list of top Democrats for 2020 looks more like a police line up than a list of potential candidates.
8
The Democrat Party doesn't appear to have a candidate or solutions... The problem they have is people don't feel the Democrats love their country or have enough sense to run it even if they did... Look where they have been in charge... It's not pretty.
7
It's seems to be all about big money donors. Still no populist platform to attract the average American and their needs.
Looks like the losing recipe once again.
Looks like the losing recipe once again.
16
All the potential candidates so far are institutionalized and unfit to lead. We have a world which is demanding radical change, and candidates who are not different from yesterday or each other. None of the names which are emerging is "out there" far enough. Why? Because "out there" doesn't get you elected. Trump won, as bad as he is, at least in part because he was very different. We need really new thinking in the White House if we are going to survive.
At LoveShift http://loveshift.com the tagline is, "Radically New Thinking for a Changing World." There is a quiz there, with 21 questions to be answered. Also, this video, https://youtu.be/0lwzWNkcRU8, has many unique hypotheses, all very much outside the box. Any candidate who doesn't understand the content of this video and thinking of LoveShift will not be able to take us where we need to go.
At LoveShift http://loveshift.com the tagline is, "Radically New Thinking for a Changing World." There is a quiz there, with 21 questions to be answered. Also, this video, https://youtu.be/0lwzWNkcRU8, has many unique hypotheses, all very much outside the box. Any candidate who doesn't understand the content of this video and thinking of LoveShift will not be able to take us where we need to go.
2
These people need to focus on the 2018 midterms not the. Presidential election in 2020. There are too many issues at stake presently than looking at 2020.
9
They real Democrats are. I've seen many in person helping during the special state elections (Democrats won most).
2
They need to be focused on killing massive tax cuts for billionaires disguised as tax reform.
2
As a lifelong Democrat it is difficult to not draw comparisons between the party, and the Titanic, and those people that seem to want to run for president in 2020, as occupants of a leaking lifeboat. On the bridge, Mr. Biden stands, with water rising around his ankles! The state of the current Democratic Party is that of individual lifeboats, heading in different directions, away from each other!
Tom Franzson. Brevard NC.
Tom Franzson. Brevard NC.
11
What a joke. All of these people named are either ancient or horribly leftist or both.
Trump will win like Reagan did in '84. Massively.
Trump will win like Reagan did in '84. Massively.
12
The politicians have been moving right since Reagan, and the country is falling apart.
The Republicans and Democratic centrists want capitalism without democracy, like in China and Russia. That is why the right loves Putin and why Hillary mentor Henry Kissinger opened us up to China.
The future is to the left.
Tax the global billionaires to invest in the People. That is what successful democracies do.
The Republicans and Democratic centrists want capitalism without democracy, like in China and Russia. That is why the right loves Putin and why Hillary mentor Henry Kissinger opened us up to China.
The future is to the left.
Tax the global billionaires to invest in the People. That is what successful democracies do.
2
McGloin: Wrong. The country's has moved left and establishment since Reagan. The Bushes dismantled Reagan as much as Clinton, and Obama thought he was the new progressive god-emperor. The establishment Dems and Republicans are the Uni-Party. They are bought and paid for by the multinationals corporations and the Chamber of Commerce. They love CRONY capitalism, not free market capitalism. We haven't had that since Reagan.
3
Ahh? Didn't Hillary Clinton lose twice, you know, a woman? What don't you know about the facts of life? One is that people want to be led by strength, specifically a man of great verbal acuity and volume, you know, like Trump. Ted Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson were good examples of what it takes for a Democrat to win. You might ask about Biden? To that I see a man with a record of turning our nation into a prison/police empire with his crime bill passed back in the 1990's. Don't get me wrong, I want the Democrats to win to save this nation and because Democrats always care about everyone with a proven track record of same.
Look; a woman is not going to win and a timid over-dignified quiet man will not win either. We need a bold verbal powerful character and personality in the Democrat party that joins the political battles and wins. So far, I see no Democrat that fits that bill from within the ranks of the Democrat political class.
The Democrats need to get out of the party elite box and look for and convince regular strong, experienced everyday citizens thoroughly allied with Democrats. It worked for Trump. Don't let your frustration and anger to cloud your resourceful abilities. Think smart, not mad.
I sincerely hope the Democrat party can find such a man because, think about this; The supremely qualified and experienced Hillary Clinton should have won against Trump, thus proving a woman can't beat even the worst there could be. Timidity is also a guaranteed loss.
Look; a woman is not going to win and a timid over-dignified quiet man will not win either. We need a bold verbal powerful character and personality in the Democrat party that joins the political battles and wins. So far, I see no Democrat that fits that bill from within the ranks of the Democrat political class.
The Democrats need to get out of the party elite box and look for and convince regular strong, experienced everyday citizens thoroughly allied with Democrats. It worked for Trump. Don't let your frustration and anger to cloud your resourceful abilities. Think smart, not mad.
I sincerely hope the Democrat party can find such a man because, think about this; The supremely qualified and experienced Hillary Clinton should have won against Trump, thus proving a woman can't beat even the worst there could be. Timidity is also a guaranteed loss.
6
Where were you when the votes were counted? Hillary Clinton WON by 3,000,000 votes.
2
If the point is to lie to the people, than we need what you are selling.
I believe the point is the policies. Trump won because he promised everything that Bernie promised, drain the swamp, stop the TPP, a trillion dollars infrastructure program, beautiful healthcare and education for everyone, and jobs.
Trump lied but Bernie meant it and explained that you had to end the oligarchy to do it. That is the plan.
The people will vote for someone that says helping them is possible.
I believe the point is the policies. Trump won because he promised everything that Bernie promised, drain the swamp, stop the TPP, a trillion dollars infrastructure program, beautiful healthcare and education for everyone, and jobs.
Trump lied but Bernie meant it and explained that you had to end the oligarchy to do it. That is the plan.
The people will vote for someone that says helping them is possible.
1
Rita. The electoral college overrules 3 million votes.. It is in the constitution and going no where. Democrats need a lot more votes than that.
The Democratic Party needs to embrace it's base.
The Democratic Party needs to embrace it's base.
1
Democrats need to treat the race like a sports team taking on a challenger:
- assume the challenger is going to have their BEST day rather than their WORST, and strategize to beat them anyway.
In other words, assume Trump doesn't continue to have fav ratings in the 30's; makes some accomplishment before the election that receives broad support; stops being his biggest enemy thru Tweats (never know, Kelly might tell him to cut it out); and succeeds in the couple of areas that he touted his own experience as being crucial to success (e.g., imagine him actually making a giant deal to re-grow the US manufacturing base).
Given THAT scenario, Democrats should think about how they would be even better.
- assume the challenger is going to have their BEST day rather than their WORST, and strategize to beat them anyway.
In other words, assume Trump doesn't continue to have fav ratings in the 30's; makes some accomplishment before the election that receives broad support; stops being his biggest enemy thru Tweats (never know, Kelly might tell him to cut it out); and succeeds in the couple of areas that he touted his own experience as being crucial to success (e.g., imagine him actually making a giant deal to re-grow the US manufacturing base).
Given THAT scenario, Democrats should think about how they would be even better.
4
I have said before and Ill keep saying it.
The two party system is failure at this point.
The divisions only grow deeper, the two parties themselves are sub-dividing, and not in a helpful way.
While I personally lean way left and supported Bernie (and have been voting for Democrats holding my nose for 35 years), I don't necessarily need the President to be as far left as me. I do need that person be truly mature, thoughtful, reasonable, consistent and goal oriented.
I present to you the actually independent Senator from Maine - Angus King.
The two party system is failure at this point.
The divisions only grow deeper, the two parties themselves are sub-dividing, and not in a helpful way.
While I personally lean way left and supported Bernie (and have been voting for Democrats holding my nose for 35 years), I don't necessarily need the President to be as far left as me. I do need that person be truly mature, thoughtful, reasonable, consistent and goal oriented.
I present to you the actually independent Senator from Maine - Angus King.
4
President King? Independents are never independent. They need every faction they can get to legislate. They're totally dependent. Example: the non-conformist uniform.
The democrats are in free fall. They lack leadership and direction. If they don't get their act together soon they will not be defeating many republicans in 2018.
They need to change their leadership. The strategy of criticizing president trumps every move is actually hurting their popularity in mid America.
They need to change their leadership. The strategy of criticizing president trumps every move is actually hurting their popularity in mid America.
18
Yes a poll came out that said voters think the Democrats are more interested in opposing Trump than pushing policies.
Trump is making millions of mistakes. Don't get in his way.
Push a positive agenda, without worrying about being called socialists. Republicans call everyone a socialist.
Trump is making millions of mistakes. Don't get in his way.
Push a positive agenda, without worrying about being called socialists. Republicans call everyone a socialist.
1
It is exactly because they are brown nosing wealthy tycoons that I will never support them. Maybe Elizabeth Warren.
8
With the far left radicals having taken over the Democratic Party, I just don't see them winning another election.
4
Ron I just want you to know that I am a far left radical and there are next to none in the Democratic Party. They all left. What remains are corporate Democrats, probably best compared to Rockefeller Republicans.
3
Lol
See Democrats? Your centrists have attacked the left, and divided the party, insulted the Bernie Bros, and sent Sanders packing, rejecting millions of new voters.
And what do you get for that? The Republicans say "fat left radicals have taken over the party."
They will always say that. You may as well embrace the left, because you will always be called socialists.
If your are going to be called socialists then why not tax the billionaires and pay for people's educations, healthcare, and infrastructure? If you save people money they will like you, even if you are a socialist.
See Democrats? Your centrists have attacked the left, and divided the party, insulted the Bernie Bros, and sent Sanders packing, rejecting millions of new voters.
And what do you get for that? The Republicans say "fat left radicals have taken over the party."
They will always say that. You may as well embrace the left, because you will always be called socialists.
If your are going to be called socialists then why not tax the billionaires and pay for people's educations, healthcare, and infrastructure? If you save people money they will like you, even if you are a socialist.
3
And you don't think the far, extremist right has taken over the Republican Party?
2
Bernie Sanders does not have a sophisticated online fund-raising operation. He has a website where donations are accepted. Granted the website is nice but html is not exactly bleeding edge technology these days. If you can't build a website, you have no business running for office. I'd make a comparison to the Hillary Clinton website but I wouldn't know. I've never visited Clinton's website. That's exactly the point.
Throughout the campaign, I saw an endless number of Clinton ads on various websites. None of them generated sufficient motivation to visit her site much less make a donation. She lacked organic support. In which case, the expensive digital ad campaign was likely a waste of money. Grassroots fundraising is about persona and message, not some secret marketing machine. You can't invent grassroots support, you can only enable it.
Barack Obama shared a similar experience to Sanders. Show of hands: How many people donated to Obama? Okay. How many people read the form letters his campaign sent out? Do you see? The voters were drawn to the candidate rather than the candidate trying to appeal to the voters. You can't buy that kind of support and pitching to millionaires in the Hamptons doesn't help your image. Democrats ignore this lesson at their own peril.
Throughout the campaign, I saw an endless number of Clinton ads on various websites. None of them generated sufficient motivation to visit her site much less make a donation. She lacked organic support. In which case, the expensive digital ad campaign was likely a waste of money. Grassroots fundraising is about persona and message, not some secret marketing machine. You can't invent grassroots support, you can only enable it.
Barack Obama shared a similar experience to Sanders. Show of hands: How many people donated to Obama? Okay. How many people read the form letters his campaign sent out? Do you see? The voters were drawn to the candidate rather than the candidate trying to appeal to the voters. You can't buy that kind of support and pitching to millionaires in the Hamptons doesn't help your image. Democrats ignore this lesson at their own peril.
6
About half of the people running Bernie's campaign were from Occupy Wall Street. I know some of them.
They are young smart, organized, and highly motivated. And they know how to grow a movement of people that actually go to events, go door to door canvassing voters, and communicate on social media.
They didn't need millions for TV commercials. They know the People and what they want, and they know the oligarchy that stands in our way.
The movements for social, environmental, and economic justice is where the power is. The future is with them.
The Democratic Party has to stop acting like a private club and join the movement of movements, or it will be swept aside, irrelevant.
We already have a Republican Party. Americans don't vote for lesser anything, Not even lesser evil.
You have to give us something great to vote for: peace and true justice and community.
They are young smart, organized, and highly motivated. And they know how to grow a movement of people that actually go to events, go door to door canvassing voters, and communicate on social media.
They didn't need millions for TV commercials. They know the People and what they want, and they know the oligarchy that stands in our way.
The movements for social, environmental, and economic justice is where the power is. The future is with them.
The Democratic Party has to stop acting like a private club and join the movement of movements, or it will be swept aside, irrelevant.
We already have a Republican Party. Americans don't vote for lesser anything, Not even lesser evil.
You have to give us something great to vote for: peace and true justice and community.
2
What you're talking about a simple slogans. Hillary had everything explained and written down as to how she would accomplish it. I'm sure it was too complicated for you and many others Bernie people.
2
Mick -
I'm assuming that those written down and explained things were her public positions. So what were her private ones then? Those are the ones i'd like to see.
I'm assuming that those written down and explained things were her public positions. So what were her private ones then? Those are the ones i'd like to see.
1
The problem is not with the candidates. The problem is with the electorate, and we have to accept and address it. It is a very big problem. Donald Trump is the most glaring evidence that there is a bad cancer within our electorate. Stage 1 was Reagan; Stage 3 was Bush and Cheney; and here we are at a raging and terminal State 4.
Spare me the angry nonsense too. Americans love being angry, esp. Trump supporters. If they weren't angry about something, they wouldn't feel anything at all.
We're an unhealthy culture, physically and mentally, and so our choices reflect that, i.e.: Trump. We are a culture in which too many completely lack any critical thinking skills at all, hence Trump. The right wing has been on a dumbing down campaign for decades, and it has worked. "Elite" is the slur now for anyone with any intelligence, an education, critical thinking skills, etc. And these things are considered to be bad and negative! What do you do when an electorate wants to pull the country down, to illiteracy, no elitism, and candidates like Donald Trump? Anyone who can't see that We the People are the problem isn't looking.
Spare me the angry nonsense too. Americans love being angry, esp. Trump supporters. If they weren't angry about something, they wouldn't feel anything at all.
We're an unhealthy culture, physically and mentally, and so our choices reflect that, i.e.: Trump. We are a culture in which too many completely lack any critical thinking skills at all, hence Trump. The right wing has been on a dumbing down campaign for decades, and it has worked. "Elite" is the slur now for anyone with any intelligence, an education, critical thinking skills, etc. And these things are considered to be bad and negative! What do you do when an electorate wants to pull the country down, to illiteracy, no elitism, and candidates like Donald Trump? Anyone who can't see that We the People are the problem isn't looking.
16
I'm afraid you are right.
1
Kudos, Virginia.
1
Virginia,
Trump's greatest asset is his ability to be underestimated by the people he just outsmarted.
Argue the point. Please!
Trump's greatest asset is his ability to be underestimated by the people he just outsmarted.
Argue the point. Please!
Democrats lost because of the Trump con and Comey's REALLY
untimely letter (but remember Hillary's popular vote!).
Democrat's new message has to be 'People First! ALL People!'.
The winds of the modern, inclusive world are at Democrats'
backs; the Trump absurdities can be hung around Republican's
necks like nothing ever seen before.
If contending Democrats can't make hay of all that, it's
the country that will lose.
untimely letter (but remember Hillary's popular vote!).
Democrat's new message has to be 'People First! ALL People!'.
The winds of the modern, inclusive world are at Democrats'
backs; the Trump absurdities can be hung around Republican's
necks like nothing ever seen before.
If contending Democrats can't make hay of all that, it's
the country that will lose.
4
A negative campaign makes Trump look like the underdog.
Eisenhower said, " When the enemy is making a mistake, stay out of their way."
Eisenhower said, " When the enemy is making a mistake, stay out of their way."
2
All the Democrats have are greedy, do nothing. obstructionist, lifelong politicians whose present approval ratings stand at eight percent , let that sink in for a minute ,EIGHT PERCENT!, against a non-politician President working without pay, for the American People that every Democrat, every propagandist in the main stream media, every radical organization , and every America hating foreign contributor world wide has been engaged for the last year in the most massive campaign of character assassination ever seen against a single indvidual, and yet his approval rating stands at forty-two percent, think about that for a minute , FORTY - TWO PERCENT! Now , put the two together and ponder the possible outcomes of the next election.
8
Keep hope alive. It's a long time before 2020.
The White Middle Class is slowly dying. Anyone can see this. We live on Magical Thinking, a non nutritive mental candy to relieve the pain of loss. My ideal candidate must be so genuine as to live on food stamps for one month, to barely balance a budget, to live without savings. Then that candidate will understand Political Magical Thinking and the plight of the voter. Can you show me someone? This week, a Trump supporter who enjoyed a 15 cent per hour raise last year, complained to me that "someone to leave him alone to do his job". The power of Magical Thinking! Reality: Who lost a son in Afghanistan? Who has a college loan instead of a house or car? Who is ten dollars short every month but works 60 hours? Who can't get a job interview without the "right connections", even if the job is posted on those bogus websites and the resume is stellar? Whose child chokes on dirty air? Whose uncle is dying of hunger someone in the world, but cannot come through our borders to be fed? A Phoenix must rise, angry but secure, unafraid, a Warrior who will not accept defeat in the face of the Giant Trump. I'm not sure that any Dem, sans Joe Biden, gets this. The candidate must be someone who cannot breathe until change is made. I am not sure even Barack Obama, a middle class man from a white middle class home in the mid west, got this. I just don't see the anger, except in the magical thinking of the Trump voters.
6
The Republicans are just so much better at (dirty) politics than the Democrats. They are masters at destroying candidates, like they did to Hillary for 25 years. When they can successfully portray John Kerry as a coward in Vietnam and elevate W. to hero status, how do you combat that?
9
By forgetting about a mythical middle and building your base.
2
Democrats are at a distinct disadvantage due to the Citizen's United decision allowing unlimted contributions to campaigns which seems to favore the GOP.
I doubt Democrats can the presidency no matter how much they campaign because it's not just Citizen's United, it's foreign money as well.
There's enough in the public domain to impeach Trump and probably prosecute those in the GOP that took Russian money to fuel their campaigns. Months of speculation on GOP cowardice, their choice of party over country, now seems grounded in the surreal: the GOP sold out their country and hoped to hide that fact. Essentially Trump compromised the GOP and that's why every outrageous, illegal and unethical act by potus is met with silence or milquetoast responses. It's not just GOP cowardice, it's their own guilt keeping them silent. Polls consistently show trump has just 1/3 of the country's support but the GOP doesn't stand up to him and now we know why - they're as guilty as he is.
What's the point of endless campaigning when a foreign power can put a party over the top? Dems can't give up but they, like us, must pin their hope to Mueller's silent investigation &hope he uncovers the international conspiracy that compromised Trump/GOP. Democracy itself is riding on Mueller's successful prosecutions of those that would sell out our country for power and money.
I doubt Democrats can the presidency no matter how much they campaign because it's not just Citizen's United, it's foreign money as well.
There's enough in the public domain to impeach Trump and probably prosecute those in the GOP that took Russian money to fuel their campaigns. Months of speculation on GOP cowardice, their choice of party over country, now seems grounded in the surreal: the GOP sold out their country and hoped to hide that fact. Essentially Trump compromised the GOP and that's why every outrageous, illegal and unethical act by potus is met with silence or milquetoast responses. It's not just GOP cowardice, it's their own guilt keeping them silent. Polls consistently show trump has just 1/3 of the country's support but the GOP doesn't stand up to him and now we know why - they're as guilty as he is.
What's the point of endless campaigning when a foreign power can put a party over the top? Dems can't give up but they, like us, must pin their hope to Mueller's silent investigation &hope he uncovers the international conspiracy that compromised Trump/GOP. Democracy itself is riding on Mueller's successful prosecutions of those that would sell out our country for power and money.
3
Did you ever consider the fact that you lost? Anger, confusion, resentment, relativism are all internal. They are the result of unhappiness. The solution is always prayer, forgiveness and forgiveness of self.
In the unconditional reality that is the real world, the natural law pragmatist who respects cause and effect can speak to issues and voters, simultaneously. That is an unprecedented advantage.
Meet Donald J Trump.
In the unconditional reality that is the real world, the natural law pragmatist who respects cause and effect can speak to issues and voters, simultaneously. That is an unprecedented advantage.
Meet Donald J Trump.
1
The way you win is to build your base so big that the votes overwhelm the machinations.
Give up on the fake center and your private club attitudes in the Democratic Party. and embrace the smart young highly organized activists on the left that know how to build movements.
That is how you take your government back from the global billionaires.
Give up on the fake center and your private club attitudes in the Democratic Party. and embrace the smart young highly organized activists on the left that know how to build movements.
That is how you take your government back from the global billionaires.
3
McGloin, Agree...but first we have to take out the trash.
1
I recently came across a list of the 40 speeches Hillary gave to companies for between $200,000 and $775,000 in the months after she quit as Secretary of state (almost one per week). Then we remember her August 2016 blitzkrieg of the Hampton millionaires that lost her the momentum gained in the Convention. Ultimately this got her nowhere but left a distaste in the mouths of voters (including me who still voted for her). Its high time the Democratic party started to work on universal healthcare, minimum wage, taxes for the .01%, education and infrastructure with CONCRETE plans.
11
Great, a whole bunch of new faces we can be sick and tired of seeing by the time the actual race starts.
6
Kamala Harris feted by a Boston real estate developer. Others looking for $
at the Hamptons. Oh please! But that's the way it's gotta be which is what
has been making American democracy a sham. America for the rich and by
the rich. Until somehow we can have campaign time limits and public funding
only for candidates....the U.S.A. continues down the rabbit hole. I am completely fed up with this lunacy.
at the Hamptons. Oh please! But that's the way it's gotta be which is what
has been making American democracy a sham. America for the rich and by
the rich. Until somehow we can have campaign time limits and public funding
only for candidates....the U.S.A. continues down the rabbit hole. I am completely fed up with this lunacy.
13
In 2016, Democrats presumed Trump was such an embarrassment that could coast to victory. The NYT happily touted an 85-88% odds of a Democrat win, and that should qualify as much as "fake news" as anything put forth in that election year. Democrats were routed at every level. My fear is that the establishment Dems are again counting on the same tactic of screaming "Trump!!!" while cutting deals with banks, corporations and wealthy donors and fielding candidates that look too much like Republicans and trying to pass that off as the "choice" of the people.
11
If the Democratic Party is not designed to lose, they sure do a good job imitating such a party.
1
We have GOT to get big money out of elections. While I really do think the Dems need to start preparing to take back the presidency (I don't see viable GOP candidates emerging for 2020), my hope is that candidates for the 2018 mid-terms get national coverage (that means you, NYT), as well as the direction the Dems are going for their 2020 platform. The GOP gets its message out simply by virtue that they own all three branches of the government. So support your local and congressional candidates, but also work towards getting a clear, focused platform for 2020 and help your Dem candidates spread their policies as well. Some possible (and viable) leaders:
SETH MOULTON (D) House of Reps - 4 tours Iraq Marine, Harvard Grad
GAVIN NEWSOM (D) Lt. Gov CA & former Mayor of SF
RON WYDEN (D) Senate Intelligence, Budget, Finance, Energy Committees
ADAM SCHIFF (D) House Intelligence, Appropriations Committee
SHELDON WHITEHOUSE (D) Senate Budget, Environment Judiciary HELP,
Aging
Jack Reed (D) Senate Appropriations, Armed Service, Banking
MICHAEL CAPUANO (D) House Commitees: Ethics, Financial Svcs. and Transp. & Infrastructure -- Behind the Curtain web watchdog site
AMY KLOBUCHAR (D) Senate Committees: Judiciary, Commerce, Science & Trans, Ag Comm
CORY BOOKER (D) NJ junior Senator
DEVAL PATRICK former Gov MA
Note that Elizabeth Warren is notably missing. I think she, as an already nationally known watchdog is much more valuable unleashed than confined within the Executive Branch.
SETH MOULTON (D) House of Reps - 4 tours Iraq Marine, Harvard Grad
GAVIN NEWSOM (D) Lt. Gov CA & former Mayor of SF
RON WYDEN (D) Senate Intelligence, Budget, Finance, Energy Committees
ADAM SCHIFF (D) House Intelligence, Appropriations Committee
SHELDON WHITEHOUSE (D) Senate Budget, Environment Judiciary HELP,
Aging
Jack Reed (D) Senate Appropriations, Armed Service, Banking
MICHAEL CAPUANO (D) House Commitees: Ethics, Financial Svcs. and Transp. & Infrastructure -- Behind the Curtain web watchdog site
AMY KLOBUCHAR (D) Senate Committees: Judiciary, Commerce, Science & Trans, Ag Comm
CORY BOOKER (D) NJ junior Senator
DEVAL PATRICK former Gov MA
Note that Elizabeth Warren is notably missing. I think she, as an already nationally known watchdog is much more valuable unleashed than confined within the Executive Branch.
2
Sadly, I think the democratic party missed the big message in 2016 and may likely repeat the same mistakes in 2020. The people are not interested in another corporate candidate. Elizabeth Warren supported Hillary Clinton in 2016 and like Hillary Clinton, she publicly tells her corporate supporters to "cut it out" when their greed, amorality and callousness is exposed, but she does little if anything to stop their corrupt activities. The Democrats and the Democratic (corporate) media (CNN, NPR, NYT etc...) will support the corporate democratic candidate ( perhaps Warren) and make invisible any non-corporate candidate (a la Bernie Sanders). And, as a result, the democrats will lose again.
10
Too bad Elizabeth Warren couldn't have run in 2016. She probably would have won the primaries. Those of us turned off by Sanders and uncomfortable with Clinton's chances would have voted for her. Now it's too late--she's no more than a blond, female version of Sanders. I've yet to hear a message from her that's any different from his, or that would appeal to us longtime rank-and-file DEMOCRATS. You know, the ones who voted for Hillary Clinton in the primaries and in the election.
Right now my choice would be Kirsten Gillibrand. Although she's a woman, she doesn't seem to have quite the baggage that any of the other would-be candidates carry. At least not yet, until she starts breaking away from the pack and the media and Sanders start crucifying her.
Right now my choice would be Kirsten Gillibrand. Although she's a woman, she doesn't seem to have quite the baggage that any of the other would-be candidates carry. At least not yet, until she starts breaking away from the pack and the media and Sanders start crucifying her.
2
You "tank and file Democrats" think of yourselves as a private club, and that is why you can't grow your party.
2
The problem with the Democratic Party is that their leftist causes are far more important than the welfare (jobs, freedom and opportunity....not entitlements) of Americans.
The Democratic Party has made it a practice to appeal to the darkest side of human nature whether it is class envy, stoking the fires of racism, gender warfare, or just plain hate mongering.
A very truthful illustration is the Leftist indoctrination of youth where they just hate without intelligent discourse. We have indoctrinated youth that need safe zones because they cannot intelligently defend their positions. We have Leftist youth that choose violence to express themselves for the same reason.
The continuing movement to the Left is what is destroying the Democratic Party.
The Democratic Party has made it a practice to appeal to the darkest side of human nature whether it is class envy, stoking the fires of racism, gender warfare, or just plain hate mongering.
A very truthful illustration is the Leftist indoctrination of youth where they just hate without intelligent discourse. We have indoctrinated youth that need safe zones because they cannot intelligently defend their positions. We have Leftist youth that choose violence to express themselves for the same reason.
The continuing movement to the Left is what is destroying the Democratic Party.
6
Lol Clinton was a move to the left?
If Democrats keep talking advice from Republicans like you they will be replaced by a real left party.
If Democrats keep talking advice from Republicans like you they will be replaced by a real left party.
3
"The Left stoking the fires of racism...hate without intelligent discourse"? Does the name Heather Heyer ring a bell for you? White supremacy rally? Racism? Far-right groups, KKK marching at a rally? Do you have any recollection of this? "The problem with the Democratic Party is their leftist causes are far more important than the welfare of Americans..." Please cite what Republicans have accomplished in allaying the problems surrounding jobs, freedom, and opportunity in America.
2
The next election will be, once more, critical. I tell everybody: libertarians are as bad as conservatives, these days. They are the Kochs and Mercers which have to be pulled in the spot of 1 kWatts light beams.
They, their $ and their shady machinations have to be written over the sky of the US, every day.
This is no longer a democracy, it needs to be taken back. The world cannot afford a US gone crazy any longer.
They, their $ and their shady machinations have to be written over the sky of the US, every day.
This is no longer a democracy, it needs to be taken back. The world cannot afford a US gone crazy any longer.
3
What about Tim Kane for president?? Has actual & relevant political and governing experience, seems to walk the walk concerning diversity/race relations, well-educated and seems like a decent person.
3
I understand that this article is deliberately focused on candidates. Nonetheless, the near-total absence of comments on issues and policies makes me think the Dems have learnt next-to-nothing. The country cannot afford such incompetence -- it made a crucial contribution to the election of Trump.
6
But the elephant in the room is that Mrs. Clinton, as she prepares to vacuum in gobs of additional money on her book tour, still thinks it's her turn. Good luck, Democrats, in convincing her otherwise.
14
No more dynasties!
1
Gavin Newsom is the only chance the Dems have in 2020, but he has to get his face on TV more and shift his rhetoric to the right.
2
Sanders is ok. He understands where the "liberal" democrats went wrong. Any other recognizable names are a no-go or worse!
5
The most critical pitch the Democratic party should make is to Michelle Obama to find out what it would take to get her to run.
Succeed in that pitch and the rest would be easy.
Succeed in that pitch and the rest would be easy.
Nothing against Michelle, but really? Another wife of a former potus who currently spends a lot of time partying on yachts with billionaires and giving 6-figure speeches?
2
After being completely disappointed with Obama's Clintonesque performance, I realized it was Michelle's speeches that made me think he would be a good president.
1
"Aides to Senator Kamala Harris of California say that her fund-raisers in Martha’s Vineyard and the Hamptons this summer have been all about helping Democrats in 2018"
Democrats don't care about "the little guy" they care about being with the elitists and lording over everyone as a new aristocracy. They decry "Citizens United" ruling while cranking up huge privately funded PACs.
Democrats don't care about "the little guy" they care about being with the elitists and lording over everyone as a new aristocracy. They decry "Citizens United" ruling while cranking up huge privately funded PACs.
4
Focusing on 'beating Trump' , who isn't even a year into his presidency, is a perfect example of waging the last campaign all over again. Candidates should concern themselves only with what concerns voters, ie their future. Trouble is, they seem unable to see much beyond he Washington bubble...
5
Career politicians doing their thing. It might be nice if the donors told them to concentrate on working for the American people and come back and see them in three years.
2
The donors don't care about the American People. If they did, our country would not be in a death spiral.
2
Ohio's Senator Sherrod Brown. Gravely voiced man from a member of the heartland. He has dedicated his political career in the support of the middle and working classes. He's not strident, isn't off putting with excessive ID politics, knows his stuff and is one of the more decent people in a pretty indecent trade. Brown may be the (more predictable) Joe Biden Dems are looking for.
4
It's the message and the messenger! Let's see a clear message as to what the party stands for. Then, put the driver in place.
There's been plenty of Trump's faux pas; let him continue to shoot hjimself in the foot.
There's been plenty of Trump's faux pas; let him continue to shoot hjimself in the foot.
1
Reading this article made me mildly nauseous. Bernie Sanders showed us in 2016 how to run a campaign that is not beholden to the greedy 0.01%'s. But I am very worried about 2020, given the Democrats track record. Bernie may be too old. I like Elizabeth Warren's sentiments in general, but she might've missed her best chance in 2016. We need a new face and we need somebody that runs their campaign financing like Bernie did. I don't want a candidate who receives funds from wealthy donors.
4
This is ridiculous. The "next" election cycle now begins before the current one even starts. This is largely due to how much 24-hour news has made politics into our most popular sport and form of entertainment. We could learn a thing from other nations and limit election cycles to a few months. Continuous campaigning is a problem.
3
I would really hate to see another populist, far-left candidate like Warren. I think the divisions in the country are a large part of what is destroying it. We need moderation, a return to the center...more like the Jack Kennedy Democratic Party. We moderates don't cause trouble, we don't have big mouths, we don't make false promises, we pay our taxes...and we get left out every time.
5
This is sickening. Can't we somehow get rid of the open display of wealth in our electoral campaigns? I guess Trump hasn't really soured the Dems enough yet.
2
The democrats are in danger of imitating the republicans under Obama: Endless, pointless negativity. Before talking about the election of 2020, they need to create a program:
(1) Repair Obamacare. Present a specific, well detailed plan. Publish it, circulate it. All the republicans have is ‘Repeal Obamacare’; an empty slogan which mainly depends on hatred of Barack Obama. Call press conferences. Force the republicans to respond.
(2) Design a far reaching infrastructure program with the acknowledgement that real progress takes years. One example: the interstate highway system, which spanned decades, generating middle class employment building highways, residential construction, the automobile industry, and supporting industries. That explosion of growth which began in the optimistic years following ww2 has ended, and despite it’s glossy glamour, the dot com ‘revolution’ has not filled the void.
(3) Attack the repub narrative of 'voter fraud'. Remind people of the 'voter fraud' fantasy under Bush 2, orchestrated by AG Gonzalez, who later resigned.
(4) Reform the electoral college. Push legislation to award electoral votes proportionally to the popular vote. Currently, 51% of the popular vote wins ALL the electors.
(5) Show voters in the middle of the country how this program helps them.
Commit passionately as a party to a detailed, progressive program.
The 'perfect' candidate will emerge.
(1) Repair Obamacare. Present a specific, well detailed plan. Publish it, circulate it. All the republicans have is ‘Repeal Obamacare’; an empty slogan which mainly depends on hatred of Barack Obama. Call press conferences. Force the republicans to respond.
(2) Design a far reaching infrastructure program with the acknowledgement that real progress takes years. One example: the interstate highway system, which spanned decades, generating middle class employment building highways, residential construction, the automobile industry, and supporting industries. That explosion of growth which began in the optimistic years following ww2 has ended, and despite it’s glossy glamour, the dot com ‘revolution’ has not filled the void.
(3) Attack the repub narrative of 'voter fraud'. Remind people of the 'voter fraud' fantasy under Bush 2, orchestrated by AG Gonzalez, who later resigned.
(4) Reform the electoral college. Push legislation to award electoral votes proportionally to the popular vote. Currently, 51% of the popular vote wins ALL the electors.
(5) Show voters in the middle of the country how this program helps them.
Commit passionately as a party to a detailed, progressive program.
The 'perfect' candidate will emerge.
3
Thanks for the laughs... '...suggest that ... a shadow campaign....is already well underway"
This 'campaign' has openly been going on since before January 20th, 2017. To suggest that it is a shadow campaign is just dishonest or silly, at best. The only thing missing is the public declaration of their candidacy and required registration of the campaigns. Some, or all of them, might be raising political funds in an illegal manner - food for thought.
This 'campaign' has openly been going on since before January 20th, 2017. To suggest that it is a shadow campaign is just dishonest or silly, at best. The only thing missing is the public declaration of their candidacy and required registration of the campaigns. Some, or all of them, might be raising political funds in an illegal manner - food for thought.
1
While money is always important, if the dems want to oust the demagogue Trump in 2020, if he is still around, don't nominate a identity obsessed liberal establishment figure like Hillary who never met a wall street banker, war, or trade deal she did not love.
Nominate a progressive populist like Bernie if he is still around.
Nominate a progressive populist like Bernie if he is still around.
3
While I don't have a clue about John Delaney, Warren's qualifications are beyond question, and Booker and Franken make for good future prospects.
But if the Democrats have any hope of a 2020 victory, it's time to put their social re-engineering experiments on hold. They need to field a strong, white Anglo male candidate with a good economic message and the capacity to reverse some of the damage Trump has already done. No trainees this time around. And that process needs to begin with a strong showing in 2018.
But if the Democrats have any hope of a 2020 victory, it's time to put their social re-engineering experiments on hold. They need to field a strong, white Anglo male candidate with a good economic message and the capacity to reverse some of the damage Trump has already done. No trainees this time around. And that process needs to begin with a strong showing in 2018.
3
A message of unity from Democrats is not a simply a message about unity of race, gender and other identity politics characteristics. Democrats can start displaying a message of unity by not simply resisting Trump but actually helping to fix the problems of the country. Until they can demonstrate that they care more about their country than their ideology, there's not much hope for any of them.
2
While the article states that Democratic strategists believe that the "right candidate" can beat Donald Trump in the 2020 election, I believe that this is the wrong presumption. Rather, can that Democrat beat a sitting President Pence is the more likely scenario given the legal missteps and political motivations with Republicans that are requisite for removal from Office that Mr. Trump has already created and is rapidly expanding.
2
What have Democrats learned from 2016? Maybe not much:
"...her fund-raisers in Martha's Vineyard and the Hamptons have been all about helping Democrats in 2018."
Oh, really?
Which Democrats in would those be? I don't think many Democrats who need universal health care summer in the Hamptons. I don't expect to see many Democrats who would benefit from increases in spending on public education and college in Martha's Vineyard. I don't know how many Democrats whose job prospects have been whittled down by automation relaxing away on the beach this summer.
We can't grovel to "Wall Street' - no, that would be too much. But we can grovel to Silicon Valley, giving them the wink and the nod that we'll vote to increase H1B visas for their low-cost workforce in the future. We can grovel to those who have the time and money to summer in the Hamptons, assuring them that we won't touch the loopholes and carve-outs that have allowed the untrammeled accumulation of wealth, and the vehicles to pass it nearly all on to their offspring.
Maybe we should be holding fundraisers in Flint, MI or Baltimore, MD - the haul may not be so grand, but we need a lot more of those votes than we do from Martha's Vineyard in 2020.
"...her fund-raisers in Martha's Vineyard and the Hamptons have been all about helping Democrats in 2018."
Oh, really?
Which Democrats in would those be? I don't think many Democrats who need universal health care summer in the Hamptons. I don't expect to see many Democrats who would benefit from increases in spending on public education and college in Martha's Vineyard. I don't know how many Democrats whose job prospects have been whittled down by automation relaxing away on the beach this summer.
We can't grovel to "Wall Street' - no, that would be too much. But we can grovel to Silicon Valley, giving them the wink and the nod that we'll vote to increase H1B visas for their low-cost workforce in the future. We can grovel to those who have the time and money to summer in the Hamptons, assuring them that we won't touch the loopholes and carve-outs that have allowed the untrammeled accumulation of wealth, and the vehicles to pass it nearly all on to their offspring.
Maybe we should be holding fundraisers in Flint, MI or Baltimore, MD - the haul may not be so grand, but we need a lot more of those votes than we do from Martha's Vineyard in 2020.
5
The Democratic Party does have a number of qualified candidates for President. Unfortunately the two most qualified are probably too old; Governor of California, Jerry Brown and the uniquely experienced, Hillary Clinton. Their knowledge and judgement in office are exceptional, but it is unlikely that either will run in 2020.
So instead of picking a candidate, it might be best to describe the qualities we want. We want someone with experience in foreign and domestic affairs; the Presidency is not a good place to get trained from the bottom up on issues. We need someone who recognizes that giving a middle class person a tax break will increase spending, drive job creation and the economy. The same impact will occur if students are relieved of high debt and this could occur through forgiveness or bringing the interest down on existing debts while increasing their value as a tax deduction.
Mr. Trump is not popular today, he may not be the candidate in 2020, but if he is his opponent will have to be able to handle the insults and not have allow him to make a mountain out of a molehill, like the Republicans did with Hillary's emails.
It is possible that without election finance reform, the Democrats may have a non elected billionaire as their candidate. I would not like that.
So instead of picking a candidate, it might be best to describe the qualities we want. We want someone with experience in foreign and domestic affairs; the Presidency is not a good place to get trained from the bottom up on issues. We need someone who recognizes that giving a middle class person a tax break will increase spending, drive job creation and the economy. The same impact will occur if students are relieved of high debt and this could occur through forgiveness or bringing the interest down on existing debts while increasing their value as a tax deduction.
Mr. Trump is not popular today, he may not be the candidate in 2020, but if he is his opponent will have to be able to handle the insults and not have allow him to make a mountain out of a molehill, like the Republicans did with Hillary's emails.
It is possible that without election finance reform, the Democrats may have a non elected billionaire as their candidate. I would not like that.
I want Hillary to run for President in 2020. I desperately want her, with maybe Liz (Pocahontas / I have high cheekbones) Warren as her sidekick. I would settle for Keith (The Commie) Ellison if you insist.
1
Democrats need to write poetry, but instead they are writing legacy code: Money first. Messaging to suit the moment -- maybe Morning Joe will call! How's my name recognition -- can I get in some Republican's face, get on the news and maybe build from there?
Democrats need to find a reason, an emphatic reason that will act like a magnet for those who are so disappointed with our beloved country right about now. Like writing a poem or a beautiful story, you start with a blank sheet and a truth that is absolutely undeniable yet just outside your grasp, and then you apply your mind and your heart to it and find the words, one desperate, perfect syllable at a time. Sometimes, frequently, you fail; but there is always tomorrow morning. There are no shortcuts and there is no greater or more rewarding task. Or more human purpose.
You don't start by calling The New Yorker and asking which file format they prefer.
It is supremely difficult to get honest and ask "Who am I? Who are WE? What is a Democrat? How do we keep doing it wrong but we cannot seem to get it right?"
And the hardest question of all: "Is there a need for us? How much of a need?"
Democrats need to find a reason, an emphatic reason that will act like a magnet for those who are so disappointed with our beloved country right about now. Like writing a poem or a beautiful story, you start with a blank sheet and a truth that is absolutely undeniable yet just outside your grasp, and then you apply your mind and your heart to it and find the words, one desperate, perfect syllable at a time. Sometimes, frequently, you fail; but there is always tomorrow morning. There are no shortcuts and there is no greater or more rewarding task. Or more human purpose.
You don't start by calling The New Yorker and asking which file format they prefer.
It is supremely difficult to get honest and ask "Who am I? Who are WE? What is a Democrat? How do we keep doing it wrong but we cannot seem to get it right?"
And the hardest question of all: "Is there a need for us? How much of a need?"
2
I wish Adam Schiff, Democratic Rep. from California would consider running. He would get my vote.
3
It's the message stupid. When will the Democrats realize how much things have changed for the better for some traditional supporters and for the worse for so many others. Don't the party leaders wonder how Trump won a third of the Latino vote while losing white blue collar families? Maybe enough minority group members are doing well enough to think of themselves in a socioeconomic group, hard working tax payer, before they consider their ethnic/racial identity. Maybe the major losses of union workers shouldn't be ignored.
The Democrats message is right out of the Carter years ignoring the big tent strategy Bill Clinton successfully employed. The pantie's losses the past 10 years are staggering. What more does it take to wake up the party leadership?
The Democrats message is right out of the Carter years ignoring the big tent strategy Bill Clinton successfully employed. The pantie's losses the past 10 years are staggering. What more does it take to wake up the party leadership?
1
Seriously - I get it that in the world of big politics & BIG money to already be planning is necessary - ala Trumps Re - election planning assuming he is not in jail. But I would like to see more fervent efforts towards 2018 and what can be done NOW to save our country & organize to spare us from the chaotic world of Washington now. Light a fire under the democrats now and hold the GOP responsible for what they are doing.
We don't have 3+ years to sit on our hands.
We don't have 3+ years to sit on our hands.
2
my choice: AL FRANKEN president; Kamela Harris vp
AL: not too old, national name, extremely smart and wise, very articulate, good speaker, works hard and even funny when needed AND people like him.
Kamela: will get experience as vp
AL: not too old, national name, extremely smart and wise, very articulate, good speaker, works hard and even funny when needed AND people like him.
Kamela: will get experience as vp
1
The democrats need to be focused on thwarting DJT's systematic destruction of the protections and regulations that are still in effect – or what is left of them. They must do what they were elected to do instead of looking ahead two years.
2
Oh please let it be true. A Sanders/Harris ticket or one with Warren on it is a Republican dream come true. Perfect insurance for Trump's reelection and the chance of a lifetime to ensure a conservative SCOTUS for decades.
5
Money is one thing but continuing to move too far to the left will not help the democrats. Pay attention to independents!
3
Bernie Sanders, Progressive Party, 2020: A Viable Alternative
(i.e., not Ralph Nader)
If Bernie takes off on his own, many Democrats will see a vote for him as a vote for a Republican. That's how I saw Nader. If not for him, Gore would have been President and we'd have avoided the double disasters of W (Iraq and near economic collapse). However, Bernie is not Nader. He is more charismatic, plain-spoken, and capable of raising gigantic sums via the internet, hence not beholden to special interests. He must, though, gain a greater percentage of votes from African Americans without pandering like the Democrats. On second thought, perhaps he should pander: MLK on the dollar bill, Confederate statutes hidden in suspended animation, more attention to African-American art, literature, Black Lives Matter, and even Affirmative Action, which has evolved into reverse-discrimination. But if Bernie is to be president, he must support the latter, and support it strongly. Then he can let the Supremes, the ones in DC, not MoTown, decide what's fair. In any case, if he runs as a third party candidate, he's got my support. For those of you who can only see a two-party system, consider M. Macron, of France.
(i.e., not Ralph Nader)
If Bernie takes off on his own, many Democrats will see a vote for him as a vote for a Republican. That's how I saw Nader. If not for him, Gore would have been President and we'd have avoided the double disasters of W (Iraq and near economic collapse). However, Bernie is not Nader. He is more charismatic, plain-spoken, and capable of raising gigantic sums via the internet, hence not beholden to special interests. He must, though, gain a greater percentage of votes from African Americans without pandering like the Democrats. On second thought, perhaps he should pander: MLK on the dollar bill, Confederate statutes hidden in suspended animation, more attention to African-American art, literature, Black Lives Matter, and even Affirmative Action, which has evolved into reverse-discrimination. But if Bernie is to be president, he must support the latter, and support it strongly. Then he can let the Supremes, the ones in DC, not MoTown, decide what's fair. In any case, if he runs as a third party candidate, he's got my support. For those of you who can only see a two-party system, consider M. Macron, of France.
1
1) I honestly think Trump will be gone before 2020
2) I think nowadays voters tend to vote for straight talk and big change. I've got my $27 ready.
2) I think nowadays voters tend to vote for straight talk and big change. I've got my $27 ready.
3
The Democrats offer no leaders -- only potential cabinet members. They need a leader along with policies that can be explained in a sound bite or a Tweet. It's sad but it is all about KISS - Keep it Simple and Stupid. Money is important but the votes in the end are not in the Hamptons or Hollywood. Motivate and inspire the people in urban centers and their natural constituencies in the Rust Belt and seniors. Easier said than done but not possible with these potential candidates and this leadership. Dems will continue to lose the red states in the South without a consistent, disciplined message.
Frankly, they now look like moderate Republicans or idealistic liberals -- and that won't win a national election.
Is there much difference between Susan Collins and some of the moderate Dems? Even Bernie is to the right of Susan on the second amendment. You don't win without a consistent message - even if it is abhorrent like Trump's so-called policies.
Frankly, they now look like moderate Republicans or idealistic liberals -- and that won't win a national election.
Is there much difference between Susan Collins and some of the moderate Dems? Even Bernie is to the right of Susan on the second amendment. You don't win without a consistent message - even if it is abhorrent like Trump's so-called policies.
Greatly looking forward to the Democrats throwing the same circus in front of the primaries as the Republicans did last time.
That fact will ensure that Congressional races will be highly organized and favor the GOP, the Democratic POTUS primaries will be a food fight resulting in a Warren or Sanders splitting the bill with a serious candidate, and Trump will be reelected.
Or we can press forward with Joe Biden, the aging White male, something that Democrats cannot countenance now that they have defined winning as something only doable with a hyphenated, identity-based candidate.
The most enjoyable thing is watching the press from the Left and Right lambaste the opponents when, in fact, they run the same stupid plays.
Can't wait.
Not.
That fact will ensure that Congressional races will be highly organized and favor the GOP, the Democratic POTUS primaries will be a food fight resulting in a Warren or Sanders splitting the bill with a serious candidate, and Trump will be reelected.
Or we can press forward with Joe Biden, the aging White male, something that Democrats cannot countenance now that they have defined winning as something only doable with a hyphenated, identity-based candidate.
The most enjoyable thing is watching the press from the Left and Right lambaste the opponents when, in fact, they run the same stupid plays.
Can't wait.
Not.
2
Senator Harris appears to be seeking to succeed Hillary Clinton, whose fundamental mistake was in assuming that achieving inevitability within the Democratic Party was the same thing as strength among all voters.
4
Voters absorb the news cycle and assign a binary association of the events to either of the two major parties. Unfortunately for Democrats they are seen as the party more likely to be aligned with the Antifa group or the iconoclasts who deface and destroy statues and monuments that have stood as reminders of our history for, in some cases, for well over a century. The working class, many of whom are employed by small businesses, are becoming more aware that you can not protect their jobs if you over regulate or tax their employers out of business. Add to that the emphasis on identity politics along with the chastisement of traditional values and you alienate a good portion of what was once the Democrat's most loyal base.
2
Joe, whom I like, may just be too old in 3 more years. Ditto Bernie and maybe even Warren.
Any of these could be successful, however, with someone young and vibrant like Ryan, who spent last year warning the DNC that it shouldn't ignore working-class folks like those in his native Ohio. Ryan would help win back those voters and help the Dem candidate--if it's not Ryan himself--win the rust belt. He would at the very least be a terrific VP candidate.
Any of these could be successful, however, with someone young and vibrant like Ryan, who spent last year warning the DNC that it shouldn't ignore working-class folks like those in his native Ohio. Ryan would help win back those voters and help the Dem candidate--if it's not Ryan himself--win the rust belt. He would at the very least be a terrific VP candidate.
3
"Ryan would help win back those voters and help the Dem candidate--if it's not Ryan himself--win the rust belt. He would at the very least be a terrific VP candidate." You must mean the obnoxious Paul Ryan, Trump's dog in the manger who fancied him self VP material before. Yes, sure, let Paul Ryan turn Dem and run on your party's ticket, that seems the only way we get rid of this hand picked RINO.
1
But where are they telling us as a daily reminder that never before has the Democratic Party been more relevant, more needed for the betterment of the working and midde classes? The Democrats need to get better at PR. That soft sell we've witnessed under the likes of Donna Brazil, et al, just doesn't work, especially against the Republican Spin Machine. I want to see them speaking on the steps of the capital building, speaking clearly about what this Trump Administration is doing as it dismantles safeguards put in place since the Nixon Administration gave us the EPA. NOW! And not as only relevant as they run for office. But relevant for our future, the future of the planet.
1
Have we learned nothing from 2016? Despite spending $1 billion, Hillary Clinton could not win the election.
Put aside Mr. Trump's character, temperament, and inconsistencies on the issues for a moment. (I know, it's hard.) He campaigned by speaking directly to the American people. He went across the country and spoke to voters. He did not give up on states and districts where he was not expected to win. And he did it with far less money.
That approach is actually a healthy sign for American democracy. Sanders followed a similar approach, as remains one of the most popular politicians in the country today.
Sure, money is a perverse influence in politics. But we have seen that actually appealing directly to voters is more powerful than money.
Wake up, Democrats! Start touring the entire country, and speak directly to the American people. Listen to them as well. Deliver a positive message about opportunity for all and a brighter future.
Put aside Mr. Trump's character, temperament, and inconsistencies on the issues for a moment. (I know, it's hard.) He campaigned by speaking directly to the American people. He went across the country and spoke to voters. He did not give up on states and districts where he was not expected to win. And he did it with far less money.
That approach is actually a healthy sign for American democracy. Sanders followed a similar approach, as remains one of the most popular politicians in the country today.
Sure, money is a perverse influence in politics. But we have seen that actually appealing directly to voters is more powerful than money.
Wake up, Democrats! Start touring the entire country, and speak directly to the American people. Listen to them as well. Deliver a positive message about opportunity for all and a brighter future.
4
"Have we learned nothing from 2016? Despite spending $1 billion, Hillary Clinton could not win the election." Well, we did learn that despite hemorrhaging 135 MILLION dollars, Jeb! could not garner more than 2% of the vote. There are some things which Daddy and his unlimited money buddies can't buy.
1
Big money is not necessarily dark money and demonizing capitalism (Wall Street) is not a desirable avenue to any national election. Capitalism is not an enemy, it's a way of conducting business that leads to progressive betterment and Wall Street, despite its excesses, is part of that. Money is a major part of the dynamic and, while how it's obtained, from where, is also a major part of the dynamic, to think that a Sanders, Warren, or Harris populist juggernaut will overwhelm the forces of evil is wishful, even Manichean, thinking. Harris may well have more political savvy than the others, including Gillibrand, but she's saddled with California, which is ahead of the rest of the country. But, then, far too many are underestimating this country--listening to Trump will do that to you.
My biggest hope is that the multiple Democratic candidates avoid the sort of intra-party warfare displayed by the Republican field in the 2016 primary season. Nothing good can come of slashing your political affiliates. All the candidates need to remain civil and respectful. Yes, they also need to find a compelling message, and it would be wonderful to find a charismatic candidate under 70. However, it's also important to display mature, "presidential" behavior and demeanor, and that includes not trashing your own party.
36
Look what the Russians elected in 2016 - just that. Because, let's not kid ourselves: our election was hacked, stolen and a pretender installed. We should be focused on fixing the system so that the buffoon's charges of "rigged" don't actually happen for him again.
1
How about this? Voters should have the option to vote for the most popular politician in America who is right on the issues they care about. Not because of his or her gender. Not because of his or her race or ethnicity. But right on the issues and with a history of integrity. And if that person happens to be an old white guy over 70 then the voters have a right to vote for him. And oh by the way, gigi in Oak Park, Bernie Sander is the most popular politician in the United States. He's white. He's Jewish. He's over 70. Get over it.
2
Me too....Sanders did it to Hillary so
In my humble opinion, the right person with the necessary clout, connections, and the person who has fiercely and consistently resisted ALL of Trump's policies, is New York. Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
I believe that Cuomo is going to run, but wisely he will wait until after he is reelected as Governor of New York in 2018 to announce his run for President in 2020.
If you check his record of achievements so far as Governor, you will see why I'm posting this.
I believe that Cuomo is going to run, but wisely he will wait until after he is reelected as Governor of New York in 2018 to announce his run for President in 2020.
If you check his record of achievements so far as Governor, you will see why I'm posting this.
2
His sterling tenure at HUD, looms large.
1
Andrew Cuomo is the typical old politician that Americans are sick and tired of. Let the Democrats run Cuomo in 2020 and they will lose again.
3
The blockhead governor who routinely insults Republicans in his own state? If it wasn't for the strength of the Democratic Party in NYC, that state would be "red"!
Why is the Times once again focusing on the soap opera instead of the substance? Why an essentially speculative piece barely a cut above gossip?
This is part of what got the Times in deep trouble this last election: not focusing on what voters actually wanted. The paper seems to still not understand that Trump won because he ran a completely bird-flipping, in-your-face campaign, not his ever-changing slogans, tweets, and non-policies.
None of the Democrats mentioned in this article can compete with Trump, when it comes to style. Unless there is a candidate that can combine style with an issue 2020 voters will care about -- not what pundits or the candidates think they should care about -- he or she will probably lose. America will have managed to survive four years of Trump, and that will take the edge off the fear factor motivating many marginal anti-Trump voters.
If someone wants to be President in 2020, he or she should start crisscrossing America at ground level without an entourage. If the Times wants to be relevant in 2020, it should have some of its least ideological reporters do the same.
This is part of what got the Times in deep trouble this last election: not focusing on what voters actually wanted. The paper seems to still not understand that Trump won because he ran a completely bird-flipping, in-your-face campaign, not his ever-changing slogans, tweets, and non-policies.
None of the Democrats mentioned in this article can compete with Trump, when it comes to style. Unless there is a candidate that can combine style with an issue 2020 voters will care about -- not what pundits or the candidates think they should care about -- he or she will probably lose. America will have managed to survive four years of Trump, and that will take the edge off the fear factor motivating many marginal anti-Trump voters.
If someone wants to be President in 2020, he or she should start crisscrossing America at ground level without an entourage. If the Times wants to be relevant in 2020, it should have some of its least ideological reporters do the same.
17
Yes exactly. Hillary ran a negative campaign against Trump, who was already running a negative campaign against himself, while refusing to promise anything of substance to anyone, while he was promising to clear the swamp, create jobs, beautiful healthcare and education for everyone.
The first thing the Democratic Party had to do is heal the rift it created with Bernie supporters. Bernie was bring millions of young people into the party, and the DNC insulted them, ad's floated over them.
Bernie represents the natural base of the party, those that believe that we as a nation can tax the super rich to invest in humans.
The Democratic centrists keep trying to steal votes from Republicans instead of building its base.
A negative campaign will strengthen Trump, making him look like he is under attack from the establishment. You don't need TV dollars.
You need volunteers. You need show a commitment to good policies. Show the working people of America that you will fight for what they need and your base will overwhelm the right.
The first thing the Democratic Party had to do is heal the rift it created with Bernie supporters. Bernie was bring millions of young people into the party, and the DNC insulted them, ad's floated over them.
Bernie represents the natural base of the party, those that believe that we as a nation can tax the super rich to invest in humans.
The Democratic centrists keep trying to steal votes from Republicans instead of building its base.
A negative campaign will strengthen Trump, making him look like he is under attack from the establishment. You don't need TV dollars.
You need volunteers. You need show a commitment to good policies. Show the working people of America that you will fight for what they need and your base will overwhelm the right.
3
Global corporate mass media always avoid the actual issues, because most people want to tax the billionaires to invest in their families and infrastructure. The reporters might be "liberals," but 75% of the shareholders are the global 1% and they have veto power over content.
If they let the media talk about issues, the people might discover they want what the left base wants: money out of politics, healthcare, education, infrastructure...
These things would interfere with their massive tax cuts, so they say they are impossible, and talk about the horse race and scandals. Trump is the perfect distraction.
People like Bernie because when the pundits ask him about the horse race and scandals he says, "I'm not going to talk about that. I'm going to talk about the issues that affect American families," and actually talks about the issues, while the pundits try to interrupt him.
Warren also knows how to cut through the nonsense, and explain why the left is the future.
The media and Washington establishment's Fake Center pushes policies that the rich donors want, while trying to pretend that swing voters want them too. It's a lie.
The real middle of this country wants to tax the super rich to invest in the future. That is why global corporate mass media spends its time on celebrity gossip, corporate press releases (new Attacks cops!), and fundraising totals.
Fake News is not new. The alt right is just less subtle.
If they let the media talk about issues, the people might discover they want what the left base wants: money out of politics, healthcare, education, infrastructure...
These things would interfere with their massive tax cuts, so they say they are impossible, and talk about the horse race and scandals. Trump is the perfect distraction.
People like Bernie because when the pundits ask him about the horse race and scandals he says, "I'm not going to talk about that. I'm going to talk about the issues that affect American families," and actually talks about the issues, while the pundits try to interrupt him.
Warren also knows how to cut through the nonsense, and explain why the left is the future.
The media and Washington establishment's Fake Center pushes policies that the rich donors want, while trying to pretend that swing voters want them too. It's a lie.
The real middle of this country wants to tax the super rich to invest in the future. That is why global corporate mass media spends its time on celebrity gossip, corporate press releases (new Attacks cops!), and fundraising totals.
Fake News is not new. The alt right is just less subtle.
2
If you haven't had enough of this idiocy that Trump calls politics then I don't know what to tell you the country's got to be governed from the middle by people who are actually politicians I think we've seen enough of this dog and pony show
The answer to Trump are the celebrities, there's George Clooney for one. Personally, I like Michelle Obama, or Melinda Gates. All are noobs. But the point is, we have to get them out in the open and assess whose the best.
1
Hanging out with George Clooney was one of the things voters held against Clinton. It has been reported that he is considering a run. He seems like the epitome of the out of touch, rich Democrat.
3
That's insane.
The answer is to fight for the needs of working people so they have a reason to vote FOR you.
The answer is to fight for the needs of working people so they have a reason to vote FOR you.
1
They have lost the white middle class who will determine the key elections in the 2018 election. They lost to Trump because they have become the party of a coalition of minorities who do not have the political power of the white majority in the midwest.
7
Yep. The DNC ignored the Working Class. Tim Ryan is from the working class. He would help the Dems win back the rust belt.
3
That is incorrect. Fighting for justice for marginalized groups, helping the underdog, is American.
But you also have to fight for economic justice for all. You have to earn trust with the working people that you will actually fight for what they need.
The Democratic centrists are afraid to alienate conservatives, and so offer nothing except to not raise taxes, and so alienates is own base. This strategy has lost two thirds of all elections.
If the Democrats do not represent the base, the base will find other parties.
The workers outnumber the billionaires and their minions by about 4 to 1. The Democratic base should be four times the Republican base. You don't get them to the polls by whining about all the people that didn't vote.
You have to give the People a reason to vote FOR you.
The people want:
Money out of politics. Push for an amendment that tells the Supreme Court, "Corporations are Not People and Money is Not Speech" That is how you drain the swamp.
Tax the billionaires. People are figuring out who is keeping them poor. This is not 1980.
Universal healthcare. Everyone will need healthcare eventually.
Subsidized education. Invest in children and adults. Employees complain they can't find qualified candidates because we don't educate it workforce.
Infrastructure. Shorten our commutes.
Renewable energy. Skip global warming. Explain how people can generate their own energy and sell it to the grid. Nearly free energy is popular.
But you also have to fight for economic justice for all. You have to earn trust with the working people that you will actually fight for what they need.
The Democratic centrists are afraid to alienate conservatives, and so offer nothing except to not raise taxes, and so alienates is own base. This strategy has lost two thirds of all elections.
If the Democrats do not represent the base, the base will find other parties.
The workers outnumber the billionaires and their minions by about 4 to 1. The Democratic base should be four times the Republican base. You don't get them to the polls by whining about all the people that didn't vote.
You have to give the People a reason to vote FOR you.
The people want:
Money out of politics. Push for an amendment that tells the Supreme Court, "Corporations are Not People and Money is Not Speech" That is how you drain the swamp.
Tax the billionaires. People are figuring out who is keeping them poor. This is not 1980.
Universal healthcare. Everyone will need healthcare eventually.
Subsidized education. Invest in children and adults. Employees complain they can't find qualified candidates because we don't educate it workforce.
Infrastructure. Shorten our commutes.
Renewable energy. Skip global warming. Explain how people can generate their own energy and sell it to the grid. Nearly free energy is popular.
1
Amazing how reader response is generally shying from Senator Warren's central message: To recapture the trust of the American working class, the Democratic Party's historical foundation, "the party should avoid a temptation to moderate its views, and that its candidates shouldn’t “grovel on Wall Street” to its biggest donors."
Senator Bernie Sanders would have won, last November.
Senator Bernie Sanders would have won, last November.
11
" "the party should avoid a temptation to moderate its views, "
Well, part of those views were that about 25% of the electorate were "deplorable" and "irredeemable"
That's why HRC lost.
Tim Ryan would help win those votes back, and thus win the rust belt back.
Well, part of those views were that about 25% of the electorate were "deplorable" and "irredeemable"
That's why HRC lost.
Tim Ryan would help win those votes back, and thus win the rust belt back.
2
Dear Democrats:
Propose an amendment to remove term limits for the President. The best candidate for President was the man prevented from running, Barack Obama. It is clear that he would have won a third term, and he should be allowed to fix the healthcare plan that bears his name. Even with a Republican Congress, a Supreme Court nominee would have been vetted and chosen, the healthcare plan tweaked, and a President still in his early 50's could have guided us with a steady hand instead of turning our nation into turbulent winds. If you want to win, drop Russia, and dupe Trump into believing he can be President forever. Mitch McConnell will love you, I promise. Then watch Trump lose by 70 points in 2020.. Reagan, Clinton, Obama all would have served three terms, although I doubt Reagan's battle with Alzheimer's would have allowed him to finish.
Propose an amendment to remove term limits for the President. The best candidate for President was the man prevented from running, Barack Obama. It is clear that he would have won a third term, and he should be allowed to fix the healthcare plan that bears his name. Even with a Republican Congress, a Supreme Court nominee would have been vetted and chosen, the healthcare plan tweaked, and a President still in his early 50's could have guided us with a steady hand instead of turning our nation into turbulent winds. If you want to win, drop Russia, and dupe Trump into believing he can be President forever. Mitch McConnell will love you, I promise. Then watch Trump lose by 70 points in 2020.. Reagan, Clinton, Obama all would have served three terms, although I doubt Reagan's battle with Alzheimer's would have allowed him to finish.
You have described the reasons for a limit of two terms for the President. Why does Obamacare need to be fixed?
1
Oh good, president Trump forever?
2
Readers need a break from all these serious comments. Just for fun:
Primaries tend to favor polar candidates because it is disproportionately the polar voters in each party who make the effort to vote in “only the primary.” What if the Democrats permitted only Democrats to run in their primaries but allowed independents to vote? The nominee would be pre-tested for crossover appeal.
Primaries tend to favor polar candidates because it is disproportionately the polar voters in each party who make the effort to vote in “only the primary.” What if the Democrats permitted only Democrats to run in their primaries but allowed independents to vote? The nominee would be pre-tested for crossover appeal.
5
Some states do allow "unaffiliated" voters to choose which primary they vote in - like Massachusetts.
1
That is actually a good idea. That would show what voters actually want,
Just remember, 50% plus one vote, is overruled by the electoral college. You need a big base.
Just remember, 50% plus one vote, is overruled by the electoral college. You need a big base.
1
Martha's Vineyard and the Hamptons are not inspiring starting points to win the electoral college.
28
Yes. Hillary spent August in the Hamptons collecting money from billionaires. Trump spent August in the rustbelt promising jobs.
Bernie proved two things:
The American People will vote for a socialist.
You can finance your campaign without selling out your principles to the super rich.
Bernie proved two things:
The American People will vote for a socialist.
You can finance your campaign without selling out your principles to the super rich.
2
1. No Hillary. None. Top democrats cannot include Hillary Clinton.
2. It's the economy, stupid. The democratic agenda cannot be a return to tax and spend ways.
3. Education, stupid. Nothing is a greater investment in America than education, starting in early childhood. And, in as much as the teachers unions obstruct their members' being held accountable and being fired for incompetence, the teachers unions cannot be allowed to fashion the programs. There can be no compromise on quality in education. In broken down areas, boarding schools will need to be built which in addition to providing education also provide a sound, safe environment, and a culture of higher values, growth, and personal discipline.
4. We need to build common sense, and by that I mean having sense in common, not fragmentation. Bridges have to be built to the currently angry Trump supporter. Outside of the yahoos, these people have taken a lot of hits.
5. Special interests -- this is America's worst problem. Special interests should be able to lobby all they want. But there cannot be a mechanism for ANY special interest to insert its line items that benefit it and only it at the expense of everyone else. This mechanism circumvents democracy and the common interest, and is tearing the country apart.
2. It's the economy, stupid. The democratic agenda cannot be a return to tax and spend ways.
3. Education, stupid. Nothing is a greater investment in America than education, starting in early childhood. And, in as much as the teachers unions obstruct their members' being held accountable and being fired for incompetence, the teachers unions cannot be allowed to fashion the programs. There can be no compromise on quality in education. In broken down areas, boarding schools will need to be built which in addition to providing education also provide a sound, safe environment, and a culture of higher values, growth, and personal discipline.
4. We need to build common sense, and by that I mean having sense in common, not fragmentation. Bridges have to be built to the currently angry Trump supporter. Outside of the yahoos, these people have taken a lot of hits.
5. Special interests -- this is America's worst problem. Special interests should be able to lobby all they want. But there cannot be a mechanism for ANY special interest to insert its line items that benefit it and only it at the expense of everyone else. This mechanism circumvents democracy and the common interest, and is tearing the country apart.
15
Yep it's the unions who are the problem in education. Who cares that Mass has strong unions and strong schools and Miss has weak unions and weak schools? Who cares that Finland has strong unions and strong schools? Yep it's the unions
3
Oh great, more advice from a Republican.
Democrats keep talking this kind of advice, and keep losing two thirds of all elections.
This is the opposite of what the people actually want.
Democrats keep talking this kind of advice, and keep losing two thirds of all elections.
This is the opposite of what the people actually want.
2
Scrolling through the comments, I can't believe I haven't seen Keith Ellison's name once as a viable candidate. He's a young Bernie Sanders and he's brillian.
4
Ellison would be my dream candidate of choice. But not yet, for 2020. Every time the guy opens his moth he makes sense, and he walks the walk too. Reaistically I also am afraid that he doesn't have a snowball's. But he'd have my vote, and so would Jeff Merkley. Now there would be a team that i could vote for with enthusiasm.
"Scrolling through the comments, I can't believe I haven't seen Keith Ellison's name once as a viable candidate. " Well, it's going to be Hillary with either Pocahontas Warren or Keith Ellison, although the idea of an Ellison / Kamala Harris ticket spouting far, far, far Left ideas is appealing too.
Unbelievable, Keit Ellison, yes, run him...
Not being Trump.is not a platform. None of these 'candidates' has a signature issue.
9
Kamala Harris has my ongoing support....I truly hope that she will be our first female POTUS in 2020. She is a real gem, I look forward to that wonderful inauguration day. SAY YES! to Kamala Harris!!!!
3
Americans have been there, done that Obama. The U.S. is facing crisis-level financial/structural problems IN the U.S. and internationally.
There's no way a blabbering yahoo like Kamala Harris will ever be trusted to
fix these problems.
There's no way a blabbering yahoo like Kamala Harris will ever be trusted to
fix these problems.
1
The Democrats have to pick someone as tough as nails if Trump is their opponent. We know he will do anything to win: unending insults, lies, a parade of nastiness, those are his tactics. So the Democratic candidate has to withstand that stuff and retort not in kind but in some way that gets under his skin constantly. That is, if he is still the President and not in jail.
3
If those are the possible Democratic nominees for President in 2020, the Republicans will win again.
10
I have to agree with Marc Lasry, it is not just about opposing Trump. The obsession with deposing Trump by impeachment or election is dominating the entire political debate. It is time that political agendas came back into the picture.
I also agree with Agarre's comment below "pre-packaged, risk averse automatons" no longer get voted for.
I also agree with Agarre's comment below "pre-packaged, risk averse automatons" no longer get voted for.
15
To my dismay, Trump continues to have the strong support of 35-40% of the population. This will sustain, especially if he builds the wall and the economy continues to stay reasonably strong, boosted in the short-term by a tax cut. This does not portend well for Democrats and liberals like me.
Democrats will have to be more realistic on key issues of immigration and trade and blunt the fervor of Trump's base. Have a bit more empathy for the workers who have lost their job to China or do not want to be called racists/bigots just because they want to have greater control of our borders. This is not a black-white issue - many immigrants feel the same.
Bernie has the right message on these issues and is authentic. He is a true independent and would have handily countered the fake and unprincipled Trump. Hopefully the Democrats machinery has learnt its lesson and will not tip the scales this time.
Democrats will have to be more realistic on key issues of immigration and trade and blunt the fervor of Trump's base. Have a bit more empathy for the workers who have lost their job to China or do not want to be called racists/bigots just because they want to have greater control of our borders. This is not a black-white issue - many immigrants feel the same.
Bernie has the right message on these issues and is authentic. He is a true independent and would have handily countered the fake and unprincipled Trump. Hopefully the Democrats machinery has learnt its lesson and will not tip the scales this time.
9
"To my dismay, Trump continues to have the strong support of 35-40% of the population. This will sustain, especially if he builds the wall and the economy continues to stay reasonably strong, boosted in the short-term by a tax cut. This does not portend well for Democrats and liberals like me." Actually Trump's support is higher that the press admits, while Congress scores at 8% positive. And you are admitting that Trump will remain popular as he does what he said he would do when he campaigned. Trump's going to win 2020 because he is bringing prosperity back to America.
We are running out of time for ""the same old dea" and this piece indicates the same old deal of political party candidate evolution. Harris would lose without question. Democrats wake up! Hollywood over association alienates people. Hillary Clinton left us a mess. A woman for President is not the most important thing at all. Period. L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti would be a great candidate if it were possible. Brilliant, humanistic, capable and tough. We will have more catastrophes than we can count from global warming until the next election. Pandering for votes on an ethnic basis will happen. The feminist card will again be too loud and Hillary's "I am a woman and he is an bad man' won't cut it. God I wish Biden had run but he is done. Bernie and his people are too socialist and he can be a spoiler with his dream followers.
3
In polls that ask people which they prefer, capitalism and socialism come out about 50/50. This is not 1968.
About a third of the young people I know are capitalists. About a third are socialists, and about a third are anarchists (a form of socialism).
Obama and Clinton are both avowed capitalists, pushing correlate trade deals and"market solutions" to everything. The Republicans still called them socialists all the time.
The Republicans call everyone left of Rush Limbaugh a socialist. That works when it chases Democrats from policies that help working people. It will back fire if you embrace taxing billionaires to invest in children.
About a third of the young people I know are capitalists. About a third are socialists, and about a third are anarchists (a form of socialism).
Obama and Clinton are both avowed capitalists, pushing correlate trade deals and"market solutions" to everything. The Republicans still called them socialists all the time.
The Republicans call everyone left of Rush Limbaugh a socialist. That works when it chases Democrats from policies that help working people. It will back fire if you embrace taxing billionaires to invest in children.
1
It's still abundantly clear that "we the people" have no voice in American politics anymore. Money talks. Money wins. Greed is good.
9
Obama won, didn't he, greed and corruption, yes...
"Long list of Top Democrats have...money on their mind."
That says it all. It's amusing that so many NY Times readers have been fooled into thinking Democrats are more virtuous. They could care less about working class concerns. They just sell a different product with gobs of virtue signaling, which apparently is a siren singsong that lures in desperate liberal sailors every time. The Republicans have their own, of course, but at least it's relatively free of phony ethical posturing. Both parties are all about the votes. In our system, money buys the votes.
That says it all. It's amusing that so many NY Times readers have been fooled into thinking Democrats are more virtuous. They could care less about working class concerns. They just sell a different product with gobs of virtue signaling, which apparently is a siren singsong that lures in desperate liberal sailors every time. The Republicans have their own, of course, but at least it's relatively free of phony ethical posturing. Both parties are all about the votes. In our system, money buys the votes.
14
True. Except that money is no longer buying the votes. All of the establishment candidates lost. Trump spent almost nothing.
But Democrats don't need a demagogue. They need to make the People believe they are really fighting for their interests, not just collecting money from the rich to run TV commercials n
But Democrats don't need a demagogue. They need to make the People believe they are really fighting for their interests, not just collecting money from the rich to run TV commercials n
2
Why no mention of Al Franken? He's been touring and in the media with his new book. He's funny, down to earth, knowledgable, has worked across the aisle in Minnesota.
18
The most important criterion for a Democratic candidate for Presuudent is not to be unpopular.
This time last year, a Wahington Post/ABC News poll found that Hillary Clinton had a 59% unfavorability rating among registered voters.
Hopefully the Dems have learned from this.
This time last year, a Wahington Post/ABC News poll found that Hillary Clinton had a 59% unfavorability rating among registered voters.
Hopefully the Dems have learned from this.
9
As much as I love what Senator Warren says and does, her personality and speaking style puts even me off. Better she stay in the Senate.
3
Hello. Elizabeth Warren is one of the few Democrats that cuts through establishment double speak and explains exactly what it's really going on. She speaks the plain truth.
But you want someone to gloss over the truth with a smooth delivery?
But you want someone to gloss over the truth with a smooth delivery?
1
I'm sorry, Mr. McAuliffe, but if you run the Bernie Bros. will elect Trump again. And who is Ms. Harris kidding? She's been in office like 2 weeks and now she wants to be President?
5
Democrats try to run their party like a private club. You don't want new members, but you want everyone to vote for you after you insult them.
When the left in Wisconsin forced a recall of Scott Walker and his allies, the Democrats didn't send money, but they sent a centrist candidate to dilute the vote and lost. (Who won Wisconsin?)
When Occupy had encampments in 2,000 cities around the world, the Democratic Party dismissed them. Obama's homeland security organized the cities to attack them.
When the Fight For Fifteen was raising the minimum wage, the Democrats said $15 is too much.
When Water Protectors were fighting global warming in Standing Rock, being terrorized with dogs and water cannons, the Democrats were no where to be found, and Obama's homeland security brought in out of state riot police.
Every time a movement starts on the left, where the base is changing the conversation (instead of letting the right define the terms) the Democratic Party works against them.
You can't win elections by attacking your own base.
Trumps base is a bunch of traitorous domestic terrorists (Neo Nazis, KKK, and Confederate wannabes) and the Republicans manage to get along with them.
But Democrats sick their finger in the eye of the left, (people that want the world to live in peace and harmony and justice) every chance they get.
It was the rejection of the Bernie br Oi thers and sisters that elected Trump.
Good luck with that.
When the left in Wisconsin forced a recall of Scott Walker and his allies, the Democrats didn't send money, but they sent a centrist candidate to dilute the vote and lost. (Who won Wisconsin?)
When Occupy had encampments in 2,000 cities around the world, the Democratic Party dismissed them. Obama's homeland security organized the cities to attack them.
When the Fight For Fifteen was raising the minimum wage, the Democrats said $15 is too much.
When Water Protectors were fighting global warming in Standing Rock, being terrorized with dogs and water cannons, the Democrats were no where to be found, and Obama's homeland security brought in out of state riot police.
Every time a movement starts on the left, where the base is changing the conversation (instead of letting the right define the terms) the Democratic Party works against them.
You can't win elections by attacking your own base.
Trumps base is a bunch of traitorous domestic terrorists (Neo Nazis, KKK, and Confederate wannabes) and the Republicans manage to get along with them.
But Democrats sick their finger in the eye of the left, (people that want the world to live in peace and harmony and justice) every chance they get.
It was the rejection of the Bernie br Oi thers and sisters that elected Trump.
Good luck with that.
2
Well... she's looking at Barrack Hussein Obama who was in office a few months and was magically made President of the United States.
We seriously need new blood. Biden is a great guy, so is Bernie, but they are too old. Warren is too polarizing.
7
It is well known that the majority of the country would vote democrat if everyone who is eligible to vote would vote. Maybe spend less money on attempting to banter with liars and instead spend money on getting democratic voters the proper IDs and a ride to the voting booth.
Bernie's and Trump's followers were cut from the same cloth. They were both tired of the status quo of government...it wasn't taking care of the people. The people are tired of being lied to. The people are tired of their tax money being used in such an inefficient, ineffective manner. If the Democrats would do that, fix how our money is being used, certain republicans would cross the isles.
It's Almost Like Another Country Voted During The Midterm — One That Doesn't Really Look Like Us
http://www.upworthy.com/its-almost-like-another-country-voted-during-the...
Bernie's and Trump's followers were cut from the same cloth. They were both tired of the status quo of government...it wasn't taking care of the people. The people are tired of being lied to. The people are tired of their tax money being used in such an inefficient, ineffective manner. If the Democrats would do that, fix how our money is being used, certain republicans would cross the isles.
It's Almost Like Another Country Voted During The Midterm — One That Doesn't Really Look Like Us
http://www.upworthy.com/its-almost-like-another-country-voted-during-the...
6
'people are tired of their tax money being used in such an inefficient, ineffective manner. If the Democrats would do that, fix how our money is being used,'
Thanks for early a.m. humor. Democrats using tax monies efficiently and effectively? That's like saying, "Here, foxes, these are the keys to chicken coop.
Take good care of the chickens." You are being sarcastic, surely.
Thanks for early a.m. humor. Democrats using tax monies efficiently and effectively? That's like saying, "Here, foxes, these are the keys to chicken coop.
Take good care of the chickens." You are being sarcastic, surely.
1
Apprently you don't understand how bills are brought forward and how pork spending is added after the fact. Or how republicans spend for insane things like adding a 1.5 million dollar roof to a ski chalet in Alaska or building a 4 million dollar road to an island in Alaska or building a 4 million dollar runway in Iowa so that corporate jets could land closer to their factories vs going to the local airport and having to drive a distance...all at the expense of the tax payers. Are you actually saying that taking care of the people of this country is wrong?
One republican stated that each bill should only have one issue to vote on... with that I agree.
One republican stated that each bill should only have one issue to vote on... with that I agree.
Begging for money in Martha's Vineyard and the Hamptons. There's lots of working class people there - serving drinks to the swells...
7
The need of the hour is alignment with the GOP, therefore with voters, on most social issues: immigration, abortion@20, vote accounting etc., together with trimmed-down positions on health-care, gay rights and climate/junk science. Differentiate only on execution and details.
Which, by definition, makes anyone carrying the Democratic Party label, president immaterial.
However, if someone dumps the party loudly and starts a new one along the above lines, could have more than passing shot. Would be great to see a three way debate where the GOP and New P gang-up on the Dems, then fight it out on who can execute better.
Any takers? Senator Franken? No? Ok, Trump it is then. Bah.
Which, by definition, makes anyone carrying the Democratic Party label, president immaterial.
However, if someone dumps the party loudly and starts a new one along the above lines, could have more than passing shot. Would be great to see a three way debate where the GOP and New P gang-up on the Dems, then fight it out on who can execute better.
Any takers? Senator Franken? No? Ok, Trump it is then. Bah.
1
I don't see a problem. I love NYT but this is just content. It's early. We need to address Congress first--that's critical. The cream will rise--and it will be in direct response to the opportunity presented by the wound left by Don Jon. We have the puzzle piece, we just don't know which one will finish the picture. That said, the article implies the winner will rise out of policy and/or funding. We need the right candidate to convert the critical counties we lost in MI, WI and PA. We don't need a comprehensive Democratic candidate that appeals to every blue state--we just need a candidate that won't cost us states we won who can also win back the three states we lost. It can happen.
These are the same siloed elites who enthusiastically chose Clinton and did their best to squeeze out Sanders. They're great when it comes to identity politics, but they will never fight for policies that would seriously threaten their own positions of great wealth and privilege. Allow them to be the queen maker, and 2020 will be another disaster.
8
The Democrats will remain stuck if they don't transform themselves into a Labor Party that brings back unions, Eisenhower-level tax rates, universal health care, stricter gun laws, raised caps on Social Security, a robust system of public education that mandates the arts and phys. ed., and environmental and medical research coffers. We have the funds and simply need to re-direct them from the unearned, undeserved, and unnecessary tax cuts driven by the parasitic whims of the billionaire class.
I believe things are coalescing toward that reality, but won't happen overnight- we don't have the structure in place to absorb Sanders's instant revolution - which is why centrists like Obama and Clinton make sense.
I like Franken, Gillibrand, O'Malley, Warren, etc. That said, I am disturbed at how even Democrats are piling on Kamala Harris as being too shrill.
What is it with the disdain for women who hit back?
I believe things are coalescing toward that reality, but won't happen overnight- we don't have the structure in place to absorb Sanders's instant revolution - which is why centrists like Obama and Clinton make sense.
I like Franken, Gillibrand, O'Malley, Warren, etc. That said, I am disturbed at how even Democrats are piling on Kamala Harris as being too shrill.
What is it with the disdain for women who hit back?
4
One reason that Hillary lost is that she is from the NorthEast. So are Biden, Warren and Sanders.
I know people from other parts of the country who voted for Clinton but still were sort of glad when Trump was elected because they wanted to "shake things up."
You cannot believe how irritating it is to listen to the "NorthEast liberal establishment" crow about how smart they are and how stupid everyone else is.
I know people from other parts of the country who voted for Clinton but still were sort of glad when Trump was elected because they wanted to "shake things up."
You cannot believe how irritating it is to listen to the "NorthEast liberal establishment" crow about how smart they are and how stupid everyone else is.
7
Mr. Trump is also from the northeast. And a product of the Ivy League establishment.
2