Mayor Pete was a great self promoter and a good debater with zero national experience in governing and no credos with people of color. He ran the 300th largest city in the States. He had some issues there with that job. However running for President was a brilliant move to try and leapfrog the political morass that is Indiana (Pence's red state) where Mayor Pete had no chance of being elected to Congress.
Now perhaps the mayor can become a player on the national stage by being appointed the next president's cabinet.But to what cabinet position? Not sure Mayor Pete is qualified for any of them. After Trump's cabinet picks maybe no one cares anymore.
So now we are down to 5 plus Jill Stein... sorry, plus Tulsi Gabbard. Warren holding on for the VP spot. Biden/Warren ticket with a promise of 6 cabinet positions for people of color.
Anyone Blue will Do.
16
@Bill Cullen, Author
Most of what you say is accurate although he did go out in style and class which is much to his credit.
Mayor Pete had a better opportunity if he had truly gone down the middle lane as many of his policies were too far left especially in a general election against Trump but it is probably the only way to get the Democratic nomination -- sad but true. On occasion, he sounded too much like Sanders/Warren policies but at least he is a likable individual other than those two.
4
Please, nothing noble or brave about Pete dropping out, just more cold political calculation from a smooth operator. Pete had no path to the nomination, he did terribly in SC and the donors were drying up as a result so he dropped out while he's still worth an establishment gold card in future races while swiping the news cycle from Bidens win with his corny pre-packaged narrative that Frank Bruni is more than happy to echo for him. Happy to see him go away for a little while though.
19
He was/is an empty suit willing to do or say anything for the right price. His futile campaign was honed by his billionaire donors to thwart any real progressive change in America. Good riddance, though I am sure there is a big golden parachute in his future from those same donors.
20
@Observer
Yep, you nailed it. This was a selfish move for his own career. There is nothing graceful or dignified about it. I hope his handful of less wealthy donors see just how much he used them.
5
Does it concern you that the overwhelming majority of the Times voters Sanders would need to win see it totally differently? If you can't reach out--for fear of sullying your hands--Sanders has no chance.
Can't you just be discreetly superior?
11
@Observer Bernie blather.
Less than .01% of his donations came from wealthy donors - so what are you possibly talking about?
10
Pete was not going to win.
He won more by quitting than by continuing.
Pete is still all about Pete.
Oh yes. He plans to come back. Thats why he dropped out in the first place.
Again. Pete is about Pete.
5
Mr. Bruni,
I'm disappointed that this isn't seen by you and commenters as the work of "headquarters" to maintain their slipping grasp of the machinery.
If this was a principled rather than simply a political move, why not "let the people decide" and wait until after tomorrow's most significant primary day?
What about those who voted early and chose him, their vote now wasted, no opportunity to choose one of the still standing candidates?
Hard to imagine that most of his supporters favor the DNC's anointed guy although this positions him well to be their guy sometime down the road... assuming they haven't already crashed the bus into the abyss.
For him another box checked, a task completed.
7
Does it give you pause to see that the vast majority of Times commenters (who represent a segment that Bernie will need if he gets the nomination) see things completely differently?
Or does it just make you think you’re much smarter than the rest of us?
8
@JH Exactly ! To me it looks like a political move, even more, a deal: Buttigieg was "ordered" to give his delegates and moderate future votes to Biden and if this works and Biden get the nomination, the DNC do nominate Buttigieg Biden's VP.
No way to explain otherwise his abrupt stepping out !
1
@Mary
Mary of Colorado, with the inside scoop!
By the way, is Biden going to name Klobuchar the co-VP, since she dropped out, too?
5
Well, the youngest candidate Mayor Pete Buttigieg was smart enough to call it quits when it was no longer meaningful for him to run. Many of us are disappointed in that outcome; but, at the same time, we feel it allows the Democrats to tidy up their preferences in a more systematic manner now that we are at the brink of Super Tuesday.
Undeniably, Mayor Pete is a shining example for the entire country. It behooves us to explore the possibility of having Mayor Pete as the VP candidate for whoever wins the Democratic nomination. Both the two top-riders need a balancing running-mate; Mayor Pete would be a perfect choice.
Then, again, let me explore it further instead of stopping just there. How engaging would it be if President Trump himself chooses Mayor Pete as his running mate instead of VP Pence? It’s a solution that most of the people would heartily welcome from both sides.
5
Mayor Pete is a sell-out!
4
He is remarkably inexperienced and his record as a leader is woefully thin, even littered with failures, thus his high flying campaign was possible only due to his party affiliation, well aligned identity, and a fawning media. We do not need such inexperience and incompetence now. We need better. From potential leaders. And from the media.
11
Pete Buttigieg, the Scarlet Pimpernel of the Dem primary, set to save billionaires from losing their heads over the prospects of a tax increase, has quit. A sad day for the aristocracy.
9
"Class act" seems to be the term of art in the comments. The guy who continually lied about black endorsements is considered by some readers as a "class act". He utterly failed to address, much less repair, the rift he created with the black community in South Bend. Self-interested and politically expedient? Absolutely. Class act? Not so much.
10
I finally felt hope today--not just as a citizen, but as a gay veteran. I too, had to mask who I was inside, but loved (love) my country and thought that was fine for the better good. Those in service--even an Admiral's son--who knew me (really knew me) were supportive and for me that was enough. When President Obama (with the convincing of then Vice President Biden) lifted the "Don't ask, Don't Tell" policy, I was relieved--but since I'd come in before it, I just stayed quiet and retired in peace--knowing it was initially illegal for me to join the Navy as a gay man--though I wasn't a man, I was 17 and just didn't know anything about anything (small town in Michigan origination) but it felt validating to finally be able to be who we are in the military. I felt a kinship to Mayor Pete and am in awe and admiration of his religious based and powerful marriage with Chasten--whose speech today before his beloved husband took the stage, reminded me how gay youth today is still maligned and bullied far more than our percentage of the population. To think how much hope these two gave to gay youth made me emotional, as someone in the audience said what I was thinking ("You saved lives!") They did save lives and tried to save this country as well. They broke some barriers and Mayor Pete bowed out, giving Democrats like me the cover to vote for someone else. That someone else to me, is the Vice President who pushed President Obama to get on board with legalizing gay marriage. Go Joe!
49
Gay, shmay! He was just plain a possible excellent future president, and I'm sorry he's gone.
59
Bernie is espousing policy that has worked in all the Nordic states for over 50 years. These governments are all true democracies (unlike ours) and they are all capitalist market economies. They are also the most educated,healthiest, and happiest people in the world. That could be us if you just don't buy in to the red baiting propaganda...most people don't anymore that's why Bernie's winning ....Bernie the real populist will beat the sham populist with the fake tan...
15
@plamb please check what they are currently doing in the Nordic countries. Things have changed. As for free college many if not most do not qualify.
11
@K D currently the Nordic welfare model is, universal healthcare, social welfare, unemployment benefits etc etc. We have maternity and paternity leaves, we have free education, education support, housing support, citizens are pretty much taken care of ....
5
I am still "friends" with folks from my high school and hometown, a south Florida bastion of the KKK and '50s-like conservative attitudes. The guys were so glad "Mayor Buttplug" was out, they seriously derided him and his husband, and it literally made me cry, but that's why left that town. I've been with my same-sex "partner" for 40 years. I live in Atlanta where all is pretty good, but it is still so stunning that these people never moved on. That such a smart man and hero in every sense of the word is treated like "scum," as 45 or Limbaugh would put it. Thank you, Mr. Bruni, for your hopeful words on our sorry state of affairs.
40
I was initially skeptical about the abilities of a young, gay, reasonably inexperienced guy from the Midwest. He proved me (and so many others) wrong every day. I became an ardent supporter and spoke positively about him whenever possible (especially to my Republican friends).
He maintained his dignity even at the debates, where yelling and speaking the loudest seemed to be the mantra. I’m disappointed that this time around he didn't become the candidate “who beat all the odds “ to become the candidate, but I KNOW we will be seeing him again. And it can’t be soon enough!!!
44
Once again my eyes are wet reading this tribute. Thank you Frank.
Thank you too Pete for your wonderful book. What a Class Act indeed.
30
Wow - learned something new - had no idea that for gay marriage - which I fully supported for many years - you could take the last name of your spouse. But which one do you take? Is it based on relative fame?
1
The way Mayor Pete has been treated by the media shows that Americans love a lovable loser. But a gay candidate for the presidency?: "I would personally vote for him, but I don't know if America's ready."
4
Mr. Buttigieg is far from being finished with us.
22
He had my vote.
Warren will get it now.
12
Just read through the comments. One thing stands out to me—the amazing political acumen of Bernie supporters. Couldn’t wait to pile on Pete as he is on his way out. Relentlessly trashing him and refusing to admit he has even a single positive attribute. Ridiculing his supporters as gullible or corrupted. What a genius strategy to win newly available voters...to the side of Biden.
Biden or Bust 2020!
39
Yep we definitely missed the opportunity for a generational change when Pete dropped out BUT that man is the future and I can’t wait for us to get there with him.
Boomer for Buttigieg.
40
Frank: There WILL be a Re-Pete.
Now, it’s Biden for the WIN.
26
Mayor Pete -- the platitude candidate -- there was no there there.
6
In this culture of rampant narcissism, Pete Buttigieg put country over ego. He is an example to all. I'm delighted that, if anything, his stock has risen - not fallen - as a result of his (mature, adult, wise) decision to drop out of the race and consolidate the center of the Democratic Party.
I look forward to voting for him... hopefully when he is the Vice Presidential candidate this November on a Biden-Buttigieg ticket... and/or for President in the future.
31
Secretary Buttigieg will show us governance done right.
10
Checking the New Zealand job boards now.
1
Of all the candidates, he was the one who most reminded me of Obama. Next time Mr. Buttigieg.
33
COMMERCE?
Having reflected upon the tragedy of obscure death in war, Mr. Buttigieg will not whine “but Mommy, I want to be President NOW!” He can enter history patiently.
You get 1 point when your own voter goes to the polls. You get 2 points for stealing your opponent’s voter. Versus Pence, Pete is an asset for any 77-ish white male “B” the Democrats nominate, but diversity preserves the peace in Milwaukee. (The ultimate coup: steal Condi. The Bushes might even assist.)
Secretary? Statesmen are elder. Generals follow stars. Treasury and Justice require licenses, almost. What of the cabinet’s “expansion league”?
Trump reluctantly staffed “liberal departments": Interior, Labor, HHS, HUD, Energy, and Spelling. Whom would a Socialist-in-Chief appoint as ambassador to the private sector?
A Consultant (McKinsey)?
A small-town mayor (Rust Belt)?
A global intellectual (England’s Ox, our bridge)?
A military officer (experienced in economic warfare)?
An articulate, non-fanatical Episcopalian (fluent with wingtips and wine)?
Some (by no means all) business folk might take Pete’s absence of malice as a lack of insult, at least, to the injury of Democratic taxation. A suave toastmaster, he can dress for Davos, yet give the American heartland a positive spin, and build a dynamic and visible engine to promote success on both left and right.
This comment started as “Where do we park Pete?” Wouldn’t it be a hoot if America actually got excited about the Commerce Department?
3
We Democrats are lucky to have candidates like that. I am glad he had a chance to introduce himself to the American people, who will give him plenty of opportunities to use his remarkable talents in our service.
25
Joe Biden is very nice, but Im increasingly concerned that he’s not exactly the sharpest of the moderates, to put it tactfully. He also doesn’t generate intense enthusiasm in many circles, and he’s another one of the same “East Coast liberal elites” that Trump voters scoffed at in 2016. There is a growing sense of economic and climate desperation in the population, particularly the younger half of the nation. I don’t even think I could bear to watch Biden and Trump debate. I fear this wont end well.
3
I seriously doubt they would debate. The advantage with Biden is that he can just be a genial figurehead and delegate the actual running of the government to talented, experienced people, instead of the bumbling corruption of Trump’s administration.
21
Well done. Another line on the resume. Entering the presidential race is a good strategy to get the next political job. Smart move.
5
Mr. Buttigieg did the right thing, as did Ms. Klobuchar and Mr. Steyer. Why is Gabbard still in the race? Mr. Buttigieg has many ways to contribute to public service. This is probably not the last we will see of him.
16
Gabbard is still in the race because her purpose all along was to be a Jill Stein-style spoiler.
20
I like Pete. I find the complaint that he is a technocrat unfortunate because I believe it is a strength. We need people who can get things done not talk about pie in the sky dreams. We need people who can plan and carry out those plans not someone who makes outrageous promises with no real plan to carry them through. I hope that he has a long life and continues in public service. There is little doubt he would make fine governor or senator.
27
What should have happened? The OLDER of the Democratic candidates should have done the grown-up thing, put aside their massive egos and their "it's my turn" attitudes, dropped out, and put all their efforts into electing Mayor Pete. We truly do need someone intelligent, thoughtful, and with the ability to carry us through the mess we are in to a new beginning. Don't think that's Sanders, Biden, Warren, or Bloomberg. Sad day for us.
26
Biden is now suggesting he will use Buttigieg in his administration. This is what Democratic candidates should have done all along, instead of going on the attack. We saw great, capable and dedicated people on that stage!
Our system clearly needs reform: Primary ballots that allow 2nd,3rd choices; an electoral college based on proportionality, , and a Democratic Party that works in cohesion on policies. Rugged individualism is no longer paying dividends.
17
I didn’t realize how strongly I felt about Pete Buttigieg, or how deeply I cared about his candidacy, at least not until I noticed how depressed and gloomy I’ve been all day today.
Then I read I Frank's column this morning. It describes exactly why I feel this way, and had me in tears.
All the optimism I had for the future of this country is just...gone.
28
I am only a little bit disappointed that Pete Buttigieg has dropped out and I'm not surprised at all. I have believed from the early days when I was first aware of him that he would be President one day -- but not this time. And I don't believe he himself ever truly imagined that it would be this time. This run was a test, an introduction. Pete is much too smart, too educated and too solidly sensible not to know that he didn't have that much of a chance ... this time. If he plays his cards right, and he will, he can do something significant in the area of public service for the next two years. He can also run for the next open Indiana senate or gubernatorial seat, and go from there. He might even wind up in the next president's (Democratic) cabinet. Pete has become a respected and admired national figure which was the plan all along and I for one am delighted.
31
I'd be proud to have Mayor Pete as President of the US. I agree with everything written in this article, and I look forward to having Mayor Pete become President in the hopefully not too distant future. He should be very proud of the campaign that he ran.
35
In his column on February 26, describing his surprise at the ascent of Bernie Sanders, Mr. Bruni revealed to us all that he had an stunning epiphany: "We journalists should never again write that someone is too old, too young, too polarizing, too petty, too cranky or too whatever to win an election. We should listen to what he or she is saying and then analyze, with an open mind, how it’s being heard."
While struggling whether to file this learning closer to "Don't judge a book by its cover" or to the equally wise Italian saying "L'abito non fa il monaco" (It's not the robe that makes the monk), I could not avoid being amazed by how the most appropriate reaction to such a revelation ("Duh!") would do a disservice to Mr. Bruni candor. Indeed, no traditional media in this country covers the election as more than a glorified horse race, in which look and mannerism of candidates far outweigh the substance of their proposals. The discussion of ideas is mostly confined to putting them into bins ("socialist", "reasonable", "fiscally responsible", "bankrupting", ad so on) without any discernible nor consistent criteria.
However, in reading this column I realize that Mr. Bruni's moment of introspection was far from being life altering. In this eulogy of Buttigieg, all I can see is an enumeration of the reasons why Mayor Pete is likeable and the absence of any substantive discussion of what vision and far reaching ideas we should credit him for enriching our political discourse.
10
I grieved when I woke to hear the news Pete had graciously bowed out.
I grieved for young Americans whose voice he so eloquently championed, with his Mad magazine cover like face that resembled their own, wrinkle and cynicism free, and full of optimistic innovative solutions that we Boomers seem too elderly to inspire. I grieved when I realized the youngest candidate left standing is now 77 years old, with questionable heart health or mental acuity. I grieved for ideas and values that require us to leap back in time or Jet stream forward to a radical unknown future. I grieved we could not live in the calm assured capable leadership, intelligence, authenticity and above all else integrity Pete shared with us, if only for a time. I grieved for the marginalized of any color and stripe, because we could have had a knowing leader who understood what it meant to be cast aside, denied rights other so freely enjoy, which would ever fall on his radar to shield the weakest or unique-est among the disenfranchised: women, children, gay, elderly, immigrants, under-represented like my own Native Hawaiians, seeking only opportunities for a quality of life for our families in our homeland.
Of course, I will support my party moving forward And vote responsibly. But let me please grieve just a moment longer as Pete for America fades in a dust storm sunset and “Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold; Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world...” please come back to lead soon.
22
@R Kehau Elizabeth Warren is 70.
5
Congratulations, ex Mayor Pete for having the good sense and graciousness to leave the crowded Democratic candidate race when you did. This just is not your time but no doubt about it, it will come. Please stay involved in public service. As an early supporter, I hope that our paths will cross again. Best wishes to you and Chasten.
19
I have so much to say about Pete that I find myself speechless. Frank Bruni, you did a great job expressing what Pete means to me and to the country.
I hope that between now and November the Democratic Party will find ways to put Pete's powers to work so that Trump will be defeated. Pete has a long and influential life of public service ahead of him. I look forward to witnessing his future accomplishments.
24
What a condescending headline. No it was not the grown up thing. It was the corporate party thing to do.
8
They look so, soo, soooo cute!
3
Boy, New York Times, you sure love Pete and are treating him like a martyr for a cause. There are plenty of comments that are not favorable, but you didn't post any under your NTY Picks. What does that say about fairness and representing all viewpoints in your paper?
3
I will miss what Pete added to the the debate, I see nothing less than promise for this great man, whatever he will chose next. May you and your husband be blessed in all that you do. God help America for now we have lost a remarkable leader. We will need you Pete.
13
Mahalo nui loa, Frank Bruni, for your thoughtful column. I cried yesterday as I watched Pete’s “stepping down” speech. We need him and his leadership and vision so very much. I want the Democratic Party to grow up, get over themselves, and recognize this.
17
I cast my early vote in California for Mayor Pete and cannot cast another ballot. But I can’t really think of whom else I would have supported. I really liked his thoughtful positions. I think he is correct that the next President should not ram policies down the throat of Republicans the way the current administration seems to be doing to us.
Only wish he had been seen as the exciting and inspiring candidate I feel he was (and hopefully will be again).
15
I’m disappointed Mr. Buttigieg will not be president: American presidents willing to send someone else to fight a war are a dime a dozen but a president who was willing to go himself is very rare indeed.
19
Last week I lost respect for Pete, almost completely. He said things about Bernie Sanders that was so inappropriate, so wrong, so untruthful, so intellectually dishonest. He said that Sanders professed a rigid ideology that excluded most people especially most Democrats. Shame on him. The closest thing to Sanders is Franklin Roosevelt and they both dwarf Pete.
6
Sanders does have a rigid ideology. And people who say he is just like FDR usually don’t know the first thing about FDR. FDR once famously said “The business of America is business.” That is anathema to Bernie supporters.
18
I was wrong! It’s a misquote. Neither FDR nor Calvin Coolidge, whom I’ve also heard it attributed to, ever said it. Still—Bernie as FDR is a ridiculous case to make.
10
I was very put off by Pete's sly digs at other candidates in the debates. I have no doubt he'll be back, hopefully with a little more experience and humility under his belt.
5
With Amy also out of the race the "diversity" and new faces of the Democratic party are now narrowing down to, as the troll Chris Christie pointed out yesterday, "3 white men between 77 and 78 years old." And the two likely to duke it out for the nomination are career DC insiders. Never have I been more disillusioned in the DNC, the primary process, and the way this candidate selection is playing out so far. In the meantime, the true pandemic threat, DJT2020, is gaining traction.
4
Trump is also an old unhealthy white man.
9
This is an exceptional column about an exceptional candidate, Mr. Bruni. Thank you for writing it. Mr. Buttigieg personified what a real candidate for president could and should be like. I feel Mr. Buttigieg is a political star in the making and I look forward to voting for him in a future election.
19
Good column. Frank! Before Mayor Pete bowed out yesterday, my Quaker Rabbi told me that she thought he would make a great vice president for Joe Biden. Mayor Pete is intelligent, highly educated, and savvy. He lacks experience, yes, but he could learn on the job. And he would provide a good age balance to Joe Biden. I would endorse that ticket!
18
From the first debate when Mayor Pete answered "I couldn't get it done" when asked about his city's police force remaining disproportionally white..he has stayed true and classy throughout the entire campaign. With today's politics filled with lies and deceit, Mayor Pete is and will be a welcome change.
17
I'm sorry to see him drop out. He was the only one I heard talk about coming together, and the only one who didn't waste his time on Trump. Good luck to him and I hope he lands on his feet.
13
I hope Mayor Pete stays in politics and remains relevant. He was an inspirational candidate.
11
Pete was, and is, the hope. Run for anything, Mayor Pete! We're with ya!!
11
Someday he will be president. (He'd make a fab vice president and it would be good training too. Are you listening Joe?)
14
A great piece. Here is another Op-Ed on Pete written by a Stanford undergrad that is worth checking out
https://stanfordpolitics.org/2020/03/02/mayor-pete-wasnt-perfect-but-he-was-brave/
4
Pete did the right thing at the right time, good for him. Now perhaps he should use his newfound fame to win a major race in his home state. Congressman Buttigieg sounds good, Senator Buttigieg perhaps. Or maybe take Mike Pence’s other old job in the statehouse. See you back on the national stage in a decade, Pete!
4
Mr. Buttigieg became a candidate only because his people got undeserved softball articles in various magazines, notably that of the Washington Post. When I saw it, I thought, someone is pushing him despite him have no experience or base. Now, similar higher-ups have strong-armed him to bow out, because he is upsetting their more recent plans to destroy Bernie Sander once again. The Democrat Party should be investigated for fraud, using their funds to benefit specific people, and racketeering: "Get out now, Pete, or else!" and "Here's a summer house Bernie; stay in it." The DNC makes the old threatening union bosses seem like Mother Teresa.
5
I forgot to say a few minutes ago that, if Mayor Pete were to become Vice President, his husband Chasten would become the first Second Man! Talk about historic!
3
Mayor Pete's farewell speech to his candidacy was a classy act deserving to be emulated by senior students of politics and future public leaders. Yes, his non-hackneyed argumentative articulations are refreshing and mind-openers. Time is in his favor for a return, rerun of his candidacy.
11
I was having a hard time deciding whether to vote for Mayor Pete or for Biden. I thank the mayor for making my choice easy. His time will come, he's a great candidate.
14
Absolutely a class act and a highly moral one at that. Withdrawing in order to let a moderate beat Sanders is a moral choice. Good for him. Let us see more of him in the future
15
Thank you, Mr. Bruni, for the beautiful column, especially coming a day after such a sad turn of events. As a 58-year-old gay man, I never thought I'd be able to vote for an openly gay man for president And while Mayor Pete did the right thing, it's dispiriting to see the choice come down to two 75+-year-old straight white men—in 2020, no less. In any event, this is a great paean to a great politician and role model, Pete Buttigieg.
13
Mayor Pete: You showed everyone who listened what politics could be again with a thoughtful and genuine campaign. You have introduced yourself to the nation and many are sorry to see you go. We will need you back. Run for governor or congressman or senate, get some seasoning, and come back to run for president in 8 years (or maybe 4).
Dropping out was the right thing to do and I wish other candidates would understand the singular importance of what you did yesterday. You put the country before your desire to gain high office, something Republicans have long since forgotten. You are one class act.
13
“I will do everything in my power,” he said, “to make sure we have a new Democratic president come January.”
Thanks Mayor Pete! When Bernard Sanders accepts the nomination of the Democratic Party this summer we’ll hold you to that.
3
Dear Frank--I have ready several of your columns now, most of them the last year. For obvious reasons, I have looked to you for some explanation or expansion of what I was feeling about the Buttigieg candidacy. His energy, his eloquence and his joy in the spotlight and on the podium, all while slaying the LGBTQ dragon with perfect pitch. I was prepared to vote for him and will miss him a lot. Thank you for translating so much of what was just plain spectacular in watching Mayor Pete these past several months. All the best, Peter B.
12
Yes, Mr. Bruni, Pete combined a perfect formula; young, white, clever, to leave a cloud of feeling good over so many people, including yourself. Where was the substance, the specifics of what he would do both for the country and on the world stage?And let's think about Pete as he might face challenges in the country, somewhat light years away in scale from a town.
3
Well his substance is in his archives of plans listed on his website. Peteforamerica.Com. By your statement the congressional candidates have no presidential experience...
4
I agree strongly with Frank Bruni, that Mayor Pete did the right and adult thing in dropping out swiftly when it became obvious he could not be the nominee. I supported him fully but believe for a variety of reasons Joe Biden is the better candidate to beat Donald Trump who, for the sake of our country and the world, must be defeated. So don't despair if you, like I, supported Mayor Pete. Please throw your support behind Joe Biden and know your vote for Mayor Pete in any primary is NOT wasted. It will ultimately assure that Biden is our nominee in November. Mayor Pete could even become the first gay Vice President, no small feat in itself!
12
I knew Pete would do the right thing and drop out. His character and his intellect would allow him to do no less.
So, thanks. Pete! You'll surely be with us in important ways throughout the years ahead.
13
He had the guts to run and has the class and smarts to be a contender in the future. I'll be watching and waiting for his time to come.
16
Just a beautiful tribute and up to the standard Pete and his husband set Sunday night--hopeful and dignified. Bravo, Francecso!
13
That was lovely. Pete Buttigieg was (and is) so easy to like but I was scared that this does not transfer beyond my tiny demographic corner of the party.
9
I like him. That he is only in his 30s and gay and only was mayor of a relatively small city does not matter to me. I think he is wicked smart and of good character. I hope he runs for governor or senator and wins and then tries again for president.
15
I hope he runs for President again. I will absolutely vote for him.
14
The moment I saw he’d left the race, tears filled my eyes and they continue to flow when I least expect them. He is certainly the best and the brightest, not least for putting his country ahead of himself when he decided it was time to bow out. Mayor Pete is the personification of all virtues, and we must hope with all our hearts that he stays in the race—no matter how long—till he comes out on top, where he belongs.
18
I already voted in Maine's primary and voted for Mayor Pete. It is very disappointing to me personally that my vote will not count in determining the Democratic nominee except by its absence. Still, I voted for Buttigieg because of his thoughtfulness and his youth and his fearlessness, and I'm proud to say so. It is too bad that he is throwing his support to Joe Biden instead of to Amy Klobuchar. Things got nasty between them as they bitterly struggled against each other to occupy the Midwestern moderate lane so he turned to Biden. My only hope now is that if Biden does get the nomination he chooses Buttigieg as his VP candidate, and then in the unlikely event that Biden beats Trump he serves just one term and leaves it to Buttigieg to run for the second term. If Biden is to win at all if will be with the help of the anti-Pence from Indiana.
8
I voted for "First name Mayor, Last name Pete" in early voting in California. And i would have done it again even if I had known
beforehand that he was ending his campaign.
It was my privilege and my honor to vote for one of the brightest, most intelligent, most honorable people to have run for president in a long time.
For the sake of this Country, I hope he prospers and remains a force in our direction for a long time coming.
12
Mayor Pete might be the ideal running mate of Joe Biden...If this retirement from the race was a calculated move it may have been a darn smart move for both Joe and Pete.
11
You are a reaffirmation in the dream that is America. I only wish you the very best in whatever you do next..
We will be watching you shine... Thanks!
10
Seldom have I been privileged to see such a combination of earnestness, smarts, encyclopedic knowledge, thoughtfulness, and compassion. It seemed unlikely from the start that he would prevail, but I hope and pray and believe he will be back. He was like a breath of fresh air.
10
Mayor Pete has class, and that class was manifested every time he was in front of a camera and answering questions. Hope we have not seen the last of him. My wife and I and our four grown children all thought he was the best of candidates.
He has talent and is focused on advancing the common/public good. The is certainly refreshing, considering the selfish and narcissistic one currently occupying the oval office, one that equates what is good for him with what is good for the country.
14
In a country not known for being pro-intellectual, Mayor Pete proved you can be empathetic as well as smart. His loss is ours. If we could only get back to the essentials, of caring, of learning, of penetrating the garbage with which we're surrounded. There is now no one who touches Pete as someone above politics and reaching for the stars of purity and compassion.
12
A small-town mayor who wasn't successful in that job. South Bend is still depressed.
5
@Jonathan Katz
The many SB resident who've commented on this topic here say otherwise.
12
The Sanders people, like Trumpians, are sore winners. It’s unacceptable to praise another candidate, even one who is no longer in the race.
13
@Jonathan Katz - South Bend has a little over 100,000 people. That’s not a “small town”.
For the record, a college classmate of mine came from a town in rural upstate New York that had around 1,600 people - the entire town was approximately the size of my high school. It had no grocery store and residents had to drive nearly an hour in order to do their food shopping. Driving to Ithaca, N.Y. once, I passed through a very small village that I learned later was home to only around 900 people. These are small towns, not South Bend. Please get real.
9
Mayor Pete did not understand that the Democrats are not really ready for an alternative candidate.
Women, gay, black, Latin, Asian.
They all ran, but none had the broad support the Democrats supposedly were going to give to such a candidate.
Instead they all lined up behind rich old white folk.
Warren is still in there, but she is now effectively the person at the bottom of the totem pole. Why she stays is beyond me since this is a race between Bernie, Biden and Bloomberg.
The Democrats, for all the noise they made did not support an alternative candidate.
At the end, one of 4 rich old white men will win.
So much for this Liberal revolution.
5
@AutumnLeaf Maybe there are three rich old white guys running for President for the same reason that FDR made Joseph Kennedy head of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Takes one to catch one.
After Buttigieg the three look like as interesting as stale oatmeal.
4
Mayor Pete and his husband showed everybody, including infamous bigots Limbaugh and Pence, how adults behave and conduct business. I'm very proud of Buttigieg-- and especially his takedown of those "family values" hypocrites.
24
I voted early for him in the Washington state primary. No regrets for that early vote. I know someday we will proudly be calling him President Pete.
13
His chance is yet to come. I liked him from the start and admired his intelligence and honesty. America will hear from him again and soon, I hope.
11
Mayor Peter Buttigieg is a unique talent who will most likely be around for a long time and with added resume will surprise no one when he is a presidential candidate. But Bob Kerrey's sentiments, as quoted by Frank Bruni, are telling: "I do not think my support of Pete would have enabled him to win . . . But it would have made me feel a little better about his loss this morning." Supporting a candidate is not an exercise in self-improvement or self-idealization. Either you believe Buttigieg was the right candidate for the job or you do not. He is not a litmus test for your diversity credentials. If Limbaugh is wrong about the ick-factor of Mayor Pete kissing his partner on stage, then, so are Kerrey and those like him who supported (or might have supported) the South Bend mayor's candidacy as an act of patronage for his tender heroism.
2
@Otis Opse There could be no kiss with a higher ick-factor than the one Al Gore gave his then wife at the 2000 convention when he won the nomination.
2
@Bashh Oh my goodness. I just Googled it. They really should have rehearsed it.
2
I early-voted for Pete in Tennessee’s primary. But I don’t feel that my vote was wasted, as I have no doubt that we will say the words “President Buttegieg” not many years hence. That will be a very good day.
14
I hope Pete Buttigieg has the wisdom to run for Congress -- I think his profile is high now and he would win . An antidote to the awfulness of Ocasio-Cortez and the "squad of four"!
It was all upside for him, even if he could not win due to age and experience. He is now nationally known.
10
Thank you Pete. You put our country first!!
10
Yes, he flew sky high and was better than all of the others, but given the country and the way it is, it prefers septuagenarian hand-waving ignorant populists, even the millenials, I had already voted for Mayor Pete my mail in ballot. That's fine because I cannot vote for the others, especially Amy Klobuchar, who has no support and is still doggedly in the race, B. did the grown up thing to try to save us from a lunatic,
I do want to say that apart from Frank Bruni, most of the Times journalists covering Buttigieg were very anti and partisan in his coverage, I wrote numerous comments about this, It was sad to see and totally unprofessional, Anyway, Buttigieg will go on to better things, Leading this benighted country will fortunately for him not be one of them.
8
Any McKinsey alumnus is a danger in politics
3
Do you have evidence or are a lot of people saying?
5
Maybe he just listened to the wine cave crowd, they favor Biden.
5
Just like Obama delivered the keynote address at the DNC convention in 2004, it would speak voumes if the DNC would invite Mayor Pete to give the keynote address at this year's convention. Also, I think Mayor Pete needs to spend some time in the black community. If he could find a way to mend that fence, I think he would be unstoppable in 2024.
8
He's an awfully good man, solid, wise, thoughtful & kind. No one is more articulate, holy cow, what a way with words. We are lucky to call him one of ours. Here's hoping we can vote for him in the years to come.
12
Or VP nominee. Biden & Buttigeig...yes for November.
10
I hate to see him go. He has more than 100 times the humility, courage, thoughtfulness, literacy, intelligence, and genuine goodness than The Current Temporary White House Occupant could ever dream of...I have a feeling we'll be seeing Pete again in the near future. He would make an excellent VP.
10
I truly admire Pete Buttigieg and believe he reflected all the better parts of the USA. An extraordinary person. Your column really captured all the reasons it is sad he didn't move ahead, but he had the wisdom to know when to retreat and plan to try again. He actually embodied making decisions which are best for others, without the ego getting in the way. Hope to see him again soaring upwards.
10
This was a great first run. He will have a great chance and a great political future if he continues as he has started. Dropping out at the right time is indeed a great indicator of a mature, balanced politician.
6
What we do not know about Mayor Pete (or Joe Biden, for that matter) is what they have in mind or up their sleeves when leading Republicans refuse to work with them (or worse, pretend to do so, like Lucy with the football) and come down hard on any Republican who does. Obama basically pretended they were not like that and continued reaching out to them, but this strategy was not very successful.
Bernie will call them out on it repeatedly and throw his stump speech back at them. This strategy may not be any more successful than Obama's; moderates will condemn both sides for fighting rather than working together and shun the question of who is more responsible for the standoff. Answering this question and acting on that answer would amount to moderates taking sides, which is immoderate.
Democrats and democracy are facing a long-planned slow-motion coup d'etat, but they must resist and fight it without calling it what it is or they will lose moderates with this immoderate talk of coups.
2
Calling Republicans out is how he assembles a winning coalition?
3
@sdavidc9
In these turbulent times, Sanders hasn’t called any Republicans out in the Senate. He’s been passive, focusing instead on his ego-driven election campaign. He has no record of using his office in any way other than to build his own wealth and aspire to be president. And his wife destroyed a college in Vermont through mismanagement—what about the impact on students and employees? There’s no evidence he can accomplish anything he promises—yet he’s had an entire career in public service.
3
I was saddened by his departure, but Mayor Pete did it with class. He represents not only generational change, but the kind of deep thought that few in this process seem to express.
Please, Mayor Pete, stay active and be a force for a better path for us in the future.
12
I love Pete. I love him now, when he's out of the race and I loved him when he was in the race. What an intelligent, thoughtful young man! Somebody who actually thinks before he opens his mouth. I wish him the very best of everything.
13
In watching the debates, I was struck by the passion of
Mayor Pete. He speaks with knowledge and justice.
I am proud of him for getting out of the current race.
We need all hands on deck to get rid of trump.
An ethicist, such as Mayor Pete would not, I feel, survive this guttersnipe in orange.
Oh, he would rise above the fray, but at what cost?
If we can get a Democrat elected, there will be numerous positions open to Mayor Pete. Once in, his candidacy in 2024 would become a reality.
Please, Mayor Pete, hang tough. We need you.
10
I don't think we've seen the last of Pete Buttigieg and for that I am forever grateful
10
I look forward to voting for him in the future.
10
Bravo Mr. Bruni. And Bravo to Mayor Pete. I look forward to voting again for the latter and reading about it from the former.
9
He showed that he is a class act and knows how to put country before his own ego. How wise and rare. I hope he continues to gain practical skills in the ensuing years, perhaps run for the senate, and then, again, run for the presidency.
12
Bravo, Mr. Bruni! To say that I agree with all that you've said would be a gross understatement.
As someone who is approaching "Senior" status, I can't tell you how refreshing and inspiring I found Mayor Pete.
In defeat, he showed us all what being a real grown-up should be.
While I will vote for any Democrat to beat the Oompa-Loompa that currently resides in the White House, I can tell you that I too fear that we may have missed a golden opportunity.
I do look forward to seeing Mayor Pete further down the road, as either a Senator, Congressman, or someone who could make a difference as a member of someone's cabinet.
Good luck Mayor Pete!
11
I’ve read many comments here praising Buttigieg and am hesitant to add a contrary view.
Dropping out now was certainly wise for his political future because he will emerge from Super Tuesday in a very distant 3rd or more likely 4th place with no path to the nomination. He did not broaden his limited base of support within the Democratic Party, for good reason.
He certainly has many good qualities: bright, articulate, patriotic and very ambitious. Also reasonably young. So, he can continue to mature and come back to run another day.
But I also saw several qualities in him that gave me significant pause.
-His lack of experience was one. Being a mayor of a small midwestern town is simply not good enough preparation for running the most powerful country on earth.
-He hasn’t been able to win a statewide election or a higher office that would reflect the trust of a significant majority of voters or officials.
-He faced several challenges with policing and the community of South Bend but didn’t handle those situations well.
-In his debate performances, I often heard an arrogance at work: snarky dismissals of others; ad hominem attacks on “Washington insiders” and sitting Senators; mischaracterization of people’s records and plans; straight up fear mongering regarding Sanders, which he raised again even in his withdrawal speech.
He doesn’t have to win over the majority posting here but people like me. I hope he improves - we need people of his caliber in public office.
5
Now apply every one of your points for pause to the clown in the office right now, and then go a little deeper.
6
@Paul Bingo!
4
I will miss Pete’s keen intelligence, his dry sense of humor, his common sense approach to everything and most of all - his appearance on the debate stage.
I cannot wait to see what Pete’s next chapter will bring. I hope we find him playing a big role in the next administration.
16
Frank,
Wow. As a Pete supporter from the beginning, this hit me right. in. the. feels. Your articulation on this sad, sad day gives me more hope than I've had in the last 18 hours. Thank you for putting words to my admiration and sorrow.
13
Joe once said he would only serve one term. I urge everyone in the DNC to consider Mayor Pete to be Joe's running mate in the VP slot. He will then gain the experience to be our next President in 2024 and on.
19
@Bob
Sorry but he's too inexperienced to be the VP.
2
@Bob I think this is was deal between the DNC and Buttigieg: he steps out, gives his delegates and all the moderate votes to Biden and, if this works and Biden gets the nomination, Buttigieg get the VP.
Very smart and also logical, just not so the "sense of sacrifice for the unity of the party", rather a ..quid pro quo
Sorry but his stepping out was too abrupt not to think of this.
5
@AACNY—You voted for Trump, who had no political or military experience, to be president. Yet you’re claiming that Pete, who has both, isn’t qualified to be VP? That doesn’t wash.
6
I, for one, thank mayor Pete for running! I was happy to support his campaign (with a tiny contribution), and political calculations notwithstanding, he was my choice for president (before SC). He also did the right thing by dropping out when he did and setting a wonderful example for all of us to follow. Sometimes the choices we make, even if it entails running for president or to whom we throw our support, really shouldn't be about what we want, personally. Sometimes we have to look at the bigger picture and eat our proverbial vegetables.
Trump is incapable of learning that lesson since he's obviously a narcissist, and (more tragically) a person who exhibits strong hints of psychopathy. But Bernie and his followers are both capable of learning and are in need of a lesson from our good Mayor Pete. Henry Navarre once said, "Paris is worth a mass." To Bernie, Washington, isn't even worth calling yourself a Democrat (with whom he caucuses) or restraining yourself from praising Castro. Is he wrong about everything? No. But that's besides the point. Even if Bernie were elected, he would be the least effective Democratic president since Jimmy Carter, so why ailenate everyone?
For the good of the country, I hope Biden wins... Say what you will about him, but he is a profoundly decent human being with humility to spare. The next president is going to be so busy fixing what Trump broke that we really don't have space or time to "feel the Bern".
8
What Frank Bruni previously alluded to as Mayor Pete's "blind spots on race" ultimately doomed his campaign ("The Case for Pete Buttigieg", February 27, 2020). More than anything else, he needs to spend the next few years developing authentic connections with black and brown communities before he runs for any public office again.
3
Great job, Pete - now endorse Warren! I know there was that whole "wine cave" thing, but don't hold a buttigrudge
4
Unfortunately Pete's time hasn't come. But it will-it will. He should make his mark in Congress and the Indiana state house.
5
i am a moderate conservative. i am not sure if i would of voted for Pete in the general election. i didn't believe in all of his viewpoints. That said, i do respect Pete as person. He does seem very genuine, and i like his intelligence, and the way he carries himself. I don't think this is the last we have seen of Pete in the political arena.
7
@sage43 If you are indeed “a moderate conservative”, I hope you don’t vote for the incumbent, even if you don’t vote (D).
4
I've been a Liz Warren supporter since the start. The power of Pete is such that he made me seriously consider switching. I know we'll see him again. I'm virtually certain this man isn't done servicing his country. After this election--since we no longer have this option--I'm going to be looking to his generation for leadership, and he'll get my vote then.
3
I hope Mayor Pete runs for the congressional seat in his district currently occupied by a Republican. When a senate seat is up for reelection, I hope he runs for it. This is a man who would be invaluable in the Senate.
10
@CM This man will be called by Biden as his VP because this is the deal between them (i mean Buttigieg and DNC), after Buttigieg has given Biden all his delegates and future votes....
How can you otherwise think of his abrupt stepping out from a race where he was in the third place ?
Who would have imagined that in this pantheon of democratic hopefuls we would see a newbie like Buttigieg emerge as a star, a refined, intelligent, thoughtful and compassionate human. I imagined him standing next to Trump on the debate stage giving crisp and clear answers to complex issues and leaving Trump to look like a spent 9volt battery that needed replacing.We need him around to educate America that decency and intelligence is a better choice than the crudity and ignorance to unite America.
12
I liked him and am sad to see him leave. Hope he will do the career path--the Senate and then the presidency.
8
Pete probably has a bright spot in the future political arena. He must now spend his time focusing on improving his appeal to ALL the diverse people in this country, not just those who are not offended by his sexual identity or those who admire his military experience. Like all others who want to move into the Oval Office, he must look forward and perhaps run for a national position, like Senator.
If he is successful, he might be running against another Donald Trump in 2024. I would think he would be the winner then, considering that the younger DT has no experience at all other than being the son of a loved-or-despised father figure.
Think about it, Pete. Do the country a solid.
5
Congratulations, Mayor Pete, on running a quality campaign and showing voters what an intelligent, unflappable, reflective candidate can sound like. Leaving the race now reflects well on your judgment.
Now go build on your thin resume and come back stronger 4 or 8 years from now.
6
We haven't seen the last of Mayor Pete! This country badly needs him.
11
It's a positive sign that a young, less traditional candidate was taken as seriously as he was.
7
I'm sad to see Mayor Pete go, but I'm hopeful that whoever wins the nomination will save a space for him in their VP slot or Cabinet. Pete is one of the few politicians I would actually trust to serve this country well. I can't wait to see where he goes next!
13
Was very disheartened to receive an email from Black Lives Matter- South Bend within minutes of Pete's announcement, celebrating that it had driven him from the campaign.
23
@Midwest
That’s Disgusting. Same for the protests that shut down Amy Klobuchar’s rally Sunday night.
15
@Midwest
BLM has gone the way of the Tea Party.
4
@Midwest I think Buttigieg's stepping out is the result of a great maneuvering by the Democrat establishment which started as soon as was clear that Biden won in South Carolina.
Not for nothing Jim Clyburn who practically had made Biden's victory possible, immediately after that, told that the music had to change in the Biden's campaign (my words but this was the sense)
Than the deal with Buttigieg: he gives Biden all his delegates and future moderate votes, and if this works and Biden gets the nomination, Buttigieg gets the VP. Clear enough to explain his abrupt stepping out, he was third in the race !
And today the endorsement for Biden from the mayor of Denver, Hancok, who happens to be black and an establishment democrat as Clyburn...
1
His power is remarkable, enormous and true to important values. He is the hope and symbol of the future. He is the reason I don't go into despair for my country.
12
I was not a supporter of Pete Buttigieg but as a Vietnam Vet I respect him for serving at a time so few do. He seems like a sensible fellow and conducted himself like a gentleman. He was often wrong on issues as are most Democrats but you can still be a good citizen. I don't see politics as a blood sport but as different folks coming to different conclusions. Therefore after watching this gay man, liberal Democrat, and military veteran run for office I think another time if a gay man or woman, veteran or not, runs for high office, and if they were moderate to conservative, and we agreed on most issues I would give him or her a serious look. But I hope they would respect the English language. If you are a man your same-sex spouse is your partner. A husband is the male partner of a woman. A wife is the female partner of a man. Men don't have husbands, women don't have wives. Folks should learn how to advance their cause without messing with the language. But otherwise, Mr. Buttigieg ran a good campaign and contributed to the political discussion in the public square.
5
Tom, hw respects many languages, and possibly has the capacity to do so because he doesn’t get caught up in such minutiae.
1
With respect to language, it’s pretty simple. Married men are called “husbands,” and married women are called “wives.” Same-sex marriage is called “marriage.”
9
Pete Buttigieg needs to go back to Indiana and get himself elected - WITHOUT national attention/backing - to some office at least as significant as mayor of South Bend.
6
I had already voted by mail for Pete. I was sad watching his amazing withdrawal speech because he represents all the good that a president can be and brings a freshness to politics that nobody else has. But I am also hopeful because I am confident that this is not the end for him but just the beginning. Whether it be first as a cabinet member, a senator, a congressman he WILL be able to run again and next time win.
11
Dear Mr. Bruni,
Thank you for this column. I'm sorry to see Mayor Buttigieg leave the race, but I think he did the right thing. I admire him for being thoughtful and inspiring, and I wish him all the best in his future. Maybe he'll run again in a few years, hopefully after serving in the next President's Cabinet.
7
I have a question, though. As much as we all liked Mayor Pete, and are sorry he gave up his bid for the nomination, why has he not come out in an endorsement of some other candidate? This would be flying even higher inasmuch as it would be giving his followers a person to put their muscle behind. I don't see him coming out in favor of supporting one of the existing candidates, and if he does not do this, it is a missed opportunity. Somebody tell me I've missed something, but so far, I haven't heard him making such a statement.
@Nancy : He left the race just hours ago. Once upon a time - before the 24-hour news cycle - we didn’t expect instantaneous fulfillment of our desire for information. Pete Buttigieg is, to my observation, a thoughtful man. Maybe he simply needs time to breathe and consider?
7
@Nancy Give him a little time to fully invest his recent move. He only dropped out yesterday.
3
@Olenska
Thanks so much to both of you who replied, and just to add more fuel here, Politico is reporting that Amy Klobuchar just dropped out of the race...and is supporting Biden.
https://www.politico.com/news/2020/03/02/klobuchar-to-drop-out-of-2020-campaign-endorse-biden-118823
2
“In a Buttigieg-Trump face-off, only one face would glow oddly orange, and only one head of hair would appear to be the work of a dozen tipsy sprites.” Oh, Frank, you outdid yourself! From now on I will smile at the thought of a dozen tipsy sprites fluffing and spraying the world’s most famous hairdo, making the sight of it a little more bearable. Thank you!!
2
Kathleen Pope, I still think Donald Trump's nickname of Alfred E. Neuman for Pete Buttigieg was more inspired than any of the barbs tossed at Donald Trump.
2
This moderate Republic has been a strong supporter of Buttigieg since the first time I heard him speak.
9
"For many Democrats Buttigieg’s sexual orientation made him a trailblazer and was cause for excitement, but for others it made him a risk and was cause to turn away."
Speaking as a Democratic, for myself (and many, many others I suspect) it meant neither of these things, which in a way I guess shows just how far we've come as a nation. Someday, hopefully soon, almost every American's reaction (including those of evangelicals) to LGBT people will simply be a shrug and a "Who cares? What does it matter?"
7
America had her chance at something once in a lifetime with Mayor Pete. Right here, right now. And we collectively blew it. To all those who loved him, but justified their lack of support by saying - he's young, he'll get another chance ... what scraps of hope might be left by the time he comes around again? I worry not enough for his remarkable leadership to even work with. This is a fitting and heartfelt obituary of what could have been, which makes it even sadder and more disappointing for this reader.
11
I share the positive sentiments of so many commentators. With that said, I wonder if he will issue an endorsement for tomorrow's primary elections.
Buttigieg is the finest leader we've had as a candidate in the US for many decades. I know he's young, and I didn't expect him to be the nominee, but he is the best person with the best skills. I hope voters have a chance to make him our president in the future.
The leaders in the Democratic Party, however, are completely inept. The Party needs wholesale change at every level.
8
No - "Mayor" Pete lost. I feel sorry for him, because unlike most blown out politicians, he doesn't have enough contacts in Washington to become a crooked lobbyist.
It would really be good for the Democratic Party, if we learned to say, that our candidates have lost, when that happens.
I'm sure that if President Trump loses the upcoming election, he will man up - shut up - and go right on to his next swindle.
Contrast that, with the chaos created by Hillary Clinton with her outrageous "I really won" campaign.
My greatest fear, is that there will be no decisive primary winner, and Hillery will show up at the convention to grab control via her "Super-delegates". That would guarantee that Trump would be able to continue his current swindle for another 4 years - a nightmare outcome, to be sure!
3
@Peter Zenger Clinton isn't the biggest problem we're facing. Leadership in the Democratic Party is a dumpster fire that put trump in office in 2016 and will do so again in 2020.
"I'm sure that if President Trump loses the upcoming election, he will man up - shut up - and go right on to his next swindle."
Really?? Have you not been paying attention to his twitter account for the last 8 years? Shutting up is simply beyond his grasp. As is manning up, btw. Please cite 1 example where he apologized, or said he made a mistake as opposed to blaming anyone and everyone else.
Go ahead, take all the time you need.
4
@Peter Zenger This may be news to you, but Hillary is not running for President in 2020. Therefore, she stands no chance of having super-delegates–or any delegates for that matter–cast votes for her.
3
We get the leaders we deserve. The fact that we are likely to be left to choose between an angry old man and an unfocused one who carries a lot of baggage to try and unseat Trump is disheartening. I am voting Warren tomorrow.
6
Now if only Bloomberg can follow Buttigieg's noble lead before it's too late and Socialist Sanders gets the nomination, all but ensuring Trump wins!
2
Planning to be around when Mr. Buttigieg transitions from "Mayor Pete" to "President Pete." As a 71-year-old Democrat, I refuse to have Donald Trump be my last president ...
18
Pete seemed more evolved than his male heterosexual challengers in the race.
10
...and he lives to fight another day! He needs more federal experience...perhaps more foreign policy experience. I suggest his next goal is as a Senator.
2
@J. G. Smith Governor is the proven path to the Oval office. In over 230 years, we've elected only a handful of Senators to the presidency.
Frank, Thank you for this uplifting article on Mayor Pete. I sent my first $50.00 to Pete on April 18th and yes, I am sad that he withdrew last night. However, he has made us all ( his supporters) proud. He is indeed thoughtful and mindful, charming and straightforward and above all a Man for these times. I cannot see him not be part of the coming democratic administration. He should and must.
Giri Sundar
12
Pete Buttigieg touts his service in the military. But when you look at what he actually did, there's not much to tout.
He joined the Navy Reserves as an officer in a special program that fast tracks elites. He was deployed to Afghanistan where he did online research into drug dealing and was an "Uber driver" (his own words) for his commanding officer. His military "service" seems to have been done with an eye toward its political value.
I don't mean to accuse Pete Buttigieg of deception. He certainly can legitimately claim to be a veteran. But as with his ability to speak in a number of languages, he seems to make a lot out of things that matter little. And with things that matter most -- real accomplishments -- his résumé is blank.
All hat, no cattle.
3
You present neither qualifications nor compelling case. All that's left is whine.
5
@John Smithson Same for his stepping out. To me it looks like the result of a deal between the DNC and him: you give now your delegates and moderate votes to Biden and if Biden will get the nomination, you'll be his VP. And he accepted and than did tout his "sacrifice" for the unity....Same as for his military service.
I cannot otherwise explain his extreme abrupt and surprising stepping out, he was third after all !
Yeah, Pete definitely doesn’t have the military experience of say, Donald “BoneSpurs” Trump.
3
I've been watching his career for years and am confident that we will eventually elect him as President. This was good practice, and he did very well.
7
Thank you, Mayor Pete, for your service to this country on and off the battlefield. You are a true gentleman and a class act. Please run again in 2024. Meanwhile, I hope your title changes from Mayor to Congressman, Senator, Secretary, or Vice President in very near future.
11
ME, Pete Buttigieg never served on the battlefield. He was an ensign in the Navy Reserves, and during his single months-long deployment to Afghanistan simply did research online and drove his commanding officer to meetings. The closest he got to any battle action was a fender bender on the Afghan streets.
Just like his being mayor of a small city, Pete Buttigieg makes a lot out of very little. Lots of people seem to be taken in by that kind of glibness. It's a shame.
1
@John Smithson ... You know, John, you constantly belittle Pete's military experience, but I bet YOU have never served. Pete had no way of knowing if he'd come out alive. He had no control over where he was sent. I'm from a military family (USAF). It takes guts to join, while you sit behind a screen. Bully for you.
As for the rest, I get you're not impressed with Pete's running for office. I also come from a political family. I grew up in campaigns. I know the guts, stamina and exhaustion it takes to run for office. It's anything but a shame. But you just keep typing, fella. We're all SO proud of you! You can move your fingers! YAY!
9
@John Smithson
I don't care if he was in Afghanistan for 1 hour or however long. The point is that he served our country, which, I surmise, is a lot more than most posting here.
8
LOVE Pete! He is of my generation and I feel like he is a class act. I am so excited to see where he goes from here. Way to go Pete!!!
12
Mayor Pete will be President of the United States some day with his husband by his side. Frank Bruni's article and Bob Kerrey's letter to his son were both moving and uplifting. We should all hold our ideals, morals and values close which is what was proved by Pete's candidacy and also by his departure. It is true, we can vote for the smartest guy in the class, he does not always win but he will be back. God bless America.
11
1. Your column was one of the most beautiful and inspiring I have ever read. 2. Mayor Pete was one of the most beautiful and inspiring persons I have ever seen run for public office, especially the Presidency. Thank-you both.
15
Thanks for this. I wasn't delusional about his prospects at this point, but Kerry is right: the race is something else now, with Pete's departure. Something less than. And that's sad.
11
I am so proud of this young American’s courage, intelligence, and sense of duty to god and country (and I’m an atheist). I would have liked him to be able to continue longer as I believe it would have been beneficial for more of America to see his values. I hope that whoever ultimately wins the nomination, and hopefully the White House, will offer him a place in the administration so that we can all benefit from his service. For me, at 73, he represents the sunshine of the future and a benchmark for other young people.
As an aside, I know that his gender preference was/is a factor for many people, but I wish it hadn’t been used as an identifier in the headline. Yes, discuss it, but not significant to who HE is ... just as the arrest of a suspect does not have to identify them as black. In neither case are these descriptives relevant to the matter at hand.
9
Thank you. A lovely piece about a remarkable young man with great promise, adding a hopeful note to an otherwise dismal time.
9
“We need a generational change and with him out of the race, that is not going to happen," said Bob Kerrey. True. Buttigieg's thoughtful withdrawal demonstrates that to be older is not always to be wiser.
8
In his departure from the race, Mayor Pete exhibited class, good judgement and humility. We should be so lucky to have such an individual in the White House in the years ahead.
16
Indeed, Mr. Bruni. America does need to turn the page rather looking backwards with old men like Trump and Biden. Is it a generational flaw, this not letting ago and giving people in or approaching their prime a chance?
I am a Boomer and Pete actually gives me hope about future generations, that there are young, thoughtful, intelligent, mature people engaging in this country in the right way.
Unfortunately Pete might be to perfect: Too smart, too articulate, too well mannered and too respectful. It is no wonder he is popular with older people rather than younger. He is mature beyond his years, which is probably somewhat disarming and even annoying to many. He is like the smartest kid in class and teacher's pet that is the example his classmates cannot live up to.
I am at the point in my life where I want a president who is younger than I am. After Obama I am not going back. We have already had three Boomer presidents: Clinton, Bush II, and Trump. All were born within weeks of each other.
Bernie Sanders only reminds me of my youth, sometimes painfully so. Do we really want to re-live the 60's?
I am a Boomer who is eager to let go, to move on.
Hopefully some of the young voters who have rejected Pete will mature and learn to appreciate him. Maybe they need to make some mistakes really bad before they come to that realization.
To Pete, I wish much success in the future. I hope to be around to witness some of it.
13
Please accept my apology, I clearly live in a cave.
I did not know until your article that Pete Buttigieg is gay. To be fair, I am a Republican, and I only recently have become interested in the Democrat primary out of my hopes for Mike Bloomberg. In this short time, however, I have worked to understand all the candidates including Mayor Pete. That is sexual orientation has been completely absent in the recent political story is perhaps the most uplifting message about our society that emerges from this otherwise disappointing political process.
On to the Vice Presidential nomination?
18
Pete - a beautiful union of heart and mind, with the heart leading the way. His dignity and evenness brought a reminder that, like everything else, politics is about people and their willingness to serve. QUE VIVA PETE!!
11
What an amazing guy. The epitome of my perfect candidate. I hope we see a lot more of him in the future.
18
He was a breath of fresh air and articulation, will miss his clarity; looking forward to his next moves
17
I have supported Mayor Pete - including financially - since his candidacy began. He would have been just the president we need at this moment in history, and I’m sorry more people couldn’t see that. We will be infinitely better off than we are now with any Democrat in the White House, but just that much more so if Mayor Pete had become President Pete.
I hope this is just the beginning for him. And I hope whoever wins this thing gives putting him on the ticket as the VP very strong consideration.
16
It breaks my heart to hear of Mayor Pete's withdrawal. No doubt he is right and would have a rough time getting the nomination. We will see Pete again and celebrate both his vision and his intelligence. Though I won't be thrilled to vote for a senior citizen candidate, (being one myself) I will if it will defeat Trump. I, too, was hoping for a new generation to take over. Maybe next time.
11
Buttigieg, despite some of the valid criticisms made of him during his campaign, ultimately has my respect, and I think his success and his regard for reality represents a case for optimism. Stepping out of the race can be a graceful act: an acknowledgement for the society beyond the self. I now consider him a statesman, because of his deference to reality rather than the illusion of his own "destiny". Bloomberg, Bernie, Biden, all exhibit the opposite effect, brute-forcing their way forward– a force of ego and entitlement. Why do the illusions of white men still manifest into their actual entitlement in this delightful society of ours? Enough is enough.
8
Mr. Buttigieg has enormous intellectual curiosity which fuels his critical thinking. Unlike the current occupant of the Oval Office, Pete placed great importance on understanding how things work.
Pete has a long and rewarding political future ahead of him. He might have a cabinet position in the next administration.
I closely follow and write about the religious right. I am particularly interested in how their judgmental sanctimony affects LGBTQ kids and their families. Pete is a 10-year-old child's antidote to blowhards like Franklin Graham and David Lane.
Mr. Buttigieg has done us all a great service,
15
An incredible human being. All Americans can be proud of mayor Pete for the honest, common sense way of running a campaign for higher office. I wish that more people his age would run for president in the future. I wish him well and hope that he runs for Congress or the Senate.
17
Mayor Pete is an astute politician. He knows there is honor in falling on your own sword on occasion, and this was the time to do so...before Massachusetts (Warren) and Minnesota (Klobuchar) vote tomorrow, and the expected campaign suspensions coming on Wednesday from both of them, he got out in front of all of that, without actually saying "hey, I have done better in Iowa caucus and the NH primary than either warren of Klobuchar, and I'm dropping out, so...(hint)", he still said what needs to be said. And with that, I expect him to be #1 on Biden's VP list, with Cory Booker a close #2.
8
"That was despite the fact that he’s married to another man. For many Democrats Buttigieg’s sexual orientation made him a trailblazer and was cause for excitement, but for others it made him a risk and was cause to turn away."
And still others, while respectfully admiring this trailblazing feature of his run, didn't really care all that much. And isn't that where we want to be headed, ultimately?
5
Buttigieg needs to run something bigger than San Bernardino. Bloomberg knows how to run complex systems.
3
I thank Pete for making a difference. And I thank Frank Bruni for recognizing this fact. For many it may go unnoticed but for some youngster out there who feels marginalized, the likes of Pete and Frank do make a difference. Sometimes between life and death. And to hear the warmth from other posts on this topic, makes my day a little more sunny.
6
After following Mr. Buttigieg's campaign for over a year (before he ever announced I was scouring the internet for links to his appearances, even finding one on the podcast West Wing Weekly an obscure pod cast dedicated to West Wing Junkies like me) I am crushed with disappointment.
What I have realized though, is how many other people who, like me, used to participate in the political process for a few weeks every couple of years, have became inspired by Pete. On the Buttigieg pages I follow, I see the phrases "I have never supported a candidate, I have never bought a candidate's tshirt, I have never donated money, I have never watched a debate" and it is obvious that a huge number of people have been shaken awake by the nightmare we are living in and have decided that they have to participate.
I am taking encouragement in that aspect of what Pete brought to the table in his candidacy. I am crushed, but not defeated and like those others who had trusted the political process to operate with integrity and decency and had been a bit "detached" because of those beliefs in the past, I am not going to fade back into the woodwork and go back to that place of complacency.
It is tempting to go and hide and ignore what might come next, but I can't. My kid's futures are too important and our country is too important to go back to where I was.
6
Buttegieg seems to be the real deal, and I hope that he and the country catch up with each other. It was most unfortunate how the electorate turned on him for whatever it could come up with - being too young, having too little national leadership experience, having an untested relationship with the black community, having some rich donors - when the main thing he was and is is valuable to the future of the country. Let's hope he continues to care, and can fortify his electability for next time. Let's also hope that there is a next time.
9
I agree completely with those who say that Mayor Pete is a class act and put country before his own ambitions. His run was outstanding in almost every way and he honestly won the last two debates. His decision may turn out to save the Democratic Party from certain defeat if Bernie Sanders becomes the party's nominee. Hopefully, this is the start of a brilliant career in politics. He is a true leader and a profile in courage.
10
Unless something crazy happens Biden is our nominee.
Bernie will win a plurality, but he has to be 12-15 percent ahead of Biden going into the convention or the party will swing it back to Biden using super delegates.
If the other moderates drop out, I think 12-15% is too big a gap for Bernie to open up going into the convention.
To say that the left wing of the party will be disgruntled at this situation is a major understatement.
Unfortunately I think this could really spell the development of a third party candidacy, and a certain loss to Trump.
6
I am old enough to be Mayor Pete’s grandfather, but I hope I live long enough to see him gain high office—the Senate, perhaps; better yet, the Presidency. He is the real deal, a total class act that would do the nation proud. Trump and his sycophants (and “Medal of Freedom” debasers) are his polar opposite.
18
Mayor Pete's calculations on dropping out now include earning the good will of the party for future endeavors.
attributing altruism to Mayor Pete's withdrawal from the race while at the same time delivering a backhander to the cheeks of candidates with more experience is so very passive aggressive.
Mayor Pete is at the beginning of a career, his elders are not all elderly—Warren and Klobuchar come to mind—and have career achievements requiring them to stay in the race as to provide an option for Democrats that doesn't come with decrepitude as part of the package.
4
Pete elevated the discourse in America. He's a welcome change to the base, hateful, alienating bumper sticker slogans of Trump and Bernie. I truly believe that Pete would have been a transformative president and I'm sad to see him go.
Today, I must decide head over heart who to support in my primary. For me ,it will be the candidate who has the best chance of taking delegate votes away from Bernie. So done with Sanders and his cult followers.
9
@Sydney
He elevated the rhetoric, that's for sure. Quite the debater.... To me, he came across like a smug, snake oil salesman. I guess I'm in the cult you refer to. I lived many years in VT, where the entire state must be a cult.
3
@carl bumba The true snake oil salesman is Bernie Sanders.
2
@Sydney
That's not saying much for the good people of Vermont (where I lived many years). It's a small state; we know him well. He's had near folk hero status for over thirty years.
2
Damn, he was my first choice and I would have voted for him tomorrow.
Welp, I guess it's back to Bernie.
I hope you run again in 2024. We will need someone who can unite us after Trump's second term. (assuming we survive it.)
5
Oh, I think we’ll see Mayor Pete again fairly soon. As the VP candidate with whomever wins the nomination.
6
From your lips to the universe’s ear...
1
Pete will be around for many years to come, and I hope will rise to the top of the Democratic Party. He may or may not become President one day (I hope so and, at 72, I hope I’m around to help him get there!) but I predict he’ll do many good things on his way to wherever he ends up. I also predict that if he becomes President in the future — and likely even if he doesn’t — he’ll look back and be happy he didn’t win that office at the age of 38. As good as he would have been now, he will have much more to offer with additional years of growth and experience. He is mature, thoughtful, practical, exuberant, and “Presidential” in 2020. Add 10 or 15 years of experience and he will be the kind of politician this country sorely needs. And on the way, he will show other young budding politicians what it means to be a true patriot and statesman. Thank you, Frank, for lauding a truly laudable man!
6
A class act. I hope to see him on the political stage in the future.
4
He is the front-runner for the next open Democratic presidential nomination. He probably increased his chances of becoming President by this decision - including the chances that there will be another free election.
3
Buttigieg for Secretary of State in the next administration.
10
What would ever qualify him for that role? He would only be acting the part.
5
I am sad to see him go. I was planning on voting for him on super Tuesday, now I am at a loss, I am not sure who of the remaining candidates can beat Trump and lead this country
It's a sad state of affairs for the DNC, when the top contenders are a bunch of white old men..
12
Mayor Pete is acting like a mature reasoning adult. Very refreshing. I am impressed with his behavior. He should now give his support to Joe Biden
9
@sues
Yes, this follows from your analysis.
If he was more mature, say 78 instead of 38, do you think he'd be doing this? It's probably just as politically calculated (here, for future ambitions) as it is for those who stay in, in order to consolidate their constituency, collect some delegates to bargain with, help/hurt the other candidates, appease their donors, etc.. Look how long it took former-Sec. of State, Hillary Clinton, to throw her support to Obama.
2
People are lauding Mr. Buttigieg for dropping out like he did it for noble reasons, but the fact was he didn't have a way to win and wasn't a qualified candidate. He needs to more experience especially in social issues. As far as him being VP, I am so tired of seeing two white men as president and vice president. It's time for a lady to help lead the country, Gentlemen.
7
He’s probably made a deal with Biden to be his running mate. Kamala Harris’s tongue was hanging out for that when she endorsed Biden, but now she’s been pushed out. It’s quite a plum because Biden already is acting like he’s been “Twenty-fifth/-ed.”
6
It's amazing that so many screech about voter disenfranchisement who are often the same people pushing for early voting. Want to know who was really disenfranchised? All those in states like California who voted early for Mayor Pete or Steyer. They might just as well have cast a vote for Minnie Mouse.
Early voting should end. Everyone should vote on the basis of information available as of a particular date.
9
Kurfco, everyone knows that candidates might drop out. I held onto my ballot until yesterday when I dropped it off. On my way to the Vote Center my neighbor saw me with my ballot envelope in hand and said she was going to make her final decision on Tuesday.
I see no reason not to allow early voting for those who want to. Voters need to exercise their own best judgment. The government shouldn't run our lives -- we should.
2
Minnie Mouse is more qualified.
2
@Kurfco
Now we can add any of the votes for Amy Klobuchar to those cast for Minnie Mouse.
Mayor Pete offered something that other elected Americans and candidates in both parties sorely lack: dignity and maturity.
You know it when you see it and it is something that cannot be faked.
20
Mayor Pete had an excellent run and I feel this is the beginning of an outstanding political career if this what he chooses. It's good to know that we have intelligent and caring people working at the local, state and federal level of our government. Many of the candidates who dropped out (Gillibrand, Booker, and now Buttigieg especially) running for the president have proven themselves to be extremely intelligent, capable of handling difficult issues and empathetic in their ongoing political careers. All of them should run in the next presidential election or just continue being excellent politicians.
4
Mayor Pete has a lot of talents, but he got a pass for being gay because he is a white male who speaks well. Privilege still exists for 'normal'-looking and -sounding white males, no matter what minorities they claim.
The same would not have happened for a woman.
7
That’s precisely why many in the gay community did not support him. He represents the same white male elites that have all the money and privilege and sit atop the gay hierarchy just like they do in society at large. He hasn’t even really totally come out yet but goes around playing the straight white male role so as not to offend the homophobes. I don’t remember him even speaking out on gay issues.
@Edward—You’re a Trump supporter. If Pete had spoken about gay issues you would have accused him of engaging in “identity politics.” Pete never could have won with you.
2
So sorry to see him go. He was the future. Hope he still is one day.
14
@Nancy Fisher
That's a depressing future to any Democrat with pre-80s values (well... and post-50s). We're dying out anyway, so maybe it won't matter.
4
I am a non-churchgoer, but I do admire Mayor Pete for bringing up his religion. I cannot understand how Republicans, most of whom consider themselves to be religious, continue to support Donald Trump. Trump violates just about every Christian belief, yet he says that he never asks for forgiveness because he never does anything wrong. It is always someone else's fault. Still, his churchgoing followers support him anyway. How can this be?
10
Jeff, because religion has little to do with politics. A person can be an effective leader in government without being religious. And on the flip side, many religious people are not effective leaders in government.
I'm not a religious person either, but like Thomas Jefferson I am fascinated by the system of ethics outlined in the New Testament. (The Jefferson Bible strips out all the miracles and the boring stuff to focus on the ethics.)
If you read the New Testament, Jesus himself taught that government and god are pretty orthogonal, saying, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."
3
Jeff, I think you are confusing ethics with religion. When people say that this country is a Christian nation they mean that it is founded on the Judeo-Christian system of ethics. Not that it favors Christian religions, which as you point out it does not.
Opposition to abortion may be based on religious belief, but many people are opposed to it on non-religious moral grounds. (Like myself.) I believe that humans should not be killing other humans, whether it be a viable fetus or a murderer or a soldier of a foreign country.
Our law reflect moral judgments, not religious ones. No church has any power to influence our government. Church and state are firmly separated.
@John Smithson
I want a decisive separation of church and state. The state should not pass laws that restrict religion. Religions should not try to force their beliefs on the entire nation. But if we look at the Republicans today, they are trying to pass laws outlawing abortion. Often they say that this is a Christian nation. They want the state to dictate our religious beliefs. And yet they support Donald Trump, who violates one Christian belief after another. Explain that.
2
Make him the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations.
4
Authentic.
Brilliant.
Compassionate.
Articulate.
A giant of a man, especially when compared to POTUS.
22
It's been less than 24 hours and I miss Pete already. His intelligence, moral standing, grounded beliefs and dry humor...the Democrats will be stronger with him stumping for the nominee, and to have him as a contender for future office.
14
“One of the wonders of his unprecedented campaign was how little his sexual orientation was talked about as his bid progressed.” Unfortunately, the Facebook posts in his own hometown frequently brought up his sexual orientation in the ugliest of terms. The rust belt can still be an inhospitable, bigoted place.
2
Mayor Pete, VP, cabinet post, special advisor. Whatever. this man represents the future and Mr. Bruni's passage, I saved on my computer.
" Americans have missed an opportunity to turn the page to a much different future. We should feel remorse at losing that future..
Politics at its worst is ugly. But at its best, politics can lift us up... At his best, Buttigieg demonstrated that".
8
Lots of praise here for Mayor Pete. He knows when to make an exit. He is young and has the possibility of an excellent political career in his future.
9
It looked to me like the fix was in from the start. Biden would get the nomination and choose Stacey Abrams as a running mate -- the beans he already spilled months ago.
And Pete will get a good and responsible job in government and he can run after President Abrams finishes her second term.
4
@Occupy Government
Stacey Abrams is not going to be VP.
6
Occupy Government, I don't think Stacey Abrams is ever going to move into the White House.
3
If he quit to solidify the moderate base against Bernie Sanders (aka, the unselfish thing to do), then I like Pete even more now.
11
I sent Buttigieg money very early in his campaign because I too, liked his thoughtful attitude. He raised the level of debate for everyone in the race.
However, we should be concerned about an American political process in which nearly all of the candidates don't have the ability of Mr. Buttigieg to interact spontaneously and naturally with issues and questions without reverting to talking points that elide the purpose of questions. In a very real way, these candidates are being manufactured out of a system that is failing America, and most of them talk as insiders of the very system that is failing us. That's a problem.
And even as this very system fails us, thoughtful insiders like Bob Kerrey tell us that they continue to support a failing system -- in his case through support of Biden and not Buttigieg (or someone else). The inability of well-meaning but ultimately ineffective actions of insiders like Kerrey is reason that we now have Trump, Sanders, Warren -- who although in gargantuan ways are very different in terms of their orientations, all share the common element that they define their ideas contrary to the existing system.
And none of the candidates, during the debates, had the where-with-all to dissect the ridiculous premises and context of many of the questions -- (like asking a person to define their national health care plan in 60 seconds).
Pete is a work in progress. Good he tossed his hat in the ring. We will seem him again. I look forward to it.
6
I admired him. His youth, his education, his military service. But his plans were undeveloped and he seemed at time over his head. But most of all what I admired was his openness. Something that is so lacking in Sanders... which is dangerous. I would have voted for Pete over Bernie. Thanks for the ride... Pete. Hope we see you again.
6
What a class act! When I heard that Mayor Pete had dropped out, I was surprised for only a very brief moment, quickly realizing that he is first and foremost a PATRIOT and would put country first. This is why I supported him in the first place. Mayor Pete, elegant, eloquent and focused at all times, is the very essence of a great leader. Although winning in IOWA and coming in a close, close second in New Hampshire, he recognized that he did not have a path forward due to lack of support from black (South Carolina) and Hispanic (Nevada) voters. Rather than go out begging supporters for more money to support propping up a losing cause, Mayor Pete subjugates his ego and bows our gracefully, pledging his support to a moderate candidate, albeit a generic one who has a chance to take Trump out. Oh, if only we didn't HAVE to have a female VP on the ticket this time. What a future the this brilliant young man has. Side bar: The two remaining female candidates who have used the debate stage to do hit jobs on other candidates -- Warren and Klobuchar -- are losing, losing, losing. They shabbily continue in the process to hopefully achieve a cheap victory in their respective home states. It looks like Warren may not even be able to do it. Sad.
9
Thank you so much for writing such a thoughtful piece. You have expressed my feelings exactly. I was heartsick when Buttigieg suspended his campaign, but I was not surprised. He is a man of courage and integrity and his love of country overrides self interest and ego.
I hope I will have another chance to vote for him in a future race.
17
I was so incredibly sad yesterday. He had my vote from Day 1 when he could speak eloquently, intellectually and without ever yelling at anyone about anything. The contrast would have been the best thing to happen to our country. But we can't seem to wake up and see what is good for us.
11
Frank, thanks for writing that.
Pete, first time I was really inspired by a political candidate. While I regret not actually getting to cast a ballot for you, your integrity is something the world could use a lot more of.
14
Very best wishes and thanks to Mayor Pete. I sincerely hope to see you again in the future. Your star will rise strong and bright in the days to come. You are a wonderful reminder that hope is not dead, and that our future does not lie in the corrupt hands of a dictator and his sycophants. Thank you for everything.
12
Thanks, Mayor Pete. We're ready for your next act. Class act all the way.
11
Such a wonderful tribute! Thanks, Frank.
4
I think a party change would suite wall street Pete quite well, I guarantee he's considered it.
5
When I first heard him speak I thought OMG Someone like this exists.. What AMAZING MIND WE NEED HIM.
10
Can't understand why Mike Meyer never came back to SNL to play Mayor Pete.
Party on Pete!
3
Um, Ms. Klobuchar, when will we hear from you? Pete did far better than you in the contests so far and he has recognized reality and the negative impact of continuing to run on the Democratic Party and, ultimately, the nation.
6
I am hoping there are enough voters in this country who are blind to sexual orientation. If that's the case we will someday have President Buttigieg.
8
When, I pray, we have a Democrat in the WH, that person would do well to appoint Buttigieg US Rep to the UN or even Secretary of State.
8
True patriot. We don't deserve him.
11
No, not, "please, god". Please, young people and people of color.
1
Pete: Thanks from every mom of a gay child. Love you too, Frank.
9
My wife and I heard Pete speak on 34th St. and we had tickets to hear him speak this Thursday in Brooklyn. I am sad that he is out of the race, but i do agree, dropping out was the right thing to do, and i a happy to see so people like Bob Kerrey an old school democrat speak/write so highly of Pete.
7
While it is important to report important biographical information for all candidates (Mayor Pete is gay), the constant reminder is annoying and unnecessary, I believe. Is Ben Carson the "black" Secretary in all reporting? Is Bernie the "Jewish" candidate in all reporting? Bloomberg and Steyer the "billionaires" in all reporting? Yang the "Asian" candidate, etc. etc.,? Of course not. Once the relevant information (voters need to know basic details including sexuality, I believe), then let it go...we all know it by now, and sexuality is irrelevant to me as a voter anyway.
4
The nastiness of Sanders supporters posting here is in direct contradiction with their Leader’s plea for Buttigieg supporters to join his Revolution. Odd that they can’t get their messaging straight and pathetic that they continue to disparage Buttigieg even now that he’s no longer a threat to them. As a Buttigieg supporter, I’ll be looking for a candidate and his/her supporters committed to unity.
23
Buttigieg can come back again 2024 and still become the youngest president in history. In 2028, he could become fifth youngest. He could come back in 32 years and still not be the oldest president ever inaugurated. Buttigieg in 2052 anyone?
7
We love you, Pete. I hope to call you my President one day.
15
If Biden becomes the nominee and doesn't tap Buttigieg for VP, then I hope Mayor Pete will run for the Senate in Indiana in 2022 and turn a red seat blue.
8
Mayor Pete is my hero. He didn't just say that he was running to do what was best for the country. When it was clear that voters had made other choices, he did what was best for the country and got out. Finally a politician who is not such a narcissist and actually puts his potential constituents first. Contrast this to Bloomberg who said that he would stay in the race even if he didn't do well on Super Tuesday.
I'm sorry he won't be our president next year. I wish Pete a successful life in or out of poliltics.
16
Wow. If only a few people in the media had written articles like this BEFORE Pete dropped out, instead of deciding from near Day 1 to focus on his decision to fire South Bend's police chief as an indication that he would never be able to attract the support of people of color, which became a self-fulfilling prophecy after the media beat that story like a drum. Or on his youth (and not Tulsi Gabbard's, who is the same age) in an election in which 4 of the candidates would be the oldest ever elected. Or on a few Twitter personalities claiming that he's not gay enough. Or on his time at McKinsey as a junior consultant learning how business works, as if that somehow made him responsible for American oligarchy, when we have multiple actual billionaires buying into the race.
Klobuchar can complain all she wants that he got a sweetheart deal, but where did all the stories about her treatment of her staff go? Poof...disappeared. Pete got pretty abysmal treatment in the press, and ran a terrific campaign in spite of it.
16
Amy K. will drop out on Wednesday once the Minnesota results are in.
2
Where was this coverage of Pete's exceptional campaign over the last few weeks? The NYT (and other media outlets) covered campaigns like Bloomberg's and Biden's more heavily even while Pete Buttigieg led in delegates.
14
Just seeing that photo of Pete Buttigieg and Chasten Buttigieg in South Bend, Indiana grabs at the heart. Pete brought great strength to the race through his unflappable demeanor, keen intellect, and rational rhetoric. He's a politician for sure, but one of the good ones. A good egg.
12
Bruni lauds Pete's "ability to rise above stereotypes, to soar above identity politics." Interestingly, Bruni then spends much of the rest of his column focusing precisely on identity politics, including his claim that the critique of Buttigieg from the left is that he's not gay enough.
But this is the real left critique of Pete: for all of his talk of generational change, Buttigieg is a voice from the neoliberal past, not the future. Buttigieg loved to compare himself to Obama, who also lacked an extensive resume when he entered the national consciousness. However, Obama spent his formative years working as a community organizer. Buttigieg, on the other hand, entered a cushy job at McKinsey directly out of college, and got to work helping to dismantle the middle class. During his uninspiring tenure as mayor, he exhibited profound cluelessness on both race and class, funneling money to already-well-off segments of his community, dismantling homes in poor neighborhoods with no plans for rebuilding, and firing his black police chief after he recorded racist remarks by white officers.
During his presidential campaign, he enjoyed more support from Wall Street than any other candidate save Donald Trump. In order to lower the size of his average donation, his campaign organized a contest to donate the the smallest unique dollar amount.
He is fluent with platitudes, but Buttigieg has given us no reason to believe he truly believes in anything larger than his own career.
10
@J R
I'm not a Bernie supporter, but I do find it very appropriate that Buttigieg's primary qualification for landing the McKinsey job was his undeniable ability to project the illusion of expertise without any of the underlying substance.
“He was very good at taking this ambiguous thing that he literally had no background on and making sense of it”
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/05/us/politics/pete-buttigieg-mckinsey.html
And yes, Pete's running into the "warm embrace" of McKinsey should be held against him:
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/02/how-mckinsey-destroyed-middle-class/605878/
4
@Fred Thank you. People don't look past the pretty face to see what his experience really is. He's getting a pass for being white and a good speaker. In fact he worked to sound like Obama and I thought he came across as a fake.
3
@Fred Illusion of expertise? Then why couldn't the other candidates expose him?
I would settle for smart and honest; he could have hired the "exptertise".
1
He's young! He'll be back! Senator Pete, perhaps?
4
I am truly sad that voters did not see the potential of this truly decent canidate and his brilliance. Next time someone says there are never and good candidates I will think of Maror Pete.
8
Pete! Pete! How might we determine the shape of our democracy without you?
3
People can't make a decision for who to vote for unless they have objective reporting upon which to gain information and make a decision. On that front, this paper repeatedly and consistently failed to give Buttigieg credit where credit was due. It failed to cover his policies with depth or without condenscension. Meanwhile, the times endorsed two candidates that failed to break above a distant 3rd place in any state so far - with Pete beating Liz and Amy in SC! We've bungled our shot at beating Trump, and like in 2016, this paper is complicit.
8
Thank you for pointing out some of Pete Buttigieg's stellar traits. It was his understanding of, and empathy for, marginalized peoples that captured me as an enthusiastic supporter. He was talking about something that went down to the core of my existence ever since I was born—the Crisis of Belonging—with disabilities.
Pete Buttigieg was phenomenal. He had preternatural awareness of things and spoke of so many things that no other politician ever cared about, from disabilities to the gig economy to racial injustice to LGBT-QI issues, and more. In my 71 years of life I have never seen or met a man like him before.
He is so spiritual and yet he stands uniquely on the Left Hand of God, a concept that Rabbi Michael Lerner wrote about. It is God being tolerant, loving, caring, and not excluding and punishing people. It is the poor, the stranger, the refugee, the marginalized person who matters the most. If you seek salvation, being of use to such people is what counts. Pete believed in that and he acted on it every chance he got.
He shone a beautiful light into my soul and lifted up my heart and my mind. In my gut he felt so right. I am devastated that he dropped out. Maybe some day we will learn the real obstacles that were put in his path.
Thank you Frank. I wish more NY Times coverage of Pete would have been like yours.
15
As a 60 year-plus voter, I was enthusiastic about a young man of Pete’s intellect entering the race.
Given that the field seems to have narrowed down to three white men each verging on 80, I would suggest that we voters insist that each tell us NOW, not this summer, who their running mates are. It is impossible to believe that any one of them can do this job without lots of backup (just from an energy standpoint), not to mention each runs the risk of debilitating illness given their ages and previous health problems. Any suggestions on how to get this done?
16
@LL This is a great idea. Thank you.
2
@LL Wow, I guess you never heard the remarks disparaging our generation's work. Work that enabled him to marry and run for president. Sorry, I for one am glad the ageist is gone
2
A true hero, a moderate LGBT politician who understood pragmatism. He will be missed - but I hope we see him in an important position very soon.
8
Being from Indiana, he’ll never be a Senator from his home state. That’s too bad because I think he’d make a great Senator who would work and get things done, as opposed to talking in platitudes. We need more men and women in politics with his realistic approach and stand-up values. Also, it would give him the experience he needs for seeking the highest job in the country. I wish Chasten and him all the best for the future.
2
I shed no tears for Mayor Pete. He dismissed the past work of the old revolution. That old revolution laid the groundwork for him to live openly as an openly gay man and marry . He was able to run for president was a direct result of the efforts of a previous generation. A generation who is a solid voting block. I guess ageism is still acceptable in some places
7
He's an exceptional person. That was clear from the first time I watched a video of him. But some things unavoidably take time. One of those things is learning how to connect with people who have a vividly different experience than your own. Buttigieg undoubtedly received his primer in that when in the military. He just needs to expand it. In this election cycle, he was largely wowing the non-gay demographic from whence he came: the predominantly white college-educated
demographic. From my distant vantage point, his later pivot to issues relevant to black Americans appeared abrupt and inorganic.
I suggest Bill Clinton's political path as a model for Buttigieg. His exceptional talents are well suited for a very challenging project: election to the governorship of the State of Indiana. If Pete Buttigieg can connect with the disparate constituents of his conservative home state--just as Clinton did in Arkansas--you can bet this will forge him into formidable Presidential material.
1
Too bad Frank Bruni can’t be honest and say that the lack of African American support for Pete was largely due to homophobia.
Sad that no one can be honest about the homophobia in African American communities- a homophobia that is largely created by religion. Yet another reminder of the toxic impact that organized religion has on our politics.
11
Surprisingly, I find myself relieved. I realize I felt protective of Mayor Buttigieg. He put himself and gay people in a vulnerable position and under a huge spotlight. I can stop worrying. Not for his physical safety, but for his soul. I do not want him or any of us to be hurt anymore by the judgmental ones that attack.
Amazing how many comments here from the pro-Sanders conspiracy theorists as to how Pete's departure was cooked up in a smoke filled room to benefit the "establishment" candidates. Also that he didn't belong in the race because he wasn't enough of a change agent. The only thing I hear from these people that truly reminds me of the Spirit of the 60's is the narcissistic paranoia and the lack of awareness that sometimes, no matter how much you believe something, a majority might disagree. After the election, when Sanders is crushed by the fool currently in the White House, these people will lose their fervor but also deny they were the cause of Trump's second term. We saw this movie, this slow motion train wreck, in 2000 when Nader's vote was the margin that got W into office.
9
You’re right...when Sanders loses, it will be OUR fault!
2
@ Bruce Rozenblit (whom I usually respect for his opinions and comments)
What exactly is phenomenal about Pete? There are thousands of Harvard graduates who work for McKinsey, Goldman Sachs and the like who are as articulate, as good with memorized sound bites and slightly longer arguments. He is conservative in his economic views, to the right of the Clintons and Obama and I would venture to say even Mitt Romney. He is an opportunist who "served" in a fake way in Afghanistan to pad his resume. He was the largely unsuccessful mayor of a college town of 100,000 which treats its black population dismally. I cannot tell what his views are on taxation of the wealthy, healthcare as a human right, free public college education for all (yes including the millionaires who would cry foul if they are not included on a universal right and would hardly send their kids to public universities unless they are UC Berkeley and the like).
Time to have real people in jobs that we call civil service. Arrivistes and resume padders should stick to McKinsey and Goldman Sachs. If they have the mathematical brains even Silicon Valley where "Mayor" Pete has a best buddy in the Bond villain par excellence Calle Mark Zuckerberg.
8
@Blunt Did you work for McKinsey or a similar firm as a young person? Do you know anyone who has? I did and I do, and I can tell you that it's probably the single best way to learn about how big businesses and government agencies actually work. You learn their organizational structures, their planning horizons, their strategic challenges, and how mission-driven many of them are. I for one WANT a president who has some insight into the actual functioning of the businesses that provide the structure of our economy.
Also, just curious...have you served in our nation's military? Ever done a tour of duty abroad? I suspect if you had, you wouldn't be calling it a fake way to pad a resume.
6
Stereotype much?
Do you think Pete chose his assignment in the military? Perhaps the high command colluded with him in a scheme to elevate him to the Presidency.
4
Annie,
Not only I worked as a young man in such a firm (the one that produces Treasury Secretaries en masse) but I retired from one after 25 years as a senior executive in charge of a global business. I have a doctorate from Harvard in applied mathematics and mathematical economics. I hired literally dozens of Pete’s from Harvard, Princeton, MIT, Stanford, Columbia, Yale, Wharton and Chicago.
You picked on the wrong person.
4
Its rather sad that at this time, the principal opinion columnist with the NYT says the only choice now is Sanders or Biden. Left or moderate. For some reason, he excludes the candidate most likely to defeat Trump - which is Bloomberg. Let's see what 'Super Tuesday' holds. And see how the commentary changes.
@MaccaUS
Trump is a criminal con-man. But there is much more at stake than ending Trump. The corrupt economic system has merged with the corrupt political system... and Trump is just a symptom of the leprosy. It must all be reformed.
2
I hope to hear more from Mayor Pete when he serves in a Democratic president's cabinet come January 2021.
1
He would be an excellent Sec of State.
7
Pete is a smart cookie. He has left the other no-chance candidates looking like old hats on the hat rack. Good card players know when to fold.
6
We can only hope Mayor Pete will rise again.
4
Thanks Mayor Pete!
See you again SOON!
7
Mayor Pete was more than a Democratic leader. He was a moral leader. He was an intellectual leader. He and Obama represent the best of America. I cling to the fact that Obama actually won, twice, because otherwise I question our process of choosing leaders. It seems mediocrity usually wins the day; or in the case of Trump evil actually won the day.
6
This is brilliant, as always, Mr. Bruni. The one characteristic of Mayor Pete that is most admirable — an even a bit disarming — is his authenticity. Never has he appeared to be phony or pandering or overreaching or talking down to anyone. He is the real deal, a bona fide decent human being who truly cares about his country and his fellow citizens. Anyone parent looking for a role model for their children could point to Mayor Pete Buttigieg and say, "Be like him, and I will be proud of you."
7
Pete's best aim for himself and our country is to run for a senate seat. A talent like his is rare. We must encourage him to hang in there and fight the good fight. His intelligence and foresight is infectious and needed in a time when so much ugliness is on display by our present leaders who live in a world no one of real character recognizes.
2
We have lost a great candidate for president in Pete Buttigieg. He gave us a vision of a United States that none of the other candidates come close to.
I knew that the majority of citizens are ignorant about how politics works but hadn’t realized how lacking in critical thinking skills we’ve become. How can people say he is too young or inexperienced. Really!?! That Pete Buttigieg took a dying mid-sized city and in only eight years brought it back is an incredible feat. His administration put more money into black neighborhoods than in the previous thirty years. Plus, his other skills. He is head and shoulders intellectually above the other candidates. His humility is genuine. A true, pragmatic visionary leader.
The people get what they vote for. Bernie is a loser in all respects except one. He has managed to fool the people the same way trump did. Bernie shouts the same things like one of those pull-string dolls and accomplishes as much. All the years in Congress with nothing to show for it. Not a team player. Even Cruella Klobuchar has passed 22 bills despite her nastiness. People who vote for Bernie do not care if trump wins again. Russia will be happy either way. A do nothing promising the world will further erode our democracy. He gets his support from students who have no sense of political history and are easily manipulated. Biden gets my vote, now. Two men with one foot in the grave versus a young, inspiring leader. Sad for our country.
1
Or it may have simply been that the DNC party bosses and Joe Biden promised the VP slot to the one time Bernie supporter now Bernie enemy.
4
The maximum leadership value that Pete can deliver going forward may be far greater than what he could deliver from any elective office. We need more “movement” leadership from outside the system to repair it. A “MLK” - if you will - to lead a long-term crusade to change the constitution such that our country can no longer be controlled by a minority of the population as it is today.
I always thought Pete Buttigieg-Kamala Harris would have been a twosome I’d have voted for, although I reluctantly accept that middle America probably wouldn’t. Man/woman, black/white, gay/straight, California/mid-west...a balanced ticket by any measure.
Not to be, however — but Buttigieg will be back in one form or another. “I’ll lay me down and bleed awhile, and then I’ll rise and fight again”.
I will miss him on this stage -- and the world will miss him. He taught a whole new generation that there is power in dignity. Eager for his next chapter to begin.
9
I was hoping he'd get the nomination. We'll now be left with geriatric candidates on both the Democratic and GOP sides. Unfortunate that we couldn't have had someone with more of a stake in the future.
4
That’s one way of looking at it, but you risk coming off as ageist when you generalize that old people don’t care about the future.
ANY leader that’s good for our country needs to care about the well-being of people in groups other than their own - regardless of address, beliefs, income or age cohort.
Most older people have invested years in loving, raising and caring for the next generation. They are invested in the well-being of their grandchildren. We make shallow generalizations if we insinuate or believe otherwise.
Age isn’t a useful filter for deciding who to vote for - caring about others, and offering creative solutions to today’s problems are.
@Kathleen Pope
You make good points, Kathleen.
I do worry about the age of the candidates in terms of stamina, for what will be at least five challenging years (for the individual ultimately elected).
Also, each generation is a product of its time. There were, for example, differences in viewpoints between the greatest generation and boomers.
What I should have written is not that older candidates don't care for the future, but rather, can they view the world and its problems the way younger people do?
America wasted the talents of Obama (hemmed in as the first black President) and now Buttigieg (first gay openly candidate). I hope mayor Pete is young enough to give it another go in the future. He was so impressive on so many fronts.
6
Why has the NYT branded Sanders a "danger"?? The only kind of Democrat PROVEN to lose to Donald Trump is the centrist establishment DNC approved nominee. I think its becoming obvious that the opposition to him has very little to do with fear of losing to Trump and EVERYTHING to do with maintaining a close relationship to wall street. The editorial published by Lloyd Blankenfeld pretty much confirms that. The NYT is completely on the wrong side of history as they employ foxnews level smear campaign against a verifiably popular candidate.
10
@jcl "The only kind of Democrat PROVEN to lose to Donald Trump.." In statistics, we call that an "n of 1". If I'm not mistaken, Donald Trump has only been elected ONCE. And what "smearing" exactly has the NYT engaged in against Senator Sanders? I suspect the smearing is in your mind. Oh, and if Senator Sanders is in fact nominated? I will be voting for him UNLIKE what his supporters did 4 years ago when they stayed home rather than vote for Hillary Clinton.
8
So you confidently predict the future based on one election—in which the centrist Democrat got 3 million more votes than Trump?
2
@J R - Voters stayed home - the choice was 'corruption' vs. flagrant criminal corruption.
I'm amazed Mayor Pete got as far as he did. He's in our future and I look forward to voting for him in a few years.
It's reductionist to say this but his candidacy accomplished 2 things that I think will be what he builds on next time.
1. A gay candidate can no longer be an impossible novelty. Many of us are ho hum, no big deal. And when he has toddlers or kids or teens, that will be the finishing touch.
2. We all know how to pronounce his name now. I thought it could be a huge stumbling block. Nope. Nobody even hesitates any more. And in 5-10 years it will take only a quick reminder.
4
Yes, Pete B. is a man for these times. Unlike many of us, especially Trump, he has identified his inner demons and demolished them so he can move himself and the US with vision into a better future.
4
I'm so sad. Aside from admiring his calm demeanor and consensus building strategy, I thought Pete was our one real chance to beat Trump. As a 36 year old, I've been really offended by all the commentary about his age. Apparently in the US you're more fit to be a leader if you're 78 than 38. Hogwash! People make mistakes at every age - usually no better or worse, just different. Some people are leadership material and some aren't - stop using age as a litmus test.
9
He was certainly my first pick - by far - because of his calm and well-spoken manner and he's obviously extremely smart, something we haven't had in the Oval Office in this way in my lifetime - and I'm pushing 60..
But his inability to connect with voters of color - I'm not sure that will be any better in 4-8 years, or even ever... the one thing Democrats in the establishment circles - who are still mostly white and moderately liberal to wildly liberal - do not get is that the Hispanic and Black communities are just as socially conservative as the "Guns, God and (anti) Gays" cohort that dominates our rural areas of America and forms the base of Republican support. They don't like abortion. They are perhaps not as opposed to gays and gay rights but they don't like gays - or lesbians - or anyone that isn't straight and either Catholic or belonging to some right of center religious denomination.
They're not going to vote for a gay male white candidate - no matter how smart and spoken they are - who reminds them of white privilege to the extent that Pete does. They might vote for a lesbian who doesn't seem socially threatening to their values - but as much as those of us who are white and liberal talk about the need for social justice and equal rights for all, people of color also see us as ramming the identity politics of the LGBTQ community onto people of color and they're not interested in that garbage. They simply want economic equality.
1
I appreciate this article and your past coverage of Pete Buttigieg. I first became aware of him from an interview you did with Buttigieg and Stacey Abrams at the 2016 Democratic convention.
https://m.facebook.com/nytimes/videos/10150857794959999/
But I have to say, I have been deeply disappointed by how Buttigieg has been treated in articles by others in the New York Times over the course of this campaign. And also the kinds of questions, and the snarky tone of questions he was asked in his NY Times Editorial Board interview. He did not deserve that.
Pete Buttigieg is a once in a generation candidate. He has already made a great contribution, and he is still going to be doing so for decades to come. I hope that includes being our President. Sometimes people dismissed him as being too good to be true, but he is extraordinarily authentic and he cares deeply about the country and all of us over personal gain or ambition.
Thanks for this article, but more important, thanks Pete Buttigieg (and thanks to Chasten, who is extraordinary too and deserves his own article).
13
@FrankBruni @CharlesMBlow Pete was meh. He's a moderate Republican who never stood a chance. Completely ignored the face of the Democratic base: Black women and black people.
Iowa and New Hampshire no longer matter. Caucuses do not matter.The Dems need to get their act together and move to rank choice voting for 2024.
6
“ One of the wonders of his unprecedented campaign was how little his sexual orientation was talked about as his bid progressed. That spoke to the range of political talents he brought to the contest and the breadth of the issues he engaged.“
Good that this was the case. I’m still waiting for the same to be true for a woman candidate.
7
Many of us will have buyer's remorse for his not being the nominee, however, whoever is president will likely not be running in 2024. President Buttigieg could certainly be a reality then! I hope so.
6
He has the talent and the brains. If only he had some personality and charisma. He doesn't have to be real, but he has to at least be able to play real on TV. Can you learn that?
2
Yesterday I told some friends that young Buttigieg was the most adult person in the race, and this morning I sat in my car saddened, listening to news he'd dropped out. He was an option that stood for the substantial change we need done practically. Eloquent, ego-checked, and respectful. The country I want has leaders like Pete Buttigieg.
9
Nothing against mayor Pete but his middle of the road politics is what brought us Trump. This is what you so called moderates do not understand, you are advocating for no action, for the status quo. And that might be good for the few but it is unlivable for the majority. I will not miss his arrogant, condescending, i know better messaging. I will wish him well and hope that he evolves politically.
9
@arm19 And as you are implying in your comments, Senator Sanders is NOT arrogant or condescending and does not engage in "I know better" messaging? Ummmm.....
4
@arm19 To the minds of those who think nominating a Socialist is a bad idea, Sanders is not a change agent at all because his nomination will end in a Trump second term. His ideas when looked at in general terms are a bright jewel for some, a mobile dangling over the crib, but he will ultimately will go won to a 45 or more state defeat. And then his backers, only a few million in number compared to the 150 million person electorate but with the loudest voice in the process at this stage, will deny that he lost "because he lost" and instead fall back on a conspiracy theory. Again. Rinse, wash, repeat.
3
@Darlene Moak Great post. He also lectures and demonizes. If I was taking a class from him in college I would have dropped it.
2
I have been a Pete supporter from the start but didn’t realize how strongly I felt until I found myself teary-eyed at the news he’d left the race. No other candidate inspires me as much as Buttigieg and no other candidate’s policies and positions resonate with me the way Buttigieg’s do. His ideas are progressive AND sensible, a rare blend and I’m so disappointed that the rancor from other candidates and the pettiness of the press (“Mayo Pete”? Do better, NYT) refused to give Buttigieg the respect he’s earned and deserved. I don’t understand why so many sought to hobble such an intelligent and dedicated public servant from the start.
6
Mayor Pete wasn't just smart, he was wise. He was unflappable and, hands down, the best "in the moment" speaker. The media was always trying to catch him but he was too quick. He would have eviscerated Trump in a debate.
11
His was the first campaign that I donated money to. I will miss his intelligence and calm demeanor but hopefully he will back in national politics again.
Nothing against Joe and Bernie but it looks like our choices for president are being narrowed to old white men. Very disheartening.
6
Unlike Elizabeth Warren, who is auditioning for a senior position in the Trump Election Campaign, Pete did the right thing and, if he wants it, has a bright future serving not just the Democrats but, more importantly, America.
4
I voted for Pete in NH and my admiration of him grew as he campaigned in Nevada and South Carolina. Heartbroken to see him go but it was the right thing to do for our party and country. Pete is an exceptional person - brilliant, eloquent, thoughtful, brave, composed, empathetic, and compassionate.
Iowa's horrible failure to timely count caucus votes and announce a winner caucus night probably did Pete in because he never got to have the announced victory and the momentum that brings.
I look forward to seeing what Pete chooses to do going forward and hope that he will one day soon be our President. I'm here to volunteer for Pete when he runs again. Thank you Pete.
9
Pete Buttigieg always seemed to me to be a fake. He was pretty good at faking sincerity, but the words he spoke didn't seem to come from the heart. They seemed staged and planned. The man doesn't seem real.
All politicians are that way, to some extent. They can't be real people -- voters won't vote for real people. But a politician needs to show by his or her track record what talents they have. What they can accomplish. That they are a doer rather than just a talker.
Actions speak louder than words. Pete Buttigieg's actions spoke loudly that he is a man of no real accomplishments other than this run for the presidency. We don't need any more presidents like that.
11
I’m so glad the teacher’s pet finally dropped out of school. He was an annoying know-it-all.
9
@John Smithson
He is one of the most sincere, thoughtful, and authentic politicians out there.
4
@J Darby
Authentic? Please describe some tangible authentic policy which Pete engineered.
3
I hope Pete looks towards the next governor's race. The Democrats have lost so many state seats in the past 20 years, and it's at the state level where voting districts and voting rights are determined. We need more young Democrats running for state offices, hear that Beto?
3
Great observations, Mr. Bruni. Your writing gives me insight into a unique point of view and perspective. As you are partly of Irish descent, it might be interesting to examine how a gay politician rose to President of Ireland, a very conservative country. We have not seen the last of Mayor Pete.
6
Marcus, Leo Varadkar was prime minister of Ireland, a much more important role than its president. But he resigned 10 days ago after his party did not win a majority in recent Irish elections.
1
I am 53 years old. For the first time in my life I traveled 4 hrs from Atlanta, GA to South Carolina to campaign in an election and Pete was the reason. He is an inspiration and I am lucky to have come across a leader like him in my life. Good luck Pete. Just the thought of you being around in politics is so reassuring about our future.
10
Pete has the goods and the grounding to make good use of his spectacular run. He will be back, I have no doubt.
6
I sure hope Pete runs for and is elected to a statewide office in IN. This country needs Mayor Pete and more like him at the helm!
3
Mayor Pete is, for me, the most inspiring of the Democratic candidates. Mr. Bruni, you captured what I saw from the beginning of his candidacy, an individual with great poise, who thought deeply and clearly about what this country needs and how he could lead it. I am so very sad that I will not have the chance to cast my vote for Pete Buttigieg on Super Tuesday.
2
I was sorry to see Mayor Pete end his campaign but appreciate that it was the right thing to do. From the first time I watched him on TV I liked him, and each and every time after that...the way he spoke, acted, intelligence and kindness he conveyed. He is the whole package. Maybe this just wasn’t his time right now but I truly hope it will be someday soon. I wish you the best Mayor Pete. Glad we got to know you!
6
Frank, you said it all. Thanks for giving praise when and where it is deserved. Mayor Pete will be back. Or, perhaps, I should he'll be gone for only a short time? Here's hoping!
4
I’ve only cried three times because of politics. First time was when Obama won, I was so happy. Second time was when Trump won, because I could see the horrors ahead. And last night, when I heard Pete dropped out. Pete is special and I know we will see more of him in the future, whether in the House or Senate, or in the cabinet of the next Democratic presidency. Whatever he ends up doing in his life, it makes me feel hopeful for the world’s future having folks like him on the planet.
22
We love Mayor Pete at our house. Pete Buttigieg, is brilliant, a great orator, inspiring and has honorable credentials. This young man, I believe may one day by our president. Until then, I suggest Mayor Pete run for governor, then U.S. Senator, gain plenty of experience. He’s young. Truly a rising star! And ....a U.S. Veteran!
Bravo, Pete!
16
Mayor Pete, you exemplify the very best we can be. I will miss your intelligence, empathy and forthright honesty. Please stay on track. You are a great patriot and we need you, a man of impeccable character and abilities.
Bravo to a class act.
23
I actually think more of the candidates should be prickly and overbearing when it comes to Sanders.
I don't get why they treat him so gently.
9
Pete wasn’t my preferred candidate - Bernie Sanders is. But I was never one of those “Mayo Pete” types. I would have gladly voted for him if he won the nomination.
The way I see it, Pete may only be with me on 80% of the issues. But I’m willing to go with someone who is with me 80% of the time instead of someone who isn’t there at all. So I wish the best for Mayor Pete, and I think he has a bright political future.
8
@WRB thank you for being a sane Bernie Sanders supporters. So many of your fellow supporters do not see things as you do. I believed & and will continue to believe in what Pete Buttigieg spoke of. Yes, he lacked experience. But he dreamed big & beautifully. I will follow with great interest & enthusiasm his future endeavors. In the meantime, If Bernie is elected, I will definitely vote for him. I will not stay home. Unfortunately, I live in SC & because of the Electoral College my vote doesn't mean much.
1
He was the only candidate running that I felt was truly, classically presidential material, soothing and uplifting in a time of st chais. I doesnt matter to me much what Trump-alternative I vote for now. For sure, it will be some soon-to-be octogenarian who who has lived past their life expectancy, who's wisdom and experience are valuable but fall short of the confidence I felt in the agility, investment in the future and grace of youth that Buttegieg has.
18
He was about as weak a candidate as there ever was. He would have been nothing without Citizens United. He never won statewide office, yet raised millions from concentrated private power and mounted a start-up campaign. He then proceeded to lie about black endorsements, flip flop on Medicare for all, and joined the right wing Democrats in spending his precious camera time reminding voters what he WON’T do for poor and working people. Luckily the identity-obsessed media subsidized his bland-to-annoying personality and alienating personal narrative with biased coverage.
14
@Chad Thank you Chad. All the comments here are really disappointing. Yes, Pete is a young fresh face, well spoken (eerily and creepily Obama like in his speech), and smart/well educated. All of that is nice, but what policies did he actually push for? He backtracked on many of his truly progressive stances, was funded by billionaires and was endorsed by many CIA and other deep state spooks. Why any progressive would actually like this guy is truly mind boggling.
9
Even now, you spread lies.
Pete’s campaign did no rely AT ALL on funding streams legalized by Citizens United.
His entire campaign was funded by almost a million individuals who gave at max, 2800 dollars each.
4
@Sean
What exactly was Pete's path forward... to battle corruption... to end the Wall Street hegemony. It was my impression Pete's plan was to merge with that hegemony and make a great life for himself.
1
A good man, I am sorry he is out of the race. I would have liked to have seen him stay in till after Super Tuesday but I respect him setting aside his desires for the good of the country. I wish our President would do that but alas he never will.
8
Paul, I doubt very much that Pete Buttigieg set aside his desires for the good of the country. His dropping out was dictated by a lack of money and a lack of votes. Just like so many Democrats before him. He knew what was good for him -- to get out now before he fizzled, so as not to tarnish his brand.
2
Buttigieg will not be our next president but he may already have had a greater long-range influence on this country than who ever turns out to be. And I'm not as pessimistic as Bob Kerry about what is "...not going to happen..." now that Buttigieg has ended his campaign. Short-term effects are often just that. Long-term influences are not so predictable nor so easily identified with what got them going.
Buttigieg's campaign was - as the candidate himself is - an enormously encouraging sign about the future of political discourse in this country.
14
Beautifully written article. I was very sad to hear he was dropping out of the race. Although as you said, he left with grace and class. I truly hope we hear from Pete again soon.
17
He was a real inspiration. He gave me hope. I do not need to elaborate on that- it is obvious to anyone who watched him.
11
Great article, thanks. Mayor Pete we need more people like you. Looking forward to your next journey.
16
Some questions for people in the know:
1) Who gets the delegates he’s won?
2) California started its mail-in ballots weeks ago and ballots have already been printed with their names (Steyer included) on it. What happens to the votes they garner?
2
@Fe R They'll go all to Biden, I think.
i think there has been a deal between the two of them, all the Buttigieg's votes (and delegates) to Biden and if this tactic works, Biden calls B. as his VP.
2
Fe R, Pete Buttigieg won 25 delegates. The 9 delegates he won in New Hampshire are now unbound with his dropping out of the race and can vote however they want.
As Iowa (13 delegates won) and Nevada (3 delegates won) are caucus states, I'm not sure what happens there. I believe in Iowa they are bound on the first ballot to vote for Pete Buttigieg, but I don't think the delegates have even been selected yet so they may still be poached by other candidates at the state conventions.
In any event, the 25 delegates Pete Buttigieg won is a small enough number not to matter much at all.
In California a candidate has to get at least 15% statewide to win any at-large delegates, and 15% in a district to get a district delegate. Pete Buttigieg (polling around 7%) and Tom Steyer (polling around 3%) are unlikely to get enough votes to win any delegates, so the votes they receive won't matter.
1
46 states to go. Buttegieg wasn't my choice but honestly I like him better than Biden, Bernie, or Bloomberg. Sad to see him go. Why do these early states get so much say? We should have all primaries on the same day and ranked choice voting, and nobody should begin their campaign more than a year before the national election.
16
Thank you, Frank Bruni! You've given us a beautiful and apt summation of Pete Buttigieg's appearance on the national political scene. And Buttigieg has given us a wallop of a dose of hope for the Democratic Party and for the country. Right now, there's no way to know exactly how Pete will use the next 4 or 8 years to position himself for another run at the presidency...if that's what he wants. But what I think I'll do is bookmark Frank's piece(s) on Pete so that in the meantime I don't forget that Buttigieg is waiting in the wings to lead this country into a better place, if he continues to want to do that and if we choose to follow him. I'm in my mid 70s now. I hope I'm around for that edifying possibility.
9
Thank-you Frank, I couldn't agree with you more. These old candidates like Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden look at issues through the lens of the cold war. They can't help it. Everything that they say or think is based on that era. I supported Pete because he looked at things with the perspective of someone who came of age after it was all over, who was the voice of a younger generation. I am sad that he is out of the race. I am happy that he took the adult path. Why is it that the youngest candidate is the only adult in the room? I fear that neither Joe Biden, nor Bernie Sanders has what it takes to beat Trump.
6
@Interested, either Bernie or Joe will beat Trump, BUT ONLY IF we get everyone out to vote! It’s not the candidate but We, the People who WILL DEFEAT Trump! As in the 2018 Midterm Elections, the huge voter turn our flipped forty GOP held seats! Republicans had held the House for a decade. Voters will defeat Trump!
2
@Interested I liked him too, but the Cold War is definitely not over, what with Putin firmly squatting in the White House.
Mr. Buttigieg now faces the problem of how to keep himself politically relevant at a time when there are no obvious venues for him to pursue. A nomination for veep is certainly out unless someone other than Sanders or Biden is the nominee (the Vice President must pick a woman or African-American who is qualified already to be President). It's probably too late for him to seek another electoral office this year, which means it will be at least two years before he can run for another federal office, or four years for the Indiana governorship. He can put himself into position for a post in a possible Democratic administration taking office next January, but Julián Castro had that qualification and went nowhere in running for President, so the electoral affect of that is questionable. This quandary in itself makes a very good argument against running for the Presidency when one is so young, and has no other office to return to.
I look forward to Mr. Buttigieg's further participation in American politics since he has demonstrated his merits quite well.
I think he definitely has a future in helping the country.
7
Frank, thank you for this thoughtful piece.
When I first heard of Mayor Pete, I thought "Who is this guy from Indiana?" I looked up on the web the CNN town hall at which he spoke, I think last spring. From that first time I heard him speak, that was it for me. He was my guy. Brilliant with a good heart. (The only other candidate of his caliber is Elizabeth Warren, IMHO. )
As so many readers have commented, I too will look forward to Mayor Pete's next steps and hope he will run again for national office.
10
Back in early 2019, Mr. Buttigieg was fairly new to most Americans as he was exploring a run for the Oval Office. After the New Zealand mosque shooting, Mr. Buttigieg issued a statement that was far more presidential than anything that came from the current President. That statement made me want to learn more about him. Mr. Buttigieg has a bright future ahead of him. I look forward to his next chapter.
9
Well said sir!
At times the changing world can be horrifying, at others luminescent and uplifting. Your take on, and the unqualified brilliance of Mr. Buttigieg is one of those uplifting moments. It is my hope that this first run for him is just that; The beginning of an astonishing career in national public service.
11
Despite all the good feelings expressed here. I hope Buttigieg harbors at least some resentment for the media and even the voters who held him back. He was clearly the brightest mind in the race. He was also the best, by far, on the debate stage. He was an effective fundraiser and a top finisher in most of the primaries/caucuses in which he participated. His message was the most inspirational and inclusive. And yet, he was held back. By a party that would rather alienate voters in the center rather than include them. By a media that preferred to stir the pot, harping on the self-fulfilling prophesy that he would not attract black voters, rather than educate voters. It would be a shame if we loose him to the private sector which would appreciate him more fully. If the Democratic candidate looses to Trump in November, I don't want to read articles about how if it was Sanders or Biden, they would have beaten Trump, because it's Buttigieg who would have stood the best chance.
16
President, bank president, or grocery store clerk: What ever Pete chooses for himself, I'm so appreciative of the manner in which he has conducted himself. Solid man, with values, who doesn't tear others down to make himself appear "Great." As for his being the first "gay candidate" as the media loves to say...not so, says the history books. May I direct your attention to outr 15th President, James Buchanon.
In spite of our inefficient problem-solving abilities as a nation (healthcare, infrastructure, education, gun violence, and unequal distribution of wealth), I am glad I live in a country in which we see a "gay" presidential candidate on stage embracing his love, in lieu of the images I've seen of "gay" men being pushed off the top of buildings by ISIS fighters and then stoned to death. We, as a nation, owe Mayor Pete heartfelt applause for standing up and representing the best parts of a free and open democratic society. Bravo! I suspect we shall heal more from him in the future... I certainly hope so.
6
Let's see what other experience he picks up. Let's see whether he learns to stop worrying about non-issues mythologized by the Republicans, such as the budget deficit. Let's see if he works hard to help people who don't have that much money. Let's see how strong the ties are that he builds among people who aren't white. If he continues to develop as a person and a politician, perhaps a time will come when he'll be the best choice for president. But, as Mr. Bruni makes clear, at least Pete Buttigieg's candidacy means that the next LGBTQ candidate for president probably will find it that much easier to be evaluated based on something other than sexuality. Now, let's also get to work on fully accepting candidates who happen to have two X chromosomes...
3
Why 48 hours before Super Tuesday? What kind of deal was made with the fearful Bernie DNC establishment? Do his supporters that voted early in Super Tuesday contests feel they wasted their vote? All very telling of the manipulation the DNC establishment is concocting to push Biden to the top. Be careful what you wish for Democrats because a CENTRIST, status quo candidate will not beat Trump. Selective amnesia once reserved for the GOP has apparently infected the DNC.
5
@Neil I think the same as you ! His step out was to abrupt not to thinking about a deal...
Buttigieg's votes (and delegates) go to Biden and if it works and Biden get the nomination, B. will be called as VP..
But I do no think it will work, people are too smart, not to see the play
1
Pete Buttigieg was significant as a Presidential candidate because he represents the best that America could have from a single man who was a mayor of a town, not so insignificant but not a metropolis either.
And my point is about current mayors, and city councils in America today as well.
They can do much more for the public, public good, infrastructure repairs - renovations,preventative maintenance work on infrastructure, and advance the best of public policies for great education, substantial access to medical care, shelter, housing and in some cases, employment opportunities for their populace.
They work at ground level.
Due to many factors, mayors today cannot be slackers.
Here in California, City Hall Meetings must be videotaped and broadcast throughout their local area. No local official can hide their limitations. They are visible.
I really never considered Mr. Buttigieg's sexuality, but did consider his military experience. It appears that none of the presidential candidates have military experience. I thought given the climate for conflict in the world, it would be great to have a President who understands what it is like to be a soldier in the field.
7
I'll be one of Pete's votes in Texas, and it will not be wasted (think of it as a vote not for Bernie). It's too bad the remaining contenders have egos the size of Texas, and we won't get a chance to have a Bernie vs anyone-else-please contest.
3
@ST to me Buttigieg's ego is not smaller...
He has now the sure VP if Biden get the nomination; don't you see the deal ?
I have no glass ball but his stepping out was too abrupt not to thinking of a deal...
My absentee vote for Pete was in the mail a week ago and I don't feel as though I threw my vote away. That speech last night was right up there with I HAVE A DREAM.
Pete in 2024...And at noon on January 20,2025 at noon when Joe hands over the keys.
8
Gone for the moment, but not forgotten. This man has a bright future ahead of him, whether in Cabinet or as a future candidate. The intelligence, compassion and decency he brought to the campaign will be sorely missed as it goes forward. As he said in his valedictory, one of the saddest things about the campaign has been the winnowing of an outstanding Democratic field.
Unlike the current administration, which brings to mind the odor of having stepped in something you shouldn't have, the Democrats have given hope of restoring America to what it was just three short years ago -- a decent place, where people had goals other than their personal greed. Compare Joaquin Castro to Wilbur Ross, Mayor Pete to Kirsten Nielsen, Joe Biden to Mike Pompeo, Liz Warren to Steve Mnuchkin -- you will get what I mean. Substance and decency, rather than bombast and vulgar greed. Even Bernie's anger is righteous indignation, not the phoney populism of a reality show shyster.
6
I agree with Kerrey - Pete is a gift and his exit is a loss for us all. None of the remaining candidates are like him nor can they connect the issues like he does.
My whole life I’ve felt republicans have twisted Christianity into a tool for discrimination and exclusion and yet no one - year after year - was able to state so eloquently that Progressive issues are perfectly aligned with helping others in need.
I’m sad Pete is dropping out. He was the only candidate who helped lower my blood pressure. I hope the other candidates learn from him.
9
Mayor Pete did the right thing. I think he should run for a senate seat, garner experience and more support and then consider another run for President. He has certainly proven that he has what it takes to govern this country.
6
Thanks for writing this, you expressed it so well. It’s a huge loss to see Pete go, I kept hoping last night that he would change his mind before his speech. Pete’s sincerity and freshness drew me in, I know he will re-emerge but I think we also need him now. 2020 has had a sad and grim start and this is another part of it. Come back, we love you Pete!
8
One might also suspect that perhaps Peter Buttigieg knew from the start that he didn't have a prayer, but that it would be a fantastic leap forward from South Bend IN to Washington DC. He will be a formidable prospect four to eight years from now.
What a loss for the country. Hopefully, at some point we will evolve to see what a Godsend a leader like this is.
7
His thoughtfulness and dexterity will be missed on the campaign. Of the field, he would have fared by far the best against Trump in a debate. We'll see whether Klobuchar, Warren et al can set their narrow, one might say egotistical self interest aside and display the kind of maturity Pete did.
4
I had tears in my eyes as I read your column. I had tears in my eyes when I read Pete's email. I didn't hear his speech. It was Amy who should have left the race as she hasn't done well anywhere. I had already voted for Pete in the early voting in NC. My vote now doesn't count but I voted with my heart. I am old and I don't want tired old faces and if we win I want someone who might be around to run for a 2nd term. Who will I now support? It won't be Bernie whose followers are almost as crazy as Trump and I believe Trump wants Bernie to be the challenger. (Great line about Trump's hair.)
If Trump wins I won't live long enough to see our democracy right itself.
I don't want a revolution and I believe neither does America. I want Pete. He is a man who is all class. May I see him again.
10
Thanks to the NYT and many other news outlets, the next best leader for our country is no longer in the race. Failing to accurately report his hometown support in the black community while promoting ad nauseum his supposed lack of black support made it true just by virtue of repeating it enough. Grossly under reporting his historic candidacy and placements coming out of Iowa and New Hampshire sustained the shunning. And I will never forget the smug face of the Steven Miller look-alike on your editorial board as he questioned Buttigieg. Shame on you NYT.
7
Good grief, this guy calls himself a political columnist and fails to mention why Pete Buttigieg drops out before three days before Super Tuesday? THREE DAYS!! It's just so insulting as a reader to be disingenuously gaslighted and taken for granted. The entire political world is asking the same question and the author rambles on like a smitten school girl. Not one mention of the curious timing, three days before the biggest primary haul for delegates, and he wouldn't have had to spend a nickel more. What I would like to know is who got to him, which campaign, and what cabinet post was he promised by Bloomberg or Biden? I've always regarded the analysis of this author with a jaundice eye, but this is a new low. Come on NYT management, tell your people their readers deserve better from them.
16
@FXQ I was thinking the same. A VP deal with Biden?
3
Buh-bye Pete. You would never have gone this far as mayor of an insignificant town without truckloads of PAC money.
7
A bit more significant than Burlington, Vermont. Not all candidates can transfer war chests from prior races (including funds raised from the rich) and then hypocritically act like others can’t fundraise to compete with you. No thanks Bernie.
5
Another charming Saunders supporter!
How ever does he attract so many thoughtful, kind and reasonable people?
4
Let me guess...Bernie bro?
You think a general air of superiority will attract undecided voters?
4
The fact that Mayor Pete is quitting so "soon" demonstrates just how smart and NOT arrogant he is. This is why he will be back and eventually go on to win the presidency. Tom Steyer, Elizabeth Warren and the other mayor could take a clue from Buttigieg.
6
@Tom
Pete Buttigieg will never win the presidency unless he figures out how to connect with black and Latino voters. That will be even more vital to any candidate four to eight years from now.
1
After Pete's quit, the democratic debate no longer that much attractive. I will never read world 2 worst newspapers - New York times and Washington post which constantly attack him by jealousy. Amy Klobuchar also constantly attach him to promote herself. Amy constantly say that her disadvantage is because she is a woman. You never heard that Hilry Clinton use woman as a excuse to get sympathy on voting.
5
To think that Mayor Pete was somehow going to garner the support of black voters after he fired South Bend's first ever African-American police chief and then a white South Bend police officer shot and killed a black man last June is delusional. Mayor Pete should have got out in July. Voters who think that the democratic party believes that black lives matter might wonder how Mayor Pete got as far as he did.
https://www.npr.org/2019/07/02/737976138/buttigieg-tries-again-to-woo-black-voters-amid-race-controversy-in-his-hometown
"You're running for president? And you want black people to vote for you? That's not gonna happen," one woman said, talking over Buttigieg, as he tried to address the crowd's concerns.
"I'm not asking for your vote," Buttigieg responded.
"You're not gonna get it, either," the woman said back.
5
Mayor Pete - Please try again!
7
Thank you citizen Pete.
5
Mr, Bruni, brilliant.
6
Pete 2024!
7
Here’s hoping we have representative democracy by 2024, and wouldn’t tolerate a slick superPAC/dark money oligarchs’ candidate like Pete again. Then again, has it been fifty years since MLKJr was proposing Bernie’s policies...? You have to admit, the American oligarchs sure are effective.
4
Mayor Pete, like all of 2020’s Democratic Party candidates, is a poster boy for what ills the Democrats and causes their irrelevance.
Mondale-Ferraro Is Coming
6
Thank you.
REALITY: asked to drop out
3
Buttigieg, has taught America and most of the "civilized" world that being gay is and can be more honorable than a lying and or corrupt "leader," ...because of that, he will be back.
2
I casted my vote early for Pete and now wish I could vote for Amy.
I’ll throw my November ballot in the trash before picking Biden and his worthless son.
His son isn’t running. And look at the sleaze Biden would be running against. Please reconsider in the event Biden is the nominee.
3
Mayor Pete is the spy agencies' poster boy, like Obama, the Bushes and the Clintons, they're all beneficiaries of Operation Mockingbird. #CIAPete
3
#conspiracy theories. I can do it too! Bernie is a sleeper agent groomed by the Russians since the Cold War. #BabushkaBernie
Let’s stop the nonsense.
3
Expect him to be Biden's VP pick.
@JDW
Why, Biden gains absolutely nothing picking a running mate from a state that is not in contention or from a candidate whose voters will probably vote for him anyway. It is however an excellent strategy if you want to lower the turnout of black and Latino voters or more progressive voters.
Like Joe Biden, Mayor Peter is just a republican-lite, centrist democrat. You don't need two on the same ticket.
1
He mostly got noticed early on because he was so strongly promoted by Bruni. I recall Bruni's columns about him well before anyone thought about this Democratic primary.
Any person with intelligence and privilege who volunteered for a demonstratively unjust war that killed hundreds of thousands of brown people is not worthy of praise. I'd argue such a person isn't worthy of much at all, since they are a traitor to humanity.
Mayor Pete is such a person, and I hope we never hear from him ever again.
(And yes, I am highly educated and a queer who is married to my partner. I did a dance when he dropped out. Good riddance).
5
Thank you Mr. Bruni! I think Mayor Pete held up the proud tradition of the Democratic Party by showing the American public that party allows many voices. I think his affirming statement below will resonate for a long time, and I hope longer than some of the despicable public statements of our current president.
“The idea of the likes of Rush Limbaugh or Donald Trump lecturing anybody on family values, I mean, sorry, but one thing about my marriage is it’s never involved me having to send hush money to a porn star after cheating on my spouse,” he said. “They want to debate family values, let’s debate family values. I’m ready.”
3
Pete is a kind and decent man. His calm in the midst of so much collective anxiety soothed me. I’m excited about what he’ll do in the future!
6
Mayor Pete is a perfect presidential candidate - but not yet. The entirety of the Democratic electorate is not yet ready for a president with a husband, given strong religious and cultural taboos in the Hispanic and A-A communities of older voters. But 8 years from now - or maybe even 4 - a wider attitude more welcoming of personal difference will prevail across Democratic voters. Let's hope - Pete has everything we need in this chaotic time. His decision to withdraw last night further evinces his strength of character.
And I continue to dither between Joe and Liz for this week's Massachusetts primary!
Pete Buttigieg had the most composure on the national stage during the Democratic "debates" (a term I used very loosely). Not the best ideas, but very good with the camera and lots of the population watching him. I suspect he will have a very good political future as he has developed a national name now, which is very hard to do.
That being said, I didn't vote for him in the California primary because I have a hard time justifying a person becoming president who was mayor of a town a lot smaller than where I live.
2
We do need an outsider who knows that Washington must change. That's why Mayor Pete will make the perfect VP choice for Biden -- who is unlikely to serve more than one term. I believe that is part of the calculus of this announcement as well. I hope Joe has as much sense as Pete does.
4
We miss you Pete :’-(
Who to vote for now??
Help!
Especially Texans out there. Bloomberg is only succeeding because of $$$ and Biden is not quite together anymore. Warren has little chance to win so don’t want to waste my vote.
Bernie it is I guess.
2
Please vote Biden if you were already considering him :)
1
This article is a bit too worshipful towards Pete.
8
A thoughtful piece, Mr. Bruni.
1
Mayor Pete has a big future
2
Now Amy Klobuchar needs to get out too.
6
Well he was certainly the queen of the parade.
2
There is still time. He will be Biden's age in 2060.
1
"Rush Limbaugh . . . derided the possibility that Buttigieg . . . would be “kissing his husband onstage next to Mr. Man Donald Trump.”'
As one of the late-night comedians said--I think it was maybe Bill Mahr--"Yeah, when I think of a real man's man, the first thing I think of is a fat guy with bleached-blond, comb-over hair and wearing makeup."
2
If only he'd campaigned as the LogCabin Republican he actually is, he could still be in the running as the youngest, gayest candidate ever! Meanwhile, the Democratic electorate is seeing through these disguises. Next up: Bye-bye, Bloomberg!
8
And yet just yesterday you were pushing for this “not delusional” gay gentleman. What gives Frank?
1
Pete, without missing a step – declare your 2020 candidacy for Indiana governor...
Will send something, the moment your campaign has a mailing address...
Perhaps more than once...
Long before Bloomberg was my favorite candidate, Mitch Daniels was...
But the NYT nixed that, with cheap shots at his personal life...
https://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/12/us/politics/12daniels.html
In retrospect, they know they sinned mortally – so give them a shot at redemption...
As you well know – it's what they do, in flyover country...
@W in the Middle
Do you REALLY think the state that elected Mike Pence governor and senator is going to turn around and elect Pete Buttigieg to any statewide office? Indiana is a state where Hilary Clinton got 37.5% of the vote in 2016 and she lost to Trump by about 19 percentage points.
Buttigieg is in a political coldrum. I don't see how he can be a political force in the State of Indiana. The state is too politically and socially conservative.
1
@Carl
https://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/21/us/politics/republicans-concerned-over-state-focus-on-social-issues.html
“…Gov. Mitch Daniels of Indiana, a Republican who created a stir a couple of years ago with his suggestion for a “truce” on social issues, said in an interview that such issues are best handled at the state and local levels. They become more polarizing, he said, when people try to settle them nationally…
“…If we don’t address soon what I believe are the lethal threats of our debts, our unaffordable commitments, our slow-growth economy, and so forth, every other problem will seem small,” said Mr. Daniels, whose state did see union protests this year when it enacted a so-called right-to-work law. He noted that Mitt Romney’s campaign was already emphasizing the economy at every opportunity…
Mayor Pete is young enough, educated and intelligent enough to make a great comeback. Don't count him out just yet. The right-wing Republican bunch of petty Trumpy puppets is coming to a noisy end. The ancient GOP now stands for Goofy Old Panderers.
2
At a time when carnival barking, baseless morons are destroying the government and trying to enshrine a monarch, it is uplifting to see someone who is able to eloquently, intelligently, and powerfully promote a return to civility and unity, country over party or individual, facts over lies, decency over amorality. Thanks Pete for your service, your faith, and your voice.
4
I did not support a Pete. I thought he was too young and inexperienced. That said, I was impressed every time I saw him. I expect great things from him in the future.
2
I agree. Buttigieg was an inspirational candidate and showed the world he was whip smart and morally centered.
But he lacks experience in big government. Hopefully, Joe Biden has been talking to Mayor Pete about joining his cabinet as Secretary of Defense. With his Army experience and his political smarts, Buttigieg would be a great leader at Defense.
With a few years of managing the biggest government bureaucracy, Pete will be well-qualified to be President of the United States.
And Biden can use Pete's energy and his ideas to campaign with him from here on out.
Uncle Joe should name other cabinet positions as soon as possible to join him campaigning and after the election to join him governing the country.
What about Kamala Harris as AG, Susan Rice as Secretary of State, Andrew Yang as Secretary of Commerce, Julian Castro at Homeland Security and others as well.
Talk is cheap.
Giving more chips in the game of governing the nation is the way for the Democratic Party to show minorities they are not taken for granted, including LBGTQ.
Cabinet positions are also a good way to give minority candidates this year an opportunity to lengthen their management experience.
Joe Biden would do well to build a strong team to rebuild our institutions, and strong cabinet appointments as well as a collaborative governing style will be key.
Pete Buttigieg has a role to play in a Biden presidency. I expect to see him often if Biden is elected. It's a no brainer.
You’re counting your chickens...
1
My wife and I were crying over his announcement. What I see is this, though: he will be the top contender for the Presidency in 2024. He has gained national recognition and that will keep him in the public eye between now and then, something he hasn't had until now. Whoever is the next president will not run in 2024, thereby opening the field. Ideally, Pete will have some national position between now and then, only adding to his already sterling resume. He may have ended his run right now - and in a classy way, too - but he's only just getting started.
4
Pete will fly again, rest assured.
5
Mayor Pete, my praise I sing.
I tip my hat to you.
Since you threw your hat in the ring,
I was in awe. It’s true.
Your courage and your intellect.
Your thoughtfulness. Your vision.
I do believe you will affect
our country’s indecision.
It will take time. Or maybe not.
You’d make a good VP.
Your run was clearly not for naught.
What ever comes, we’ll see.
I’m white and straight. You have my vote.
Black folks you must seduce.
I wish you well. That’s all she wrote.
Next time you will not lose.
2
Pete will be president some day, I'm sure. In the meantime, perhaps we should take another look at Tulsi Gabbard.
@Peggy You mean the same Tulsi "Present" Gabbard who didn't believe Trump's attempted extortion of another world leader and subsequent obstruction of justice warranted impeachment? No thanks...she's proven undeserving of a first look, never mind a second.
1
Frank,
A bit excessive? Pete, the second coming? Come on!
How about just a little objectivity?
Jim
Northbrook, Illinois
5
Being white and male trumps being gay, and being white male gay trumps being a woman.
The persistence of White, Male, privilege, where a minority, female, candidate's experience and talents are discounted, but those of a white, male, are inflated and glorified.
4
My hope is that the best candidate wins. Many times, the DNC is its own worst enemy. This election is looking to be no different. By pumping up Biden and misrepresenting Bernie as a socialist, the DNC is working overtime to defeat us all.
2
Run for senate Pete: we need you.
3
All these heartfelt "thank you Pete" comments really make me wonder what it must be like to be so insulated from the actual on-the-ground effects of elections.
I agree Buttigieg is intelligent. (Whatever their flaws, McKinsey doesn't hire idiots.) I have no reason to doubt that he loves his husband and his dogs. But he also built a campaign on a platform that came pretty close to "no we can't." While he thankfully stayed away from the insane insistence of pols like early-term Obama and especially egregiously current Biden that we need to return to the kind of GOP-led bipartisanship that got us into the many messes we're in now, his surfeit of personal ambition combined with his lack of policy ambition made me pretty nervous. I just never got the impression he was committed to much of anything than what he judged to be politically expedient. I see his decision to drop out as an extension of that and nothing more. He's eyeing another few decades of a career in the upper echelons of the Dem machine, and this decision figures to earn him a lot of goodwill he'll be able to access in the years to come.
6
Thank you Frank Bruni for your frank [ no pun intended] and clear appraisal of what we are missing.
3
I'm glad he's out. Just another Neocentrist masquerading as the change we need, with platitudes designed to obfuscate the same old corporate agenda. Pete, you can fool some of the people some of the time. You didn't fool me.
10
@unreceivedogma He wasn't masquerading as anything. He is a moderate centrist and ran as such. And if by "the change we need" you mean kindness, compassion, empathy, and competence, then he is indeed the change we need.
2
@CritterDoc
What exactly is a 'moderate centrist'? Isn't that someone who radiates peace and love while voting for corporate lobbyists' agendas?
1
Maybe Pete and Frank should meet?
2
From Bernadette ...."...thank God there are still good and brilliant people like Pete Buttigieg !! can’t remember who it was who defined courage as “grace under pressure…was it JFK?..."
2
Major Pete, of South Bend, has class. Remember class?
I look forward to his next act.
9
Then, the American Oligarchy and their hangers on were the neoliberal wind that created this catastrophe beneath their wings.
2
Flew sky high? He faked left, banked right, flip flopped on everything that matters, became a wine-cave bat, and dropped out before being humiliated on Super Tuesday primarily so he wouldn't have to explain that in 2024, 2028, or whenever when he'll be back for more, most likely.
His last act this cycle was to further advertise himself as what he was, as the NYT was nice enough to tell us months ago*, a junior executive in the Stop Sanders brigade, something Tom Steyer refuses to join to his credit.
So, he'll be back for further marching orders sometime in the future, because, as some wit put it, the establishment Democrats will always welcome "a neural net trained on West Wing episodes," as opposed to someone who might actually save really-existing capitalism from itself and what's left of a democratic republic from the far-right.
Yeah, not so profiles-in-courage, but nice try, Frank.
________
*https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/16/us/politics/bernie-sanders-democratic-party.html
9
Two things: (1) no democrats want to talk about the reason for Pete's lack of support among blacks: it is the rampant homophobia in the black community AND (2) the heartbreak some are feeling about Pete's dropping out can be soothed like this: Biden-Buttigieg 2020. Bruni's "please god" prayer that Trump not be re-elected will be smashed like a November pumpkin if Bernie is on the ticket. So, yes, let's pray no Trump, but prayers will be useless if we nominate Bernie.
5
@Micah
A far bigger problem for Pete Buttiigieg than being gay was his handling of the firing of a black chief of police in South Bend and his handling of a police shooting of an unarmed black man.
There is also as one black donor put in in a recent Politico article "He has an almost uncanny inability not to connect with black people." Pete Buttigieg was born of social and economic privilege. Based on his public appearances and inability to speak sincerely to black Americans I can gather he has had limited associations or friendships with black Americans or Latinos.
That's a huge disadvantage for him and any other politician that wants the support of black and Latino voters now and in the future. In order to get the support of these voters you have to spend time in those communities and show you have some "skin in the game" in terms of fighting for issues that concern these people. You cannot just announce you are running for national or statewide office show up and expect to get the vote of people in these communities.
1
Brilliant man makes brilliant move. Hope you get picked as VP by Biden.
5
Small Town. Big Ideas. Looking forward to what Pete can do next for our country. And might I suggest @frankbruni for Chief of Communications for Pete’s eventual Presidency? #thankspete. @peteforamerica
2
Thanks, Mayor Pete - I was rooting for you and, had you been able to stay the course, I might have voted for you in my state’s primary, which isn’t until the end of April. But it was not to be. Maybe I will get to vote for you in the future. One day this Trump era will end. Please stay in politics because, when the dust settles from the Trump disaster, America will need a leader like you: young, smart, energetic, and willing to work with others. Guys like Biden, Bloomberg, and yes, even the holier-than-thou Bernie, won’t be around forever and we will need someone ready to lead us forward.
Thank you, Mayor Pete. I hope you continue to encourage us to be a united Democratic party and a country for all people. For all those Americans who want to go back to the 50’s with that misogynistic old maniac, Donald Trump, or pray-it-away Mike Pence, take a good long look at Mayor Pete. This is what America looks like now: it’s smart, it’s worldly, it’s educated, it’s interested in others, and yes, in this case, it’s gay. I would much rather have had Mayor Pete and his husband in the White House next year than the stupid, barely literate old gasbag we’ve currently got, a man who is on his third wife and cheated on her with a porn star. And who also believes windmills cause cancer. Really, haven’t you had enough? I know I have, and hopefully we will vote in a better world come November. Mayor Pete has shown us that it’s possible. Maybe one day, in 2024, Mayor Pete will be our president.
1
No doubt angling for a role as VP. Canny fox.
3
I really like Buttigieg. He's super smart, articulate, kind and thoughtful. But I was happy that he dropped out before Super Tuesday. He had nowhere to go and dropping out paved the way for Biden. Bloomberg, Klobuchar and Warren should drop out too. They can't win. I've always like Biden's humanity and empathy. His victory speech after South Carolina reminded me of everything I like about him. I want Biden and Bernie to compete one on one. I hope Joe wins.
1
Reality Check Buttigreg could endorsed Tulsi gabbard who would be best to be president ever . Didnt he just dropped out race thats rigged. Hope some one like bill gates runs as president as independent.
@jerry lee Tulsi Gabbard voted "present" on Trump's impeachment. Her future in the Democratic Party will be justifiably short.
3
Oh Please ! What a Hero...The Hero for the plutocrats that runs the show at the DNC.
The hero for the democrats that want nothing of a change in the way politics are imparted from the establishment high elites that after all are the only responsibles for who we have now as president of the United States, and will keep doing their dirty cooking with delegates, super delegates, and all other creations coming from a corrupt system that has privilege "the special interest" of "the privileged Democratric Class"...
3
Pete! No! You would be the best Prez of the lot.
Please come back and do it again sometime.
2
Buttigege like Al Gore took the high road. He would be an ideal VP candidate and move on to the next level. Buttigege and Biden perhaps ?
3
Biden/Buttigeig has a nice ring to it!
2
Being paranoid about all things Russian infecting yet another presidential election, I'm wondering whether that weird critique of Buttigieg not being gay enough came from some Russian bot. I imagine it's possible that some gay activist wrote on social media a complaint about Buttigieg. But then a trolling Russian bot discovered it, and broadcasted it far and wide, sowing the false, divisive seed that infected the media in recent weeks with this story. Whether it's true or not, whenever I hear an odd story like that, I begin to think Russian bots are at it again, just to temper my credulity.
Mayor Pete was a win, win ,win, for millions of Gay Americans that have been labeled as freaks.He has demonstrated that your sexual orientation has nothing to do with your other qualities like standing for decency with a brilliant mind and true American Values..He has made my Gay Son's path to success easier as he
lives his life.
1
Gay doesn’t define Pete Buttigieg, why is his sexuality even relevant?
1
Plan is to get to the convention and ratify the DNC pick.
Biden!
This was a test of character for the candidates with no chance of winning. Pete passed the test.
1
I hope Pete runs for Congress from Indiana and replace a Republican in the process. And if he wins that, there's always the 2024 presidential race.
1
I gave a small donation to Mayor Pete early on in his candidacy because I thought his voice too important to be quieted. My ONLY reservation in backing him for President in this cycle was I felt he was too young. Perhaps my own bias in favor of experience over intellect, after all, many of the writers of our constitution were under the age of 40! He will be back. He was so impressive.
1
"Some other Democrat--please, God--will replace Donald Trump in the White House..."
Really. That about covers it for me.
6
Mayor Pete, like AOC, was a media creation
1
@M brown
Pete is nothing like AOC. Pete is a store front - a facade.
1
A generational shift portends /an evolving political trend; / the polis now driven / by an algorithm, / your tribe verified by ‘likes’ and ‘friends.’
1
He enjoyed telling us about his man "first lady." Proud and ignorant.
I'm glad he's out. America in 2020 would never elect a gay president.
Facts matter.
Oh, Honey. You have not seen the last of Mayor Pete! Would that I live long enough to see him and his husband in the White House.
5
Thank you Frank Bruni for expressing what so many of us saw and heard in Pete Buttigieg. Even his nickname “Mayor Pete” may reveal what many of us want in their leader, someone who is trustworthy, accountable...real.
4
mayor pete is one of the smartest people i have ever heard speak; plus, he is so eloquent and so hopeful and so even-tempered. from the beginning, my wish has been for a warren/buttigieg ticket, which is still my hope, however fleeting..
& other fellow lefties saying he’s not gay enough? like obama wasn’t black enough? whatever, man... that is a huge problem if we want to defeat drumpf, et al. his message of unity was not just talk.. and like bruni said, pete rose above all that.
we need him deeply involved in the future of this country, and i can’t wait to see him more often.
7
"I can only imagine how bitter that felt . . ." Bitter? Enough with the drama, Frank. The man is . . . what? 37? He's got four more decades to attempt to become the first gay president. His future is blinding. I think he can smile at today's circumstance, just as he's doing in the photo.
2
Good riddance; we don't want a phony progressive who back tracked on medical for all and support for Israel notwithstanding it's aggressive building of settlements in Palestinian territory. I'm sure he'll be back in 4 to 8 years with an even better Obama impression.
4
To transition from the abuse I suffered as a kid -- from my schoolmates, even my teachers, my church, certainly my family -- to an era where a gay fellow could conceive of running for president let alone gain so much traction ... I am at a loss for words. Sure, it took decades of my lifetime to reach this point, but having assumed the status of old gay codger, may I say: Woulda never thought I'd live to see the day.
Mayor Pete, my admiration cannot be overstated. Please do consider another go in the years ahead. You have demonstrated you have so very much to offer this country.
9
He's history, along with that California billionaire, and a very good thing it is.
Now come on, Democrats!
Let's get rid of Klobuwhatever and Bloomberg and let Biden get on with the job of beating Crazy Bernie so we can toss out that Trump lunatic in November.
Let's look at recent history, shall we? A black guy (2008), a woman (2016), a gay guy (2020). The democrats are the party of identity politics. Between the candidates they run and their constant bashing of "white men" and "old white men" its no wonder that there are now more registered republicans than democrats. I don't know what oddity the democrats will go wild for in 2024, but I'm sure it will be a doozy.
1
@Dino
Oddity? Since when is a woman an oddity? You do realize we are the majority, right? If you combine all women, African Americans, and gay/lesbians - you capture 70-75% of the population.
1
I predict that Biden will buck the convention and announce Buttigieg as his VP later today.
1
The guy speaks in full paragraphs. That alone is worth appreciating. See you later, Pete.
8
The "Mayor Pete is not gay enough" discourse, including a disgusting opinion piece in the New Yorker, is one of the most disgusting things the Left has done in recent years. The message: we only care about LGBT+ rights if that person things exactly like us.
2
His fall back position was to mock the revolutionary spirit of the 60s betraying the pain sweat danger and humiliation as well as the spirit, visionary brilliance, courage and defiance of people who came before him. Still I am sorry he is no longer running. No more people of color on the debate stage. No room made for Tulsi Gabbard while every room made for Michael Bloomberg.
The stage grows ever whiter, ever straighter and soon ever maler. And if Biden wins the nomination. Well we are totally back to the beginning. No Jews either.
2
Face it: Pete Buttigieg dropped out not because he's less qualified or well suited for the candidacy than any one else on the ticket. He dropped out because the Democratic voters as a whole cannot tolerate someone who's homosexual. For the foreseeable future, someone like Buttigieg will never become a candidate from the Democratic Party for the White House, because the party voters are too socially conservative and homophobic to allow it.
Given the demographics of South Bend, shall we venture to guess that Buttigieg has a better chance to go through the primary a winner as a Republican than a Democrat?
None of the comments here mention anything to that front, and this is disturbingly concerning: either the Times readers are so liberally in the box that they do not see it. Or they are so inclined towards being politically correct that they no longer state facts in public.
@Avi I think you are referring to Mayor Pete's lack of support among African Americans, and African Americans' alleged homophobia. Yes, that is worth talking about. I'd like to see probing reporting on whether or not that allegation is true.
1
If Mayor Pete had to run a grassroots campaign and relied on small donors instead of private wine cave fundraisers NO ONE WOULD HAVE EVER HEARD OF HIM!!!
So the corporations and the wealthy seeking to keep the $tatu$ Quo are putting all of their eggs in Bloomie's and incoherent Joe's basket. Let's see how that works out.
1
Mayor Pete, good riddance.
Frequently dishonest in his presentation, Petey was in it to maintain the status quo; oligarchy, the healthcare industry and white male technocrats .
2
He will shatter a different glass ceiling one day.
1
In the moment that he became public with his sexual orientation he lost the height of his fly.
1
"Kid, this ain't your night. You gotta take a dive for the Party..."
He coulda been a contender.
I knew he would be rejected by black voters. However, the white hegemonic media continued to promote Mayor Pete. However, people saw him as a fraud and disingenuous.
2
Adam and Steve cannot beat Adam and Eve.
Peter B. is the Rosa Parks of his community.
I love him.
6
Hopefully his humility bodes well for the future, may this be the last election with boomers as candidates. Goodnight Donny, Goodnight Hilly, Goodnight Joey, Goodnight Liz, Goodnight Billy, Goodnight George, Goodnight Bernie, Goodnight to all and to all a good night, go gently, or flippin' don't; just please go.
6
This column fails to mention a primary reason for his failed presidential bid, which was his failure to get support from African Americans. See https://www.nytimes.com/2019/11/21/us/politics/pete-buttigieg-black-voters.html?action=click&module=RelatedLinks&pgtype=Article
1
Mayors, leaders on the front lines of American racial and class struggles, may not prove electable presidential candidates because of it.
1
Not that Frank had much good to say about Pete while he was still in the race....
2
" some of his critics on the left conducted an offensive discussion about whether he was gay enough, "
Gay enough to do what ? Is it a qualification to do something?
1
America would rather have a CEO that is a village idiot than a decent, intelligent Rhodes scholar. We rationalize about his age, his sexual orientation and lack of experience and fail to admit the guy in office now is uneducated, an old dementia patient and of limited intelligence.
America is not ready to elect younger candidates, women, charismatic or well mannered individuals in places of authority.
We are worst than third world countries. We Like vicious,loud mouths to scare people to abide by their authoritarian demands.
It would be cheaper to hire a bulldog to bark and bite to mark his territory.
Media has become the enemy of democracy. Desperate for ratings, news channels, report rumours and gossip that discredit and hurt candidates early on. Unethical and cheap shots at candidates have no place in a democratic process and certainly not in the US where illiterate, party lovers get brainwashed easily.
7
He definitely was my pick.......i want to see more of him....hint, hint,..Biden........
1
I have three thoughts. Two of them kind of horrible.
(1) "Please, God"--you murmur between dashes.
Please God we have a Democratic president in 2021.
With all my heart, I echo that prayer. The man has been a disaster beyond--far beyond--what I could have expected in November, 2016.
He has walked into the top post of the federal government--he has received to highest position in the gift of the American people--
--and immediately he started smashing things. Norms. Rules. Alliances. Decencies. You name it. Which leads to:
(2) Even should a Democrat win the White House in several months--
--CAN he (or she) clean up "the mess left by Mr. Donald J. Trump"?
I seriously wonder.
The prolonged series of toxic shocks this man has delivered to our country and our country's standing in the world at large--
--the veritable bevy of world leaders (once friends) he has insulted or belittled--
--the solemn commitments he has walked away from--
--enough! I cannot bear to go on. You know what I mean.
(3) I wish Mr. Buttigieg personally the very best. He ran a class campaign. He is a class human being.
Unlike--
--but enough.
God bless you, Mr. Mayor.
God bless you.
Keep working it Mayor Pete, the future is bright!
Pete Buttigieg is a smart young man who should run for Congress or the Senate. Get some real time experience solidify his policy and run again for President in a few years.
The fact that he is gay should be a non issue. The fact that some of the LBGT community think he isn’t gay enough is ridiculous.
1
Republicans were already very afraid of him. My republican “friend” read me some “secrets” about Buttigieg. His father translated the works of a Marxist while a college prof. And she said Buttigieg helped him. Therefore, both Buttigieg and his academic father are secret marxists. There you go. This is the kind of thing republicans will be throwing out there this year.
1
@Vivien
He may be phony, but no self-respecting Marxist would defend corporate America and American interventionism like he does.
1
uhm, I think that maybe living in big ol nyc you are missing out on something very basic.
Well, Pete's a young guy, and he'll be around for a long time. I hope he stays in politics and gets the opportunity to do his thing and gain experience on a larger stage than South Bend (nothing against South Bend!). This can only help him (and us) in the long run. Good luck Mayor Pete!
"Sky Pilot, how high can you fly? You'll never ever reach the sky".
My sadness for Pete is profound. But, as an openly gay 74 year old man, I am so proud of him and his husband, Chasten. Together, they have shown the world that love is infinitely stronger than hate. Young queer kids around the world now know that, being queer is no longer a burden to be borne, but a badge of honour to be proudly worn. Thank you, Pete Buttigieg, you are a star!
2
2024! He's not going anywhere, thank god!
2
Where was the soaring support and admiration when debate season kicked off? While I appreciate people are finally acknowledging what an amazing candidate and person he is, it's the essence of hypocrisy for Democrats to dismiss his candidacy because he was young, because he was from a smaller urban city and because (and this was never said openly) gay. The reason why Democrats are in the position today is because they do operate based on urban areas, billionaires, and identity politics where the machine, not the people, get to decide whose "turn" it is. I will vote for whichever 70+ year old survives until November but for me Pete represented a much needed generational shift. Whatever he decides, Pete will land of his feet and apply the lessons from this amazing experience to the next phase of his political career. We should all look forward to seeing Pete back on the political stage.
1
This is the article I needed to help me properly begin to grieve the suspension of the Buttigieg campaign. As Pete ended his first town hall with Chris Wallace, he noted that the country was on a blank page between chapters and that what came next could be awful or could be amazing. I hitched my wagon to ‘amazing’ and need time now to accept that it can’t happen now. No fresh and forward-looking candidate is left in this race. Instead, all we’ve got is a passel of same-old (emphasis on ‘old’) white politicians who, even if they manage to beat Agent Orange, cannot begin to birth the triumphant new era that Pete Buttigieg could have and would have delivered. The rest of this campaign will be something to endure. Even if the Democrats win, they will have lost any chance of glorious victory.
3
The Democratic presidential primary campaign sort of felt like bring your child to work day on a construction site, cute at first but until the kids finally go home can some actual work can get done. I can see Pete as Joe's possible running mate, reminiscent of Gerald Ford and Dan Quayle.
Mayor Pete's decision to drop out was not done in haste nor done lightly because I am certain he weighed all of the pros and cons and decided what was best for the Party rather than he as a person.
I am hoping he will read these comments if for no other reason than to see just many people support him and believe in him. I hope he realizes just how much he means on so many levels to so many Americans.
I am one of his biggest fans and supporters.
I am expecting Pete to do a re-peat and run again in 2024.
Looking forward to his next campaign!!!
3
No doubt urged on by the Biden campaign and the Democratic establishment in their ongoing effort to oust Sanders. They must not have thought Biden could manage to win the nomination on his own until Pete was gone...
2
Pete is wise beyond his years, no doubt. But let's not forget, he is also a shrewd politician who has an eye on his future and didn't want to publicly suffer what would inevitably be a poor showing on Super Tuesday. He got out when he did not just for party/nation reasons but for personal ones as well, because he has plans to get back in the game at a later date. Looking forward to see how he grows as a politician.
I have all the confidence that mayor Pete will return in four years and become the Democratic nominee, winning, and ending an 8 year trump debacle.
3
I would hope that Mayor Pete is the type of politician that would claim to be "moderate", but if elected would incorporate more and more progressive policies into his agenda like the ones he has supported in the past. When Lyndon Johnson was in Congress, he voted against some Civil Rights laws because he had to in order to get elected by his constituents. He then became one of the most appreciated names in Civil Rights history.
We all know about Johnson's racism, but he was a man of his politically incorrect time. Mayor Peter has also become a man of his time in his own politically correct way, but incorporating too much compromise. I have to wonder if many of these commenters who are singing his praises would be if Mayor Pete ran more progressively, or would they just want to see him gone. This is a question that one must ask themselves, because biz as usual will not cut it anymore, and the country does need to go in a more progressive direction. If we don't then we will all be painted into a corner with never drying paint, rich and poor alike.
Good Luck , Mayor Pete, and I hope that you can advance yourself into the direction that will benefit us all eventually. "And Medicare for All Who Want It"? That will not not benefit us all, as the numbers will not allow it. The whole idea is that All put in (if one is working). All benefit.
Pete needs to do a Clinton and move to a state where he can run for senate of governor. Too much talent to waste!
1
Thank you for this gracious column, Frank. It assuages my deep disappointment - as well as puzzlement - over the Times' consistently contemptuous stance toward this promising young candidate. We saw it in the candidate interviews in which Buttigieg's early-career stint with a consulting company was harped on to an absurd degree - while Warren's hiring of the same company was glossed over. And we saw it again yesterday in the snide dismissal of him in the news article covering his withdrawal from the race. I can't account for the attitude. In contrast, Bruni saw the same person I did.
4
Very smart and well-spoken. He still could rely on being a white male despite his sexual orientation.
1
Thanks, Mr. Bruni, for promoting this milquetoast empty suit. The white Obama no one asked for, the teacher's pet, the man with a million memorized bromides to patriotism but no original ideas--I could go on. "Mayor Pete" will be remembered as a slick salesman who changed his policies every time his donors rang the cash register, pivoting from "generational change" to the "moderate lane" without a second's hesitation, all while adopting a folksiness so fake it would make W. blush (You covered him glowingly too, didn't you?). Your efforts and powerful platform could have been used to promote Tammy Baldwin or Kate Brown if you wanted an LGBT trailblazer, but I guess they can't compete with the "raw political talent" of this résumé with legs.
1
As a gay baby boomer I never thought I would see the day that a gay man would run for president and do so well. I am proud of you Pete. You will be remembered as the first and you have now opened the doors for others to follow.
2
Class act on Buttigieg 's part.
There is no doubt in my mind that he cares for the citizens of this country.
Pity he withdrew and I look to his return.
Hopefully Klobuchar will follow suit.
There's a silver cloud in Mayor Pete's dropping out. When he runs next time, we'll know how to pronounce his name!
1
Im not going to read all the comments, but I want to add my thanks to Mayor Pete to others that are surely here. It was a refreshing, intelligent campaign, and I'm glad I "met" him. Here's to Perte Buttigieg's bright future. We'll need him.
3
Hearing Mayor Pete's positive, inspiring words tonight, I couldn't help but notice the contrast between this brilliant, poised, patriotic man of integrity and the toxic, divisive jerk in the White House.
Pete makes me believe that we can still rescue the country if we pull together to elect a leader we can trust and respect.
Inevitably a gay columnist will sing paeans to an openly gay presidential candidate. But another gay man from Indiana, one who is our VP, is now busy administering the Trump administration's coronavirus policy. He's telling everyone to go back to sleep and not to worry. Good thing I'm a good looking well-made Indiana resident, perhaps that will help me to ingratiate myself with Pence. Let's just hope that one day it will not matter to anyone what one's private issues, such as religion or the lack thereof, or sexual orientation, are vis-a-vis political office. On that day but not before I shall rejoice.
1
@Tournachonadar
Whatever Pence's private sexual desires might be, he is not gay - because being gay is an affirmation of identity. He might be a closet case, or might not be. I really have no way of knowing. What is clear is he's a dreadful politician - wooden, cowardly, and hateful.
The voters spoke about Buttegeig’s beliefs. He failed.
One word describes Mayor Pete. Thoughtful.
Amen. Dropping out now demonstrated the maturity for which Buttegieg is so widely and justifiably admired. I fully expect he'll be president someday.
3
Tonight we have Sanders, Biden, Bloomberg and Trump. Common denominator- old white men!!!
I’m LGBT and a Pete Buttigieg supporter. I voted by mail for Pete, so as of tonight, I am disenfranchised. Come Tuesday my vote won’t count.
Pete, too young, too inexperienced, not queer enough, can’t win the the black or Latino vote. When will the media just let us vote. Stop insulting the electorate. Putting us in boxes. Still haven’t forgiven the media and Bernie for the Clinton debacle. Hey, Bernie this is what bowing out gracefully looks like. Imagine if you had done what Pete just did in 2016. There never would have been a Trump.
I feel pretty hopeless tonight. The Democrats scream diversity, yet all I see is the same old, same old. So whose left, the future?? Looks like 1959. Yes, Pete is young and will fight another day, but what will be left to fight for in 2024? Four more years of Trump? Sanders who lives in fantasy land? It feels more and more like the 1950’s. Progressive, no, actually regressive.
Pete was a real shot at a better future and a breadth of fresh air. My greatest fear is come November the candidates will be Trump and Sanders. The country will be further torn apart. I for one can’t stand either and neither can my spouse.
Pete was our hope and as Harvey Milk once said - “You’ve got to give them hope”.
Thank you Pete for allowing me to believe in the possibilities, now on to reality, God help us.
2
Pete has been a class act since day one. I was rooting for him to go further but I still hold out hope he'll be VP or Secretary of State.
The big question is.....what the heck, Amy Klobuchar? It seems like your time now to step down.
1
Thank-you, Mr. Bruni. Mayor Pete is such a good human being.
1
Thanks! "You can check out but you can never leave." You've done too much for that. Congratulations!
His sexual orientation may not have been much talked about but it was on peoples' minds. Why else do you think he could not make inroads with the black population? Homosexuality is something looked upon unfavorably.
Too bad, perhaps people come around the next time we have an election. Young yes, but he would have made a great president.
A with this act of true selflessness, Pete Buttigieg once again shows us that he is the polar opposite of Trump.
WHAT gay pioneer? I'm 61, a native Californian, and was part of the gay movement here in the 1970's.
Buttigieg first got his Naval Intelligence career going. Rhodes Scholarship. All of it. Otherwise known as a plotting careerist.
The fact that he happened to "come out later" and that he is in fact gay is really sort of a joke.
I would never have voted for him. He is what we observed for decades. A highly careerist gay man who incidentally "might" help out on civil rights for ALL. Don't hold your breath waiting for it.
1
Oh, please! Mayor Pete was nothing more than a Republican Light/CIA fabrication who spoke well but had no real substance, unless you were already doing fine living in the status quo. Those are just some of the qualifications you need for a cable news pundit seat near you these days.
3
I'll minimize what he did....he's a classic white guy who is tone deaf to issues outside if his own experience. While his policy was different than Trump, he embodied the same attitude (albeit to a much lesser degree) me, me, me, me.
1
In light of this happening, don't forget that tonight, a Bernie staffer doxxed Pete's personal phone number and then proceeded to send Pete messages calling and comparing him to a "rat".
Pete once said "Leadership is what you draw out of others." And for me, I can never condone the toxic vitriol Bernie constantly draws out of his supporters. Shameful
(Source:)
https://twitter.com/DavidAgStone/status/1234306015782473733
2
Pete Buttigieg did himself and his country proud, and set himself up for any of a number of future opportunities -- including phps. a VP slot or (should he want the challenge of running a huge bureaucracy) the head of Veterans' Affairs.
He's young. The extra seasoning will only serve him well when he eventually runs for POTUS again.
BTW, here's a personal message for Rush Limbaugh:
1. I'd rather see Pete Buttigieg “kissing his husband onstage" any day than watch Donald Trump (whom you should more accurately term Mr. Psychotic Child) do ANYthing.
2. From the instant yours first hung from your neck, the Medal of Freedom dropped in value to (in the words of the eloquent English philosopher Elvis Costello) "less than zero."
It is a shame that so many African-Americans of religious faith could not accept Pete Bittigieg simply for the reason that they do not believe in gay marriage. It must have been very hurtful for him. Shame on them.
3
“Some other Democrat will carry the party’s hopes in November. Some other Democrat —please, God — will replace Donald Trump in the White House and both dull the memory of him and clean up his mess.”
Which “mess” are you referring to? Lowest African-American unemployment in history? Lowest female unemployment in decades, and possibly ever? Lowest overall unemployment in decades? Opening a dialogue with North Korea by being to first sitting US President to meet directly with the North Korean President.
Pete Buttigieg did himself and his country proud, and set himself up for any of a number of future opportunities -- including phps. a VP slot or (should he want the challenge of running a huge bureaucracy) the head of Veterans' Affairs. Or phps. something else.
He's young. The extra seasoning will only serve him well when he eventually runs for POTUS again.
BTW, here's a personal message for Rush Limbaugh:
1. I'd rather see Pete Buttigieg “kissing his husband onstage" any day than watch Donald Trump (whom you should more accurately term Mr. Psychotic Child) do ANYthing.
2. From the instant yours first hung from your neck, the Medal of Freedom dropped in value to (in the words of the eloquent English philosopher Elvis Costello) "less than zero."
2
Let's see Mayor Pete beat Republican Jackie Walorski for the house seat for Indiana's 2nd congressional district before we promote him to president.
A conservative here that was to vote for Pete.
Pete Buttigieg did himself and his country proud, and set himself up for any of a number of future opportunities -- including phps. a VP slot or (should he want the challenge of running a huge bureaucracy) the head of Veterans' Affairs. Or phps. something else.
He's young. The extra seasoning will only serve him well when he eventually runs for POTUS again.
BTW, here's my personal message for Rush Limbaugh:
1. I'd rather see Pete Buttigieg “kissing his husband onstage" any day than watch Donald Trump (whom you should more accurately term Mr. Psychotic Child) do ANYthing.
2. From the instant yours first hung from your neck, the Medal of Freedom dropped in value to (in the words of the eloquent English philosopher Elvis Costello) "less than zero."
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Pete, when you and Chasten read this and so many other complimentary comments as you unwind, know that I and many folks like me are very proud of you, are awed by your intellect and are enthralled by your decency. Please, after you take a few days off, come back and give the campaign your reason, wisdom and sanity. You'll be President Pete Buttigieg someday. In fact, you've already won higher honors that that in my eyes.
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I’m soon to be 67, but I was once one of those kids struggling to find not only my place in the world but my place in my family and even my place in myself.
Yes, “Mayor Pete”, you have lit the way in the darkness for youngsters like we were. Nobody — not Trump or his minions, not Limbaugh, not Fred Phelps — NOBODY can take that real Medal of Freedom away from you.
Thank you for that.
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A class act!
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How can you tell the measure of a man? By the way he treats others. Tip of that hat to you Mayor Pete.
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Kennedy didn't make it all the way in 1956, but won the nomination in 1960. Buttigieg will be back.
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Woulda been nice to have a veteran back in the White House. For all his faults, at least George HW Bush knew personally what war is.
Dang, now what do I do with the yard signs.
I think i'll leave them up, to keep the broader dream alive.
Vote people. Forgawdsakes vote this time.
-C
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Sorry. Saw video clips of Buttigieg attempting to pose with African Americans prior to the SC primary. Came across as an aggressive attempt to insinuate himself into gatherings where he was not invited and not welcome. Not sorry to see him go.
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This article, and most comments, properly praise Pete Buttigieg.
But you know what else they do?
They draw attention from the bowing-out of another "real deal" candidate -- Tom Steyer. His campaign never took off, but Tom really meant everything he said, and he shouldn't be faulted for being wealthy. Some critics argue that his money could and should have been spent on others' campaigns, but I think Tom justifiably got tired of supporting others who couldn't carry out his wishes as well as he could himself.
Ours is a meager politics that elects a lying, amoral game show host and rejects a fine, contemplative man.
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The making of a statesman, 2020.
Pete Buttigieg rose above puerile politics with character, humanity and integrity.
Buttigieg would be a great fit as a youthful, foreign policy oriented VP.
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We love you Pete ! We are counting on you
To lift us up, just as you lifted up the
The vision and language of your process,
And keep carrying the light!!!
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I really like Pete. He's a gifted politician in the true sense. He appears to genuinely like people and he's a great communicator.
Unfortunately it seems like the height that he rose to, which was impressive, was made much easier by his pathetic competition.
The Party is not running strong horses.
Mayor Pete didn't do the "right thing" by exiting 2 days before Super Tuesday.. He fell on his sword for the DNC and corporate interests of the Democratic Party so they could maintain their grip on the final outcome. There is a full freak-out happening right now over Bernie Sanders, and it's coming from the liberal elite. This lays bare that the (white) professional DC beltway types appear to enjoy their privilege so much that they are willing to risk a loss in November in order to keep significant change from being enacted.
Pete's platform could be summed up by what he thought was NOT possible: no universal healthcare, no free college tuition, no end to illegal Middle East wars. Basically, lets put a positive figure in the White House without addressing these critical issues that are diminishing the quality of life in this country.
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What a superb article, sir
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The former mayor of the 4th largest city in Mike Pence's Indiana cowardly and weakly hid his powerful privileged white European American Judeo-Christian closet for most of his adult life. Thus his gay 'pride' was mostly lacking and not relevant to most voters in 2020.
South Bend Indiana has a population of 101, 000 while the average U. S. Congressional district has population of 730, 000.
Mayor Pete Buttigieg couldn't credibly claim to have a reasonable chance of carrying Indiana's Electoral College votes in November. Nor could Mayor Pete Buttigieg claim any credible black African American voting appeal.
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Why the need to label him again and again, why can't he just be Pete, the Mayor, a young pioneer ?
I don't care and I already know his sexual persuasion.
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I understand the Presidency is not all about courage, intelligence, and charisma because we have the exact polar opposite in charge right now. How obvious does it have to be?
A draft dodging grifter and his crew as compared to X Military with tours in the Middle East, with I can't even count the impressive degrees and colleges, an excellent public speaker as compared to the bumbling, stumbling, wholly owned subsidiary of Putin we currently have embarrassing the Nation in front of the entire planet.
I'm being told donald is actually Jesus coming back to save America and if his "tongue talking" lady grifter/preacher can just get you to send your 1st months paycheck to donald in care of the White House he might just save you too!
No, it looks like we have no place in America for honesty, integrity, service to the country, a sense of morality and compassion. We're all too hung up on the grifter who enjoys conning X Military out of their hard earned benefits, ie. Trump Univ. and the 2 Million $ New York Charity con that the entire donald crew had a finger in. America, we do love our grifters.
Hang in, Pete, maybe respectable folks will make a comeback. America wholly accepted the family man, highly educated, loaded with personality, great public speaker a few years back. Maybe ignorant amoral slugs with a crew of hangers on will fall out of fashion again in a few years or so.
Character, class, and brains enough for the job. Please get some more seasoning, and come back in 4 years. Or as a Veep nominee.