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Originally Posted by Mr. Plumbean
Thanks Rigs. Was feeling kinda lonely.
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I get it. I was listening to Norman Goldman on the way home from work yesterday (usually hate talk radio, but couldn't take another minute of NPR's All Things Considered. I hate how it repeats--I KNOW it's a "feature", but it's annoying!), and he's got "lots" (several yesterday, anyway) who were riding him about being anti-Bernie.
I just don't get this. First of all, since when have Dems agreed in one voice? We "fall in love"; Reps "fall in line". So,
to that. Second, pointing out electability and Iowa caucus numbers (favor HRC) is NOT a criticism or a "dissing" of Bernie. We have to be respectful of ALL Dems, and most important, we have to vote Democratic, if we are to hold onto to the progress we've made. I really don't think Hillary takes anyone's vote for granted. I think that's a meme that plays right into the GOP's hands.
I think (this is my part of the conversation) that a sea change of sorts is starting in this country: for example, gay marriage is essentially a done deal (doesn't make homophobia go away, of course), but I do think (another example), now that we have even GOP candidates talking about the need to serve the poor (yes, because they pushed them into poverty! but I digress), that the pendulum is starting back from neo-conservative crazy town.
This is a good thing, and long overdue, but I don't think the goalposts should suddenly be shoved into Bernie territory (mixing metaphors). Americans will (eventually) do the right thing, but NOT if they suspect too much change is coming too fast (why do you think we had this backlash in the first place? It started with Reagan; it's been going on since 1980! in reaction to all the massive changes--political, culture and social--in the 60s and 70s)
And it's not just the Feds we need to concern ourselves with. We need Democratic governors, with state legislators who will stand up and NOT let the GOP privatize stuff like oh, Flint's water supply or public education, defunding the NIH etc. The GOP has been "starving the beast" for decades (except for when they created the biggest increase in Fed Gment EVER, but never mind) and it's showing. Our infrastructure is for shit--think of the jobs that could be had if we really put America back to work, and maybe didn't close down VA facilities and mental hospitals etc. I think both HRC and BS want to invest in America and Americans.
So, yes, I suppose I could see Bernie as President, IF we get Dem governors, Dem senators, and Dem US Congresscritters, and frankly, I don't see that sort of sweep happening. Only then could he get his ambitious agenda off the ground.
Seriously, folks, I can't take 4-8 more years of trickle-down, love Jesus, hate women, hate gays, kill the planet for profit shit. W about killed me. I'd like to pass on some hope to my kids and possible grandkids, 8 years from now...So, no matter what, vote Dem!