I believe every Democratic candidate for federal office should unambiguously assert their commitment to policies that will maintain the United States as the world’s preeminent military, economic, scientific and technological power. The United States should be the global center for discovery, invention, imagination, innovation and creativity.
I agree. When I was growing up, I thought the United States was the most " preeminent military, economic, scientific and technological power" there was none better. Then we had four years of the twice impeached loser and the cowardly GOP that did not hold him to account. Amazing the damage that can be done in four years. I guess when you have free range on lawlessness you can do what you want.
Never ever did I think I would become an expat but it is going to happen.
What about their commitment to policies that will maintain the fundamental values of this nation, as espoused in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution? Our democracy is more critical at this moment than our pre-eminence as a world power in all those other regards.
Agreed, however... don't most candidates do this anyway? Republicans will lie to get elected, or obfuscate what their real intentions are (Rick Scott's 12-pt plan to "save" America comes to mind). My issue is when they tell us one thing, but do another, and go back on their promises. I know you are saying we should make them assert "how they really feel" but I'm not sure how we can do that. Its always AFTER the fact we find out that they are liars, such as the 3 supreme court jesters that lied about RvW to get their powerful lifetime appts.
Absolutely. And it's high time we lead in climate policy action that will save our collective bacon. As it is John Kerry is hung out to dry because of Joe -I'm a Coal King- Manchin. Enough! Do something and kick him the hell out of or Democratic Party. Do it tomorrow.
If your read "South Africa: Prospects for a Successful Transition" You will find a ton of information that differentiated successful societies from those that failed. In reviewing over 100 such societies starting with Venice the key differentiator for societies that succeed is consistently raising the median standard of living. So compelling was the data and evidence that in an earlier period it became the backbone of China's economic reforms (1984+). This was also adopted as the sole objective of Singapore's Economic Development Board (EDB) starting in 1989.
The median male American worker has not seen a real wage increase since 1978, healthcare and education costs have eaten deeply into the standard of living. Women have seen a 2x increase in wages over the period (though they have not caught up) and face the same healthcare and education cost issues.
No society studied has ever recovered from quite the structural inequities of America today. Arguably, America of 1929 did recover but the inequalities were not quite so profound.
Anyway, the study behind the book on South Africa shows on page 37 the chart De Klerk was looking at when he decided to abandon apartheid and adopt a program of reform known as the "Miracle." We can argue about success or failure, but it has outlasted anything we did under Albright at State in Eastern Europe and Russia.
We should really adopt "for the people" as the national purpose of government at all levels.
I agree, but would also add that Democratic Leadership should be in front of TV News Cameras every single day laying out Republican Obstruction and their horrible plans...
I believe every Democrat running for federal office should unambiguously compel every Republican opponent to own what that Party has become - the Party of lawless terrorism, anarchy in support of autocracy, etc., etc., etc. Policy discussions make the typical voter’s eyes glaze over, but as the Reps repeatedly demonstrate they reliably respond to fear. There is so much to fear from the political right.
Why not ask that commitment of every candidate, no matter their party affiliation? And as comments below show, there are other issues upon which candidates should take a stand. And as many also correctly point out, would voters trust politicians' assertions? Obfuscation and lies seem de rigueur.
Were i asking for commitments, i would require candidates to read and be tested on their understanding of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and every Federalist paper written before being allowed on a ballot. Each must commit to upholding the rights granted to every citizen without regard to race, creed, religion, colour, gender, or abilities. Each must commit to complying with the verified, certified outcomes of free, fair voting. Each should commit to independently drawn voting districts approved by State or perhaps Federal courts to ensure candidates must appeal to the widest array of voters in their areas, which might discourage the current tribalism and encourage a fuller discussion of policies.
One final commitment i would like each candidate to make: ensure Civics and all that is entailed in becoming an educated, reasoning citizen is taught to every child in this country. Adults as well. Governing is not simply about policies. In a Democratic Republic, it is a sacred compact between those who are governed and those chosen to govern. If Americans do not understand their country's founding principles, ideals, and documents and agree to live by them, the experiment ends.
These things are wonderful and would truly make America great again, but I don't see any effort will be made towards them until we secure voting rights and get rid of the MAGA crowd and the deluge of misinformation that's stopping any progress.
I agree with everything you say, with one caveat. I think having a strong military is important, but it is important for the reasons we are now seeing in Ukraine. The ways in which we have chosen to use our military over the past 60 years, “projecting power” against weaker states that we deemed threatening has been a curse on the land and I have my doubts that we would be in the position we find ourselves domestically and internationally if we had been more restrained in our use. Our military should be capable of protecting ourselves and our allies, but it should not be capable of attacking other countries who want to follow different political paths. I think that if we had followed a more restrained set of policies, democracy would not currently need so much defending today. We do not have a great track record. I am for instilling in the military from the highest to the lowest level an ethic of restraint and defense. I believe that we have the potential to be a virtuous nation, but we also have the potential to become an international angel of death. I know people who are activists who feel that the United States is so corrupted and so militaristic that it can never be considered on the side of virtue. The people who think this way are those who have worked in Afghanistan and Iraq and Palestine and South America and have seen the worst. I, on the other hand, retain hope and pray for my country. At this time in history, national virtue has to be regarded as ever imperfect. Nevertheless, we are the best that the world has to offer itself-- if we can save ourselves from the current Trumpist Republicans, the trumpettes. If we cannot save ourselves, we will certainly not be capable of helping Ukraine or future Ukraines.
I fear it may be too late. The autocrats and the toxic, white, male supremacists who believe in their own world order, have caught the attention of the week minded and the radicals. My concern is that the US is now in retrograde and all of the social and human rights advances that have been achieved over the last 50 years are now being reversed. The US is on a slippery slide into the past. My concern, as a Canadian, is that their ideas will become infectious even here. And I believe I have already begun to see evidence of this infection in some of our politicians. The US is becoming even more-so the centre for global hypocrisy and radicalism. So very sad.
All Republicans and Democrats already say they are for stuff like this plus apple pie. Together, as a Congress, however, they have a terrible approval rating. The gap is between saying and doing. Right now the our country is obsessed with our political divide and our progress is stalled as China is progressing and we are slinging stones at one another. Just as the Trump-Putin Insurrectionists must now pay for their crime of entering the Capital, those within the Congress that supported them, egged them on, met with them in advance, and assisted them as accomplices must pay their price and be expelled from Congress and prohibited from running for office in the future. Trump has committed multiple crimes and pays no price…yet. We have to reverse this history that crime does indeed pay. Then we can move ahead…again. Until then…words have no meaning.
I spent 14 years running an elite resume service in the Pentagon. It became sadly clear to me that as a totality, Washington cannot fix itself. Short-term personal benefit almost will always outweigh longer-term, collective benefit. As a result, the conversation remains stuck on old arguments, since change is the last thing Washington wants. Thus, imagination for new solution paths barely exists. Everyone keeps throwing their old answers at each other, while the world is asking new questions.
We need reform of our government. What worked on 1800 does not work today. Especially the senate. Popular vote should decide the Presidency, Washington D.C. has more Americans than some states yet no representation in the senate. Gerrymandering is destroying our states where again representation is lopsided with Republicans receiving fewer votes but having greater representation. And of course, the Supreme Court is completely owned by the Church and Republicans with outdated, ridiculous rulings.
No where near ambitious enough. Where is the mention of mom or apple pie?
More seriously, I don't think that you'll find many people who disagree with thos sorts of claims. The devil is in the details. What policies are necessary to achieve those ends, how should they be paid for, and who captures the gains?
To win at Tribal Politics, YOU NEED A TRIBE. Democrats do not get this. They think any Tribe is a Republican dirty trick. RepubliCons have surely turned their Tribe into an army of dirty tricksters and outright traitors. Yet the desire to belong to a public community or family is an inborn human desire, not a flaw in human nature. Democrats used to have a Tribe. It was called the Labor Movement. Democrats need to learn to talk the way voters (i.e., all of us) think in the privacy of our own minds. We don't think in Constitutional clauses. We think in short, punchy phrases that capture how we FEEL about something. Trump understood this. He spoke the way a lot of voters thought and think. Democrats suffer from Emotional Correctness and cannot bear to repeat their political messages. The way to communicate a Political Message is to repeat it and repeat it and repeat it. And one of the best ways to do that is to build a Tribe that will repeat your Message across the country. So, to repeat: TO WIN AT TRIBAL POLITICS, YOU NEED A TRIBE. Anyone listening?
I think it’s very important for Democrats to make such an assertion, especially as the Republicans attack public education, science, medicine and our freedom.
I’ll vote blue forever, but now is the time for healthy criticism. We must present the best message and the best slate of candidates going forward. I’m especially grateful for your suggestion that Biden declare he’s not running again. Yes, he’s been burdened with crises and inadequate Senate support. On the other hand, he didn’t even want Trump investigated because he felt that it would distract from his unity through legacy bills program (NBC). (Biden didn’t speak out in favor of a Trump prosecution until April.) Because he found the attorney general he wanted, we’re in danger of losing our democracy. Democrats must speak from strength instead of being purely reactive. We must set the narrative and insist on the rule of law.
Pls add reference to democracy and humanitarian - including implementing humanitarian policies benefitting our own populations: national health system and affordable/free child care and elder care
I don’t think we’re in danger of not being a military power but given the lack of support for science, the erosion of our educational systems, and the destruction of our democratic systems in our current society I think we would have a hard time maintaining any of the rest.
I'm very concerned about the state of our country.
The 24 hour cable news channels are doing a poor job explaining what will happen if our democracy disappears.
They spend too much time discussing Donald Trump.
If MSNBC and CNN had not given him publicity over six years ago, he would have disappeared because he lives for publicity.
Instead of talking about the possible end of the freedoms people fought for and we cherish, they waist time talking about whether Trump will run in 2024. This is ridiculous.
They should stop claiming to be shocked when they're not and they have to get people to understand that democracy is a one time only thing and if it goes, people will not be able to bring it back with a computer, a phone, a tablet, etc.
Those are great ambitions for the country. But they’re all unachievable because we don’t want to pay for them. We achieved them in 50s and 60s because we were willing, even happy, to pay the price. My dad was then an executive in a Fortune 100 company, paying taxes in the 91% bracket at the height of his career. He said, “paying your fair share of taxes is an obligation of living in a free society.” He, and several of his colleagues, interrupted their careers to serve as “dollar a year” volunteers in Federal administrations. That was another obligation that came with success. He told me that every corporate decision should take into account the interests of customers, employees, and the local community, as well as the shareholders. That comment would bring derisive laughter in board rooms and business schools today.
To be the best, you have to be willing to pay the price of achievement.
Steve once again you have nailed the issue! I support ALL Democrats and especially Democrats that are for a WOMANS RIGHT TO CHOOSE! I hate these republiCON men voicing this BS about how abortions are to be outlawed in every state if they take over Congress.. We just can't let that happen. Another policy Democrats need to YELL about, SAVING SOCIAL SECURITY, MEDICARE and MEDICAID. RepubliCONS like Southern Belle Lindsay Graham have promised those programs will be eliminated in 5 years if republiCONS again control. We can't let that happen! I also believe these GIGANTIC corporations and their money needs to be banned form our politcis. Since 2010 when Citizens United was adopted as FREE SPEECH, corporations have run roughshod by supporting these criminal republiCONS. Now we see what has come about, a CONSERVATIVE Supreme Court. I could go on, but, any Democrat running mentioning these issues will surely draw attention at the voting booths.
Sounds good, sounds great, but worthless if mediocrity, hate, violence, dishonesty, and disrespect continue to be rewarded as they are today.
The Founding Fathers and Signers were amazing autodidacts that are emulated today by non-curious persons playing dress-up and wielding weapons. It disrespects our founders, our country, and every man, woman, and child that embraces our Democracy.
Republicans have glorified the cannibalizing of our country's resources for years with privatization of everything, privatizing bridges, parking lots, prisons, charter schools, mercenaries, unaccountable to anybody. Our first commitment should be pride in our country, our institutions again, not the privatization and greed it breeds.
Having just finished 'Authoritarian Nightmare' by John Dean & Bob Altemeyer, I am not really sure that this is the most pressing matter.
Yes, it SHOULD be an integral part of the greater vision especially as the 'others' don't seem to have any particular vision aside from saying 'no' to 'own the libs', but you have a domestic Taliban problem that will obscure the value of this message. Perhaps even worse, these folks have been banking on broad scale ignorance to push back against many of the items you note. Theirs is a religion of anti-discovery, anti-invention, anti....well, you get the idea.
Democrats, state your vision, by all means. But buck up folks, you've got some nasty work ahead that might require your getting your hands a little dirty. The alternative, as the early hints are suggesting, is the polar opposite of global power and rule by despots and tyrants.
PS, not that it really needs to be said but I will say as often as I can, the world is watching. In Canada, your rep is in tatters and that's beyond bad, sad and unnecessary.
The military part gives me pause. Once you prioritize that, they always get the lion’s share. Aren’t we all already armed enough to the teeth? Don’t we already prioritize the military at the expense of everything else?
All politicians need to commit to telling the truth, which is just what they know and may not be true. We need to start fining these irresponsible GQP-ers, who spread disinformation and knowingly lie to tell Emperor TRumpty Dumpty his nakedness is beautiful.
I think you are right Steve, we have inherited everything that you enumerated, some of that inheritance has been squandered, but I hope it’s not too late to build on that wealth. We have competitors that did not exist at least the way they do today when we led the world out of the ash heap that was WW II, every time we took our foot off the gas we gave room for growth to societies who fundamentally are opposed to us on almost every level. That is the world we live in today, China looted us blind technologically, we knew it and allowed it to happen and now they are inordinately stronger than they would have been without that theft. The Russians are another animal altogether, they have been against virtually anything that we were in favor of, they stand opposed to any flowering of western culture, deep down they fear us and hate us. I am not speaking about the good people of Russia but about their despotic government. What we have been witnessing in Ukraine shows that it’s more than the government that is complicit in the war crimes being committed on a daily basis. Culturally the Russians still have a problem that they have had, probably since their revolution, anyone that thinks that we will be able to deal with them is wrong, they are going to have to change radically before they will ever be able to be seated among the dignified nations of the world. That is a fact, and they are just two among many, none of them can be counted on to help us advance the cause of humanity in the foreseeable future, knowing that we have to act accordingly, because the rest of the planet depends upon it.
That can continue to be if we keep open our arms to the talent that has been drawn here through the centuries, attracted to our principles of respect, equal opportunity and equal justice for all.in
Absolutely! Since Donald Trump ascended to power by the will of the people and his fairy godmother blowing into gullible ears all sorts of misinformation turned political strategy as disinformation, the voice of his clan, the country has had plenty information about the facts around their delirious and dangerous hold to power, for their own benefit and not that of Americans. For Democrats, it was Stage 1. Stage 2 should be focused, with facts already in hand. As you commented this weekend, there is no need to rehash Trumpism in the news. They are finished. Democrats should focus on the real needs of the country and, boy, there are good candidates with a vision for America. The congressional investigation into the January 6th Insurrection is evidence of the capacity to focus and the sharpness that should bring pride to Americans, and we are emboldened by the brilliance in Congress now. The Justice Department must follow suit. Show us! And Democrats should focus on what it will take to confront the Real Problems facing us collectively. Voting Rights. Education. Systemic Racism. Policing. Human Rights. They are all interrelated. Innovation, innovation, innovation. (I can not think of a better moment to address Climate Change. Did you know that the deadly high temperatures being recorded today around the world were predicted 25 YEARS AGO?) Infrastructure. (Never again must we witness the collapse of a building as in Florida. Building codes. Design. Architectural beauty. Climate-controlled spaces. Green spaces. Public spaces. Public art.) Medicine. Science and the contingent plans to prepare us for future pandemics, to advance treatment, to innovate in the administrative network that works when a health crisis arises. You name the problem and the solution should be visionary and viable. Dump the Trumpists and beware of the Bannons and the Kushners. Thanks to the Biden Presidency, we have, at last, an Infrastructure Program. Every American must know this. Communication. Everybody, somewhere, has a good idea. I truly believe this. It is the story of humankind.
Taking some thoughts from earlier writers, I am working diligently on a dual citizenship with Italy. If you have a direct heir to someone born in Italy all blood relatives can apply. Just knowing I believe as my adult children do that their is a one in two chance we will not be able to live here.
As to the politics of 22, borrowing from joe Scarborough every ad by every dem should point out that the gop are fascists or Christian nationalists and want to have a country similar to Russia or hungry. Don’t believe it spend some time watching fox’ Carson and cpac which just held their convention in hungry and have invited the fascist orban to be the keynote at their national convention in DC
Last, trump has had a scandal a week for seven years, list them and run as a zipper under every dem ad, call them what they are and maybe just maybe the educated voter will turn out and rid us of this cancer.
Me, I have no hope, but maybe I will be surprised.
I think that we need to use a lot more imagination in our approach to the "general welfare".
Ask yourself if it is possible to not only have great abundance, but to widely share that abundance.
The creation of a democratic republic was no one time (1787) thing. We have to do it every day in our relationships with our fellow citizens, who are not our enemies, though they might be adversaries in debate. The nation depends on the trust of its citizenry to function For The People.
I agree. How can people be so stupid and not be able to see what Trump and the Republicans are doing and have been planning for many years. Unless we can get these anti-democratic people voted out, we are going to pay a dear price. No longer will we be the envy of the world. We will be living according to money and greed. We will live by the will of the evil. Women are losing their rights to the control of old white evil men. What a sad time we are living in. Pray for peace. SAS
Exactly! US has always been the outstanding Beacon of Democratic values here and around the free world. Never forget that this rich mosaic of peoples from different cultures is the glue that binds this nation together. Let’s be robust and resilient in our steadfast efforts and focus in maintaining this this strong stance . It is also imperative that we must choose outstanding leaders committed to ensure that we never ever waver from this commitment ! Lets ensure that Democracy reigns Supreme here and abroad . Never Forget that together with other Democratic nations we can safely and securely build a free and loving world for us and our children. Let’s all Sing that Beautiful Song of Freedom! Oh Yeah !
I believe that the United States should lead by the power of their example and not by an example of their power. That said, as I see what we are becoming as a country and as a people, it makes me wonder about the example we are setting.
I resist Nationalism on principle, just because it seems to lead to arrogance and competition vs. agreement, diplomacy and cooperation. We need to have very high standards from our public servants. I could be hopeful it would advance our better natures, vs. the opposite, which is where we are presently.
Since erosion began to set in as DJT entered our government, menace has grown. We must re-assert all you suggest here in every way we can and certainly by solidifying and re-establishing standards those making efforts to enter elected office - AHEAD of serving. Such mistakes have been made we are covered in the mud of error. Time to cleanse.
Maintain? The fact is the US is now a third world country compared to most of the world. Health care, social services, infrastructure, education have been ignored, even before the orange monster. We need educated people from other countries for our science and technology. Yes, candidates should commit to improvement but citizens need to understand that the US is not "the greatest".
I live overseas and see many other countries as a much better option for living safe, comfortably and with a high standard of living.
It can't happen until we include all people in the equation. When you deduct women and minorities it leaves us with about 35% of the population dictating what happens and who benefits.
What do i think.... We have been at war with someone all my life, 75 years. we still act like the world cop, there is always somebody fighting with somebody, is it really human to kill one another. what is accomplished? i guess i am an optimist, i want all of us to work towards a common good. in the Ukraine, what will be accomplished, a few 100 thousand people will be killed and those that are left will go back to making vodka for those that want it. i don't see the net gain in any of this,
The U.S. should be a nurturing world leader in military, economic, scientific and technological power. However, there is room to trim waste from the Pentagon.
I agree. Make a commitment out loud in public and often to making US a world leader in every area that furthers democracy and democratic principles. Set an example that others will want to follow.
I agree. When I was growing up, I thought the United States was the most " preeminent military, economic, scientific and technological power" there was none better. Then we had four years of the twice impeached loser and the cowardly GOP that did not hold him to account. Amazing the damage that can be done in four years. I guess when you have free range on lawlessness you can do what you want.
Never ever did I think I would become an expat but it is going to happen.
As an American I’m proud to help Ukraine
Fight for their freedom and democracy
UNTIL…that means as long as it takes and includes planes and everything they need…
We waited to enter WW11 until Pearl Harbor
Then thank God we fought on two fronts for democracy…we are the only country that
Can stop the autocrats from destroying the
Freedom we have been taking for granted!!
Please care enough to be willing to stand tall
And be patriotic and loyal citizens …please
Don’t give up… Don’t give up.. Pray we
Show what Freedom and Our United States
Can Still Accomplish I’m willing to Stand Up
With Steve’s Efforts to Win against the
Tyrannical Acts of TRUMP and that means
Consequences for January 6th!!! Marsha
What about their commitment to policies that will maintain the fundamental values of this nation, as espoused in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution? Our democracy is more critical at this moment than our pre-eminence as a world power in all those other regards.
Agreed, however... don't most candidates do this anyway? Republicans will lie to get elected, or obfuscate what their real intentions are (Rick Scott's 12-pt plan to "save" America comes to mind). My issue is when they tell us one thing, but do another, and go back on their promises. I know you are saying we should make them assert "how they really feel" but I'm not sure how we can do that. Its always AFTER the fact we find out that they are liars, such as the 3 supreme court jesters that lied about RvW to get their powerful lifetime appts.
Absolutely. And it's high time we lead in climate policy action that will save our collective bacon. As it is John Kerry is hung out to dry because of Joe -I'm a Coal King- Manchin. Enough! Do something and kick him the hell out of or Democratic Party. Do it tomorrow.
If your read "South Africa: Prospects for a Successful Transition" You will find a ton of information that differentiated successful societies from those that failed. In reviewing over 100 such societies starting with Venice the key differentiator for societies that succeed is consistently raising the median standard of living. So compelling was the data and evidence that in an earlier period it became the backbone of China's economic reforms (1984+). This was also adopted as the sole objective of Singapore's Economic Development Board (EDB) starting in 1989.
The median male American worker has not seen a real wage increase since 1978, healthcare and education costs have eaten deeply into the standard of living. Women have seen a 2x increase in wages over the period (though they have not caught up) and face the same healthcare and education cost issues.
No society studied has ever recovered from quite the structural inequities of America today. Arguably, America of 1929 did recover but the inequalities were not quite so profound.
Anyway, the study behind the book on South Africa shows on page 37 the chart De Klerk was looking at when he decided to abandon apartheid and adopt a program of reform known as the "Miracle." We can argue about success or failure, but it has outlasted anything we did under Albright at State in Eastern Europe and Russia.
We should really adopt "for the people" as the national purpose of government at all levels.
I agree, but would also add that Democratic Leadership should be in front of TV News Cameras every single day laying out Republican Obstruction and their horrible plans...
I believe every Democrat running for federal office should unambiguously compel every Republican opponent to own what that Party has become - the Party of lawless terrorism, anarchy in support of autocracy, etc., etc., etc. Policy discussions make the typical voter’s eyes glaze over, but as the Reps repeatedly demonstrate they reliably respond to fear. There is so much to fear from the political right.
Why not ask that commitment of every candidate, no matter their party affiliation? And as comments below show, there are other issues upon which candidates should take a stand. And as many also correctly point out, would voters trust politicians' assertions? Obfuscation and lies seem de rigueur.
Were i asking for commitments, i would require candidates to read and be tested on their understanding of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and every Federalist paper written before being allowed on a ballot. Each must commit to upholding the rights granted to every citizen without regard to race, creed, religion, colour, gender, or abilities. Each must commit to complying with the verified, certified outcomes of free, fair voting. Each should commit to independently drawn voting districts approved by State or perhaps Federal courts to ensure candidates must appeal to the widest array of voters in their areas, which might discourage the current tribalism and encourage a fuller discussion of policies.
One final commitment i would like each candidate to make: ensure Civics and all that is entailed in becoming an educated, reasoning citizen is taught to every child in this country. Adults as well. Governing is not simply about policies. In a Democratic Republic, it is a sacred compact between those who are governed and those chosen to govern. If Americans do not understand their country's founding principles, ideals, and documents and agree to live by them, the experiment ends.
These things are wonderful and would truly make America great again, but I don't see any effort will be made towards them until we secure voting rights and get rid of the MAGA crowd and the deluge of misinformation that's stopping any progress.
I agree with everything you say, with one caveat. I think having a strong military is important, but it is important for the reasons we are now seeing in Ukraine. The ways in which we have chosen to use our military over the past 60 years, “projecting power” against weaker states that we deemed threatening has been a curse on the land and I have my doubts that we would be in the position we find ourselves domestically and internationally if we had been more restrained in our use. Our military should be capable of protecting ourselves and our allies, but it should not be capable of attacking other countries who want to follow different political paths. I think that if we had followed a more restrained set of policies, democracy would not currently need so much defending today. We do not have a great track record. I am for instilling in the military from the highest to the lowest level an ethic of restraint and defense. I believe that we have the potential to be a virtuous nation, but we also have the potential to become an international angel of death. I know people who are activists who feel that the United States is so corrupted and so militaristic that it can never be considered on the side of virtue. The people who think this way are those who have worked in Afghanistan and Iraq and Palestine and South America and have seen the worst. I, on the other hand, retain hope and pray for my country. At this time in history, national virtue has to be regarded as ever imperfect. Nevertheless, we are the best that the world has to offer itself-- if we can save ourselves from the current Trumpist Republicans, the trumpettes. If we cannot save ourselves, we will certainly not be capable of helping Ukraine or future Ukraines.
I fear it may be too late. The autocrats and the toxic, white, male supremacists who believe in their own world order, have caught the attention of the week minded and the radicals. My concern is that the US is now in retrograde and all of the social and human rights advances that have been achieved over the last 50 years are now being reversed. The US is on a slippery slide into the past. My concern, as a Canadian, is that their ideas will become infectious even here. And I believe I have already begun to see evidence of this infection in some of our politicians. The US is becoming even more-so the centre for global hypocrisy and radicalism. So very sad.
All Republicans and Democrats already say they are for stuff like this plus apple pie. Together, as a Congress, however, they have a terrible approval rating. The gap is between saying and doing. Right now the our country is obsessed with our political divide and our progress is stalled as China is progressing and we are slinging stones at one another. Just as the Trump-Putin Insurrectionists must now pay for their crime of entering the Capital, those within the Congress that supported them, egged them on, met with them in advance, and assisted them as accomplices must pay their price and be expelled from Congress and prohibited from running for office in the future. Trump has committed multiple crimes and pays no price…yet. We have to reverse this history that crime does indeed pay. Then we can move ahead…again. Until then…words have no meaning.
I spent 14 years running an elite resume service in the Pentagon. It became sadly clear to me that as a totality, Washington cannot fix itself. Short-term personal benefit almost will always outweigh longer-term, collective benefit. As a result, the conversation remains stuck on old arguments, since change is the last thing Washington wants. Thus, imagination for new solution paths barely exists. Everyone keeps throwing their old answers at each other, while the world is asking new questions.
We need reform of our government. What worked on 1800 does not work today. Especially the senate. Popular vote should decide the Presidency, Washington D.C. has more Americans than some states yet no representation in the senate. Gerrymandering is destroying our states where again representation is lopsided with Republicans receiving fewer votes but having greater representation. And of course, the Supreme Court is completely owned by the Church and Republicans with outdated, ridiculous rulings.
I don’t think we should leave it up to them.
It’s way past the time that every single person who runs for an office “in service to others” be fully vetted criminally and financially.
“Proudly the wicked harass the afflicted,
who are caught in the devices the wicked have contrived.”
“For the wicked man glories in his greed.”
If candidates from both parties can’t do this, they should be disqualified to run!
No where near ambitious enough. Where is the mention of mom or apple pie?
More seriously, I don't think that you'll find many people who disagree with thos sorts of claims. The devil is in the details. What policies are necessary to achieve those ends, how should they be paid for, and who captures the gains?
File this one under "no brainer". Unfortunately, there are too many denizens of DC who do not have the necessary equipment to qualify.
To win at Tribal Politics, YOU NEED A TRIBE. Democrats do not get this. They think any Tribe is a Republican dirty trick. RepubliCons have surely turned their Tribe into an army of dirty tricksters and outright traitors. Yet the desire to belong to a public community or family is an inborn human desire, not a flaw in human nature. Democrats used to have a Tribe. It was called the Labor Movement. Democrats need to learn to talk the way voters (i.e., all of us) think in the privacy of our own minds. We don't think in Constitutional clauses. We think in short, punchy phrases that capture how we FEEL about something. Trump understood this. He spoke the way a lot of voters thought and think. Democrats suffer from Emotional Correctness and cannot bear to repeat their political messages. The way to communicate a Political Message is to repeat it and repeat it and repeat it. And one of the best ways to do that is to build a Tribe that will repeat your Message across the country. So, to repeat: TO WIN AT TRIBAL POLITICS, YOU NEED A TRIBE. Anyone listening?
I think it’s very important for Democrats to make such an assertion, especially as the Republicans attack public education, science, medicine and our freedom.
I’ll vote blue forever, but now is the time for healthy criticism. We must present the best message and the best slate of candidates going forward. I’m especially grateful for your suggestion that Biden declare he’s not running again. Yes, he’s been burdened with crises and inadequate Senate support. On the other hand, he didn’t even want Trump investigated because he felt that it would distract from his unity through legacy bills program (NBC). (Biden didn’t speak out in favor of a Trump prosecution until April.) Because he found the attorney general he wanted, we’re in danger of losing our democracy. Democrats must speak from strength instead of being purely reactive. We must set the narrative and insist on the rule of law.
Pls add reference to democracy and humanitarian - including implementing humanitarian policies benefitting our own populations: national health system and affordable/free child care and elder care
100% agree
I don’t think we’re in danger of not being a military power but given the lack of support for science, the erosion of our educational systems, and the destruction of our democratic systems in our current society I think we would have a hard time maintaining any of the rest.
I couldn't agree with you more.
I'm very concerned about the state of our country.
The 24 hour cable news channels are doing a poor job explaining what will happen if our democracy disappears.
They spend too much time discussing Donald Trump.
If MSNBC and CNN had not given him publicity over six years ago, he would have disappeared because he lives for publicity.
Instead of talking about the possible end of the freedoms people fought for and we cherish, they waist time talking about whether Trump will run in 2024. This is ridiculous.
They should stop claiming to be shocked when they're not and they have to get people to understand that democracy is a one time only thing and if it goes, people will not be able to bring it back with a computer, a phone, a tablet, etc.
Once it's gone, it's gone for good.
Those are great ambitions for the country. But they’re all unachievable because we don’t want to pay for them. We achieved them in 50s and 60s because we were willing, even happy, to pay the price. My dad was then an executive in a Fortune 100 company, paying taxes in the 91% bracket at the height of his career. He said, “paying your fair share of taxes is an obligation of living in a free society.” He, and several of his colleagues, interrupted their careers to serve as “dollar a year” volunteers in Federal administrations. That was another obligation that came with success. He told me that every corporate decision should take into account the interests of customers, employees, and the local community, as well as the shareholders. That comment would bring derisive laughter in board rooms and business schools today.
To be the best, you have to be willing to pay the price of achievement.
JWNjr in Taylor TX
Steve once again you have nailed the issue! I support ALL Democrats and especially Democrats that are for a WOMANS RIGHT TO CHOOSE! I hate these republiCON men voicing this BS about how abortions are to be outlawed in every state if they take over Congress.. We just can't let that happen. Another policy Democrats need to YELL about, SAVING SOCIAL SECURITY, MEDICARE and MEDICAID. RepubliCONS like Southern Belle Lindsay Graham have promised those programs will be eliminated in 5 years if republiCONS again control. We can't let that happen! I also believe these GIGANTIC corporations and their money needs to be banned form our politcis. Since 2010 when Citizens United was adopted as FREE SPEECH, corporations have run roughshod by supporting these criminal republiCONS. Now we see what has come about, a CONSERVATIVE Supreme Court. I could go on, but, any Democrat running mentioning these issues will surely draw attention at the voting booths.
Sounds good, sounds great, but worthless if mediocrity, hate, violence, dishonesty, and disrespect continue to be rewarded as they are today.
The Founding Fathers and Signers were amazing autodidacts that are emulated today by non-curious persons playing dress-up and wielding weapons. It disrespects our founders, our country, and every man, woman, and child that embraces our Democracy.
Republicans have glorified the cannibalizing of our country's resources for years with privatization of everything, privatizing bridges, parking lots, prisons, charter schools, mercenaries, unaccountable to anybody. Our first commitment should be pride in our country, our institutions again, not the privatization and greed it breeds.
Having just finished 'Authoritarian Nightmare' by John Dean & Bob Altemeyer, I am not really sure that this is the most pressing matter.
Yes, it SHOULD be an integral part of the greater vision especially as the 'others' don't seem to have any particular vision aside from saying 'no' to 'own the libs', but you have a domestic Taliban problem that will obscure the value of this message. Perhaps even worse, these folks have been banking on broad scale ignorance to push back against many of the items you note. Theirs is a religion of anti-discovery, anti-invention, anti....well, you get the idea.
Democrats, state your vision, by all means. But buck up folks, you've got some nasty work ahead that might require your getting your hands a little dirty. The alternative, as the early hints are suggesting, is the polar opposite of global power and rule by despots and tyrants.
PS, not that it really needs to be said but I will say as often as I can, the world is watching. In Canada, your rep is in tatters and that's beyond bad, sad and unnecessary.
The military part gives me pause. Once you prioritize that, they always get the lion’s share. Aren’t we all already armed enough to the teeth? Don’t we already prioritize the military at the expense of everything else?
All politicians need to commit to telling the truth, which is just what they know and may not be true. We need to start fining these irresponsible GQP-ers, who spread disinformation and knowingly lie to tell Emperor TRumpty Dumpty his nakedness is beautiful.
I think you are right Steve, we have inherited everything that you enumerated, some of that inheritance has been squandered, but I hope it’s not too late to build on that wealth. We have competitors that did not exist at least the way they do today when we led the world out of the ash heap that was WW II, every time we took our foot off the gas we gave room for growth to societies who fundamentally are opposed to us on almost every level. That is the world we live in today, China looted us blind technologically, we knew it and allowed it to happen and now they are inordinately stronger than they would have been without that theft. The Russians are another animal altogether, they have been against virtually anything that we were in favor of, they stand opposed to any flowering of western culture, deep down they fear us and hate us. I am not speaking about the good people of Russia but about their despotic government. What we have been witnessing in Ukraine shows that it’s more than the government that is complicit in the war crimes being committed on a daily basis. Culturally the Russians still have a problem that they have had, probably since their revolution, anyone that thinks that we will be able to deal with them is wrong, they are going to have to change radically before they will ever be able to be seated among the dignified nations of the world. That is a fact, and they are just two among many, none of them can be counted on to help us advance the cause of humanity in the foreseeable future, knowing that we have to act accordingly, because the rest of the planet depends upon it.
That can continue to be if we keep open our arms to the talent that has been drawn here through the centuries, attracted to our principles of respect, equal opportunity and equal justice for all.in
Absolutely! Since Donald Trump ascended to power by the will of the people and his fairy godmother blowing into gullible ears all sorts of misinformation turned political strategy as disinformation, the voice of his clan, the country has had plenty information about the facts around their delirious and dangerous hold to power, for their own benefit and not that of Americans. For Democrats, it was Stage 1. Stage 2 should be focused, with facts already in hand. As you commented this weekend, there is no need to rehash Trumpism in the news. They are finished. Democrats should focus on the real needs of the country and, boy, there are good candidates with a vision for America. The congressional investigation into the January 6th Insurrection is evidence of the capacity to focus and the sharpness that should bring pride to Americans, and we are emboldened by the brilliance in Congress now. The Justice Department must follow suit. Show us! And Democrats should focus on what it will take to confront the Real Problems facing us collectively. Voting Rights. Education. Systemic Racism. Policing. Human Rights. They are all interrelated. Innovation, innovation, innovation. (I can not think of a better moment to address Climate Change. Did you know that the deadly high temperatures being recorded today around the world were predicted 25 YEARS AGO?) Infrastructure. (Never again must we witness the collapse of a building as in Florida. Building codes. Design. Architectural beauty. Climate-controlled spaces. Green spaces. Public spaces. Public art.) Medicine. Science and the contingent plans to prepare us for future pandemics, to advance treatment, to innovate in the administrative network that works when a health crisis arises. You name the problem and the solution should be visionary and viable. Dump the Trumpists and beware of the Bannons and the Kushners. Thanks to the Biden Presidency, we have, at last, an Infrastructure Program. Every American must know this. Communication. Everybody, somewhere, has a good idea. I truly believe this. It is the story of humankind.
Taking some thoughts from earlier writers, I am working diligently on a dual citizenship with Italy. If you have a direct heir to someone born in Italy all blood relatives can apply. Just knowing I believe as my adult children do that their is a one in two chance we will not be able to live here.
As to the politics of 22, borrowing from joe Scarborough every ad by every dem should point out that the gop are fascists or Christian nationalists and want to have a country similar to Russia or hungry. Don’t believe it spend some time watching fox’ Carson and cpac which just held their convention in hungry and have invited the fascist orban to be the keynote at their national convention in DC
Last, trump has had a scandal a week for seven years, list them and run as a zipper under every dem ad, call them what they are and maybe just maybe the educated voter will turn out and rid us of this cancer.
Me, I have no hope, but maybe I will be surprised.
Amen. Simple and powerful and clear.
I think that we need to use a lot more imagination in our approach to the "general welfare".
Ask yourself if it is possible to not only have great abundance, but to widely share that abundance.
The creation of a democratic republic was no one time (1787) thing. We have to do it every day in our relationships with our fellow citizens, who are not our enemies, though they might be adversaries in debate. The nation depends on the trust of its citizenry to function For The People.
All the people.
I agree. How can people be so stupid and not be able to see what Trump and the Republicans are doing and have been planning for many years. Unless we can get these anti-democratic people voted out, we are going to pay a dear price. No longer will we be the envy of the world. We will be living according to money and greed. We will live by the will of the evil. Women are losing their rights to the control of old white evil men. What a sad time we are living in. Pray for peace. SAS
Exactly! US has always been the outstanding Beacon of Democratic values here and around the free world. Never forget that this rich mosaic of peoples from different cultures is the glue that binds this nation together. Let’s be robust and resilient in our steadfast efforts and focus in maintaining this this strong stance . It is also imperative that we must choose outstanding leaders committed to ensure that we never ever waver from this commitment ! Lets ensure that Democracy reigns Supreme here and abroad . Never Forget that together with other Democratic nations we can safely and securely build a free and loving world for us and our children. Let’s all Sing that Beautiful Song of Freedom! Oh Yeah !
I believe that the United States should lead by the power of their example and not by an example of their power. That said, as I see what we are becoming as a country and as a people, it makes me wonder about the example we are setting.
I resist Nationalism on principle, just because it seems to lead to arrogance and competition vs. agreement, diplomacy and cooperation. We need to have very high standards from our public servants. I could be hopeful it would advance our better natures, vs. the opposite, which is where we are presently.
Since erosion began to set in as DJT entered our government, menace has grown. We must re-assert all you suggest here in every way we can and certainly by solidifying and re-establishing standards those making efforts to enter elected office - AHEAD of serving. Such mistakes have been made we are covered in the mud of error. Time to cleanse.
Maintain? The fact is the US is now a third world country compared to most of the world. Health care, social services, infrastructure, education have been ignored, even before the orange monster. We need educated people from other countries for our science and technology. Yes, candidates should commit to improvement but citizens need to understand that the US is not "the greatest".
I live overseas and see many other countries as a much better option for living safe, comfortably and with a high standard of living.
It can't happen until we include all people in the equation. When you deduct women and minorities it leaves us with about 35% of the population dictating what happens and who benefits.
What do i think.... We have been at war with someone all my life, 75 years. we still act like the world cop, there is always somebody fighting with somebody, is it really human to kill one another. what is accomplished? i guess i am an optimist, i want all of us to work towards a common good. in the Ukraine, what will be accomplished, a few 100 thousand people will be killed and those that are left will go back to making vodka for those that want it. i don't see the net gain in any of this,
They already say that when they’re campaigning. it’s not true.
The U.S. should be a nurturing world leader in military, economic, scientific and technological power. However, there is room to trim waste from the Pentagon.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/williamhartung/2021/05/20/pentagon-waste-takes-many-forms/?sh=63a441362482
Added to that should be a commitment to our Constitutional Republic that through our Constitution guarantees a democratic goverment always.
Don't forget Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of happiness... domestic tranquility, promoting general welfare, and a WELL REGULATED militia.
I agree. Make a commitment out loud in public and often to making US a world leader in every area that furthers democracy and democratic principles. Set an example that others will want to follow.