The overwhelming majority of American news media reports about the 2024 presidential race are missing the forest for the trees. Over and over again, a dogma is put forward that the coming campaign will be a rematch between President Biden and Trump — never mind that 80% of the country doesn’t want it.
Steve, you are unfortunately missing the “forest from the trees,” as you put it. The upcoming election isn’t “Biden vs Trump,” as you do get right. It is Democrats vs Republicans - that is forest. It is Anthony Blinken vs Michael Flynn, Adam Schiff vs Mike Johnson, Jack Smith vs Louie Gohmert. Biden is simply head of a very large cadre of mostly competent, honest, democrats with a small d. Trump is head of a competing cadre of incompetent, venal, dishonest, often theocratic and racist cultists.
Stop focusing on just to top of the ticket. Talk about the real forest.
"Biden is simply head of a very large cadre of mostly competent, honest, democrats with a small d. Trump is head of a competing cadre of incompetent, venal, dishonest, often theocratic and racist cultists."
I just got done writing that the biggest problem the nation faces is the media algorithms that would make a clearly educated and intelligent person write this and a number of people like it without recognizing that it is 180 degrees off. The cadre of incompetent, venal, dishonest, theocratic (as in the Godless campus ideological type) and racist (as in the Theory/woke type) cultists (as in the climate crisis type). You guys need to defund some more cops, open the borders wider, influence more young girls to cut off their breasts, and cancel more people for speaking their mind against the Democrat cabal... and then claim more of your moral righteousness.
Are you talking about the FOX media. I don't get cable, but I know they're of the wall. I don't know about a godless theology. But I do remember the GOP guys wanting to define the FBI because they keep digging up the dirt, of defining the IRS so the wealthy guys can hide their fraud. I enjoy think being aware of racism is being racist - they call it theoretical, but it actually a thing. These guys are a mess. If the Liberals are trying to influence girls to cut off their breasts - what a shame - I'm glad I don't know any of those.
Biden can win if Democrats run a strong campaign on issues like abortion that drive people to the polls. So far, Biden has shown no signs of incompetence and he has a strong staff. This is not the best of all possible worlds but we are fighting for our democracy.
To me this is a campaign of good versus evil. Joe + the Shit head on the other side are the mast heads for the two parties. The people that they surround themselves with are the group that are running for the presidency. Yes Joe is old. Fuck face is a piece of shit threatening anyone + everyone. Who is going to get the most votes and how much of a distraction is Nepo-baby Kennedy, Greeny Stein, No Vote Joe and the other distractions.
What scares me the most is Johnson as Speaker and what happens if 270 isn't realized. Even if it is, Mister Ass Kisser might pull a move to subvert the election results to get Mini-Hitler in office. And if the Military is called on to control the protests - then what?
Although he hasn’t exhibited the Mitch McConnell type of blink-out incompetence, Biden looks old and his motor skills (including speech) appear dottery. As much as we may not like to admit it, much of a presidential election is a beauty contest where they are judged for their vigor, wit, charisma, oratory skill, intelligence, general
with-itness, and an ability to win trust. We’ve a long haul through a dangerous time ahead and any candidate exhibiting any weakness will likely not prevail.
Steve, I agree with you; this election is a complete clusterfuck! And I personally haven’t criticized you for being proactive, and warning against Biden and his team’s complacency in the run up to this election.
Life is a set of choices, and when the decisions are critical, one must hope he/she chooses wisely.
My issue with your decision to be a part of Phillip’s campaign had nothing to do with your assertion Biden can’t win, and everything to do with the fact that you chose poorly. Tell me again how Phillip’s can be the democrats knight in shining armor?
So if we’re getting close to the abyss with several Putin “useful” idiots entering the race as spoilers, I’d rather you give us a viable solution that all of us reading The Warning can support!
I've reread your comment a few times, when a little bell 'rang' in my head: Steve is not a Democrat! Steve's history is as a Conservative Republican...an eloquent one as I recall..who never swayed me in those days. He then was rightly horrified by Trump and joined the "Never Trump" team. But, I don't see him as being a Dem, through and through. I am guessing he sees the Dems as a saner choice in recent times. But this is a time when we absolutely must have a "through and through" Dem to salvage the day, the immediate day, at this crucial time, if we want to stay a free country.
It's nearly 4 years since Trump was elected, the dust has not settled yet. We are not secure yet, we've merely had a reprieve. We have to hold steady, giving us time to rid ourselves of our own home grown terroristic authoritarians.
I've been a registered Democrat for four years. The Democratic Party is the only pro-democracy party. Please don't say that I'm not a Democrat. That is not true. Simply because I criticize the party -- or have a different perspective than your own -- doesn't mean that I'm not a Democrat.
My sincere apologies! Really, I did not know that. I'll try to be more thoughtful before I type. I do respect and appreciate your opinions (almost always). I have always respected your intellect, even when you were a Republican when I'd scream at the TV when you say stuff I didn't like!
I'm super worried about this election, and I react out of that worry. Of my nearly 80 years, 60+ of which were voting years, I've never been so concerned about the future of our country.
I'm not a Democrat, even though I keep getting letters from Charles Schumer. Could say I'm an anti GOPer. I have a lot of fear for our future, politically, and climatically. Through these current political times, I sure have lost a lot of respect for people in general - too much believing stuff. Can't we just hire good representatives (sorry, bad joke). I appreciate what you're doing - my best to you!
Steve has been a Democrat for 4 years! So now he's taken it upon himself to be a campaign strategist for a Democratic candidate against Biden. Smells funny.
Steve, I often disagree with you. But this time I think your warning is spot on.
As a Canadian I am very worried about the future of America, because what happens in America affects not only Americans but also Canadians --- and much of the world.
I'm not sure what you are suggesting with regards to "hurt feelings," but I will tell you that if I was worried about my feelings being hurt, I would have left politics a very long time ago. For years, I have been smeared and attacked.
I operate from a place of conviction -- whether people agree with my views or not. I won't remain silent based on what may be the reaction, including being cancelled.
I'm not sure what you're suggesting when you say that I have "refused" to present a "game plan and options." I have been completely transparent about having chosen to support a Democratic candidate in a primary because I am deeply concerned with the current political realities, and have expressed that concern publicly since July 2022. I do believe that President Biden will lose to Trump.
With all due respect, it is both unfair and untrue for you to state that I have "refused" to present a "game plan and options." Simply because you don't believe that it's a "viable" one doesn't mean that I haven't put an option forward.
Lastly, it is important to call out information that is factually incorrect. I have been a registered Democrat since 2019. Simply because we don't share all of the same views doesn't mean that I am not part of the party. Who is it that decides who is or isn't a Democrat?
All of this said, I do want to thank you for your almost daily engagement in this community. I appreciate your thoughtfulness, including when you challenge me.
First off, I’m not trying to be a dick when engage with you. I really appreciate your newsletter and knowledge. I know some comments aimed at you are just ridiculous. And I don’t judge based on party affiliation anyway. It’s irrelevant at this point. Defeating Trump should be everyone’s goal, regardless of party affiliation. And I don’t blame you for taking the job with Phillips, but I don’t think he’s a viable option.
Personally, I’m hoping Newsom wipes the floor with DeSatan at the town hall on Fox this month, and he gets more national exposure and throws his hat in the ring.
However, since you are the expert, perhaps going forward with your newsletter, you can give us your input on how to fight the “useful” idiots like Kennedy, Stein and possibly Manchin.
Honestly, it’s getting scary and I want to help to defeat Trump, but I don’t know where to commit my time and resources.
Any suggestions would be appreciated, and I know I’m not the only one who subscribes to your newsletter that wants to contribute and feels the same way.
I didn't think you were trying to be a dick with me ;-)
Here's something that I wrote just over a month ago that referenced several people whom you could look to for inspiration as you figure out how to get engaged in civic life:
I'd say that, ultimately, it's up to each and every one of us in this community -- and beyond -- to determine what it is that you're most passionate about and ask yourself what it is that YOU can do to help ensure that our democracy is maintained through the '24 election.
Also have a listen to my conversation from last week with David Frum. He asks a similar question: what are YOU going to do...? You can find that at around the 10:30 mark:
Who was it that said "I'm not a member of an organized political party, I'm a Democrat. Diversity of people, working together - the beauty of democracy.
Steve has been a Democrat for 4 years! So now he's taken it upon himself to be a campaign strategist for a Democratic candidate against Biden. Smells funny.
And no, we've not heard a reasonable 'game plan'. I'm not buying it.
I don't question your Democrat credentials although I do wonder why you jumped specifically on the Phillips' bandwagon. Nonetheless, your "Warning" today must be taken very seriously. Looking back to the 2016 election I was shocked when one of my co-workers remarked that she had voted for Ann Stein. That was a jarring moment of realization that I should not discount 3rd parties. Your supposition that this could go to the House of Representatives is unsettling but entirely realistic. Your comment that elections are not about the past but the future should give us all pause. Further, consider the New Testament story of the workers who went into the vineyard. The
ones who started earliest were paid the same as the Johnny-Come-Lately. The "pay" this time is the election of a Democrat president. Whether you were born into a family of dyed-in-the-wool Dems (Baptism by water) or converted by the horror of the last few years, (Baptism by fire) we will all be rewarded with the continuation of democracy. Meanwhile, we have these challenges laid out bare before us. Thank you for the work that YOU do!!!
I agree and I know he’s not a democrat. However, he believes in saving our democracy, and as you have eloquently expressed, it’s all hands on deck!
Obviously, there is only one sane party and several other “useful” idiots who will do our adversaries bidding in the next election. Chances are based on this scenario, no candidate will get to 270 electoral votes. Therefore, the House would pick the winner. Unfortunately, each state will get only one vote, and currently republicans have 25 states they control outright, which means Trump will win.
I’d like a plan. It’s one thing to be critical and concerned about Biden; we all agree there. It’s another to offer few, if any options to ensure our republic stays intact. So far, although Steve is a great motivator, we now need a candidate we can coalesce around.
My point! if not Biden, then who? It’s definitely not going to be Phillips.
When the history books tell the tale of the fall of democracy in the United States, the failure of "through and through" big-D Democrats to accept small-d democrats, Republicans displaced by Trump and his acolytes, into their coalition. This is the real forest for the trees problem. Like Steve, I became a refugee in our country's politics when Trump went down the escalator eight years ago. Living in Red State America, refugees like me see friend after friend move over to the dark side. You can't go to church anymore. You have to hold back your opinions in conversations, even with your family. A 60/40 majority could have been materialized if the Democrats focused on the forest and embraced the Romneys, Cheneys, Kinzingers, etc. into their fold rather than keep their tree-lined border.
Hopefully, this story never gets written. But, right now, I see an easier path for saving us from Steve's apocalyptic scenario coming from the Republican party than what is coming out of the Democrats. Desantis is an idiot, but he is right that even though Trump has a big lead, he doesn't have 50% of Republican support. Watching the debate last week, Nikki Haley came across as tough and presidential. Her views on Israel and Ukraine are spot on, and she framed a common-sense stance on abortion that will take the biggest political advantage away from Democrats. Meanwhile, the Democrats are doubling down on the old man and telling us who disagree that we are the idiots. Are we?
The world keeps changing. The United States has changed dramatically. The Republican Party has changed, and may be changing again. The refusal of "through and through" Democrats to adapt and compete in this changing landscape is the biggest failure of our time.
I'm weighing your comment framed by the fact that you have transitioned as a refugee from TFG's side of the world. Actually, I do think that, besides myself, Dems have embraced the Romney, Cheney (daughter, not father) and Kinzingers. But that can only go so far, since they could not be elected in their home states by being independents or Dems. Trump has never had 50% of anything; not the party, not the election. As I've said earlier, there were moments that I thought Nikki Haley was a Republican option that I could live with, if need be. But what killed that for me is her stance on abortion, and vow to support Trump if he wins the primary. As a woman, I stand strongly against her "common-sense stance on abortion". For a woman who has witnessed more than I care to relate to others on the subject, the only "common-sense stance on abortion" is to leave it between the woman (and partner if involved) and her doctor. There is no place in a free nation to have a nationwide "law" governing a woman's body against her will or her needs. Period! Full stop.
I don't know Steve, you keep doubting Joe Biden and the American people. I believe age does matter but character is the key to this race. Biden has the character that the American people want and need. Trump maybe leading in the polls but when push comes to shove, Biden will win on election day.
Phillips is NOT qualified to be president. He’s another rich wheeler dealer who thinks he’s qualified because he’s rich on step daddy’s money. Now we have him and other bad options who got money from Republican donors for the express purpose of taking votes from Biden. What has Biden done to you to deserve this BS?
You note that Mike Johnson will have a lot to say in January when electoral votes are counted. I think there is a good chance it will be Speaker Hakeem Jeffries with a lot to say. Congress takes office on January 3 and electoral votes are counted on January 6.
Dear Steve, I can't begin to match your deep knowledge of what goes on behind the curtain of politics, I can only judge by what I have observed and read and pondered for the last seven years. And thIs I know at a deep gut level....Joe Biden has a vision for this country...of a vibrant , multiracial, multicultural society, powered not by capitalism run amok but one harnessed by sane regulations and and a progressive tax structure to the aims of a democracy, not those of the greedy and power hungry. Central to this vision is the restoration of a large and thriving middle class, one whose opportunities for education and good paying jobs are open to all and plenty productive enough to provide a strong safety net for the most vulnerable among us. His is the vision I want to see achieved. He has a strong team, both in domestic and foreign policy, to provide a bulwark against the rising tide of fascism. Together this team has shown they are highly adept
at the creation and implementation of effective policies -- in short, in the art of governing. I don't think that it is vainglory that causes President Biden to believe he needs to "finish the job." I think he understands the risks that his age presents but also is confident that his team is fully capable of
carrying out his vision if he were to die in office.
I think all of us who love this country and the democracy that sustains us need to put aside our misgivings and throw everything we've got into supporting Joe Biden.
I agree, Ann. Biden, and his excellent team of advisors with which he has surrounded himself, is one of the best administrations we've had in modern times. He is an excellent coach and leader, and that won't go away with age. He perhaps may have to lean on them more in the next few years. But we need him to run the presidency for the Democrats, and if/when he should go away, it's all still in the hands of the Democrats to administer......and we will have saved our Democracy.
Steve, there is a video clip of an actual German propaganda film that uses the vermin term in an episode of Passage to Freedom which I happen to be watching on Prime. It’s a story about a Brazilian visa clerk who saved a great many Jews in Hamburg. It can be easily retrieved.
Meanwhile, we have no good choices and too many intractable problems. I worry that people who do not live in swing states will not vote because they know an election will be decided by states other than theirs, sometimes with less population. The Electoral College no longer works for us. It flips minority over majority. Like you, I fear for the mess we will face next November.
If only Liz Cheney were pro-choice and could move a bit to the middle. I feel she could be our first woman President. Many staunchly Democratic women I know admire her and would vote for her on the basis of her patriotism and integrity. Also, when women are so often dismissed or put down, seeing her stand up to crushing threats, an electoral loss is completely worthy of the nation’s respect and gratitude.
The operative phrase from this Schmidt substack is public cowardice. There is going to be a fight between the election deniers (also known as treasonists) and the rest of us (who remain true to the constitution). Unless the GOP comes to its senses prior to the 2024 election, the fight will take place whether or not Trump is re-elected. We have been told that if he IS re-elected, the country will enter an unspeakably grim a perhaps permanent phase known as fascism.
So it behooves those who don’t want that to happen should fight to utilize the legally available methods such as the 14th Amendment and/or repeal of the odious Electoral College and whatever methods there are to bar Trump’s participation in any political role. The man should be in jail, as everyone with a modicum of common sense (and those who believe Jan 6 was more than “unruly tourists”) knows quite clearly.
It would help if the pundit class and mainstream media would stop harping on Biden’s age and perhaps focus on his wisdom and experience. You/they have the power to swing the election one way or another in how it is presented. We know how old he is, but have seen no signs of him slowing down or being unable to handle the responsibilities of the job. If the worst happened; that he dies or becomes disabled during his term, Kamala Harris would ably take over. My suspicion is that the fear of having a Black woman President is what’s behind all of this hand wringing. Otherwise, why does it matter how old he is?
Now that we know you are being paid by Dean Phillips, your opinions must be viewed in that light.
So, we have seen the enemy and it is us. We are the Good Guys. We have much working for us including an economy that will be in quite good shape come Election Day. While the past doesn’t count, we have to make it count, on both sides. We must not forget Biden’s accomplishments. There are many, very nearly unprecedented success, the never-done finally done like Infrastruture. The other thing that cannot be forgotten is Jan 6 and everything that goes with it, “vermin” this week, who knows what next week. We cannot forget, I killed Roe v Wade. We cannot forget the book bans, the Trans panic, the shipping immigrants around the country, surprise, surprise! Too late to correct the truly damaging Constitution which may give the final word to the nutcase Speaker of the House while it provides seemingly unlimited protections so Trump can tear the country apart. The other, bigger issue is to bring some innovative thinking to election communications. The Good Guys can’t just hope everybody gets it. There needs to be aggressive communications harnessing people with influence aligned with every important voting group and measures to tap into the authenticity of Joe Biden. Hiding him is stupid and self-defeating. So is undercutting him at every turn. Let’s call everyone not a Trumper, the Good Guys and let’s have them think and create and work TOGETHER instead of this damned intramural bickering. The other possibility, I believe 91 possibilities, is to convict the son of a bitch and lock him up!
Steve would talk more about Biden’s fading prospects, but he has to get back to the Dean Phillips juggernaut.
Here’s a line from a mental health website:
"The idea behind a self-fulfilling prophecy, also known as the Pygmalion effect, is that your belief about what will happen drives the actions that make that outcome ultimately come to pass."
So many questions unanswered here and one you left open a few years ago. I will paraphrase as I cannot remember your exact words. If the people knew what is really happening they would be shocked. It's all the things that are being said off camera I want to know. If 80 percent of this country does not want Trump, then our system is broken. Who is paying Tuberville to prevent appointments? Is this a tactic from Trump's people to hold on so Trump could appoint people? No way is Tuberville doing this on his own. Now the big question. No one seems to be factoring in Jack Smith whose target is clearly Trump. When you have an ethics bill for the Supreme Court which cannot be enforced, you have a judicial system that is useless. I could go on and on while the news media ignores the obvious. I am a Canadian by birth and an American by choice. I carry a copy of the Constitution in my purse for the idiots who think they can challenge me. Your response Steve and others here greatly appreciated. As we say in our house, you cannot fix stupid in this country and why do we care more than people who were born here?
A comment I keep at the ready, about people born here: If you are not an indigenous person, you are offspring of an immigrant.
We are a country of immigrants. Most importantly, the Founding Fathers we revere so much were immigrants or offspring of immigrants. They were not "Americans" until the Constitution was ratified.
Steve....I bet ya a case of PBR that Biden will be the Democratic nominee. He wouldn’t be my first choice, but I’m accustomed to that in my fifty years of voting only for Democrats. So I will vote for him and I won’t have to hold my nose to do so. Considering who ever the Republicans choose to nominate, and we all know it will be likely be their Orange Jesus, anything else would be joining the ongoing, ever more threatening fascist overthrow.
Steve, you are unfortunately missing the “forest from the trees,” as you put it. The upcoming election isn’t “Biden vs Trump,” as you do get right. It is Democrats vs Republicans - that is forest. It is Anthony Blinken vs Michael Flynn, Adam Schiff vs Mike Johnson, Jack Smith vs Louie Gohmert. Biden is simply head of a very large cadre of mostly competent, honest, democrats with a small d. Trump is head of a competing cadre of incompetent, venal, dishonest, often theocratic and racist cultists.
Stop focusing on just to top of the ticket. Talk about the real forest.
If Trump wins, those down ballet elections will hardly matter.
"Biden is simply head of a very large cadre of mostly competent, honest, democrats with a small d. Trump is head of a competing cadre of incompetent, venal, dishonest, often theocratic and racist cultists."
I just got done writing that the biggest problem the nation faces is the media algorithms that would make a clearly educated and intelligent person write this and a number of people like it without recognizing that it is 180 degrees off. The cadre of incompetent, venal, dishonest, theocratic (as in the Godless campus ideological type) and racist (as in the Theory/woke type) cultists (as in the climate crisis type). You guys need to defund some more cops, open the borders wider, influence more young girls to cut off their breasts, and cancel more people for speaking their mind against the Democrat cabal... and then claim more of your moral righteousness.
You are a freak, sir.
Are you talking about the FOX media. I don't get cable, but I know they're of the wall. I don't know about a godless theology. But I do remember the GOP guys wanting to define the FBI because they keep digging up the dirt, of defining the IRS so the wealthy guys can hide their fraud. I enjoy think being aware of racism is being racist - they call it theoretical, but it actually a thing. These guys are a mess. If the Liberals are trying to influence girls to cut off their breasts - what a shame - I'm glad I don't know any of those.
Defund
Well said, indeed.
Biden can win if Democrats run a strong campaign on issues like abortion that drive people to the polls. So far, Biden has shown no signs of incompetence and he has a strong staff. This is not the best of all possible worlds but we are fighting for our democracy.
To me this is a campaign of good versus evil. Joe + the Shit head on the other side are the mast heads for the two parties. The people that they surround themselves with are the group that are running for the presidency. Yes Joe is old. Fuck face is a piece of shit threatening anyone + everyone. Who is going to get the most votes and how much of a distraction is Nepo-baby Kennedy, Greeny Stein, No Vote Joe and the other distractions.
What scares me the most is Johnson as Speaker and what happens if 270 isn't realized. Even if it is, Mister Ass Kisser might pull a move to subvert the election results to get Mini-Hitler in office. And if the Military is called on to control the protests - then what?
Then we're going camping. I hope they have AC in the tents.
Although he hasn’t exhibited the Mitch McConnell type of blink-out incompetence, Biden looks old and his motor skills (including speech) appear dottery. As much as we may not like to admit it, much of a presidential election is a beauty contest where they are judged for their vigor, wit, charisma, oratory skill, intelligence, general
with-itness, and an ability to win trust. We’ve a long haul through a dangerous time ahead and any candidate exhibiting any weakness will likely not prevail.
Steve, I agree with you; this election is a complete clusterfuck! And I personally haven’t criticized you for being proactive, and warning against Biden and his team’s complacency in the run up to this election.
Life is a set of choices, and when the decisions are critical, one must hope he/she chooses wisely.
My issue with your decision to be a part of Phillip’s campaign had nothing to do with your assertion Biden can’t win, and everything to do with the fact that you chose poorly. Tell me again how Phillip’s can be the democrats knight in shining armor?
So if we’re getting close to the abyss with several Putin “useful” idiots entering the race as spoilers, I’d rather you give us a viable solution that all of us reading The Warning can support!
Thanks in advance...:)
I've reread your comment a few times, when a little bell 'rang' in my head: Steve is not a Democrat! Steve's history is as a Conservative Republican...an eloquent one as I recall..who never swayed me in those days. He then was rightly horrified by Trump and joined the "Never Trump" team. But, I don't see him as being a Dem, through and through. I am guessing he sees the Dems as a saner choice in recent times. But this is a time when we absolutely must have a "through and through" Dem to salvage the day, the immediate day, at this crucial time, if we want to stay a free country.
It's nearly 4 years since Trump was elected, the dust has not settled yet. We are not secure yet, we've merely had a reprieve. We have to hold steady, giving us time to rid ourselves of our own home grown terroristic authoritarians.
Patt,
I've been a registered Democrat for four years. The Democratic Party is the only pro-democracy party. Please don't say that I'm not a Democrat. That is not true. Simply because I criticize the party -- or have a different perspective than your own -- doesn't mean that I'm not a Democrat.
Steve
My sincere apologies! Really, I did not know that. I'll try to be more thoughtful before I type. I do respect and appreciate your opinions (almost always). I have always respected your intellect, even when you were a Republican when I'd scream at the TV when you say stuff I didn't like!
I'm super worried about this election, and I react out of that worry. Of my nearly 80 years, 60+ of which were voting years, I've never been so concerned about the future of our country.
Patt,
Happy to have corrected the record for you :-)
I'm as concerned as you are, and therefore, I'm doing what I believe is necessary to ensure that Trump stays out of power.
Steve
I'm not a Democrat, even though I keep getting letters from Charles Schumer. Could say I'm an anti GOPer. I have a lot of fear for our future, politically, and climatically. Through these current political times, I sure have lost a lot of respect for people in general - too much believing stuff. Can't we just hire good representatives (sorry, bad joke). I appreciate what you're doing - my best to you!
Steve has been a Democrat for 4 years! So now he's taken it upon himself to be a campaign strategist for a Democratic candidate against Biden. Smells funny.
Steve, I often disagree with you. But this time I think your warning is spot on.
As a Canadian I am very worried about the future of America, because what happens in America affects not only Americans but also Canadians --- and much of the world.
Seriously Steve, of all the comments you could have addressed, you chose to argue whether or not we think you’re a democrat?
Honestly, I think you are a great motivator, and political consultant, but hurt feelings right now are beside the point.
I’ve, and several others have asked for a game plan and options, and so far, you’ve refused to present one; at least any viable options to speak of.
Robert,
I'm not sure what you are suggesting with regards to "hurt feelings," but I will tell you that if I was worried about my feelings being hurt, I would have left politics a very long time ago. For years, I have been smeared and attacked.
I operate from a place of conviction -- whether people agree with my views or not. I won't remain silent based on what may be the reaction, including being cancelled.
I'm not sure what you're suggesting when you say that I have "refused" to present a "game plan and options." I have been completely transparent about having chosen to support a Democratic candidate in a primary because I am deeply concerned with the current political realities, and have expressed that concern publicly since July 2022. I do believe that President Biden will lose to Trump.
With all due respect, it is both unfair and untrue for you to state that I have "refused" to present a "game plan and options." Simply because you don't believe that it's a "viable" one doesn't mean that I haven't put an option forward.
Lastly, it is important to call out information that is factually incorrect. I have been a registered Democrat since 2019. Simply because we don't share all of the same views doesn't mean that I am not part of the party. Who is it that decides who is or isn't a Democrat?
All of this said, I do want to thank you for your almost daily engagement in this community. I appreciate your thoughtfulness, including when you challenge me.
Steve
Thanks Steve,
First off, I’m not trying to be a dick when engage with you. I really appreciate your newsletter and knowledge. I know some comments aimed at you are just ridiculous. And I don’t judge based on party affiliation anyway. It’s irrelevant at this point. Defeating Trump should be everyone’s goal, regardless of party affiliation. And I don’t blame you for taking the job with Phillips, but I don’t think he’s a viable option.
Personally, I’m hoping Newsom wipes the floor with DeSatan at the town hall on Fox this month, and he gets more national exposure and throws his hat in the ring.
However, since you are the expert, perhaps going forward with your newsletter, you can give us your input on how to fight the “useful” idiots like Kennedy, Stein and possibly Manchin.
Honestly, it’s getting scary and I want to help to defeat Trump, but I don’t know where to commit my time and resources.
Any suggestions would be appreciated, and I know I’m not the only one who subscribes to your newsletter that wants to contribute and feels the same way.
Thanks in advance
Robert,
I didn't think you were trying to be a dick with me ;-)
Here's something that I wrote just over a month ago that referenced several people whom you could look to for inspiration as you figure out how to get engaged in civic life:
https://steveschmidt.substack.com/p/how-you-can-get-engaged-in-civic
I'd say that, ultimately, it's up to each and every one of us in this community -- and beyond -- to determine what it is that you're most passionate about and ask yourself what it is that YOU can do to help ensure that our democracy is maintained through the '24 election.
Also have a listen to my conversation from last week with David Frum. He asks a similar question: what are YOU going to do...? You can find that at around the 10:30 mark:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGTc_q_h9yM
Steve
Who was it that said "I'm not a member of an organized political party, I'm a Democrat. Diversity of people, working together - the beauty of democracy.
Steve has been a Democrat for 4 years! So now he's taken it upon himself to be a campaign strategist for a Democratic candidate against Biden. Smells funny.
And no, we've not heard a reasonable 'game plan'. I'm not buying it.
I don't question your Democrat credentials although I do wonder why you jumped specifically on the Phillips' bandwagon. Nonetheless, your "Warning" today must be taken very seriously. Looking back to the 2016 election I was shocked when one of my co-workers remarked that she had voted for Ann Stein. That was a jarring moment of realization that I should not discount 3rd parties. Your supposition that this could go to the House of Representatives is unsettling but entirely realistic. Your comment that elections are not about the past but the future should give us all pause. Further, consider the New Testament story of the workers who went into the vineyard. The
ones who started earliest were paid the same as the Johnny-Come-Lately. The "pay" this time is the election of a Democrat president. Whether you were born into a family of dyed-in-the-wool Dems (Baptism by water) or converted by the horror of the last few years, (Baptism by fire) we will all be rewarded with the continuation of democracy. Meanwhile, we have these challenges laid out bare before us. Thank you for the work that YOU do!!!
I agree and I know he’s not a democrat. However, he believes in saving our democracy, and as you have eloquently expressed, it’s all hands on deck!
Obviously, there is only one sane party and several other “useful” idiots who will do our adversaries bidding in the next election. Chances are based on this scenario, no candidate will get to 270 electoral votes. Therefore, the House would pick the winner. Unfortunately, each state will get only one vote, and currently republicans have 25 states they control outright, which means Trump will win.
I’d like a plan. It’s one thing to be critical and concerned about Biden; we all agree there. It’s another to offer few, if any options to ensure our republic stays intact. So far, although Steve is a great motivator, we now need a candidate we can coalesce around.
My point! if not Biden, then who? It’s definitely not going to be Phillips.
When the history books tell the tale of the fall of democracy in the United States, the failure of "through and through" big-D Democrats to accept small-d democrats, Republicans displaced by Trump and his acolytes, into their coalition. This is the real forest for the trees problem. Like Steve, I became a refugee in our country's politics when Trump went down the escalator eight years ago. Living in Red State America, refugees like me see friend after friend move over to the dark side. You can't go to church anymore. You have to hold back your opinions in conversations, even with your family. A 60/40 majority could have been materialized if the Democrats focused on the forest and embraced the Romneys, Cheneys, Kinzingers, etc. into their fold rather than keep their tree-lined border.
Hopefully, this story never gets written. But, right now, I see an easier path for saving us from Steve's apocalyptic scenario coming from the Republican party than what is coming out of the Democrats. Desantis is an idiot, but he is right that even though Trump has a big lead, he doesn't have 50% of Republican support. Watching the debate last week, Nikki Haley came across as tough and presidential. Her views on Israel and Ukraine are spot on, and she framed a common-sense stance on abortion that will take the biggest political advantage away from Democrats. Meanwhile, the Democrats are doubling down on the old man and telling us who disagree that we are the idiots. Are we?
The world keeps changing. The United States has changed dramatically. The Republican Party has changed, and may be changing again. The refusal of "through and through" Democrats to adapt and compete in this changing landscape is the biggest failure of our time.
I'm weighing your comment framed by the fact that you have transitioned as a refugee from TFG's side of the world. Actually, I do think that, besides myself, Dems have embraced the Romney, Cheney (daughter, not father) and Kinzingers. But that can only go so far, since they could not be elected in their home states by being independents or Dems. Trump has never had 50% of anything; not the party, not the election. As I've said earlier, there were moments that I thought Nikki Haley was a Republican option that I could live with, if need be. But what killed that for me is her stance on abortion, and vow to support Trump if he wins the primary. As a woman, I stand strongly against her "common-sense stance on abortion". For a woman who has witnessed more than I care to relate to others on the subject, the only "common-sense stance on abortion" is to leave it between the woman (and partner if involved) and her doctor. There is no place in a free nation to have a nationwide "law" governing a woman's body against her will or her needs. Period! Full stop.
nor, a statewide law, either!
It’s actually 7 years since Trump was elected.
I don't know Steve, you keep doubting Joe Biden and the American people. I believe age does matter but character is the key to this race. Biden has the character that the American people want and need. Trump maybe leading in the polls but when push comes to shove, Biden will win on election day.
IF we stay united and strong.
Phillips is NOT qualified to be president. He’s another rich wheeler dealer who thinks he’s qualified because he’s rich on step daddy’s money. Now we have him and other bad options who got money from Republican donors for the express purpose of taking votes from Biden. What has Biden done to you to deserve this BS?
You note that Mike Johnson will have a lot to say in January when electoral votes are counted. I think there is a good chance it will be Speaker Hakeem Jeffries with a lot to say. Congress takes office on January 3 and electoral votes are counted on January 6.
Dear Steve, I can't begin to match your deep knowledge of what goes on behind the curtain of politics, I can only judge by what I have observed and read and pondered for the last seven years. And thIs I know at a deep gut level....Joe Biden has a vision for this country...of a vibrant , multiracial, multicultural society, powered not by capitalism run amok but one harnessed by sane regulations and and a progressive tax structure to the aims of a democracy, not those of the greedy and power hungry. Central to this vision is the restoration of a large and thriving middle class, one whose opportunities for education and good paying jobs are open to all and plenty productive enough to provide a strong safety net for the most vulnerable among us. His is the vision I want to see achieved. He has a strong team, both in domestic and foreign policy, to provide a bulwark against the rising tide of fascism. Together this team has shown they are highly adept
at the creation and implementation of effective policies -- in short, in the art of governing. I don't think that it is vainglory that causes President Biden to believe he needs to "finish the job." I think he understands the risks that his age presents but also is confident that his team is fully capable of
carrying out his vision if he were to die in office.
I think all of us who love this country and the democracy that sustains us need to put aside our misgivings and throw everything we've got into supporting Joe Biden.
I agree, Ann. Biden, and his excellent team of advisors with which he has surrounded himself, is one of the best administrations we've had in modern times. He is an excellent coach and leader, and that won't go away with age. He perhaps may have to lean on them more in the next few years. But we need him to run the presidency for the Democrats, and if/when he should go away, it's all still in the hands of the Democrats to administer......and we will have saved our Democracy.
Right On!! Go Biden/Harris 2024!!
Steve, there is a video clip of an actual German propaganda film that uses the vermin term in an episode of Passage to Freedom which I happen to be watching on Prime. It’s a story about a Brazilian visa clerk who saved a great many Jews in Hamburg. It can be easily retrieved.
Meanwhile, we have no good choices and too many intractable problems. I worry that people who do not live in swing states will not vote because they know an election will be decided by states other than theirs, sometimes with less population. The Electoral College no longer works for us. It flips minority over majority. Like you, I fear for the mess we will face next November.
If only Liz Cheney were pro-choice and could move a bit to the middle. I feel she could be our first woman President. Many staunchly Democratic women I know admire her and would vote for her on the basis of her patriotism and integrity. Also, when women are so often dismissed or put down, seeing her stand up to crushing threats, an electoral loss is completely worthy of the nation’s respect and gratitude.
Thank you Jane. I left out the Electoral College and Citizens United which have both contributed to this totally dysfunctional system of government.
The operative phrase from this Schmidt substack is public cowardice. There is going to be a fight between the election deniers (also known as treasonists) and the rest of us (who remain true to the constitution). Unless the GOP comes to its senses prior to the 2024 election, the fight will take place whether or not Trump is re-elected. We have been told that if he IS re-elected, the country will enter an unspeakably grim a perhaps permanent phase known as fascism.
So it behooves those who don’t want that to happen should fight to utilize the legally available methods such as the 14th Amendment and/or repeal of the odious Electoral College and whatever methods there are to bar Trump’s participation in any political role. The man should be in jail, as everyone with a modicum of common sense (and those who believe Jan 6 was more than “unruly tourists”) knows quite clearly.
It would help if the pundit class and mainstream media would stop harping on Biden’s age and perhaps focus on his wisdom and experience. You/they have the power to swing the election one way or another in how it is presented. We know how old he is, but have seen no signs of him slowing down or being unable to handle the responsibilities of the job. If the worst happened; that he dies or becomes disabled during his term, Kamala Harris would ably take over. My suspicion is that the fear of having a Black woman President is what’s behind all of this hand wringing. Otherwise, why does it matter how old he is?
Now that we know you are being paid by Dean Phillips, your opinions must be viewed in that light.
Ever how we decide to roll the dice, the result must be: Trump loses! No other outcome was is acceptable!
So, we have seen the enemy and it is us. We are the Good Guys. We have much working for us including an economy that will be in quite good shape come Election Day. While the past doesn’t count, we have to make it count, on both sides. We must not forget Biden’s accomplishments. There are many, very nearly unprecedented success, the never-done finally done like Infrastruture. The other thing that cannot be forgotten is Jan 6 and everything that goes with it, “vermin” this week, who knows what next week. We cannot forget, I killed Roe v Wade. We cannot forget the book bans, the Trans panic, the shipping immigrants around the country, surprise, surprise! Too late to correct the truly damaging Constitution which may give the final word to the nutcase Speaker of the House while it provides seemingly unlimited protections so Trump can tear the country apart. The other, bigger issue is to bring some innovative thinking to election communications. The Good Guys can’t just hope everybody gets it. There needs to be aggressive communications harnessing people with influence aligned with every important voting group and measures to tap into the authenticity of Joe Biden. Hiding him is stupid and self-defeating. So is undercutting him at every turn. Let’s call everyone not a Trumper, the Good Guys and let’s have them think and create and work TOGETHER instead of this damned intramural bickering. The other possibility, I believe 91 possibilities, is to convict the son of a bitch and lock him up!
Steve would talk more about Biden’s fading prospects, but he has to get back to the Dean Phillips juggernaut.
Here’s a line from a mental health website:
"The idea behind a self-fulfilling prophecy, also known as the Pygmalion effect, is that your belief about what will happen drives the actions that make that outcome ultimately come to pass."
Excellent and appropriate Pygmalion effect quote here. Thanks.
So many questions unanswered here and one you left open a few years ago. I will paraphrase as I cannot remember your exact words. If the people knew what is really happening they would be shocked. It's all the things that are being said off camera I want to know. If 80 percent of this country does not want Trump, then our system is broken. Who is paying Tuberville to prevent appointments? Is this a tactic from Trump's people to hold on so Trump could appoint people? No way is Tuberville doing this on his own. Now the big question. No one seems to be factoring in Jack Smith whose target is clearly Trump. When you have an ethics bill for the Supreme Court which cannot be enforced, you have a judicial system that is useless. I could go on and on while the news media ignores the obvious. I am a Canadian by birth and an American by choice. I carry a copy of the Constitution in my purse for the idiots who think they can challenge me. Your response Steve and others here greatly appreciated. As we say in our house, you cannot fix stupid in this country and why do we care more than people who were born here?
A comment I keep at the ready, about people born here: If you are not an indigenous person, you are offspring of an immigrant.
We are a country of immigrants. Most importantly, the Founding Fathers we revere so much were immigrants or offspring of immigrants. They were not "Americans" until the Constitution was ratified.
Thanks Sandra for the great idea of carrying the Constitution in pocket form. Facts often shut the idiots up.
Steve, I don’t understand “the past doesn’t count”. Of course it does
“Biden is too old”. Huh? Look what he’s accomplishing. Its the media (you) that downplays it
You cite poll after unqualified poll to undermine Biden as if clickbait popularity is the benchmark
The past three elections (4 if you count last week) show that voters and polls are not coinciding. Stop using the “bothsider” media bs as your gage
I’m not sure where your stance is? Your writings encourage Trumpism by dividing those who want him defeated into philosophical camps of non solidarity
Custer was a fool. He refused to acknowledge strength in numbers. His horse’s last grunt was, “Dumbass”
Steve....I bet ya a case of PBR that Biden will be the Democratic nominee. He wouldn’t be my first choice, but I’m accustomed to that in my fifty years of voting only for Democrats. So I will vote for him and I won’t have to hold my nose to do so. Considering who ever the Republicans choose to nominate, and we all know it will be likely be their Orange Jesus, anything else would be joining the ongoing, ever more threatening fascist overthrow.