Which is the "pragmatist" and which is the "idealist"?

[kentuck]

I would say that Bernie Sanders is the "pragmatist" on several issues.

For example, when he says that we need to "break up the banks", he is being a "pragmatist". Because it is against all rules of capitalism for the people to bail out big banks and insurance companies and auto makers, etc. It is "pragmatism" to offer these big bankers and others the opportunity to succeed or fail on their own, but not at the expense of the rest of us. Bernie is the "pragmatist" on this issue, in my opinion.

[JudyM]

1. When he argued and voted vs the Iraq invasion he was being a pragmatist.

“I am concerned about the problems of so-called unintended consequences. Who will govern Iraq when Saddam Hussein is removed and what role will the U.S. play in ensuing a civil war that could develop in that country?”

http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1251&pid=1146846

[kentuck]

2. One might argue that he is being a pragmatist on healthcare reform also...

His argument of "Medicare for all" is meant to save money on the costs of healthcare in this country. And also, it is meant to cover every American, unlike the present ACA, which leaves millions uninsured.

[Nitram]

3. Umm, no, if it is politically impossible to break up the big banks...

...that is an idealistic goal, not a pragmatic one. The same is true of switching from Obamacare to single payer. But I'd love to see our next president give them both a try.

[kentuck]

4. It is idealistic to ever think the Democrats will win back the House?

Seems to be the thought?

The way things are - is the way they will always be?

[Nitram]

5. It is idealistic to think we can do it within the next couple of voting cycles....

...because of gerrymandering. We will regain a majority in both houses, but it may take a generation to get there. And to accomplish it we need to regain power at the state level to create impartial political re-districting.