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H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
Thu May 5, 2016, 08:45 AM May 2016

Democratic Transformation

“Some forty years ago G. K. Chesterton wrote that every time the world was in trouble the demand went up for a practical man. Unfortunately, he said, each time the demand went up there was a practical man available. As he pointed out then, usually what was needed to deal with an impractical muddle was a theorist or philosopher.”
-- Senator Eugene McCarthy


As the Democratic National Convention comes closer, it becomes more evident that the various factions within the party are not, at this time, going to reach the common ground required to reach its full potential by November. We can look at two current dynamics that indicate the intensity of the divisions within the Democratic Party. First, the establishment has self-identified as The Party, and seeks to convince the grass roots to recognize them as such. Second, when asked if Hillary does win the nomination, if he would tell his supporters to vote for her, Bernie has said he is comfortable with individuals making that decision for themselves.

At this point, it does appear that the establishment wing of the party -- composed of Debbie Wasserman Shultz and her ilk -- will select Hillary Clinton at the July convention. The only possible stumbling block to this would be the FBI investigations. Despite the establishment’s pretending that it is merely a right-wing plot by rabid republicans (or the equally inaccurate belief that Clinton is sure to be indicted), this actually poses a serious threat to the Clinton campaign.

While Hillary herself may not be indicted, if people close to her are, that is a problem. How much so? Again, despite their public position that there is nothing to this, the fact is that the establishment has a contingency plan for a worst case scenario, in which her delegates would “switch” to Joe Biden. Obviously, they know this is serious. Should anyone question if such a move is possible -- for the establishment to select a candidate who had not entered a single primary -- we need look no further than 1968: the establishment made vice president Hubert Humphrey the nominee, despite his not running in a single primary.

A portion of party members will definitely vote for Hillary. It is an open question if they would also campaign for her. This is a potential problem, for while the establishment elites hold the campaign’s purse strings, it is always the progressives who do the vast majority of the “on the street” campaigning. A well-coordinated campaign requires both money and manpower.

Other registered Democrats will invest their efforts in other non-presidential campaigns. And they will continue to organize within the Democratic Party. For just as the Debbie Wasserman Schultz types want nothing to do with them, they have no interest in the elites’ efforts to promote their power, and increase their comfortable life-styles. They do not represent the grass roots, and so it is only natural that much of the grass roots rejects them.

If Clinton gets the nomination, the progressives will evaluate their relationships with several other groups of politically active citizens. The establishment and their lap dogs try to frame this as progressives going “third party.” Like most things they say, this is simply not accurate. Progressive Democrats are invested in transforming the party. We do not recognize the Debbie Wasserman Schultz types as having authority, in any way that resembles the manner in which we honor Bernie Sanders.

The groups and individuals that we have the most in common with outside of our party are progressives and leftists who tend to be registered as independents. Like us, they understand that the difference between Bernie Sanders and Debbie Wasserman Schultz is the difference between sugar and shit. And that starting with the 1980 election of Ronald Reagan, that the opulently wealthy have been engaged in an ugly strain of class warfare, primarily waged against the middle class.

Thus, the progressive community must meet in Philadelphia in late July, when the Democratic National Convention is being held. Our progressive convention will be equally important to that inside the halls of the DNC. Indeed, it will be more in the spirit of the first meeting of the Continental Congress in 1774, when many of the men we know as the “Founding Fathers” put their heads together, to discuss their relationships with others, including those in England.

We need to remember that these were not “super men,” although the form of government they were proposing was truly inspired. It was revolutionary. But it wasn’t other-worldly, nor was it new. Rather, these men put their heads together, studied everything from current events to Greek history, and came up with -- eventually -- the Constitution of the United States of America.

The Founding Fathers did not think that their work reached perfection, or that it should be worshipped separate from the people’s every day lives. These were intended as living documents. They hold basic truths, and give a framework that each generation is supposed to apply to their day and age, and move forward.

We need to look our history, too. That includes documents such as the Declaration of Independence. Read the whole thing. It is revolutionary -- certainly one of the most important writings in human history. Tell me it doesn’t apply far, far more to the Sanders Revolution than to the Clinton campaign.

Read that Constitution, too. The whole thing. But don’t stop there: read the Articles of Confederation. While doing so, the influence of the Haudenosaunee starts to come into sharper focus. The ideas of individual rights, as detailed in the Bill of Rights, is closely connected to the Iroquois’ concept of individual and group rights.

But go back further. We have to read Ben Franklin’s amazing Plan of Albany, and keep in mind that Franklin (an amazing human being) was incorporating ideas from the Haudenosaunee, or Six Nations Iroquois Confederacy. He was among those advocating a true democracy -- rather than just a republic -- based upon experience with both the Iroquois’s Grand Council of Chiefs, and its Clan Mothers.

It’s important that we go even further back, to a close friend of Ben Franklin’s. We need to consider the proposals of Joseph Galloway, of Pennsylvania, who came up with a Plan of Union to present at that first Continental Congress. Too few history classes teach about this, in part because Galloway was not advocating a complete separation from England. At that time -- indeed, throughout the Revolutionary War -- one-third of the public wanted to remain loyal to England; one-third wanted independence; and one-third didn’t care either way (and this was before cell phones!).

While I’m glad this country kicked England out, I’m not looking to separate in a similar fashion from the Democratic Party. Rather, I am suggesting that the establishment acknowledge that there has been a significant shift in power. We aren’t approaching you with the palm of our hand raised upwards. We aren’t seeking a handout. We are not coming at you with clenched fists. We aren’t looking to inflict bruises. Rather, we come prepared to shake hands as equals.

I understand why those on the Democratic Left do not want to register within the Democratic Party. I appreciate why they sincerely believe that Hillary Clinton is as corrupt as was Richard Nixon. Just as long as they are willing to work with the progressives in the Democratic Party -- as equals -- we’re good. One person, one vote -- it’s that kind of thing.

As we begin to prepare for Philadelphia Freedom this summer, we have some tasks beside the logistics. We need to focus on a nonviolent demonstration -- not only on moral/ethical grounds (though they apply) -- but because tactically, that is our best option. I’ll address this issue in greater detail in the near future.

We should also take time to consider what common ground we have we with other groups and individuals. There is a heck of a lot of common ground in progressive movements, and we need to inhabit that when we are in Philly. And the thing is that not only are the fights against racism, sexism, militarism, and to protect the environment all on that common ground, but we find that we have a common enemy.

Bernie Sanders is correct: his campaign supporters are capable of thinking for themselves. Thus, this summer’s convention isn’t the “end” of the revolution. At most, it is the end of the beginning.

Peace,
H2O Man

89 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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Democratic Transformation (Original Post) H2O Man May 2016 OP
Okay, then. H2O Man May 2016 #1
I blocked out the week of the convention on my calendar months ago tk2kewl May 2016 #2
I'll be there! H2O Man May 2016 #3
I will probably have to take the train from New York tk2kewl May 2016 #8
Right. H2O Man May 2016 #12
Thank you for a well-written and inspiring piece lagomorph777 May 2016 #4
Thanks. H2O Man May 2016 #5
Count Me In pmorlan1 May 2016 #6
Thank you! H2O Man May 2016 #7
I am beginning to think a reorg is in order PowerToThePeople May 2016 #9
There's a U2 album H2O Man May 2016 #14
Yes sir.. disillusioned73 May 2016 #49
Rattle & Hum pinebox May 2016 #60
Wonderful essay, H20 Man. Have you thought about having it 2cannan May 2016 #10
Great idea jpmonk91 May 2016 #15
Thanks, Buddy! H2O Man May 2016 #20
Thanks. H2O Man May 2016 #19
I concur, H20 Man would be great as a contributor to any of those sites, and others, and..... LongTomH May 2016 #78
Can't think of a better place for it to happen than Philadelphia. mmonk May 2016 #11
Seriously! H2O Man May 2016 #21
It is simbolic isn't it!! I love your idea! I won't be able to be there, I'm just not up to it, haikugal May 2016 #36
Yes, indeed it is! H2O Man May 2016 #72
I've always enjoyed Philly. I was told by a Boston friend I'd enjoy it too but I've never been there haikugal May 2016 #76
Great post jpmonk91 May 2016 #13
Thanks! H2O Man May 2016 #22
Thanks man jpmonk91 May 2016 #41
I was really happy H2O Man May 2016 #73
sounds great jpmonk91 May 2016 #86
That is one of the best DU posts ever. Zorra May 2016 #16
Is Philadelphia the next Chicago? mmonk May 2016 #18
Thanks, Zorra! H2O Man May 2016 #23
I disagree about the level of openness here as I've seen too many important voices silenced haikugal May 2016 #38
This is why a lot have gone to twitter. pinebox May 2016 #61
Interesting. H2O Man May 2016 #75
I hear you. H2O Man May 2016 #74
I hear you. Zorra May 2016 #88
It's fairly obvious that the progressive movement is on the rise... kentuck May 2016 #17
Thanks, kentuck! H2O Man May 2016 #24
I would love to be there... kgnu_fan May 2016 #25
Right. H2O Man May 2016 #27
Great post as usual, H20 Man... ljm2002 May 2016 #26
Good question. H2O Man May 2016 #28
Great post, my friend. longship May 2016 #29
Thanks! H2O Man May 2016 #31
K&R. Betty Karlson May 2016 #30
Good question. H2O Man May 2016 #32
And how is this "dawn of realisation" expressed, as far as you can see? Betty Karlson May 2016 #33
It's interesting. H2O Man May 2016 #34
Yes, they will regret it. Their candidate is now reaching out to bushco donors and they don't... ChisolmTrailDem May 2016 #43
Reallignment 2016: Trump turns the GOP into the old KKK, Debbie& co turn the Democratic Party Betty Karlson May 2016 #47
"Who else are you gonna vote for?" That has been a question jwirr May 2016 #42
The Al From/Bill Clinton influence still runs the party… CobaltBlue May 2016 #35
Right. H2O Man May 2016 #50
I love your posts vintx May 2016 #37
Thank you. H2O Man May 2016 #51
I wonder if we can get PDA behind this? hootinholler May 2016 #39
Good idea. H2O Man May 2016 #53
Hmmm, I looked hootinholler May 2016 #70
Please continue. This looks like an excellent start. This is jwirr May 2016 #40
I'm just warming up. H2O Man May 2016 #56
Thank you. jwirr May 2016 #58
I believe climate change may be the only catalyst powerful enough to move the DNC riderinthestorm May 2016 #44
You nailed it! H2O Man May 2016 #59
I agree on all points - the condescension of the Hillary people is appalling! LongTomH May 2016 #84
They aren't going to look at us as equals, condescension and we are in charge are TheKentuckian May 2016 #45
Right. H2O Man May 2016 #62
I think he would have been much quicker to respond and willing to do more than talk shop if TheKentuckian May 2016 #87
Very interesting poll ---- Bernie got 74% against Clinton / Trump kgnu_fan May 2016 #46
Right. H2O Man May 2016 #63
There was a very interesting covrage on Democracy Now! this morning. kgnu_fan May 2016 #66
Very good! H2O Man May 2016 #68
Err.. the Democratic electorate is doing the picking Recursion May 2016 #48
I know. H2O Man May 2016 #64
Wow. This passage is particularly offensive: Buzz Clik May 2016 #52
Thank you! H2O Man May 2016 #54
Yes, for the first 1/2 of the campaign Bernie was not covered in the MSM. libdem4life May 2016 #81
Thanks! H2O Man May 2016 #83
Spot on- as are so many of your posts. cali May 2016 #55
Thanks, Cali! H2O Man May 2016 #65
Are you trying to sell this to the over three million more votes Hillary has gottem over Sanders? Thinkingabout May 2016 #57
You're confused. H2O Man May 2016 #67
Millions confused, no, I don't think we are. Thinkingabout May 2016 #69
That's fine. H2O Man May 2016 #71
A righteous rant. Thank you!!! LongTomH May 2016 #77
Thanks! H2O Man May 2016 #80
A big, fat K&R! CaliforniaPeggy May 2016 #79
Thank you so much! H2O Man May 2016 #82
Sounds great! CaliforniaPeggy May 2016 #85
you called this one, didn't you? antigop May 2016 #89

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
1. Okay, then.
Thu May 5, 2016, 09:30 AM
May 2016

"When all else fails
We can whip the horse's eyes
And make them sleep
And cry."
-- James Douglas Morrison

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
3. I'll be there!
Thu May 5, 2016, 09:41 AM
May 2016

I told my cousin in Philadelphia that I'll be staying at her house. She said that she can get me inside the convention, if I want.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
12. Right.
Thu May 5, 2016, 12:39 PM
May 2016

The surgeries that I've had since my back was broken in an auto wreck make it so I have great difficult with driving in cities. So I like to let my cousin drive me around Philly. I will be at her mercy!

lagomorph777

(30,613 posts)
4. Thank you for a well-written and inspiring piece
Thu May 5, 2016, 09:46 AM
May 2016

Eventually DWS, HRC, and the DLC will be washed away by a tsunami of popular rage. We are in an early stage of a revolution that can' t be stopped.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
5. Thanks.
Thu May 5, 2016, 09:51 AM
May 2016

You are right -- a change is going to come. That change has already taken root within a large and growing number of progressive Democrats. The old guard doesn't understand it, and we see our friends here on DU insisting that we are required to engage in their fight in a business-as-usual manner. But that is not where our struggle is.

 

PowerToThePeople

(9,610 posts)
9. I am beginning to think a reorg is in order
Thu May 5, 2016, 10:14 AM
May 2016

Possibly a renaming of the party to something without decades of bad history, once the third way is removed.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
14. There's a U2 album
Thu May 5, 2016, 12:52 PM
May 2016

where, before playing Helter Skelter, he says, "This is a song Charles Manson stole from the Beatles. We're stealing it back." That's how I view the current dynamics in the Democratic Party. I know that the conservatives believe that they bought the party, but the real party isn't for sale.

2cannan

(344 posts)
10. Wonderful essay, H20 Man. Have you thought about having it
Thu May 5, 2016, 10:24 AM
May 2016

"published" on Truthout, Alternet, and Commondreams, etc.?

jpmonk91

(290 posts)
15. Great idea
Thu May 5, 2016, 01:25 PM
May 2016

H20 man has the best posts on DU. In fact I would read all of his posts before I joined DU this year. It was part of the reason I joined because I think he is a voice of truth and reason.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
19. Thanks.
Thu May 5, 2016, 02:49 PM
May 2016

Yes, sometimes I think some of my essays should be at a higher profile .....not because I wrote them, but because I think they contain some important ideas.

LongTomH

(8,636 posts)
78. I concur, H20 Man would be great as a contributor to any of those sites, and others, and.....
Fri May 6, 2016, 03:08 PM
May 2016

.....he would reach a larger audience.

haikugal

(6,476 posts)
36. It is simbolic isn't it!! I love your idea! I won't be able to be there, I'm just not up to it,
Thu May 5, 2016, 07:36 PM
May 2016

but my heart will be with you!!

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
72. Yes, indeed it is!
Fri May 6, 2016, 12:32 PM
May 2016

I always enjoy spending time in that historic city. I love Philadelphia and Boston.

haikugal

(6,476 posts)
76. I've always enjoyed Philly. I was told by a Boston friend I'd enjoy it too but I've never been there
Fri May 6, 2016, 02:51 PM
May 2016

jpmonk91

(290 posts)
13. Great post
Thu May 5, 2016, 12:46 PM
May 2016

We millinials I think will keep the flame of the revolution going. I believe we might be the next ww2 generation minus the war. We have the principles of FDR. And both revolutions happened at the turn of the century which is interesting to think about. Another great writing to base our revolution on is the 2nd bill of rights. Every one needs to read it.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Bill_of_Rights

Also count me in and keep up the good work pat! Lol I see my dad (mmonk) posted before me.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
22. Thanks!
Thu May 5, 2016, 03:14 PM
May 2016

Your Dad and I go back a long way ......but you know that! He's my Best Friend, and I think the world of him. So it made me really happy to meet you a while back, and here since you joined!

Thank you for the link. FDR became a revolutionary figure while in the Oval Office. In fact, he had some progressive, socialists around him since he was governor. Your Dad and I have discussed Leland Olds here a few times over the years, for example. Take the time to look up information on Olds, as he was the Bernie Sanders of that era.

Keep on fighting that Good Fight, and I hope to be seeing you soon.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
73. I was really happy
Fri May 6, 2016, 12:34 PM
May 2016

when you joined DU. It's young folks like yourself that motivate me to carry on .....and who convince me that we are going to win.

See you soon, and I'll enjoy talking to you here -- or on Face Book -- between now and July!

Zorra

(27,670 posts)
16. That is one of the best DU posts ever.
Thu May 5, 2016, 01:46 PM
May 2016

Thanks again.

Just want to emphasize this sentence fragment below, because it is such a dark, major milestone in the long, slow Democratic Party demise, a point that many Democrats don't seem to be aware of these days:

"we need look no further than 1968: the establishment made vice president Hubert Humphrey the nominee, despite his not running in a single primary."


I pretty much agree with everything you wrote in your post, but differ in that I firmly believe that we have already come to a similar place in our relationship to the Democratic party to the place that Jefferson spoke of when describing the irreparable, destructive relationship of the Colonies to the Crown:

"when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.--Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government." ~ The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America


So many Tories; so little time.

Little Debbie Lucy plots to trick the kind, but dangerously gullible, Charlie Brown yet again.



On acheve bien les chevaux?

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
23. Thanks, Zorra!
Thu May 5, 2016, 03:31 PM
May 2016

While I remain firmly entrenched within the Democratic Party, I understand why so many of my friends and associates are registered as independents. I likewise appreciate why others are ready to give up on the party. I do believe, still, that the problems in the party are pretty much isolated to the establishment Democrats.

I have a lot of faith in people's ability to put their heads together, and identify what is important. Look at where the Sanders campaign was a year ago, compared to today. Our opposition expects the movement to fade away now, and are becoming increasingly uncomfortable that we continue to grow.

In Haudenosaunee culture, this putting of our heads together is known as The Power of the Good Mind. It is the appropriate manner for pursuing social justice in a non-violent manner. Each person is recognized as having the right -- and responsibility -- to think for themselves.

I don't think any topic should be considered "off the table," too risky to discuss. Obviously, the Democratic Underground allows for a wide range of topics to discuss, but after the convention, we all need to be respectful of the rules. Still, other than the presidential election, there are unlimited other progressive issues we'll continue discussing. More, a lot of DUers talk elsewhere on the internet, such as Face Book.

haikugal

(6,476 posts)
38. I disagree about the level of openness here as I've seen too many important voices silenced
Thu May 5, 2016, 07:52 PM
May 2016

here over the years. These were not people who couldn't follow the rules but instances where the rules were and are twisted to single them out. This is not the place to have divergent voices. It is not supportive of anything but the most conventional views and ideas. It isn't what it appears to be in my experience.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
75. Interesting.
Fri May 6, 2016, 12:39 PM
May 2016

Because I am old and not particularly gifted when it comes to technology, I am rather limited when it comes to the old internet. But I've developed a lot of very close friendships with a large number of people from DU. I tend to converse with them more on Face Book and the telephone, than on this forum.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
74. I hear you.
Fri May 6, 2016, 12:37 PM
May 2016

And I agree.

I had joined DU back in late 2003. It was a progressive community at the time. But it has evident that the establishment seeks to influence, then control, the ideas being expressed on the internet sites such as this.

Zorra

(27,670 posts)
88. I hear you.
Sat May 7, 2016, 09:44 AM
May 2016

It was a sad thing for me yesterday,registering "No Party Preference" after being a registered Democrat for my entire adult life, and after having voted for every Democrat on my ballot in every election since I became of voting age. I'll still vote straight Dem tickets in most elections in the future. But this primary season has made it perfectly clear to me that the general membership of the Democratic party is now too conservative for the Democratic party to ever be the engine of critical progressive change necessary. I'll continue to try to help pursue social and economic justice, within our movement, in a non-violent manner, but no longer have any expectations that the Democratic party has the compassionate heart, or the will, to play any significant role in achieving these goals. Settling for simply being somewhat better than the other guy is not good enough when time is short and survival calls for wisdom in bringing about complex changes in a relatively short period of time.

That said, I'm planning a trip to Philly to be a "volunteer" outside the Democratic Convention in July.

kentuck

(110,916 posts)
17. It's fairly obvious that the progressive movement is on the rise...
Thu May 5, 2016, 01:50 PM
May 2016

The best thing Bernie could do, in case he loses this election, is to leave the movement in good hands. The movement should not disappear if Bernie disappears. We need leaders.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
24. Thanks, kentuck!
Thu May 5, 2016, 03:34 PM
May 2016

Well said.

I don't think Bernie will disappear. Even if he retires from the Senate, he'll remain an Elder Statesman in the movement. (With his extraordinary physical condition, I think he may serve another term in the Senate, though.)

ljm2002

(10,751 posts)
26. Great post as usual, H20 Man...
Thu May 5, 2016, 04:00 PM
May 2016

...but I do have a logistical question: is anyone putting together a list of people who will allow others to stay with them for a couple of days? I'd certainly be willing to rent a room, but I think the hotels will already be filled to capacity, so that is a concern. I am seriously considering going, if I can find lodging -- although I am also moving to a different state soon, so it will be a little harder to get there.

K&R

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
28. Good question.
Thu May 5, 2016, 04:15 PM
May 2016

I had a friend from a distant state ask me the same thing. I reminded her of my utter lack of skills in that area ......

I am lucky, as I have a cousin who has a nice house in Philly. She's fine with my children and I staying with her ....even though she is a Clinton supporter.

Hopefully, the progressive community in and around the city will help with this.

longship

(40,416 posts)
29. Great post, my friend.
Thu May 5, 2016, 04:24 PM
May 2016

Your OPs are ones (of an increasingly and sadly few) here on DU which I will unfailingly click on.

It is part of which brings me back every day.

My best to you.

 

Betty Karlson

(7,231 posts)
30. K&R.
Thu May 5, 2016, 04:28 PM
May 2016

Now what do we do when the establishment's response consists of another round of "LOL. Who else are you gonna vote for?"

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
32. Good question.
Thu May 5, 2016, 04:54 PM
May 2016

The Clinton campaign -- and I am not commenting on the candidate -- is already asking this in a mocking tone. Sadly, it is not only the establishment, it includes "grass roots" people here. It is a sign of the times, I suppose, with toxicity saturating so many attempts at discussion.

There are, of course, two options: one, to simply ignore their taunting; or two, to remind them that who you vote for is your business, and not their's.

I do think that it has dawned on some of them that their constant attacks on Bernie and his supporters will have consequences. They've invested in a foolish tactic.

 

Betty Karlson

(7,231 posts)
33. And how is this "dawn of realisation" expressed, as far as you can see?
Thu May 5, 2016, 04:59 PM
May 2016

From my POV, it doesn't look promising - especially not among the independents, with whom Clinton polls abysmally badly.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
34. It's interesting.
Thu May 5, 2016, 06:47 PM
May 2016

I think that initially, the Clinton folks thought they'd be going against Jeb in November. Once he began to be exposed as a truly pathetic candidate -- perhaps the worst, ever -- I think they decided they didn't need progressives .....they seem much more intent upon appealing to republicans who won't vote for Trump. So, I think that trickled down, to where the Clinton people felt free to attack Sanders and his supporters. I think there is a very real possibility that they will come to regret that.

 

ChisolmTrailDem

(9,463 posts)
43. Yes, they will regret it. Their candidate is now reaching out to bushco donors and they don't...
Thu May 5, 2016, 10:40 PM
May 2016

...even want to discuss it on DU. They are conspicuously absent from threads reporting on this betrayal.

Yes...they will regret taking Republicans under their wing.

 

Betty Karlson

(7,231 posts)
47. Reallignment 2016: Trump turns the GOP into the old KKK, Debbie& co turn the Democratic Party
Fri May 6, 2016, 04:42 AM
May 2016

into the old GOP, and ... who takes on the old Democratic Party? That's a big vacancy right there.

jwirr

(39,215 posts)
42. "Who else are you gonna vote for?" That has been a question
Thu May 5, 2016, 10:01 PM
May 2016

for many of us for years. And it holds some truth. Maybe especially this year. SCOTUS - we can get it back in our control now or lose it for decades. That is a big issue.

Then there is issue of Trump himself. He is horrible. How can we stop him without voting for the D.

Talk about hard choices. I want so much to be able to tell them where to go. So who are we going to vote for?

 

CobaltBlue

(1,122 posts)
35. The Al From/Bill Clinton influence still runs the party…
Thu May 5, 2016, 06:58 PM
May 2016

While that is the case, I do not find myself trusting of this Democratic Party.

This is not just the 2016 nomination for president of the United States.

I am also thinking of nominations for congress. Look to the U.S. Senate nods, here in 2016, from Maryland, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. I wonder who will win from Florida—ConservaDem and Wall Street-friendly Patrick Murphy or gutsy liberal Alan Grayson. Hmm.

Yes. While this is still the case in the Democratic Party—and it’s not just who rule in the party but also the voters who prop it—I don’t feel the party, as a whole, will get out of their New Democrat (really, they are New Republicans) mold without the Old Guard retiring and/or dying off.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
50. Right.
Fri May 6, 2016, 09:18 AM
May 2016
https://www.facebook.com/PanAfrikanEducation/videos/907636842660906/?pnref=story


I hope this clip of Minister Malcolm X shows up here. It provides the approach we need to take -- which the Sanders revolution is taking -- and that will be the proper approach in Philadelphia.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
51. Thank you.
Fri May 6, 2016, 09:21 AM
May 2016

I try to add something for those of us who have inhabited society's margins, in one way or another.

hootinholler

(26,449 posts)
39. I wonder if we can get PDA behind this?
Thu May 5, 2016, 09:19 PM
May 2016

You are quite right, I will be there even if I have to commute.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
53. Good idea.
Fri May 6, 2016, 09:22 AM
May 2016

Perhaps you could provide contact information, and progressive DUers could start bringing this to their attention.

jwirr

(39,215 posts)
40. Please continue. This looks like an excellent start. This is
Thu May 5, 2016, 09:37 PM
May 2016

the kind of thinking we need to do. How I wish I could be a part of the convention in Philly but I have health problems that will not let me go that far not to mention I cannot afford it.

We are living in a very historical time. They will read about us in the future.

 

riderinthestorm

(23,272 posts)
44. I believe climate change may be the only catalyst powerful enough to move the DNC
Thu May 5, 2016, 11:19 PM
May 2016

I hate to be so pessimistic but the attitude here appears to mirror the Clinton campaign with their derision towards progressives and what used to be Democratic ideals. The Clinton campaign is even floating balloons out there that Bernie Sanders wont even get a speaking slot as punishment for carrying on.

Threats to strip him of his seniority, his committee positions etc have all been floated. The Clinton's vindictiveness is legendary.

In past conventions, a powerful runner up candidate had leverage (most famously in recent past, Hillary negotiating her SOS position for releasing her delegates to Obama). This year however, the Hillary campaign is signalling very strongly that they don't need "us" and by extension Bernie.

I believe them. They think they hold all the cards and their gloating is commensurate.

My view is the new movement must coalesce around climate change issues. We absolutely know its happening. We absolutely know the future for the planet. Its the moral thing to do, to be for all humanity, not just American 1%ers. Virtually all of Bernie’s positions are 100% in line with this (have you read Naomi Klein's latest book that says the cause of climate change is capitalism?)

Its a topic that unites all of us across every socio-economic strata.

I can't be in PA but I am confident in those Bernie supporters who will be.

Onwards!

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
59. You nailed it!
Fri May 6, 2016, 09:30 AM
May 2016

(Which comes as no surprise!)

There is a reason why Bernie connects with traditional leaders such as Oren Lyons, in a manner that the other candidates cannot. Indeed, Bernie is the first American politician that traditionals have trusted since 1968, with Robert F. Kennedy. And it is due to Bernie's grasp of the environmental crisis.

Hey -- every time I see a bunny rabbit out on my property, I think of you!

LongTomH

(8,636 posts)
84. I agree on all points - the condescension of the Hillary people is appalling!
Fri May 6, 2016, 03:44 PM
May 2016

You said: "In past conventions, a powerful runner up candidate had leverage (most famously in recent past, Hillary negotiating her SOS position for releasing her delegates to Obama). This year however, the Hillary campaign is signalling very strongly that they don't need "us" and by extension Bernie. "

When I posted - in GD-P - that Bernie was staying in to have a voice in the platform, a Hillary supporter replied: "Losers do not get to determine the platform." Compromise, an essential element of democracy is alien to Hillary and her supporters.

TheKentuckian

(24,904 posts)
45. They aren't going to look at us as equals, condescension and we are in charge are
Thu May 5, 2016, 11:23 PM
May 2016

the default settings

Power never surrenders, it must be taken.

If you can't find the will to say no then surrender has already happened and you are just wanting get for the time to admit it and such all protest is utterly impotent.

I come with sharp elbows and no quit.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
62. Right.
Fri May 6, 2016, 09:49 AM
May 2016

I'm rather familiar with "struggle" and "conflict." When I was young -- a long, long time ago -- I learned a great deal about these issues when I boxed (329 fights). I learned that what the opponent thinks is of little importance, so far as what I needed to do. By the time I was 13, I had been featured in boxing magazines, and by 16, I was fighting men who had gone so far as the US Olympic trials. And it always came down to how well prepared I was, what level of "discomfort" I was willing to endure.

Same thing here today. How far are people willing to go? How much discomfort will we endure? Earlier this week, the state senator that I targeted with my hunger strike a few years back died. At first, he viewed me as a joke. Then, an annoying oddball. After I spoke in the state capital to over a thousand pro-environment citizen-activists, he decided to meet with me. It started off with his yelling at me for a few moments, then laughing when I poked fun of him. Once he stopped laughing, he talked shop.

(Sad to say he was soon to be indicted on federal charges of corruption; convicted; and booted out of state government.)

I do not anticipate this being anything less than a very hard struggle.

TheKentuckian

(24,904 posts)
87. I think he would have been much quicker to respond and willing to do more than talk shop if
Sat May 7, 2016, 08:13 AM
May 2016

had been the one starved.

Don't get me wrong I admire what you did, I don't know if it really worked in a value sense for the effort put in though.
Maybe it would have paid off if he wasn't also a crook and stayed in government but maybe not.

Being seen as a real person goes a long way but not all the way, you can truly respect someone as a person and even understand their point of view and still not be an ally on an issue or even a number of issues.

kgnu_fan

(3,021 posts)
66. There was a very interesting covrage on Democracy Now! this morning.
Fri May 6, 2016, 09:54 AM
May 2016

I will be posting that segment later on.

Recursion

(56,582 posts)
48. Err.. the Democratic electorate is doing the picking
Fri May 6, 2016, 05:52 AM
May 2016
At this point, it does appear that the establishment wing of the party -- composed of Debbie Wasserman Shultz and her ilk -- will select Hillary Clinton at the July convention.

Umm... Several million voters had something to do with that, you know?
 

Buzz Clik

(38,437 posts)
52. Wow. This passage is particularly offensive:
Fri May 6, 2016, 09:22 AM
May 2016
At this point, it does appear that the establishment wing of the party -- composed of Debbie Wasserman Shultz and her ilk -- will select Hillary Clinton at the July convention.

I'm sorry, but a shit ton of people voted for HRC. We were not ordered to vote for her by a gaggle of masters. We chose -- we chose HRC.

Get over it!
 

libdem4life

(13,877 posts)
81. Yes, for the first 1/2 of the campaign Bernie was not covered in the MSM.
Fri May 6, 2016, 03:26 PM
May 2016

There's that. Why is that? I don't think the Progressives came up with that idea. Oh, and the debates. That was a hoot.

So, without any name recognition, no press coverage, and $47 contributions, he's neck and neck with...well, just the opposite while adding a few zeros to the contributions.

That's failure? I hardly think so.

Thanks for the article.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
83. Thanks!
Fri May 6, 2016, 03:40 PM
May 2016

It's an interesting time on DU, isn't it? The Clinton campaign is releasing a lot of negative emotion at this time. Curiously, most of it is still directed at Senator Sanders and his supporters.

I do have associates from the past who are sincere in their support for Hillary. It does not get in the way of my ability to get along very well with them. A few are clearly uncomfortable with discussing "Hillary vs Bernie" with me. They shouldn't, for there is no need to.

A couple days ago, a person I know said that she doesn't understand why I am seeking to increase support for the Sanders campaign at this time? It's not that she expects me to stop and suddenly be pro-Hillary. But why would anyone expand their intensity now?

As I told her, I do understand why this puzzles her now. For she does not understand or agree with me now. But, I said, soon she will both understand and agree.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
71. That's fine.
Fri May 6, 2016, 12:31 PM
May 2016

I have no problem with good people who are supporting Hillary. But my work isn't there. The next time I plan to communicate with them is at the convention. And just as I will continue to treat them in a respectful manner, I am hoping they will treat the Sanders Revolution with equal respect.

LongTomH

(8,636 posts)
77. A righteous rant. Thank you!!!
Fri May 6, 2016, 03:03 PM
May 2016

It's been a while since I've seen mention of the Haudenosaunee - Six Nations Iroquois Confederacy, or Ben Franklin.

Our students really don't get the real historical background of the 'Founding Fathers.' The basic debate: real democracy - rule of the people - versus rule by the "rich, well-born and able" has been going on since before the Revolution.

In Revolutionary times, democracy was represented by Franklin and Jefferson. Sorry if I can't remember the names on the other side. In our times, democracy is represented by Bernie Sanders and the progressive wing of the Democratic party.

The Republicans, in recent years, have been openly disdainful of democracy. If you even mention democracy, the Repukes will come down on you with: "This country is a republic, not a democracy."

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
80. Thanks!
Fri May 6, 2016, 03:26 PM
May 2016

Franklin is a fascinating character. And I'm related to Joseph Galloway, and was raised on stories about him and Ben's trip to Ireland. As you note, the revolution didn't just happen .....and there were some definite bumps along the way. Much of our culture wants "instant" results, and the truth is that nothing of value comes fast and easy.

I think you might enjoy some of the other recent essays that I've posted on my blog -- most of them here, too. I think that we would do well to have an on-going review of that era, for it holds many lessons that apply today.

Great talking with you, and I look forward to the discussion progressing!

CaliforniaPeggy

(149,181 posts)
79. A big, fat K&R!
Fri May 6, 2016, 03:17 PM
May 2016

Not that you need it!

You know how I feel about your writing........it's superb.

I always read and enjoy your posts, wherever I see them.

H2O Man

(73,232 posts)
82. Thank you so much!
Fri May 6, 2016, 03:31 PM
May 2016

And you know how much I think of you, and how much I appreciate your support!

I'm working on another now, that focuses on the primaries and general election. While watching the news today, I was reminded of a topic that C. G. Jung addressed in a lecture in London in 1935. It involves an examination on what motivates group behaviors, and the very real distinctions between a group and an individual in that sense.

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