General Discussion
Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsThe Qualifications This Democrat Seeks in a 2020 Presidential Nominee
First, and most important: Family values. The candidate I support must understand that the well-being of families of ALL types and configurations, of all races, faiths, national or ethnic origins is the most important concern of the Federal government. This certainly includes basic security (especially security from Russian propaganda, economic and political manipulation) but also educational and economic opportunity and - MOST CRITICAL - breathable air, drinkable water, sustainable food production from the earth for generations to come.
Second, and almost as important: A character appropriate for leadership of a complex and diverse people. The candidate I support must have maturity, compassion, intelligence, and an innate sense of ethical grounding. They must be able to weigh the benefits of a compromise against the costs- especially the non-monetary costs. They must be able to see the long-term as well as the short-term possible outcomes of a policy. And they must be able to make difficult decisions when competing interests and priorities among their supporters are at stake, and communicate effectively their reasons for a particular decision.
Third, and very important indeed: Political viability. This is a complex quality that balances experience and accomplishments against charisma and communications skills. It includes a "clean closet", a minimum of burned bridges, and enough humility to acknowledge what they don't know as well as what they do know. It strikes a balance between standing up firmly for core principles, and being flexible in accommodating differing agendas and priorities.
Fourth, and also important: The candidate should be in some way symbolic of the end of white heterosexual Christian patriarchal privilege. This doesn't mean that I won't support a caucasian male under any circumstances. It does mean I'd prefer someone who isn't a caucasian male, and if a caucasian male does want my support, their experience and their record should demonstrate their clear commitment to ending the privilege that comes with their gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, etc. "Clear commitment" including risks taken and accomplishments already achieved.
I do realize that I'm unable to get everything I want. While I've listed these qualifications in a rough order of importance, that doesnt' mean that I wouldn't weight them differently in combinations unique to distinct individuals.
Some of the definitions of terms I've used are also pretty individual to me as well- my definition of "innate sense of ethical grounding" will probably have ramifications that others may not have. But I'll know it when I see it.
hopefully,
Bright
maxsolomon
(32,975 posts)1. Can beat Trump and end this nightmare.
jcgoldie
(11,582 posts)At this point I'll take the win and work out the kinks later. It is not any time to nitpick. Sane, rational, liberal... can win. Give me that.
saidsimplesimon
(7,888 posts)Thank you for sharing these thoughts. I also believe we Democrats will elect the next President in 2 years time. Lots of work to do before and after the Democratic primaries are over.
3catwoman3
(23,812 posts)...instead of family values?
The latter has been fully co-opted by the far right.
Andy823
(11,495 posts)It can't be the "my way or the highway" kind of thinking. If you can't get along with others, you don't need to be running for president.