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Joe BidenCongratulations to our presumptive Democratic nominee, Joe Biden!
 

Uncle Joe

(58,112 posts)
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 09:01 AM Feb 2019

Sanders Has an Advantage, and It's Not About Economics



(snip)

In his Johns Hopkins address, Sanders offered a big-picture reading of this moment in international relations. For him, the ideological struggle of the 21st century doesn’t pit a liberal, democratic America against illiberal, authoritarian opponents, but instead pits liberal, democratic peoples everywhere against illiberalism at home and abroad. It’s a “worldwide movement toward authoritarianism, oligarchy and kleptocracy” against one toward “strengthening democracy, egalitarianism, and economic, social, racial and environmental justice.” In this conception of the world, President Trump is just one of many “demagogues who exploit people’s fears, prejudices and grievances to gain and hold on to power.”

These movements don’t emerge out of nothing. Sanders contends that they are fueled by the enormous disparities of wealth and opportunity that define global capitalism. This is the subject of his Westminster College speech — an attempt to link domestic economic issues to relations among states. “This planet will not be secure or peaceful when so few have so much, and so many have so little — and when we advance day after day into an oligarchic form of society where a small number of extraordinarily powerful special interests exert enormous influence over the economic and political life of the world,” Sanders said, adding later that “inequality, corruption, oligarchy and authoritarianism are inseparable.”

As for culprits, Sanders has a list. His Johns Hopkins address lists Vladimir Putin of Russia, Viktor Orban of Hungary, Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil, Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel and Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia as part of this global nexus of corruption and autocracy. He also singles out American billionaires like Robert Mercer and Sheldon Adelson for “promoting a shared agenda of intolerance and bigotry” as part of a “common front” of authoritarianism. And while Sanders was silent on Venezuela in these speeches, he has criticized the government of Nicolás Maduro in other venues, attacking its authoritarianism and suppression of democracy while rejecting intervention by the United States.

(snip)

What separates him from the pack in this race are his forceful and well-defined foreign policy views — his synthesis of domestic and international concerns. Rather than fight on old, now-crowded ground, he can move to new territory, opening vital conversations about America’s role in the world. He can bring a new set of progressive ideas to the Democratic mainstream and force his opponents to debate them on his terms. In doing so, Sanders could establish himself as the leading candidate for progressive Democrats who want to rebuild the nation’s reputation and influence as much as its economy.

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/21/opinion/sanders-warren-foreign-policy.html





This is an excellent read.
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
66 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
Sanders Has an Advantage, and It's Not About Economics (Original Post) Uncle Joe Feb 2019 OP
How can he run in Democratic Primaries when he is not a Democrat? Tumbulu Feb 2019 #1
How would keeping him out achieve anything? crazytown Feb 2019 #2
If there are, people will vote for them. Why be concerned? Nanjeanne Feb 2019 #3
Because the man is dangerous. honest.abe Feb 2019 #5
So, is it true that those other contenders actually side with Wall Street... Stellar Feb 2019 #9
No. honest.abe Feb 2019 #10
No. Stellar Feb 2019 #11
That question is like "When did you stop beating your wife?" honest.abe Feb 2019 #13
Thanks! Stellar Feb 2019 #14
My father used to LOVE using that question on people! George II Feb 2019 #43
No. And will it come as a surprise to anyone that he has more than half his reported net worth.... George II Feb 2019 #44
Again if he is so dangerous, people won't vote for him. But thanks for Nanjeanne Feb 2019 #18
You clearly don't understand what I wrote. honest.abe Feb 2019 #20
Clearly. Nanjeanne Feb 2019 #22
Message auto-removed Name removed Feb 2019 #46
So help me understand... Stellar Feb 2019 #6
Thankfully he at least caucuses with the Dems and votes with us on most issues. honest.abe Feb 2019 #12
I really cared... Stellar Feb 2019 #17
Post removed Post removed Feb 2019 #47
Of course they are. Eliot Rosewater Feb 2019 #48
Ask Sanders; he's the one who refuses to join us, and his campaign chair says LongtimeAZDem Feb 2019 #15
Right, I'll ask him.... Stellar Feb 2019 #19
Glad this is funny to you LongtimeAZDem Feb 2019 #21
That what you said, ask Bernie. Stellar Feb 2019 #23
Actually he votes with the Democrats less.... George II Feb 2019 #45
He's no Joe Manchin, but, I stand corrected.nt Stellar Feb 2019 #53
+1,000,000 - thanks. George II Feb 2019 #57
For some, you're not progressive unless you bash identity politics. Garrett78 Feb 2019 #54
Bernie's voting record in support of Democrats makes him more of a Democrat than most Democrats!!! InAbLuEsTaTe Feb 2019 #62
"More of a Democrat than most Democrats?" Not always. ehrnst Feb 2019 #66
Why not ask him? Adrahil Feb 2019 #64
The Democratic Party has a duly elected decision making structure culminating in the DNC Tom Rinaldo Feb 2019 #8
In order to participate, sanders has to represent that he is a bona fide democrat Gothmog Feb 2019 #32
Well, the DNC is the jury on this one. That ball is in their court n/t Tom Rinaldo Feb 2019 #34
This will come up in the debates Gothmog Feb 2019 #38
This has been covered ad nauseam Politicub Feb 2019 #24
Yes, I agree BannonsLiver Feb 2019 #25
I am curious if sanders will comply with the new rules and oath Gothmog Feb 2019 #29
Message auto-removed Name removed Feb 2019 #33
The other Vermont Senator is a Democrat, and votes as one. (nt) ehrnst Feb 2019 #36
Message auto-removed Name removed Feb 2019 #37
It appears you don't live in Vermont ehrnst Feb 2019 #39
Message auto-removed Name removed Feb 2019 #41
He's more of a Democrat than Manchin Cartoonist Feb 2019 #35
Eight years of Bernie as POTUS forklift Feb 2019 #4
Snort BannonsLiver Feb 2019 #26
So much to admire about Bernie's idealism. mia Feb 2019 #7
Biggest downside of socialism is the same as the downside of other "isms": shanny Feb 2019 #16
Social Security isn't "socialist." Isn't that untruth a right-wing talking point? CrossingTheRubicon Feb 2019 #30
I don't know. Do you always buy their talking points? shanny Feb 2019 #40
No, I never do. That's the point. CrossingTheRubicon Feb 2019 #52
Quite Just Like The Meme That It's An Entitlement Me. Feb 2019 #51
Agree. nt Skidmore Feb 2019 #31
Please note that it is 'Democratic Socialism' not 'Socialism'. WordsMatter Feb 2019 #42
True dat...as you know, words matter WordsMatter. Gotta wonder why some would purposely confuse InAbLuEsTaTe Feb 2019 #60
I like that B&E picture you have! WordsMatter Feb 2019 #61
Thanks much!! Bernie & Elizabeth would make a great team. InAbLuEsTaTe Feb 2019 #63
I will be curious to see if sanders can get past Super Tuesday Gothmog Feb 2019 #27
I doubt he can. Anyway, his foreign policy history isn't what some have made it out to be. Garrett78 Feb 2019 #49
One thing is for sure from that article... CrossingTheRubicon Feb 2019 #28
You CAN NOT vote against Russian sanctions and then claim you are taking on oligarchy. MrsCoffee Feb 2019 #50
He was a little busy trying to clean up all the issues with the sexual harassment... CrossingTheRubicon Feb 2019 #55
He can bring a new set of progressive ideas ... and force his opponents to debate them. earthshine Feb 2019 #56
Ok, what issues is he going to raise that aren't already being discussed by any other candidate? MrsCoffee Feb 2019 #58
The point is that the more people on stage debating issues like $15 min wage and earthshine Feb 2019 #59
Yeah, right. That's why he's had so much to contribute on Venezuela. pnwmom Feb 2019 #65
 

Tumbulu

(6,267 posts)
1. How can he run in Democratic Primaries when he is not a Democrat?
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 09:16 AM
Feb 2019

Sorry, I don’t get it, and as far as I am concerned there are so many better options for a progressive candidate.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

crazytown

(7,277 posts)
2. How would keeping him out achieve anything?
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 09:22 AM
Feb 2019

I desperately wish he had not run, but it would have been a disaster if the DNC redrew the rules to keep him out.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

Nanjeanne

(4,878 posts)
3. If there are, people will vote for them. Why be concerned?
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 09:30 AM
Feb 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

honest.abe

(8,556 posts)
5. Because the man is dangerous.
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 09:47 AM
Feb 2019

Bernie is very good at criticizing and attacking Democrats for what he perceives as being too corporate, too close to Wall Street, not progressive enough, etc, etc, etc. In the process he damages our candidates and creates an impression that Democrats are not good enough. That turns off many voters who then either don't show up to vote, or vote write-in, or "hold their nose" and vote for the eventual Dem nominee but wont sincerely back the person or donate or work for him/her. Much like what happened in 2016.

We desperately need to win this election. We cannot afford another repeat of 2016. If so we are doomed.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Stellar

(5,644 posts)
9. So, is it true that those other contenders actually side with Wall Street...
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:01 AM
Feb 2019

Are they actually doing the bidding for Wall Street, (the corporate Democrats), speaking for them instead of their constituents?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

honest.abe

(8,556 posts)
10. No.
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:02 AM
Feb 2019

Any other questions?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Stellar

(5,644 posts)
11. No.
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:05 AM
Feb 2019

..since you are so thorough with your explanation...

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

honest.abe

(8,556 posts)
13. That question is like "When did you stop beating your wife?"
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:11 AM
Feb 2019

Sorry but it doesn't deserve a more than one word response.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

George II

(67,782 posts)
43. My father used to LOVE using that question on people!
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 06:26 PM
Feb 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

George II

(67,782 posts)
44. No. And will it come as a surprise to anyone that he has more than half his reported net worth....
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 06:30 PM
Feb 2019

....invested on big bad "Wall Street"?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Nanjeanne

(4,878 posts)
18. Again if he is so dangerous, people won't vote for him. But thanks for
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:30 AM
Feb 2019

the laugh this morning. Against all facts you want to insist that Sanders cost Clinton the election. But somehow Obama won his election even though more Clinton supporters didn’t vote for him than Sanders supporters not voting for Hillary.

Just support your candidate with as much enthusiasm as you put towards worrying about Sanders. That’s democracy at work.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

honest.abe

(8,556 posts)
20. You clearly don't understand what I wrote.
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:30 AM
Feb 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden

Response to honest.abe (Reply #5)

 

Stellar

(5,644 posts)
6. So help me understand...
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 09:52 AM
Feb 2019

I'm a senior citizen so this is a question that I would've asked my husband but he's deceased.

Bernie caucuses with the Democrats and votes with them over 95+% of the time (I saw that on a link that someone around here provided).

So, what's in a name?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

honest.abe

(8,556 posts)
12. Thankfully he at least caucuses with the Dems and votes with us on most issues.
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:08 AM
Feb 2019

Russian sanctions and gun control are the few but significant exceptions.

Its not just the name, its a commitment to be a member and support the party.. long term... not just for an election cycle.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Stellar

(5,644 posts)
17. I really cared...
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:24 AM
Feb 2019

..nothing about politics until my hubby passed. He was into it and it reminded me of him.

I used to see Bernie on Olbermann's show all the time and I liked him then. I didn't realize he was elected to the Senate in 2007, just before Obama ran for President. So, he's been saying the same thing as long as I was aware of him.

https://ballotpedia.org/Bernie_Sanders

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided

Response to honest.abe (Reply #12)

 

Eliot Rosewater

(31,097 posts)
48. Of course they are.
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 07:57 PM
Feb 2019

Certainly his repeated refusal to support sanctions, Magnitsky Act are well know.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

LongtimeAZDem

(4,494 posts)
15. Ask Sanders; he's the one who refuses to join us, and his campaign chair says
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:18 AM
Feb 2019

that there's no difference between Democrats and Republicans.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Stellar

(5,644 posts)
19. Right, I'll ask him....
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:30 AM
Feb 2019

the next time I see him.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

LongtimeAZDem

(4,494 posts)
21. Glad this is funny to you
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:31 AM
Feb 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Stellar

(5,644 posts)
23. That what you said, ask Bernie.
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:33 AM
Feb 2019

I thought you were being facetious.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

George II

(67,782 posts)
45. Actually he votes with the Democrats less....
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 06:34 PM
Feb 2019

....than the five other Senators (if we include Sherrod Brown) who are vying for the Democratic nomination. In this session he's at 85%! Imagine that, a lower progressive score than Brown, who has been painted as a centrist!

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Stellar

(5,644 posts)
53. He's no Joe Manchin, but, I stand corrected.nt
Sat Feb 23, 2019, 01:31 AM
Feb 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

George II

(67,782 posts)
57. +1,000,000 - thanks.
Sat Feb 23, 2019, 10:08 AM
Feb 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Garrett78

(10,721 posts)
54. For some, you're not progressive unless you bash identity politics.
Sat Feb 23, 2019, 01:39 AM
Feb 2019

I've said before, what separates Sanders and his ilk isn't so much policy positions but this contradictory and false notion that identity politics is evil (while wanting to talk about the 'white working class'), the absurd suggestion that most Trump supporters aren't racist but that they're driven by economic anxiety, etc.

Tone-deaf Sanders will be done after New Hampshire, which he may not even win this time around.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

InAbLuEsTaTe

(24,110 posts)
62. Bernie's voting record in support of Democrats makes him more of a Democrat than most Democrats!!!
Sun Feb 24, 2019, 02:58 PM
Feb 2019

But, of course, nothing Bernie does will EVER be good enough. Too bad, cuz he's going to be our nominee and, this time, when Bernie takes on the DICK-tater in chief, he's going to trounce him.


Bernie & Elizabeth 2020!!

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

ehrnst

(32,640 posts)
66. "More of a Democrat than most Democrats?" Not always.
Mon Feb 25, 2019, 09:19 AM
Feb 2019

Here's where he didn't vote with Dems (doesn't include the Russia sanctions votes that he voted nay, or missed)

Opposed the Brady Act, which mandated federal background checks for gun purchasers and restricted felons’ access to firearms https://www.govtrack.us/congress/votes/103-1993/h614

Opposed legislation that would've maintained or created over 300,000 small business jobs through loans
http://clerk.house.gov/evs/1993/roll188.xml

Opposed attempts to prevent GOP cuts for benefits for legal immigrants, Medicaid, the disabled, and children safety nets http://clerk.house.gov/evs/1996/roll329.xml

Opposed Democratic attempts to increase funding for legal immigrants and child care http://clerk.house.gov/evs/1996/roll329.xml

Opposed federal funding to help the homeless http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2003/roll032.xml

Opposed increased funding for nutritional programs for women infants and children http://clerk.house.gov/evs/1995/roll708.xml

Opposed funding for assisting prospective homeowners with AIDS http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2003/roll032.xml

Opposed allowing breastfeeding on federal grounds http://clerk.house.gov/evs/1999/roll426.xml

Opposed legiation requiring federal agencies to create and enforce anti-sex discrimination policies http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2003/roll032.xml

Opposed legislation banning imports from forced child labor http://clerk.house.gov/evs/1997/roll474.xml

Opposed funding going towards investigations of unfair trade practices http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2003/roll032.xml

Opposed increased education funding http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2003/roll032.xml

Opposed increases funding for poor students http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2003/roll032.xml

Opposed legislation increasing financial aid http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2003/roll032.xml

Supported gutting oversight for agricultural marketing practices http://clerk.house.gov/evs/1995/roll550.xml

Opposed increased food safety and inspection http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2003/roll032.xml

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Adrahil

(13,340 posts)
64. Why not ask him?
Sun Feb 24, 2019, 04:39 PM
Feb 2019

It clearly means enough to him.

I’ll tell you what it means:

His disdains Democrats and the Democratic party. We are simply a means to an end to him. He won’t join us because he looks down on us.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

Tom Rinaldo

(22,911 posts)
8. The Democratic Party has a duly elected decision making structure culminating in the DNC
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:01 AM
Feb 2019

Bernie Sanders can run in Democratic Primaries if they say he can. That's democracy for you.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Gothmog

(143,999 posts)
32. In order to participate, sanders has to represent that he is a bona fide democrat
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 01:13 PM
Feb 2019

This is the actual rule that governs whether sanders can run as a member of the Democratic party https://www.thegreenpapers.com/P20/2019-01-03-2020_Call_for_the_Convention_12.21.18_w-attachments.pdf

The term “presidential candidate” herein shall mean any person who, as determined by the National Chairperson of the Democratic National Committee, has accrued delegates in the nominating process and plans to seek the nomination, has established substantial support for their nomination as the Democratic candidate for the Office of the President of the United States, is a bona fide Democrat whose record of public service, accomplishment, public writings and/or public statements affirmatively demonstrates that the candidate is faithful to the interests, welfare and success of the Democratic Party of the United States, and will participate in the Convention in good faith. At the time a presidential candidate announces their candidacy publicly, they must publicly affirm that they are a Democrat. Each candidate pursuing the Democratic nomination shall affirm, in writing, to the National Chairperson of the Democratic National Committee that they:

A. are a member of the Democratic Party;

B. will accept the Democratic nomination; and

C. will run and serve as a member of the Democratic Party.

This requirement of written affirmation shall not supplant any necessary qualifications a candidate must satisfy at the state level, but is in addition to such affirmations required by individual states and territories. The written affirmation shall be done via an approved format by the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee appended to this Call

I wonder how sanders can comply with this rule and claim to be a bona fide democrat. I was at the 2016 national convention and I do not think that sanders participated in good faith
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Tom Rinaldo

(22,911 posts)
34. Well, the DNC is the jury on this one. That ball is in their court n/t
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 01:23 PM
Feb 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Gothmog

(143,999 posts)
38. This will come up in the debates
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 02:12 PM
Feb 2019

I expect that sanders will be asked about whether he is a bona fide Democrat and things like not sharing e-mail list and Nina Turner. The debates could be fun

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Politicub

(12,163 posts)
24. This has been covered ad nauseam
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 11:12 AM
Feb 2019

He has pledged to govern as a democrat should he win. This stance is good enough for the DNC, and it's good enough for me.

Can we move on to talk about something substantive, please?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

BannonsLiver

(16,162 posts)
25. Yes, I agree
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 12:57 PM
Feb 2019

Like his tax returns he has refused to release. I’d like to move on to those.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

Gothmog

(143,999 posts)
29. I am curious if sanders will comply with the new rules and oath
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 01:09 PM
Feb 2019

These new rules were adopted for a reason https://medium.com/@blairdurkee/scorched-earth-politics-bernie-sanders-and-the-dishonest-campaign-that-gave-us-trump-eb0bc82ab2c1

When rumors of his candidacy began to spread in early 2015, some discussion took place over whether Sanders could even run as a Democrat. As it turned out, there was no rule that required Democratic candidates to be registered with the party. He could run as a Democrat and maintain his affiliation as an Independent at the same time. But it wasn’t the rules that made his decision a curiosity. It was his long and well-documented history of spurning and castigating the Democratic Party. He had run against Democrats in his home state of Vermont and very openly expressed his disgust with the party, going so far as to call it “ideologically bankrupt.” He often affirmed his belief that “you don’t change the system from within the Democratic Party” and, in 1990, even declared that it would be “hypocritical” for him to run as a Democrat based on the things he had said.

The DNC had to add new rules and a new oath to deal with this issue. I really like the new oath that is now required which was not required earlier T
https://www.thegreenpapers.com/P20/2019-01-03-2020_Call_for_the_Convention_12.21.18_w-attachments.pdf
Presidential Candidate Written Affirmation

Pursuant to Article IV of the Call for the 2020 Democratic National Convention, I hereby affirm that, upon publicly announcing my candidacy for the Democratic nomination for President of the United States in the 2020 election, I am a member of the Democratic Party. I will run as a Democrat, accept the nomination of my Party, and I will serve as a Democrat if elected. I understand that signing this form does not supplant any legal or Party requirement by any state or territory to qualify for ballot placement in that jurisdiction.

Further, I acknowledge that in submitting this form to the National Chairperson of the Democratic National Committee, I am subject to the provisions of Rule 13.K of the Delegate Selection Rules for the 2020 Democratic National Convention and Article VI of the Call for the 2020 Democratic National Convention that authorize the National Chairperson to determine whether a presidential candidate has established substantial support for their nomination as the Democratic candidate for the Office of the President of the United States, is a bona fide Democrat whose record of public service, accomplishments, public writings and/or public statements affirmatively demonstrate that the candidate is faithful to the interests, welfare and success of the Democratic Party of the United States, and will participate in the Convention in good faith.
___________________

NOTARY AFFIDAVIT
STATE OF ______________
COUNTY OF _______________
I, ____________________________________, a Notary Public, do hereby certify that on this ____day of ___________________, 20____, personally appeared before me ______________________________, known to me to be the person whose name is subscribed to the foregoing instrument, and swore and acknowledged to me that they executed the same for the purpose and in the capacity therein expressed, and that the statements contained therein are true and correct. _______________________________________________ Notary Public, State of __________________ Name, Typed or Printed: __________________________________________ My Commission Expires: ___________________________

I was at the national convention in 2016 and I do not think that sanders participated in good faith. It was evidently okay for sanders delegates to boo Congressman John Lewis and to otherwise disrupt the convention
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden

Response to Tumbulu (Reply #1)

 

ehrnst

(32,640 posts)
36. The other Vermont Senator is a Democrat, and votes as one. (nt)
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 01:59 PM
Feb 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden

Response to ehrnst (Reply #36)

 

ehrnst

(32,640 posts)
39. It appears you don't live in Vermont
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 02:14 PM
Feb 2019
https://www.vtdemocrats.org/


Josh Massey, before joining the Vermont Democratic Party as Executive Director, worked for the Vermont State Employees’ Association for two years as a labor organizer union Rep. and another two election cycles for the Vermont Democratic Party one as the Washington County field organizer in 2012 and then as the Coordinated Campaign Director in 2014, pushing out the vote to help deliver the 2,300 vote difference that won the executive branch a third term for the VDP. He also served the VDP as the Chair of Washington County in 2013.

After graduating from the University of Kentucky in 2001 with a B.A. in History, Massey worked shortly in the field of real estate, but, a few years after starting, America’s housing market went bust and Josh and his family were left in economic crisis.

Massey, a lifelong Kentucky Wildcats fan, is married and has three children. He enjoys snowboarding, boating and attending his children’s basketball and gymnastics. He resides in Winooski.


If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden

Response to ehrnst (Reply #39)

 

Cartoonist

(7,298 posts)
35. He's more of a Democrat than Manchin
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 01:43 PM
Feb 2019

Why do we let him in the party?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

forklift

(401 posts)
4. Eight years of Bernie as POTUS
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 09:47 AM
Feb 2019

His time has come.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

mia

(8,356 posts)
7. So much to admire about Bernie's idealism.
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 09:55 AM
Feb 2019

I don't see how Socialism will help the U.S. economy or its standing in the world. I hope that someday Bernie will address Chris Hayes' question about what went wrong in Venezuela. (13:27)

Will Bernie or any other Democratic contender honestly address the downsides of Socialism?



If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

shanny

(6,709 posts)
16. Biggest downside of socialism is the same as the downside of other "isms":
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 10:23 AM
Feb 2019

Is it imposed from above--authoritarianism--or is it pushed from below (grassroots, democratic socialism).

If the people choose socialist programs--like SS, and universal health care--then what is the problem? I'm old enough to remember being taught in school that the US had a blended economy of capitalism and socialism...and by the way it worked great. Biggest middle class in history, widespread prosperity and opportunity. Now? Not so much. Stagnation in real wages for 40+ years. Skyrocketing inequality. Skyrocketing debt--the recent shutdown showed people with solid, middle class jobs in dire straits after missing ONE paycheck. I think you will find that merely throwing out the old "but socialism!" slam cannot and will not sway as many people as it did decades ago. Of course, Republicans will buy it--they always do. They even claimed Obama was a socialist, and look how scary that...wasn't. Except to them.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

CrossingTheRubicon

(731 posts)
30. Social Security isn't "socialist." Isn't that untruth a right-wing talking point?
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 01:09 PM
Feb 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

shanny

(6,709 posts)
40. I don't know. Do you always buy their talking points?
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 02:18 PM
Feb 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

CrossingTheRubicon

(731 posts)
52. No, I never do. That's the point.
Sat Feb 23, 2019, 01:31 AM
Feb 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Me.

(35,454 posts)
51. Quite Just Like The Meme That It's An Entitlement
Sat Feb 23, 2019, 12:43 AM
Feb 2019

It's insurance, Federal Insurance, that people have paid for their entire working lives

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

WordsMatter

(80 posts)
42. Please note that it is 'Democratic Socialism' not 'Socialism'.
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 04:44 PM
Feb 2019

Big difference.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

InAbLuEsTaTe

(24,110 posts)
60. True dat...as you know, words matter WordsMatter. Gotta wonder why some would purposely confuse
Sun Feb 24, 2019, 02:49 PM
Feb 2019

the two concepts. Bernie is promoting Democratic Socialism in the mold of FDR. That's a major plus in my book. Go Bernie!!


Bernie & Elizabeth 2020!!

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

WordsMatter

(80 posts)
61. I like that B&E picture you have!
Sun Feb 24, 2019, 02:56 PM
Feb 2019

I am truly undecided (alphabetically)- Brown, Sanders, Warren have the progressive & common sense positions on our issues and concerns.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

InAbLuEsTaTe

(24,110 posts)
63. Thanks much!! Bernie & Elizabeth would make a great team.
Sun Feb 24, 2019, 03:00 PM
Feb 2019

Bernie & Elizabeth 2020!!
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

Gothmog

(143,999 posts)
27. I will be curious to see if sanders can get past Super Tuesday
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 01:00 PM
Feb 2019

There will a number of Super Tuesday states where I doubt that sanders will break 15% and so will be shut out of delegates

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Garrett78

(10,721 posts)
49. I doubt he can. Anyway, his foreign policy history isn't what some have made it out to be.
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 11:19 PM
Feb 2019

Outside of his vote on the Iraq war, his foreign policy record is not what many of his supporters claim.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

CrossingTheRubicon

(731 posts)
28. One thing is for sure from that article...
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 01:08 PM
Feb 2019

There is a worldwide movement towards “demagogues who exploit people’s fears, prejudices and grievances to gain and hold on to power.”

Fear-mongering, scapegoating, and divisionary populism that turns citizens against one another are the hallmarks of demagogic movements.

Resist!

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

MrsCoffee

(5,801 posts)
50. You CAN NOT vote against Russian sanctions and then claim you are taking on oligarchy.
Fri Feb 22, 2019, 11:41 PM
Feb 2019

Period.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

CrossingTheRubicon

(731 posts)
55. He was a little busy trying to clean up all the issues with the sexual harassment...
Sat Feb 23, 2019, 01:48 AM
Feb 2019

of his female campaign workers the last time he ran. Who'd have thunk?

I wonder what the excuse was every other time he failed to vote against the Russians?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

earthshine

(1,642 posts)
56. He can bring a new set of progressive ideas ... and force his opponents to debate them.
Sat Feb 23, 2019, 03:18 AM
Feb 2019

This is the crux of it for me.

Whether he wins the primary or not, I want him on stage raising the issues. His voice is valuable during the primaries.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

MrsCoffee

(5,801 posts)
58. Ok, what issues is he going to raise that aren't already being discussed by any other candidate?
Sat Feb 23, 2019, 10:56 AM
Feb 2019

This crazy notion that Bernie and Bernie alone is the bearer of progressive ideas is the brainchild of Tad Devine. It is his Ukraine Orange Revolution blueprint. Repackaged, marketed and sold for $27. I hear they want to raise $27,000,000 from every state across the country. That will be quite a haul just to do a debate tour.

And still, I don’t hear Bernie saying anything new. And after his attacks on the party, issues with sexism in his campaign, dismissing Russian interference as a distraction and voting no on sanctions, many of us really don’t care what he has to say anyway.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

earthshine

(1,642 posts)
59. The point is that the more people on stage debating issues like $15 min wage and
Sat Feb 23, 2019, 12:58 PM
Feb 2019

universal healthcare, the better.

> many of us really don’t care what he has to say anyway.

Many of us do. And for that, I don't care what you have to say.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

pnwmom

(108,925 posts)
65. Yeah, right. That's why he's had so much to contribute on Venezuela.
Sun Feb 24, 2019, 05:08 PM
Feb 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
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