I think, sure, let's be optimistic then resilient if we are disappointed. Here's a free aspirational slogan, if anyone wants to have it: "The Democratic Party supports the power of the people instead of power over people."
I agree with you, but the Republican playbook in the 2022 election will be to demonize the Democrats on the issues of undocumented immigration at the southern border, the increase in crime in the cities, and "nonsense" issues like free crack pipes for addicts and spying on the Trump campaign by the Democrats in 2016. The Democrats must not ignore these attacks (which they seem to me to be doing now) and allow the Republicans to define them, or they will lose.
Tim ; I think the Republican playbook itself will turn intelligent voters off. For example, worrying about unwanted immigrants while forcing women to have children they do not want, or are not ready for, is an example, not only of cruelty, but extremely poor rationale. Cruelty and hate are the point, not any kind of reasonable policy, like allowing qualified asylum seekers to apply for asylum while limiting the entry of those who want to 'have more opportunity', and allowing citizens to plan their families here.
Laurie, I don't think they are going after intelligent voters. Sure their policies and messages are designed to scare people into voting for them. But it has worked over and over again. I'd love to assume most Americans are intelligent, but lately I have trouble getting there. Full of fear and greedy, yes. Lazy, yes. but intelligent, not so much.
When it hurts enough we may see that there is suddenly a 'surge' in intelligence. Only those who are truly mentally deficient or deliberately obtuse would not notice that things are getting out of control as far as civility goes. Even the drunkards and dopers might sense that things have gone awry.
I agree those are all possibilities. So, where’s the threat? As noted, Dems are not good at messaging so the repubs use that to divide us and then we shoot ourselves in the foot. In south Texas we’re seeing an erosion of support among minorities due to one topic (primarily): abortion. We have made the mistake, in my opinion, of looking like we support abortion instead of making this all about trusting women with their healthcare decisions. I don’t “support abortion,” but I sure support government staying out of peoples personal healthcare decisions. We should take a page from the repubs and use their own language that’s been used to protest vaccination mandates “my body, my choice.” Then follow that up with focusing on “having children is more than giving birth.” Republicans are voting in lockstep against policies that help children and families. Make them defend their votes.
Then we still have some calling for “defund the police” saying it’s a”cry for social justice.” Then say that! People generally support the idea of social justice, but in times of rising crime rates and anxiety about violence, people do not, by large margins, support defunding police! Please stop saying that! That hands the lawless repubs who see violence as “legitimate speech” a cudgel to beat us with.
Finally, all our Democratic leaders need to get on board and vigorously support Elizabeth Warren’s bill to stop stock trading while in office. Pelosi’s flippant “market economy” statement was tone deaf coming from a wealthy person who makes money in the stock market. Sure, she’s come around on it, but the sound clip is already out there.
I agree, mostly, with Dr. Reich’s assessment with these caveats. I certainly hope the powers that be are smart enough to let Liz Cheney carry the message from the 1/6 committee. I never thought I would say anything in support of her, but I can live with that and fight another day over policy. We’ve got to save the republic first.
Funny how, according to Republicans, the slogan "My Body, My Choice" works only for them regarding vaccines and nothing else. They want it both ways, i.e., it's valid for us, but not you.
Pelosi's worth @ $114 million; her husband is even richer. Congressman Rick Scott (R-FL) is worth twice that. These guys don't need to trade stocks; it looks bad and probably is bad: Money brings out our worst. But I like Pelosi a lot: She stood up often to TFG; seeing her rip up his State of the Union speech on TV was epic.
I'm sure you've mentioned this to the President and some other Democrats in the House and Senate. I think it's a pretty decent prediction...sounds about right...and hope you are right. Thanks.
For all the reasons noted, there's a strong possibility that democrats will retain and grow their control. However, just to be on the safe side, we need to stay vigilant and not only turn out in record numbers to vote in November, but help the candidates and volunteer with their campaigns. We can do this!
Prof Reich, It doesn't seem like, statistically speaking, people think so rationally (in my knowledge, this appears to be true at least in the US and India). Otherwise, why would have Trump got elected the first time when so many facts about his dishonest and misogynist character were known prior to election day. Despite the distortions caused by the electoral college system, a largely logical electorate would have given Hilary a landslide win.
Fox News and the right wingers are still going strong with their propaganda that plenty of Americans will be glad to believe.
That’s the most difficult part to overcome. The ultra right has the microphone..they own all the media conglomerates. But, there are cracks in the wall. People, outside of the fringe, are backing away from Trump. Even his accountants dumped him! The pillow guy’s bank dumped him! That’s good news!
Trump was not elected. We had foreign interference and political cheating by republicans, not Dems.
Foreign "interference" was not like hacking into voting machines or stealing ballot boxes that would cause erroneous totals but was through misinformation and releasing of hacked confidential emails. This kind of stuff is being done by Fox News and party even now.
I'm not saying people don't have the ability to analyze or be logical... It's that some have their own beliefs like whites are superior, there are more criminals among immigrants, the US needs more military spending, pro-gun laws, one candidate looks more handsome (!), India is a Hindu nation so Muslims should be driven out, wrong interpretation of Hinduism, etc. and some don't have the time or the inclination to read so much news, especially related to politics. Such factors do play into how people vote.
At SOME point "those people" have got to be feeling the pinch, see their life has gotten worse, stop drinking the bitter bitter kool-aid and join. "... the party FOR the people", right??
I'm hoping you're correct in your assessment, because it would be a giant reprieve for this country.
But POTUS must do a much better job of messaging his accomplishments, vision, and, especially, the malignancy of Trumpism and its enthrallment of the GOP.
A big notch for the Democrats in this scenario would be the total forgiveness of student loans; I'm not burdened by this, but I think it would certainly boost the Democrat's chances for the midterms and fulfill a Biden campaign promise.
You are right. The democrats have not found a good way to take credit for their accomplishments. trump took credit for everything. But, again, there is a very powerful right wing media trumpeting the right wing talking points. The democrats have nothing equivalent to it.
I don't know if I'm optimistic or just hopeful, but I hope you're correct, Mr. Reich. You mentioned some very important things that we can work with and I'll add the already passed infrastructure package to the list. If, as you pointed out, Democrats can get their messaging done better - like taking credit for the road construction and jobs we'll soon see - that will improve our chances to win this fall, too.
From your mouth to God's ears. Thank you for all of your tireless work for the future of our once democratic Republic democracy over the years. Surely if democracy survives, this be in part from your efforts.
I appreciate the optimism. But what about voting rights? The core constituency of the party has been once again betrayed and taken for granted. Racism is a powerful uniting force for the Right, while Dems cannot honor a promise.
No. None of these outlets are "left of center." None. On some days, at some hours, MSNBC can be, though more and more of their hosts and guests don't know their mouths from their toes.
AP, BBC never "left". NPR and PBS madly and ignorantly pursue "both sides of the debate" when there are not two sides or a debate. I'm going through this with both right now over book banning--an unconstitutional, anti-child development, illiterate--unlike book banners in past, they don' t or can't read what they want to ban, and unAmerican criminal activity. As a historian of literacy, and of children and youth, I publish on this and also work with ACLU and advocacy groups in court cases and against right wing copy cat legis. imitated from one red state to another.
VOA is US propaganda arm
ABC esp with its links to Fox is decidedly right wing. NBC and CBS are hopelessly lost and muddled. Lester Holt Nora ODonnell and regular "reporters" increasingly trip over English usage.
I survive only by reading 3 papers a day, sampling many sources--getting a score or more of email news feeds, and collating them in my own mind. Only a retired professor can do that :)
If that were really true, I would be attending ol' Tweety's rallies and voting Q-publican! Besides, don't you think it's a >good< idea to >keep tabs on< what the official US outlets are saying to the world (VOA), as well as the troops (S & S)? If you don't, I'd advise you to reconsider if you're interested in seeing "the big picture." It's a good reference point for assessing the other outlets - particularly when looking for contradictions. The rest of it - in case nobody else is paying attention - is a largely matter of perspective, no matter how apparently learned. It's a little like the distinction between the statistical mean and median that folks continually allow themselves to be hustled with - but far less well-defined, making it much easier to manipulate. >Of course< those outlets would be clearly to the right of anyone loudly & proudly promoting the views of the left, >in every way< that FOX morons would call them far-left "fake news" outlets. (And perish the thought we'd pay attention to "government propaganda," that can't >possibly< be true! Right ‽) Of course just the other day, Mr Reich wrote a relevant comment on how that perspective seems to have changed over the years. I don't totally agree, but his comment is close enough for me - complete with the cartoon! Indeed, you could mirror-image Mr Reich's cartoon to get an idea of how FOX and it's related ilk would have us all view that "spectrum" from the POV they're attempting to cultivate.
I think, sure, let's be optimistic then resilient if we are disappointed. Here's a free aspirational slogan, if anyone wants to have it: "The Democratic Party supports the power of the people instead of power over people."
I agree because the Republicans have done NOTHING but block legislation, promote violence and dissention and worship a false idol.
Could you be anymore awesome? You nailed it 🤣
I agree with you, but the Republican playbook in the 2022 election will be to demonize the Democrats on the issues of undocumented immigration at the southern border, the increase in crime in the cities, and "nonsense" issues like free crack pipes for addicts and spying on the Trump campaign by the Democrats in 2016. The Democrats must not ignore these attacks (which they seem to me to be doing now) and allow the Republicans to define them, or they will lose.
Tim ; I think the Republican playbook itself will turn intelligent voters off. For example, worrying about unwanted immigrants while forcing women to have children they do not want, or are not ready for, is an example, not only of cruelty, but extremely poor rationale. Cruelty and hate are the point, not any kind of reasonable policy, like allowing qualified asylum seekers to apply for asylum while limiting the entry of those who want to 'have more opportunity', and allowing citizens to plan their families here.
Laurie, I don't think they are going after intelligent voters. Sure their policies and messages are designed to scare people into voting for them. But it has worked over and over again. I'd love to assume most Americans are intelligent, but lately I have trouble getting there. Full of fear and greedy, yes. Lazy, yes. but intelligent, not so much.
When it hurts enough we may see that there is suddenly a 'surge' in intelligence. Only those who are truly mentally deficient or deliberately obtuse would not notice that things are getting out of control as far as civility goes. Even the drunkards and dopers might sense that things have gone awry.
Laurie; I hope you are right. The Republicans have a large media bullhorn. The Democrats seem to have a disconnected microphone!
Correct
Yes they do. Big money seems to control mainstream media because it own that media. They'd better be careful for what they wish for.
I agree those are all possibilities. So, where’s the threat? As noted, Dems are not good at messaging so the repubs use that to divide us and then we shoot ourselves in the foot. In south Texas we’re seeing an erosion of support among minorities due to one topic (primarily): abortion. We have made the mistake, in my opinion, of looking like we support abortion instead of making this all about trusting women with their healthcare decisions. I don’t “support abortion,” but I sure support government staying out of peoples personal healthcare decisions. We should take a page from the repubs and use their own language that’s been used to protest vaccination mandates “my body, my choice.” Then follow that up with focusing on “having children is more than giving birth.” Republicans are voting in lockstep against policies that help children and families. Make them defend their votes.
Then we still have some calling for “defund the police” saying it’s a”cry for social justice.” Then say that! People generally support the idea of social justice, but in times of rising crime rates and anxiety about violence, people do not, by large margins, support defunding police! Please stop saying that! That hands the lawless repubs who see violence as “legitimate speech” a cudgel to beat us with.
Finally, all our Democratic leaders need to get on board and vigorously support Elizabeth Warren’s bill to stop stock trading while in office. Pelosi’s flippant “market economy” statement was tone deaf coming from a wealthy person who makes money in the stock market. Sure, she’s come around on it, but the sound clip is already out there.
I agree, mostly, with Dr. Reich’s assessment with these caveats. I certainly hope the powers that be are smart enough to let Liz Cheney carry the message from the 1/6 committee. I never thought I would say anything in support of her, but I can live with that and fight another day over policy. We’ve got to save the republic first.
Vote blue!
Funny how, according to Republicans, the slogan "My Body, My Choice" works only for them regarding vaccines and nothing else. They want it both ways, i.e., it's valid for us, but not you.
Pelosi's worth @ $114 million; her husband is even richer. Congressman Rick Scott (R-FL) is worth twice that. These guys don't need to trade stocks; it looks bad and probably is bad: Money brings out our worst. But I like Pelosi a lot: She stood up often to TFG; seeing her rip up his State of the Union speech on TV was epic.
I like Pelosi too and know she’s head and shoulders above the Rs, but that didn’t prevent disappointment.
I'm sure you've mentioned this to the President and some other Democrats in the House and Senate. I think it's a pretty decent prediction...sounds about right...and hope you are right. Thanks.
THIS is the best news I've heard in a very long time! Thank you for giving us hope!
For all the reasons noted, there's a strong possibility that democrats will retain and grow their control. However, just to be on the safe side, we need to stay vigilant and not only turn out in record numbers to vote in November, but help the candidates and volunteer with their campaigns. We can do this!
Please help register Democrats. https://www.fieldteam6.org/
Prof Reich, It doesn't seem like, statistically speaking, people think so rationally (in my knowledge, this appears to be true at least in the US and India). Otherwise, why would have Trump got elected the first time when so many facts about his dishonest and misogynist character were known prior to election day. Despite the distortions caused by the electoral college system, a largely logical electorate would have given Hilary a landslide win.
Fox News and the right wingers are still going strong with their propaganda that plenty of Americans will be glad to believe.
That’s the most difficult part to overcome. The ultra right has the microphone..they own all the media conglomerates. But, there are cracks in the wall. People, outside of the fringe, are backing away from Trump. Even his accountants dumped him! The pillow guy’s bank dumped him! That’s good news!
Trump was not elected. We had foreign interference and political cheating by republicans, not Dems.
Foreign "interference" was not like hacking into voting machines or stealing ballot boxes that would cause erroneous totals but was through misinformation and releasing of hacked confidential emails. This kind of stuff is being done by Fox News and party even now.
I'm not saying people don't have the ability to analyze or be logical... It's that some have their own beliefs like whites are superior, there are more criminals among immigrants, the US needs more military spending, pro-gun laws, one candidate looks more handsome (!), India is a Hindu nation so Muslims should be driven out, wrong interpretation of Hinduism, etc. and some don't have the time or the inclination to read so much news, especially related to politics. Such factors do play into how people vote.
Totally agree but Trump is not handsome. Why he doesn’t take better care of himself is beyond me but it’s a gift to Democrats.
Trump NEVER received a majority of votes. Never. Misogyny and the media helped Hilary lose public opinion but she won a majority of the pop vote.
Yes. He wasn’t elected. He was installed by the very skewed and unrepresentative Electoral College.
Don't forget the role Jim Comey played.
At SOME point "those people" have got to be feeling the pinch, see their life has gotten worse, stop drinking the bitter bitter kool-aid and join. "... the party FOR the people", right??
We hope! 😄 The delusions run deep.
From your lips to God’s ears, Robert. From your column to the polling booths… I like your positivity today.
I'm hoping you're correct in your assessment, because it would be a giant reprieve for this country.
But POTUS must do a much better job of messaging his accomplishments, vision, and, especially, the malignancy of Trumpism and its enthrallment of the GOP.
A big notch for the Democrats in this scenario would be the total forgiveness of student loans; I'm not burdened by this, but I think it would certainly boost the Democrat's chances for the midterms and fulfill a Biden campaign promise.
You are right. The democrats have not found a good way to take credit for their accomplishments. trump took credit for everything. But, again, there is a very powerful right wing media trumpeting the right wing talking points. The democrats have nothing equivalent to it.
I like your ideas but passing voting rights immediately would make it a lot easier
If it's possible, that is preferred.
I don't know if I'm optimistic or just hopeful, but I hope you're correct, Mr. Reich. You mentioned some very important things that we can work with and I'll add the already passed infrastructure package to the list. If, as you pointed out, Democrats can get their messaging done better - like taking credit for the road construction and jobs we'll soon see - that will improve our chances to win this fall, too.
From your mouth to God's ears. Thank you for all of your tireless work for the future of our once democratic Republic democracy over the years. Surely if democracy survives, this be in part from your efforts.
Need Democrats to show up in big numbers at the polls!
Or if you live in a state that allows it and is 'safe' get your vote in the mail in ballot.
I really really hope you are correct. The idea of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan is terrifying.
Carolyn Herz ; If that happens, the whole thing will self destruct!
I appreciate the optimism. But what about voting rights? The core constituency of the party has been once again betrayed and taken for granted. Racism is a powerful uniting force for the Right, while Dems cannot honor a promise.
There are more of us than there are of the extremist tRump supporters, even with the voting limits the Repugs are installing!
No. None of these outlets are "left of center." None. On some days, at some hours, MSNBC can be, though more and more of their hosts and guests don't know their mouths from their toes.
AP, BBC never "left". NPR and PBS madly and ignorantly pursue "both sides of the debate" when there are not two sides or a debate. I'm going through this with both right now over book banning--an unconstitutional, anti-child development, illiterate--unlike book banners in past, they don' t or can't read what they want to ban, and unAmerican criminal activity. As a historian of literacy, and of children and youth, I publish on this and also work with ACLU and advocacy groups in court cases and against right wing copy cat legis. imitated from one red state to another.
VOA is US propaganda arm
ABC esp with its links to Fox is decidedly right wing. NBC and CBS are hopelessly lost and muddled. Lester Holt Nora ODonnell and regular "reporters" increasingly trip over English usage.
I survive only by reading 3 papers a day, sampling many sources--getting a score or more of email news feeds, and collating them in my own mind. Only a retired professor can do that :)
If that were really true, I would be attending ol' Tweety's rallies and voting Q-publican! Besides, don't you think it's a >good< idea to >keep tabs on< what the official US outlets are saying to the world (VOA), as well as the troops (S & S)? If you don't, I'd advise you to reconsider if you're interested in seeing "the big picture." It's a good reference point for assessing the other outlets - particularly when looking for contradictions. The rest of it - in case nobody else is paying attention - is a largely matter of perspective, no matter how apparently learned. It's a little like the distinction between the statistical mean and median that folks continually allow themselves to be hustled with - but far less well-defined, making it much easier to manipulate. >Of course< those outlets would be clearly to the right of anyone loudly & proudly promoting the views of the left, >in every way< that FOX morons would call them far-left "fake news" outlets. (And perish the thought we'd pay attention to "government propaganda," that can't >possibly< be true! Right ‽) Of course just the other day, Mr Reich wrote a relevant comment on how that perspective seems to have changed over the years. I don't totally agree, but his comment is close enough for me - complete with the cartoon! Indeed, you could mirror-image Mr Reich's cartoon to get an idea of how FOX and it's related ilk would have us all view that "spectrum" from the POV they're attempting to cultivate.
Yes, your delivery has hit the mark. Thank you.