Great ideas and very thoughtful takes. Thank you! Before I dive in today, though, let me give you mine. If I were advising Biden, I’d obviously focus on Manchin and Sinema. But I'd emphasize that the two of them want different things.
Manchin, for example, is willing to allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices with Big Pharma – a hugely popular idea that would save the government (and consumers) hundreds of billions a year. But Sinema is dead-set against this because she’s in the pocket of Big Pharma – one of her major sources of campaign money. (Manchin is also pushing his own plan to tax prescription opioids, which Big Pharma and Sinema are against).
On the other hand, Sinema supports putting a price on carbon pollution – which Manchin, from a coal state (and with his own coal interests) firmly opposes. Manchin also wants to nix tax rebates for clean energy, and almost all other climate measures in the bill.
So I’d approach each separately, offering carrots and threatening sticks. (Obviously, go easy on the sticks because you don’t want either to switch to the Republican Party -- which would mean Biden can't get anything done.)
In exchange for Manchin’s support of climate policies, Biden might offer billions in economic development for West Virginia – everything from federal tax rebates to corporations investing there to extra funding for public schools and universities. And gently threaten that if Manchin doesn’t accept the deal, Biden will make it public, so West Virginians will know what Manchin has rejected to protect dwindling coal jobs and his own coal interests.
With Sinema, it’s all about attention and money. I’d advise Biden to quietly offer her the full support of the DNC in her 2024 reelection campaign (and threaten that if she doesn’t cooperate, she gets nothing), or, if she’s interested, the next major cabinet job that opens (but not HHS, given her connections to Big Pharma). Meanwhile, find out from her and her closest friends (if she has any) what other ambitions she might have (who knows? she may dream of becoming US ambassador to France).
At the same time, I’d advise Biden to very quietly court a few Republican senators (Susan Collins, for example), offering whatever he can. Remember, he needs only one Republican defection to eliminate Sinema’s and Manchin’s bargaining leverage.
These carrots and sticks sound great, but aren't they giving in to "bullies" and rewarding bad behavior? Susan Collins? I sure wouldn't trust her for anything.
How about Richard Burr? He isn't running again and he did vote for impeachment? Don't know him but wonder if Senators who aren't running for re-election would actually care about the country and its future. There must be a way, we can't give up hope.
I'm two degrees of separation away (I know a few of the people who work for the people who advise Biden) and have let them know my views. But in my experience of three White Houses, more than one degree of separation and you might as well be on another planet.
I would say go directly to any contacts you have in the Senate. Trump is definitely coming back and there will be no room in the Republican Party for anti Trumpers. If Biden goes down they go down. Biden will go down hard if he cannot get anything through reconciliation because of his own party.
I cannot believe, that me an Aussie (and an Ex S Africa) is commenting on the Narrow Mindedness, and Selfservingness (sic) of several "Influenced" Democrat elected representatives; in the LAND WHICH ASPIRES TO BEING THE MODEL OF DEMOCRACY!
It is truly astonishing!
Mitch McConnell is AN OLD MAN IN HIS HEAD; he is a lost cause and should retire; but those Democrats PUTTING THEIR OWN SELF-INTEREST FIRST ABOVE THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE!
Get some direction; get some backbone ................ they are spineless and useless ...........
Put em in Boot Camp and teach em some morals and ethics.
And give us; the Free World something to look up to.
And that goes for the whole MOB of Republicans.
Don't worry; we are having the same Copycat Mentality here in Australia by many of our Conservatives.
You have hit the nail on the head Don. The fragility of our republic is terrible and, in today's society at least here in the U.S. (Ununited States?), the lack of quality education that helps people learn how to think is showing. Jewish space lasers. People becoming magnetic. An actual coup attempt. If anything like these had happened 20-30 years ago, or longer, I'm pretty sure there would have been an eruptive backlash. Not these days.
I've read somewhere that one of the people who worked to found this country didn't believe it could last even 100 years. It seems he knew what he was talking about.
So what do we do? Due to early life experiences I'm almost programmed to throw in my cards and walk away in disgust if I think the game is fixed. It pretty much seems to me that it is now. But, I still pick my phone up and call the offices of people who I believe need feedback. I also send email messages. I'm tempted to say if I can do that anybody can, but it would be meaningless to say that (lol, but I guess I just did). What I do believe is that anybody can, and we should. It's really important to communicate with those who've been granted the authority to run this country. Otherwise they feel they're free to do whatever suits THEM.
Just what is going on in: USA; UK; Australia? Democracies we should all be looking up to?
We are post WW 11 children; we have had VERY PRIVILEGED BACKGROUNDS / UPBRINING.
Many of us influenced by: TV; Hollywood; we lack discipline; some of us influenced by Plastic Religions (sic).
These kids are now our Leaders! They have a "Me First" culture; attitude. My US Family (and my partner) who had serious connections into the WW 11 President's observations is that Politicians then, put their country first!
I have said it before; the USA's wheels of Government are old rusty and antiquated.
How can a Judge with due respect make coherent Judgement calls and almost be DEAD at the same time?
How can a system of Government be balanced, when one's Judges have a leaning towards one or the other side of Parliament, when they are meant to be absolutely impartial? How can the States have the power to decide who can vote in a Federal Election?
It is BROKE! Broken.
How can Citizens of the country run around with automatic weapons? It is crazy!
How can the USA have an Ex President NOT IN JAIL having held up the US Capitol like a Banana Republic coup détat? What is TRUMP still doing there?
A man who technically has probably been responsible for the death of 350,000 + US citizens?
And Australia; we have copycat little Private School boys now linked with / to Church Groups who are BUSINESSES! Tax em .........
We have serious CORRUPTION of Public Money in Australia.
News Corporation / Fox News is NOT JUST BAD FOR US / UK / Australia; their influence is BAD FOR THE WORLD. These idiots who are so hell bent in selling advertising; by Creating News to sell Advertising could cause WW 111.
Break em up ..........
STOP PROHIBIT ALL LOBBISTS LOBBYING ...... kick em out of our Capital Cities .........
Our Economic NUMBERS: they are manipulated to buggary; they are NOT REAL. GDP / CPI / Unemployment numbers are just numbers!
We will be facing a BIG BIG correction when the Multipliers of Value (sic) adjust when Central Banks price the "price of money" at a normal level. Interest rates are at their lowest levels in 5,000 years (I do not know where they get that data from; cave walls perhaps). But all asset classes WILL CORRECT!
Don, you're a rare thinker and communicator. I find myself in agreement with everything you've said here. I've got to wonder how we're going to push through all this when the corporation$ can now literally buy any politician they want to. There is just SO much powerful and heavy investment in the corruption here. What's even terribly, terribly worse is there are so many who don't see and believe it. Nationalism has become a prevalent substitute for patriotism and we are just getting sicker and sicker.
I realize what I'm saying here could discourage anyone who might hear me but what I'm really doing is expressing anger and disgust. Voting is our final remedy but now one of our two parties - and, wow! we actually get TWO choices? - is clearly not interested in the good of the country or in democracy or the republic. With gerrymandering and repressive legislation that's allowed to cheat the system our last hope is powerfully threatened. Still, there are many, many people who simply don't, or don't want to, believe that.
What to do??? I feel like we're standing on top of the castle walls, as dawn breaks, watching the glint of steel coming at us in hordes.
After mulling over both your overall comment plus your comments to individual entries, to say I am in awe of your approach to contending with resistance is an understatement.
He should have offered Susan Collins or any other Republican Senator in a blue Governor state a cabinet post when he came into office so that he could have gotten an extra vote. He will have to find Republicans without a future in their party to offset Sinema. Now that Grassley has become a Trumper there is the handwriting on the wall for moderate Republicans and they should be offered something before Trump gets rid of them.
Sounds a lot like the politics as usual that many people in this country have come to hate, but given that this is the state of our current political system and you can't fix that today, it sounds like it has a chance to succeed. As you've been in a Cabinet position previously, I will trust your judgement and that this is the way to go!
Yup. This is a good short-term strategy but, as you pointed out, exactly what many are fed up with and that could play into trump's or the next demagogue's plans.
I wonder if the president is being advises along these lines? "Carrots and Sticks" seem old fashioned compared to stubborn hardball the GOP has adopted for the last thirty or so years. If that's how things get done, and these are the two that things hinge on, then by all means. But if Manchin is so right of center already, what would stop him from switching parties?
And Trump was seen by so many as being all action and effective? It's the room your speaking to. I think Biden is no fool at the political game. Now is not the time to be tossing comments about ... comments like he is losing the confidence of his constituents. Again, he's been in Office 10 months and has these huge bills almost done. A ground swell of "that a boys" would make more sense at this point. After all, Democrats are still higher in number than Republicans, and showing that we will back our President has got to give McConnell a belly ache. No President ever has it easy when it comes to a vote, and it is harder today than ever before. If he gets this done he is golden.
It's not me that has lost confidence and touting the Biden downfall - you just have to read any major news pub - WaPo, NYT, NewYorker, The Atlantic - and those are the intelligent, thoughtful articles. Check out CNN et al for lots of "Biden polls down, no confidence" without any nuance.
And. In this particular case, Biden post Trump pre takeover, it's hard to credit Biden with being astute - if he's got an arm twisting recourse then why the heck isn't he using it? This time ain't like past times - no party has ever said they are out to circumvent the democratic process in order to gain permanent, total power.
He has acted decisively and apart from what might have been expected. Firing T appointees was one example. I just hope he isn't giving up in discouragement.
Well, for one, McConnell always has a check-mate on any move being made. He is playing out the clock. No one is going to twist his arm. And then there is the problem of Sinema and Manchin. I'm sure there are thousands of other problems in the mix. Like the Budget Deficit, etc. It isn't as if Biden can march on in and play Dictator like Trump tried to do but failed. And he failed miserably, but for McConnell and all his cult followers who still do what they are told. And Bannon. Yikes. Lots of problems. It's more like rounding up a herd of cats! Considering what has happened I am amazed he has kept his composure.
You are correct, so why not offer Sinema/Arizona the new Sinema Clean Energy power grid, and the Manchin Freeway system, there has to be some way to bride those two.
Collins is the obvious candidate because of so many independents and progressives in Maine. Romney might be willing to listen, but Utah has become so Trumpish I doubt Romney would have the guts to break with his party.
Collins looked liked a moderate years ago, but now she no longer even looks like a moderate - her "moderate" votes are only hollow ones where she knows her party will win the overall vote.
Collins is not moderate (only votes moderate when her party will already win an issue - hollow votes). Maine isn't as independent as folks think - folks in the rural areas are becoming more right-leaning as they stay in their right-leaning echo chambers. Wish it was different.
Murkowski should be courted, quietly, as well. Lots of Republicans in Alaska, but she's shown a bit of independence (she was one of 11 Republicans who joined Democrats to lift the debt ceiling this week). She's up for reelection next year.
I agree with your "carrots & sticks" strategy for Manchin & Sinema, but also think that threatening to put up possible candidates to "primary" them might help, if there are any strong Dems in the wings. I also like the idea of looking around for some moderate Republican support, from folks like Romney, Murkowski, Collins, & other decent, patriotic, democracy oriented senators who are not supportive of the Jan. 6 insurrection & who have folks in their state who would definitely benefit from Biden's BBB agenda.
Totally agree, Sam. These measures are hugely popular. I continue to be startled by how little is being communicated to the public. The problem is either the messengers aren't loud enough or the media isn't interested enough.
Agree with highlighting the individual programs, improvements, climate change actions, etc. Less emphasis on total cost and more granularity on what affects all of us.
With respect to Israel, why can’t we just find an Iron Dome for the Palestinians, rendering attacks useless? If we’re supporting Israel, we need to also support Palestine.
Dispel the misconceptions about "socialism"! Explain to Americans that they don't want their SS to go away. They want their roads paved. They want public schools and public transportation. They want a local Post Office. They want their banked money to be protected by FDIC. They want military. All these things, and more, are provided by government!!! AND do whatever it takes to pass Build Back Better, Infrastructure and Voting Legislation.
The gigantic misconception about "socialism" is one of the greatest successes of the republican party. How about the petroleum subsidies - don't see the "free marketers" complaining there.
Agreed. This is another powerful example of the Republican party not having content so they stir up emotion. I watched as much of their convention as I could stand and ALL I saw were lies and emotional appeals. They rely on getting people riled up and then voting on their feelings. Facts seem almost useless against that.
What do they believe socialism to be? Using government money to fund public benefits? Like roads, hospitals (although this country's illness is spreading and many hospitals have become for-profit), police & fire departments, utilities - although again our illness has allowed many of them if not most to become for-profit. Oh, how we benefit when we reject socialism and turn public entities over to free market capitalism!!! How long will I have to wait for Social Security to get that improvement?
The inconsistencies are meaningless for the most part to those who've been emotionally hooked. This isn't the first time this has happened and it's tragic that we don't learn from our mistakes. The communist scare and its foolishness wasn't that long ago.
Can’t we come up with a compelling list of facts about, say, Canada and New Zealand, and say, this is DEMOCRATIC socialism. What they’re really thinking of is socialism where a totalitarian regime runs everything against the interest of the people. This is Biden’s thing in part—the battle for the future between democracy and totalitarianism.
I am becoming more and more convinced that when we encounter a person with significant emotional investment, facts don't matter. It's almost like trying to dissolve rubber with water.
I'd sure like to hope so but so far the people I know are glued to their feelings. Their feelings then guide their beliefs to the point I'd almost say their feelings dictate their beliefs.
And also, get some real people in these countries to talk about their health care, or even people who now live in the US and miss their health insurance. John Oliver did a really good show going into detail yet clear and funny about this. What’s wrong with a little entertainment?
1) Pick the most photogenic, well-spoken members of the House and Senate and have them as the active spokespeople for whatever is going on that will show positive movement and benefit Americans. That does not include Schumer, whose day is past, or the Whip, Clyburn, wonderful person but not inspiring speaker.
2) Have those spokespeople promoting what's in the $350 BILLION/year bill that the Democrats are proposing. Don't discuss the cost, just the need and how we'll all benefit.
3) Have a person-to-person with recalcitrant Progressives in the House and let them know that if they don't approve the basic $100 BILLION/year infrastructure program and get it going immediately with a lot of hoopla, emphasizing fixed roads, no lead or other poisons in our drinking water, and all the other great benefits. Get that passed and sign next week. Done and out and hiring.
4) ATTACK, ATTACK, ATTACK Republicans in the House and Senate for having no programs, no proposals, and just voting against everything that will improve the lives of average Americans. They won't even agree to pay for the $8 TRILLION debt they amassed over the past four years. OUTRAGE!! Must it be said that the chosen Public Relations people (item #1, above) should hammer home the same talking points, over and over and over again ?
5) More Biden talks with America, but from the Oval Office and not any venue where he has to jerkily show off his arthritis and age by walking 50 feet to a podium.
6) Did I mention 'ATTACK'? It's the reason so many Republicans are in office, they're always attacking for some made-up reason or another. By comparison, the Democrats seem somnolent and do-nothing. Let's take a major page from the Republicans (which they took from the tactics that grew Nazism in Germany and Austria) that really gooses up people and gets them excited. Keep in mind that people follow the line of attack. No one follows sleepy people.
There are so many parts to this situation because the situation reflects the everyday urgency that is not addressed and not prioritized. The message is disorganization, and the message is a poor understanding of the situation and people who are not up to the job, or who are too driven by their sense of their own legacy (even Bernie, he's right that his signature piece will be his legacy, but he has to wait until voting rights are guaranteed, and consequences are meted out for criminals who've been in power too long. We deserve his and Biden's legacy, but they are impatient and playing their egos instead of reading the situation).
Biden and Schumer should ask themselves what would McConnell, and other republicans do, and go ahead and do similarly with the holdout democrats (I expect it comes to unearthing scandals, or even, and likely, threatening to prosecute likely existing offenses, and I expect there are both. They might do the same with McConnell---I don't understand why that's never been done); terrible, but unfortunately, it's come to that.
They need to learn how to message to the American people, making clear what they are offering, and making clear what republicans are obstructing and trying to take away. Messaging is a huge weakness.
And, they are doomed if they don't prioritize the voting act---no one will work hard to vote for democrats up for election to keep their jobs, if they won't work for themselves (and with new voting laws put in place, and with gerrymandering, saying 'get out the vote' is a ridiculous response---that's the point, it's a rigged system based on cheating and set up for the republicans to defeat the democrats. Rigged----based on cheating----out in the open----with a supreme court hostile to voters).
Finally, Garland should start prosecuting, or step aside. How is 'will Donald Trump run again' even a question that can be asked when he should be prosecuted (along with others). He should not be able to run the republican party from prison and that should be repeated frequently and acted upon. An elected official who commits a crime is a criminal, and that's all they are. An insurrection is not a normal situation. Garland needs to decide if he is a jurist or an attorney general who understands the urgency of the country. He can choose, and he can step down, allowing Biden to appoint an 'acting attorney general' instead (not try and have an attorney general approved, please, just go straight to 'acting' as we've seen so often). In a timely manner, there needs to be a top-down review of all employees. It's hard to trust when we see so few things being addressed.
The sense of urgency is lacking----there is no reflection of understanding of the 'non-normal,' and there is no sense of prioritizing what must be done---
The disorganization looks bad and is spreading---and it is disorganized and un-prioritized. Inaction or standing back, patience, they are looking like weakness and a poor understanding of the urgency the country faces, and they do not fit. The democrats are falling over themselves (except Pelosi, who is amazing in focus and strength).
Get it together on these fronts or forfeit, because that is the inevitable outcome.
And, time to invest in some younger politicians, who understand that unfortunately things have changed, and the rules of behavior aren't based on decorum, and who are not shocked by that. Because things have changed. And as with evolution ----you adapt or you risk extinction. And adaptation doesn't include unethical or immoral or illegal legislating, but it does have to reflect the current situation and how to get to the place of being allowed to legislate. And, then, the democrats can show what they really care about, and I believe it's the welfare of the American people. They shouldn't allow it to be such a secret.
Biden is governing by the old "business-as-usual" rules. Moving at a glacial pace on everything, attempting to hide the nasty bits from the public, not broadening his perspective to include anything save a few large programs. And, quite importantly, he has turned his back on many campaign promises.
I agree with everything you say. What you say about evolution is right on target, “…you adapt or you risk extinction.” The change Biden needs to make I am not optimistic he is capable of. He needs to channel LBJ. He needs to get Manchin and Sinema in a room and, threaten, cajole, horse-trade, bribe and kick butt until they plead for him to stop, so they can go and vote for Build Back Better. I believe Bernie would be capable of it and can only hope Uncle Joe can do it.
Yes! Exactly! To the average citizen biden comes across as a somnambulant clod. You have to sell things in politics and you cannot sell them if you never engage the consumers.
I agree that Biden's character and behavior are a huge improvement over the bellicose and vulgar character of his predecessor, but I have witnessed most average people are not inspired by him. He did very poorly in the election. Yes he won, but not by much - actually by the same margin trump did over HRC - and one can have high hopes for a candidate and still be disappointed even though you want him to succeed. Political movements are not won through love alone, they rely on results.
But trump eded up with more votes than he had in 2016 and Biden still only had 306 electoral votes (another thing that should be abolished). This may reveal a deeper problem: we are quite divided (at least those who vote are) and this has been festering for a long time and that is very bad for a society's viability.
To unclog Congress for the Biden/Democratic agenda, Biden needs to unclog Democrats in the Senate. He should unabashedly come out against the filibuster, loud and clear. Biden should lean heavily on Schumer to accomplish this. Schumer should tell Manchin and Sinema that if they end up voting against the Democratic agenda they will be stripped of committee assignments, and Manchin's chairmanship, and be sent to the back benches for the rest of their terms. If Manchin wants to flip to the Republicans, ask him what sort of chairmanship they would be likely to give him! Likely both of them, once identified as traitors, would get very little in the way of power among Republicans. Are the Republicans going to bounce a Republican senator in order to give Manchin a chairmanship? Likely they will both end up as political has-beens. The objection is that means giving the Senate away to McConnell: sorry, McConnell is already in charge of the Senate and the only way Schumer can gain control is to get his two problem children in line with...all the rest of the Democrats.
Schumer might threaten to take away Manchin's chairmanship of the energy and environment committee (Manchin should never have been made chair of this committee to begin with), but what do you think McConnell will do? I'd bet he quietly offers Manchin a senior spot in the Republican leadership if Manchin switches to the GOP, and thereby turns the Senate Republican. So be careful.
I don't think Manchin will switch parties. As a Dem he's the pivot around which the entire governing apparatus turns at the moment. As a Republican he's...just another backbencher Republican. There is no benefit to him for switching parties.
Can we offer Manchin a buy-out and total retraining for every miner in WVA (if not elsewhere too)? Offer to pay them more to be on furlough, in training for a sustainable green job, one much better for your health, than they earn. Full benefits! Adequate health-care providers! And do something similar for the execs. Promise to locate a prosperous new industry where the coal mines are currently, and guarantee money even if it somehow fails. Why would anyone refuse this??
Well, the same people will be involved in the green industry under my plan, so he can get even more from them…coal is a down-sliding industry. Better to bet on something that makes you a hero AND pays
He won't be a hero if the jobs don't materialize (and there's no guarantee that they will), and again, his personal fortune is based on *coal*. He would not benefit.
As Biden's chief adviser, the First thing, in regard to inflation, immediately do the Following:
• Joe, speak to the nation directly, [Not a press secretary], Joe No-Malarkey Biden, saying:
He realizes Rising prices hit Low and middle income Americans especially hard; and remind folks about the child tax credit, [that N0 Republican voted for]; this extra tax Credit has, in addition to
easing price increases on mom’s & dad’s, it has actually reduced child poverty by 20%
• He will immediately seek to activate the National Guard in states with ports to help distribute All the cargo containers pilling up at ports;
• Mobilize Army Engineers to Repair All the Damage caused by this seasons tropical storms in the Gulf states where distribution of products, Especially food is hindered.
• Initiate a Price Parity model for Farming; this will Help mostly small farmers, stabilize prices, turn the tables on the casino economic players, and in the long run help the US and the World
• These and other measures that are being looked into will help the Supply Chain issues, and start to ease prices, and Make US more secure.
Remind you the Most important action needed is to get the Build Back Better initiative on track by doing what you can, [within reason], to please the holdouts Manchin and Sinema;
Keep focus on narrowing the Massive Wealth inequality Gap.
We need a combination of Mass Traction economic progress to counter the false prophets, disinformation, and just one, yes only 1 process reform* now: End the Filibuster.
as James Carville said it best, “It’s the economy stupid”.
This is an excellent list, Paul. And by taking charge like this, Biden would show his power and determination to make the country work for everyone -- which would help him pass his legislation.
I agree with you: Biden needs to make a connection with the bulk of the population which he does not have even though if you leave his name out and present many of his ideas I have found most people agree with them.
But maybe it wouldn’t hurt to sprinkle panache and more powerful persuasion by inspiration by having well-loved but CHARISMATIC leaders also deliver the message in entertaining and serious ways. I don’t know, someone with the stature of Beyoncé.
In addition, maybe target individual PSAs to each state. Many people will watch more than one, and become more familiar with the plans than they are now. There's nothing like reinforcing the messaging to make it sink in. Each one would include the obstacles to success, the individual and state benefits of success, and action plans for viewers.
The filibuster has to be reformed. Manchin and Sinema must be exposed for what they are taking from lobbyists. The two bills must pass soon as well as the John Lewis voter bill. Use the 14th amendment to bar Trump from holding office ever again! Prosecute all representatives who aided the Jan 6 rioters. Pass legislation to secure a woman's right to choose.
Problem is it's impossible to reform the filibuster if either Manchin or Sinema continue to resist reform. This is why it's so important for Biden to figure out how to bring them along. (As to prosecuting Trump and other instigators of the January 6 insurrection, I agree it needs to be done.)
Yes! If this society is to work and be saved then we cannot adopt the attitude: "No one is above the law and there are consequences - except when it becomes inconvenient for those in power and the privileged".
I'd like to see him hit the morning talk shows. Explain his proposals - which are wildly popular. His power is limited by the two doofuses that call themselves Dems (Manchin and Sinema), but he needs to gather as much public, VOCAL support as possible by using the bully pulpit.
Cultivate the message, "These bills are FOR the people, not the rich." Republicans work for the rich and Trump (who is NOT popular with the majority). Keep the message simple and repeat it as often as possible.
Joe, speak to the people, simplify your message and make it to the point! Say things like....
"We live in the wealthiest nation in history. Our most senior citizens can't afford glasses, hearing aids or going to the dentist. Join me in telling Congress that we MUST Build Back Better!"
"Why aren't women getting back to work? They can't afford childcare. Join me in telling Congress that we MUST Build Back Better!"
"The wealthiest amongst us benefit the most from our system of government. They need to begin paying their fair share once again. Join me in telling Congress that we MUST Build Back Better!"
Joe, get the people more involved in helping you push your Build Back Better agendas through Congress!!!
Yes but just in a very roundabout way in my opinion. I just think a more direct cause and effect statement similar to the way Bernie speaks would be more effective. Plus I haven’t heard him directly ask us get involved in contacting our representatives to tell them what we want. I have been calling or emailing my representatives even though they’re all Democrats anyway just to let them know I support the whole agenda, and that I expect them to act as a Team!
For god sake — Hire a PR firm to create effective talking points for the Democrats, how can we get it constantly so wrong. This legislation is being supposed by 96% of the Dems. Help Joe and Krysten how they can join and keep their seats. As noted here, help Biden communicate the value of a stronger America and place the blame squarely on the Republicans for blocks progress and how they are in the pocket of big business
Any PR needs to appeal to the working class Republicans who don't like Trump. It can be pointed out that their own party 'reps' are not representing their best interests.
Bring it to the people in an address. Address and reassure about this and Afghanistan. Directly and plainly. And you've got to talk to the Trump fans when you do it. Cite the precedents of the New Deal and the unprecedented World Pandemic. Call for the people to demand that their elected officials stop playing along party lines and be responsive to people's needs. At the same time, regulate the news industry again so that people can get real news instead of constant negative opinions.
Great ideas and very thoughtful takes. Thank you! Before I dive in today, though, let me give you mine. If I were advising Biden, I’d obviously focus on Manchin and Sinema. But I'd emphasize that the two of them want different things.
Manchin, for example, is willing to allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices with Big Pharma – a hugely popular idea that would save the government (and consumers) hundreds of billions a year. But Sinema is dead-set against this because she’s in the pocket of Big Pharma – one of her major sources of campaign money. (Manchin is also pushing his own plan to tax prescription opioids, which Big Pharma and Sinema are against).
On the other hand, Sinema supports putting a price on carbon pollution – which Manchin, from a coal state (and with his own coal interests) firmly opposes. Manchin also wants to nix tax rebates for clean energy, and almost all other climate measures in the bill.
So I’d approach each separately, offering carrots and threatening sticks. (Obviously, go easy on the sticks because you don’t want either to switch to the Republican Party -- which would mean Biden can't get anything done.)
In exchange for Manchin’s support of climate policies, Biden might offer billions in economic development for West Virginia – everything from federal tax rebates to corporations investing there to extra funding for public schools and universities. And gently threaten that if Manchin doesn’t accept the deal, Biden will make it public, so West Virginians will know what Manchin has rejected to protect dwindling coal jobs and his own coal interests.
With Sinema, it’s all about attention and money. I’d advise Biden to quietly offer her the full support of the DNC in her 2024 reelection campaign (and threaten that if she doesn’t cooperate, she gets nothing), or, if she’s interested, the next major cabinet job that opens (but not HHS, given her connections to Big Pharma). Meanwhile, find out from her and her closest friends (if she has any) what other ambitions she might have (who knows? she may dream of becoming US ambassador to France).
At the same time, I’d advise Biden to very quietly court a few Republican senators (Susan Collins, for example), offering whatever he can. Remember, he needs only one Republican defection to eliminate Sinema’s and Manchin’s bargaining leverage.
What do you think?
These carrots and sticks sound great, but aren't they giving in to "bullies" and rewarding bad behavior? Susan Collins? I sure wouldn't trust her for anything.
How about Richard Burr? He isn't running again and he did vote for impeachment? Don't know him but wonder if Senators who aren't running for re-election would actually care about the country and its future. There must be a way, we can't give up hope.
I think you should tell Biden what you [Reich] suggest. How can you make that happen?
I'm two degrees of separation away (I know a few of the people who work for the people who advise Biden) and have let them know my views. But in my experience of three White Houses, more than one degree of separation and you might as well be on another planet.
Reich should have a desk right next to Biden.
I would say go directly to any contacts you have in the Senate. Trump is definitely coming back and there will be no room in the Republican Party for anti Trumpers. If Biden goes down they go down. Biden will go down hard if he cannot get anything through reconciliation because of his own party.
Sad news that. You should be in the inner circle.
You are being modest. You are an important influencer ...........
What are the most influential publications that they pay attention to?
I Really Hope someone on his team reads, Robert Reich's material
Great ideas. There have to be few Republicans that need some Build Back Better financial help. Find them, court them, make them feel warm and fuzzy.
Dear Rob
I cannot believe, that me an Aussie (and an Ex S Africa) is commenting on the Narrow Mindedness, and Selfservingness (sic) of several "Influenced" Democrat elected representatives; in the LAND WHICH ASPIRES TO BEING THE MODEL OF DEMOCRACY!
It is truly astonishing!
Mitch McConnell is AN OLD MAN IN HIS HEAD; he is a lost cause and should retire; but those Democrats PUTTING THEIR OWN SELF-INTEREST FIRST ABOVE THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE!
Get some direction; get some backbone ................ they are spineless and useless ...........
Put em in Boot Camp and teach em some morals and ethics.
And give us; the Free World something to look up to.
And that goes for the whole MOB of Republicans.
Don't worry; we are having the same Copycat Mentality here in Australia by many of our Conservatives.
You have hit the nail on the head Don. The fragility of our republic is terrible and, in today's society at least here in the U.S. (Ununited States?), the lack of quality education that helps people learn how to think is showing. Jewish space lasers. People becoming magnetic. An actual coup attempt. If anything like these had happened 20-30 years ago, or longer, I'm pretty sure there would have been an eruptive backlash. Not these days.
I've read somewhere that one of the people who worked to found this country didn't believe it could last even 100 years. It seems he knew what he was talking about.
So what do we do? Due to early life experiences I'm almost programmed to throw in my cards and walk away in disgust if I think the game is fixed. It pretty much seems to me that it is now. But, I still pick my phone up and call the offices of people who I believe need feedback. I also send email messages. I'm tempted to say if I can do that anybody can, but it would be meaningless to say that (lol, but I guess I just did). What I do believe is that anybody can, and we should. It's really important to communicate with those who've been granted the authority to run this country. Otherwise they feel they're free to do whatever suits THEM.
I am going to reply under Roberts thread ...........
How do I find that? I'd enjoy continuing the discussion.
Straight up to the top ..............
Wow Rob. I thought this is / was about standing for one's Country.
One's electorate ............... and they put themselves last! Truly shocking.
I’d hire someone to re-home the oligarchs, Republicans, NRA, and other problem groups onto Mars :)
Just what is going on in: USA; UK; Australia? Democracies we should all be looking up to?
We are post WW 11 children; we have had VERY PRIVILEGED BACKGROUNDS / UPBRINING.
Many of us influenced by: TV; Hollywood; we lack discipline; some of us influenced by Plastic Religions (sic).
These kids are now our Leaders! They have a "Me First" culture; attitude. My US Family (and my partner) who had serious connections into the WW 11 President's observations is that Politicians then, put their country first!
I have said it before; the USA's wheels of Government are old rusty and antiquated.
How can a Judge with due respect make coherent Judgement calls and almost be DEAD at the same time?
How can a system of Government be balanced, when one's Judges have a leaning towards one or the other side of Parliament, when they are meant to be absolutely impartial? How can the States have the power to decide who can vote in a Federal Election?
It is BROKE! Broken.
How can Citizens of the country run around with automatic weapons? It is crazy!
How can the USA have an Ex President NOT IN JAIL having held up the US Capitol like a Banana Republic coup détat? What is TRUMP still doing there?
A man who technically has probably been responsible for the death of 350,000 + US citizens?
And Australia; we have copycat little Private School boys now linked with / to Church Groups who are BUSINESSES! Tax em .........
We have serious CORRUPTION of Public Money in Australia.
News Corporation / Fox News is NOT JUST BAD FOR US / UK / Australia; their influence is BAD FOR THE WORLD. These idiots who are so hell bent in selling advertising; by Creating News to sell Advertising could cause WW 111.
Break em up ..........
STOP PROHIBIT ALL LOBBISTS LOBBYING ...... kick em out of our Capital Cities .........
Our Economic NUMBERS: they are manipulated to buggary; they are NOT REAL. GDP / CPI / Unemployment numbers are just numbers!
We will be facing a BIG BIG correction when the Multipliers of Value (sic) adjust when Central Banks price the "price of money" at a normal level. Interest rates are at their lowest levels in 5,000 years (I do not know where they get that data from; cave walls perhaps). But all asset classes WILL CORRECT!
Those are my thoughts .........
Don, you're a rare thinker and communicator. I find myself in agreement with everything you've said here. I've got to wonder how we're going to push through all this when the corporation$ can now literally buy any politician they want to. There is just SO much powerful and heavy investment in the corruption here. What's even terribly, terribly worse is there are so many who don't see and believe it. Nationalism has become a prevalent substitute for patriotism and we are just getting sicker and sicker.
I realize what I'm saying here could discourage anyone who might hear me but what I'm really doing is expressing anger and disgust. Voting is our final remedy but now one of our two parties - and, wow! we actually get TWO choices? - is clearly not interested in the good of the country or in democracy or the republic. With gerrymandering and repressive legislation that's allowed to cheat the system our last hope is powerfully threatened. Still, there are many, many people who simply don't, or don't want to, believe that.
What to do??? I feel like we're standing on top of the castle walls, as dawn breaks, watching the glint of steel coming at us in hordes.
Thank u ............. but it is JUST COMMON SENSE .............
NEVER GIVE UP HOPE; never give up putting the alternative into the Public Domain .......... rest assured guys like Robert pick it up.
I believe they are Gifted Individuals who can and do influence change.
I have already put some ideas thru to him .......... EVERYTHING HAS BLUE PRINT. U KEEP THINGS SIMPLE; ordinary People understand.
Perhaps the French have Common Sense simplistic policies, legal system. Etc. Bureaucrats and bureaucracies complicate things ........
Obama Care: good Medical Care for all; JUST NEEDED(S) tweaking ......... many things NEED TWEAKING; don't throw Baby out with Bath
Unfortunately common sense is often not common practice.
Go with Lisa Murkowski. She seems more approachable and reasonable against the other Republicans.
After mulling over both your overall comment plus your comments to individual entries, to say I am in awe of your approach to contending with resistance is an understatement.
He should have offered Susan Collins or any other Republican Senator in a blue Governor state a cabinet post when he came into office so that he could have gotten an extra vote. He will have to find Republicans without a future in their party to offset Sinema. Now that Grassley has become a Trumper there is the handwriting on the wall for moderate Republicans and they should be offered something before Trump gets rid of them.
Sounds a lot like the politics as usual that many people in this country have come to hate, but given that this is the state of our current political system and you can't fix that today, it sounds like it has a chance to succeed. As you've been in a Cabinet position previously, I will trust your judgement and that this is the way to go!
Yup. This is a good short-term strategy but, as you pointed out, exactly what many are fed up with and that could play into trump's or the next demagogue's plans.
Seems like a really good strategy
I wonder if the president is being advises along these lines? "Carrots and Sticks" seem old fashioned compared to stubborn hardball the GOP has adopted for the last thirty or so years. If that's how things get done, and these are the two that things hinge on, then by all means. But if Manchin is so right of center already, what would stop him from switching parties?
Nothing would stop him. Anyone remember Jim Jeffords?
Well you're right but then why doesn't Biden do this? What is the hangup? Time is running out.
He may be doing this right now, for all I know.
I wonder why wait until the eleventh hour. Biden is now seen as a big talker-no action president. He has taken a hit by seeming ineffectual.
And Trump was seen by so many as being all action and effective? It's the room your speaking to. I think Biden is no fool at the political game. Now is not the time to be tossing comments about ... comments like he is losing the confidence of his constituents. Again, he's been in Office 10 months and has these huge bills almost done. A ground swell of "that a boys" would make more sense at this point. After all, Democrats are still higher in number than Republicans, and showing that we will back our President has got to give McConnell a belly ache. No President ever has it easy when it comes to a vote, and it is harder today than ever before. If he gets this done he is golden.
It's not me that has lost confidence and touting the Biden downfall - you just have to read any major news pub - WaPo, NYT, NewYorker, The Atlantic - and those are the intelligent, thoughtful articles. Check out CNN et al for lots of "Biden polls down, no confidence" without any nuance.
And. In this particular case, Biden post Trump pre takeover, it's hard to credit Biden with being astute - if he's got an arm twisting recourse then why the heck isn't he using it? This time ain't like past times - no party has ever said they are out to circumvent the democratic process in order to gain permanent, total power.
He has acted decisively and apart from what might have been expected. Firing T appointees was one example. I just hope he isn't giving up in discouragement.
Well, for one, McConnell always has a check-mate on any move being made. He is playing out the clock. No one is going to twist his arm. And then there is the problem of Sinema and Manchin. I'm sure there are thousands of other problems in the mix. Like the Budget Deficit, etc. It isn't as if Biden can march on in and play Dictator like Trump tried to do but failed. And he failed miserably, but for McConnell and all his cult followers who still do what they are told. And Bannon. Yikes. Lots of problems. It's more like rounding up a herd of cats! Considering what has happened I am amazed he has kept his composure.
You are correct, so why not offer Sinema/Arizona the new Sinema Clean Energy power grid, and the Manchin Freeway system, there has to be some way to bride those two.
Collins is the obvious candidate because of so many independents and progressives in Maine. Romney might be willing to listen, but Utah has become so Trumpish I doubt Romney would have the guts to break with his party.
Collins looked liked a moderate years ago, but now she no longer even looks like a moderate - her "moderate" votes are only hollow ones where she knows her party will win the overall vote.
Collins is not moderate (only votes moderate when her party will already win an issue - hollow votes). Maine isn't as independent as folks think - folks in the rural areas are becoming more right-leaning as they stay in their right-leaning echo chambers. Wish it was different.
Murkowski should be courted, quietly, as well. Lots of Republicans in Alaska, but she's shown a bit of independence (she was one of 11 Republicans who joined Democrats to lift the debt ceiling this week). She's up for reelection next year.
I agree with your "carrots & sticks" strategy for Manchin & Sinema, but also think that threatening to put up possible candidates to "primary" them might help, if there are any strong Dems in the wings. I also like the idea of looking around for some moderate Republican support, from folks like Romney, Murkowski, Collins, & other decent, patriotic, democracy oriented senators who are not supportive of the Jan. 6 insurrection & who have folks in their state who would definitely benefit from Biden's BBB agenda.
Definitely swear to primary the hell out of Sinema.
Friends, I've got to head off now. Please keep this dialogue going. And, once again, many thanks for participating in this experiment.
Thank you!
Do what McConnell would do if the roles were reversed - get rid of the Filibuster.
I'd love to see the filibuster gone. He needs cooperation from Sinema and Manchin to do that. Unfortunately, he can't do it by himself.
Agreed!
Exactly!
Agree
Use media repeatedly to spell out what the bill would provide by :
1. explaining what is in the bill in simple language and who it will help
2. show the cost is not outrageous by comparing what will be spent each year versus what we give to Israel every year and programs for other causes.
Totally agree, Sam. These measures are hugely popular. I continue to be startled by how little is being communicated to the public. The problem is either the messengers aren't loud enough or the media isn't interested enough.
both
I also am confused by how little the important things are communicated to the public. I don't understand how this is working.
I am not sure it is working.
Agreed. I think most citizens like what biden is offering but they are unaware that it is being offered.
Agree with highlighting the individual programs, improvements, climate change actions, etc. Less emphasis on total cost and more granularity on what affects all of us.
With respect to Israel, why can’t we just find an Iron Dome for the Palestinians, rendering attacks useless? If we’re supporting Israel, we need to also support Palestine.
Agree
Dispel the misconceptions about "socialism"! Explain to Americans that they don't want their SS to go away. They want their roads paved. They want public schools and public transportation. They want a local Post Office. They want their banked money to be protected by FDIC. They want military. All these things, and more, are provided by government!!! AND do whatever it takes to pass Build Back Better, Infrastructure and Voting Legislation.
Yes indeed!
The gigantic misconception about "socialism" is one of the greatest successes of the republican party. How about the petroleum subsidies - don't see the "free marketers" complaining there.
Agreed. This is another powerful example of the Republican party not having content so they stir up emotion. I watched as much of their convention as I could stand and ALL I saw were lies and emotional appeals. They rely on getting people riled up and then voting on their feelings. Facts seem almost useless against that.
What do they believe socialism to be? Using government money to fund public benefits? Like roads, hospitals (although this country's illness is spreading and many hospitals have become for-profit), police & fire departments, utilities - although again our illness has allowed many of them if not most to become for-profit. Oh, how we benefit when we reject socialism and turn public entities over to free market capitalism!!! How long will I have to wait for Social Security to get that improvement?
The inconsistencies are meaningless for the most part to those who've been emotionally hooked. This isn't the first time this has happened and it's tragic that we don't learn from our mistakes. The communist scare and its foolishness wasn't that long ago.
Right!
Yes! I don't know why so few people understand this!
Can’t we come up with a compelling list of facts about, say, Canada and New Zealand, and say, this is DEMOCRATIC socialism. What they’re really thinking of is socialism where a totalitarian regime runs everything against the interest of the people. This is Biden’s thing in part—the battle for the future between democracy and totalitarianism.
I am becoming more and more convinced that when we encounter a person with significant emotional investment, facts don't matter. It's almost like trying to dissolve rubber with water.
There must be a little erosion that can occur in some!?!?
Yes. Maybe if it’s clear enough, catchy enough, and with actual real-life people from these countries?
I'd sure like to hope so but so far the people I know are glued to their feelings. Their feelings then guide their beliefs to the point I'd almost say their feelings dictate their beliefs.
And also, get some real people in these countries to talk about their health care, or even people who now live in the US and miss their health insurance. John Oliver did a really good show going into detail yet clear and funny about this. What’s wrong with a little entertainment?
1) Pick the most photogenic, well-spoken members of the House and Senate and have them as the active spokespeople for whatever is going on that will show positive movement and benefit Americans. That does not include Schumer, whose day is past, or the Whip, Clyburn, wonderful person but not inspiring speaker.
2) Have those spokespeople promoting what's in the $350 BILLION/year bill that the Democrats are proposing. Don't discuss the cost, just the need and how we'll all benefit.
3) Have a person-to-person with recalcitrant Progressives in the House and let them know that if they don't approve the basic $100 BILLION/year infrastructure program and get it going immediately with a lot of hoopla, emphasizing fixed roads, no lead or other poisons in our drinking water, and all the other great benefits. Get that passed and sign next week. Done and out and hiring.
4) ATTACK, ATTACK, ATTACK Republicans in the House and Senate for having no programs, no proposals, and just voting against everything that will improve the lives of average Americans. They won't even agree to pay for the $8 TRILLION debt they amassed over the past four years. OUTRAGE!! Must it be said that the chosen Public Relations people (item #1, above) should hammer home the same talking points, over and over and over again ?
5) More Biden talks with America, but from the Oval Office and not any venue where he has to jerkily show off his arthritis and age by walking 50 feet to a podium.
6) Did I mention 'ATTACK'? It's the reason so many Republicans are in office, they're always attacking for some made-up reason or another. By comparison, the Democrats seem somnolent and do-nothing. Let's take a major page from the Republicans (which they took from the tactics that grew Nazism in Germany and Austria) that really gooses up people and gets them excited. Keep in mind that people follow the line of attack. No one follows sleepy people.
Yes- good plan
I agree.
There are so many parts to this situation because the situation reflects the everyday urgency that is not addressed and not prioritized. The message is disorganization, and the message is a poor understanding of the situation and people who are not up to the job, or who are too driven by their sense of their own legacy (even Bernie, he's right that his signature piece will be his legacy, but he has to wait until voting rights are guaranteed, and consequences are meted out for criminals who've been in power too long. We deserve his and Biden's legacy, but they are impatient and playing their egos instead of reading the situation).
Biden and Schumer should ask themselves what would McConnell, and other republicans do, and go ahead and do similarly with the holdout democrats (I expect it comes to unearthing scandals, or even, and likely, threatening to prosecute likely existing offenses, and I expect there are both. They might do the same with McConnell---I don't understand why that's never been done); terrible, but unfortunately, it's come to that.
They need to learn how to message to the American people, making clear what they are offering, and making clear what republicans are obstructing and trying to take away. Messaging is a huge weakness.
And, they are doomed if they don't prioritize the voting act---no one will work hard to vote for democrats up for election to keep their jobs, if they won't work for themselves (and with new voting laws put in place, and with gerrymandering, saying 'get out the vote' is a ridiculous response---that's the point, it's a rigged system based on cheating and set up for the republicans to defeat the democrats. Rigged----based on cheating----out in the open----with a supreme court hostile to voters).
Finally, Garland should start prosecuting, or step aside. How is 'will Donald Trump run again' even a question that can be asked when he should be prosecuted (along with others). He should not be able to run the republican party from prison and that should be repeated frequently and acted upon. An elected official who commits a crime is a criminal, and that's all they are. An insurrection is not a normal situation. Garland needs to decide if he is a jurist or an attorney general who understands the urgency of the country. He can choose, and he can step down, allowing Biden to appoint an 'acting attorney general' instead (not try and have an attorney general approved, please, just go straight to 'acting' as we've seen so often). In a timely manner, there needs to be a top-down review of all employees. It's hard to trust when we see so few things being addressed.
The sense of urgency is lacking----there is no reflection of understanding of the 'non-normal,' and there is no sense of prioritizing what must be done---
The disorganization looks bad and is spreading---and it is disorganized and un-prioritized. Inaction or standing back, patience, they are looking like weakness and a poor understanding of the urgency the country faces, and they do not fit. The democrats are falling over themselves (except Pelosi, who is amazing in focus and strength).
Get it together on these fronts or forfeit, because that is the inevitable outcome.
And, time to invest in some younger politicians, who understand that unfortunately things have changed, and the rules of behavior aren't based on decorum, and who are not shocked by that. Because things have changed. And as with evolution ----you adapt or you risk extinction. And adaptation doesn't include unethical or immoral or illegal legislating, but it does have to reflect the current situation and how to get to the place of being allowed to legislate. And, then, the democrats can show what they really care about, and I believe it's the welfare of the American people. They shouldn't allow it to be such a secret.
Biden is governing by the old "business-as-usual" rules. Moving at a glacial pace on everything, attempting to hide the nasty bits from the public, not broadening his perspective to include anything save a few large programs. And, quite importantly, he has turned his back on many campaign promises.
I agree with everything you say. What you say about evolution is right on target, “…you adapt or you risk extinction.” The change Biden needs to make I am not optimistic he is capable of. He needs to channel LBJ. He needs to get Manchin and Sinema in a room and, threaten, cajole, horse-trade, bribe and kick butt until they plead for him to stop, so they can go and vote for Build Back Better. I believe Bernie would be capable of it and can only hope Uncle Joe can do it.
Unfortunately Biden is of the "wait, wait ... a long time, and then do nothing" branch of his party.
The president needs to have "fireside chats" regularly on TV like FDR did!! The people are uninformed!
Yes! Exactly! To the average citizen biden comes across as a somnambulant clod. You have to sell things in politics and you cannot sell them if you never engage the consumers.
I agree that Biden's character and behavior are a huge improvement over the bellicose and vulgar character of his predecessor, but I have witnessed most average people are not inspired by him. He did very poorly in the election. Yes he won, but not by much - actually by the same margin trump did over HRC - and one can have high hopes for a candidate and still be disappointed even though you want him to succeed. Political movements are not won through love alone, they rely on results.
But trump eded up with more votes than he had in 2016 and Biden still only had 306 electoral votes (another thing that should be abolished). This may reveal a deeper problem: we are quite divided (at least those who vote are) and this has been festering for a long time and that is very bad for a society's viability.
Zoomside chats with music video style and maybe even music
To unclog Congress for the Biden/Democratic agenda, Biden needs to unclog Democrats in the Senate. He should unabashedly come out against the filibuster, loud and clear. Biden should lean heavily on Schumer to accomplish this. Schumer should tell Manchin and Sinema that if they end up voting against the Democratic agenda they will be stripped of committee assignments, and Manchin's chairmanship, and be sent to the back benches for the rest of their terms. If Manchin wants to flip to the Republicans, ask him what sort of chairmanship they would be likely to give him! Likely both of them, once identified as traitors, would get very little in the way of power among Republicans. Are the Republicans going to bounce a Republican senator in order to give Manchin a chairmanship? Likely they will both end up as political has-beens. The objection is that means giving the Senate away to McConnell: sorry, McConnell is already in charge of the Senate and the only way Schumer can gain control is to get his two problem children in line with...all the rest of the Democrats.
Schumer might threaten to take away Manchin's chairmanship of the energy and environment committee (Manchin should never have been made chair of this committee to begin with), but what do you think McConnell will do? I'd bet he quietly offers Manchin a senior spot in the Republican leadership if Manchin switches to the GOP, and thereby turns the Senate Republican. So be careful.
I don't think Manchin will switch parties. As a Dem he's the pivot around which the entire governing apparatus turns at the moment. As a Republican he's...just another backbencher Republican. There is no benefit to him for switching parties.
Can we offer Manchin a buy-out and total retraining for every miner in WVA (if not elsewhere too)? Offer to pay them more to be on furlough, in training for a sustainable green job, one much better for your health, than they earn. Full benefits! Adequate health-care providers! And do something similar for the execs. Promise to locate a prosperous new industry where the coal mines are currently, and guarantee money even if it somehow fails. Why would anyone refuse this??
Because it won't benefit Manchin at all. His fortune comes from coal and his family's coal brokerage.
Well, the same people will be involved in the green industry under my plan, so he can get even more from them…coal is a down-sliding industry. Better to bet on something that makes you a hero AND pays
He won't be a hero if the jobs don't materialize (and there's no guarantee that they will), and again, his personal fortune is based on *coal*. He would not benefit.
He’ll be a hero by helping to save the planet. & something has to replace coal. It might have to be subsidized a long while…
As Biden's chief adviser, the First thing, in regard to inflation, immediately do the Following:
• Joe, speak to the nation directly, [Not a press secretary], Joe No-Malarkey Biden, saying:
He realizes Rising prices hit Low and middle income Americans especially hard; and remind folks about the child tax credit, [that N0 Republican voted for]; this extra tax Credit has, in addition to
easing price increases on mom’s & dad’s, it has actually reduced child poverty by 20%
• If you're paying more for meat at the grocery store, you're seeing the effects of concentration and consolidation in the meat processing industry. And, he will update Americans on his Administrations Progress on ending this Here's the data -- and what the Biden Administration is doing about it --https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/blog/2021/09/08/addressing-concentration-in-the-meat-processing-industry-to-lower-food-prices-for-american-families/
• He will immediately seek to activate the National Guard in states with ports to help distribute All the cargo containers pilling up at ports;
• Mobilize Army Engineers to Repair All the Damage caused by this seasons tropical storms in the Gulf states where distribution of products, Especially food is hindered.
• Initiate a Price Parity model for Farming; this will Help mostly small farmers, stabilize prices, turn the tables on the casino economic players, and in the long run help the US and the World
• These and other measures that are being looked into will help the Supply Chain issues, and start to ease prices, and Make US more secure.
Remind you the Most important action needed is to get the Build Back Better initiative on track by doing what you can, [within reason], to please the holdouts Manchin and Sinema;
Keep focus on narrowing the Massive Wealth inequality Gap.
We need a combination of Mass Traction economic progress to counter the false prophets, disinformation, and just one, yes only 1 process reform* now: End the Filibuster.
as James Carville said it best, “It’s the economy stupid”.
*= process reforms alone will NOT save democracy.
This is an excellent list, Paul. And by taking charge like this, Biden would show his power and determination to make the country work for everyone -- which would help him pass his legislation.
I agree with you: Biden needs to make a connection with the bulk of the population which he does not have even though if you leave his name out and present many of his ideas I have found most people agree with them.
But maybe it wouldn’t hurt to sprinkle panache and more powerful persuasion by inspiration by having well-loved but CHARISMATIC leaders also deliver the message in entertaining and serious ways. I don’t know, someone with the stature of Beyoncé.
Maybe, couched in a kind of self-reflexive about celebrity ironic humor, someone like George Clooney.
In addition, maybe target individual PSAs to each state. Many people will watch more than one, and become more familiar with the plans than they are now. There's nothing like reinforcing the messaging to make it sink in. Each one would include the obstacles to success, the individual and state benefits of success, and action plans for viewers.
the stupid 1/2 way of doing things as chosen by the dem party is what brought out the trumpsters in the first place,
without bold moves we may as well curl up n hide for what comes next.
Totally agree.
Yup.
The filibuster has to be reformed. Manchin and Sinema must be exposed for what they are taking from lobbyists. The two bills must pass soon as well as the John Lewis voter bill. Use the 14th amendment to bar Trump from holding office ever again! Prosecute all representatives who aided the Jan 6 rioters. Pass legislation to secure a woman's right to choose.
Problem is it's impossible to reform the filibuster if either Manchin or Sinema continue to resist reform. This is why it's so important for Biden to figure out how to bring them along. (As to prosecuting Trump and other instigators of the January 6 insurrection, I agree it needs to be done.)
Trump’s January 2021 coup failed. But 10 months later, Trump faces no consequences, and his co-conspirators are still in Congress.
In November 1923, Hitler’s attempted coup failed. But no one was held accountable. Ten years later, he took over Germany.
Yes! If this society is to work and be saved then we cannot adopt the attitude: "No one is above the law and there are consequences - except when it becomes inconvenient for those in power and the privileged".
I'd like to see him hit the morning talk shows. Explain his proposals - which are wildly popular. His power is limited by the two doofuses that call themselves Dems (Manchin and Sinema), but he needs to gather as much public, VOCAL support as possible by using the bully pulpit.
Cultivate the message, "These bills are FOR the people, not the rich." Republicans work for the rich and Trump (who is NOT popular with the majority). Keep the message simple and repeat it as often as possible.
And urge constituents of the two doofuses to call their office and voice support for Biden’s agenda. Repeat as necessary.
Agree
Joe, speak to the people, simplify your message and make it to the point! Say things like....
"We live in the wealthiest nation in history. Our most senior citizens can't afford glasses, hearing aids or going to the dentist. Join me in telling Congress that we MUST Build Back Better!"
"Why aren't women getting back to work? They can't afford childcare. Join me in telling Congress that we MUST Build Back Better!"
"The wealthiest amongst us benefit the most from our system of government. They need to begin paying their fair share once again. Join me in telling Congress that we MUST Build Back Better!"
Joe, get the people more involved in helping you push your Build Back Better agendas through Congress!!!
And yes, it's causing me a great deal of anxiety and consternation as well!!!
But, like, it’s not like he’s not already doing this
Yes but just in a very roundabout way in my opinion. I just think a more direct cause and effect statement similar to the way Bernie speaks would be more effective. Plus I haven’t heard him directly ask us get involved in contacting our representatives to tell them what we want. I have been calling or emailing my representatives even though they’re all Democrats anyway just to let them know I support the whole agenda, and that I expect them to act as a Team!
For god sake — Hire a PR firm to create effective talking points for the Democrats, how can we get it constantly so wrong. This legislation is being supposed by 96% of the Dems. Help Joe and Krysten how they can join and keep their seats. As noted here, help Biden communicate the value of a stronger America and place the blame squarely on the Republicans for blocks progress and how they are in the pocket of big business
Any PR needs to appeal to the working class Republicans who don't like Trump. It can be pointed out that their own party 'reps' are not representing their best interests.
Bring it to the people in an address. Address and reassure about this and Afghanistan. Directly and plainly. And you've got to talk to the Trump fans when you do it. Cite the precedents of the New Deal and the unprecedented World Pandemic. Call for the people to demand that their elected officials stop playing along party lines and be responsive to people's needs. At the same time, regulate the news industry again so that people can get real news instead of constant negative opinions.