When I heard this news, my mind went back and forth between feeling that McConnell deserved this moment of confusion and feeling pity. Then I also felt bad for feeling all that. Yes, what McConnell does as a politician is really disgusting. I hope that as he learns about his own fragility that he recognizes and regrets what he has done as a politician has been very cruel and inhumane. But I doubt he’ll learn that.
I should wish him well and hope he does get well. And I also wish that his career as a politician ends like now.
You are right. He will not learn from this, and he will not gain any empathy. He is the same calculated, ruthless, evil, tone deaf, power hungry and cold-blooded and cruel garbage that he's always been. He hides behind the "civility" of "tradition" while having not a single honorable bone in his body. He may even think that the fact that believes he's "doing good" justifies his heartless, vicious, calculated and despicable actions.
He may not be the completely off the rails MAGA, white nationalist proud fascist that infects the chambers of congress these days, but he is the typical "polite Republican" that got us to this point in time.
I refuse to pretend that I feel for him as a human. He deserves and has earned anything bad that happens to him now and in the future, and I will consider the world a better place when he no longer walks among us. Nobody should be judged by their worst or their best moment. But when your whole professional life has been defined by worst moment after worst moment, and horrendous hypocrisy you deserve to be judged harshly.
I cannot show humane compassion for someone who is obviously educated, not ignorant and yet consistently fails to show any humanity himself. Sorry. Not gonna happen.
I feel more compassion for the millions of Americans he cheated out of democracy by his hypocritical power-grabbing. His demons are coming for him and I say good riddance Mitch.
I am by no means a fan of the man who has done so much damage. As for the millions of Americans cheated out of democracy? I am one of those Americans. Your point is not lost on me.
understood. I'm not about "perfect" I'm about humanity which is decidedly imperfect. It's a continuum. But I take your point. I strive to be a better person as I age
Louder for the people in the back! I find it impossible to sympathize with a man who has actively done so much harm to the country he is supposed to serve. Perhaps if the GOP hadn't turned me into a hater--something I'm ashamed of, BTW, but there it is--I would be able to spare a thought for him. As it is, no. My only concern is who's going to replace him? Someone even worse?
He is past 80 and should retire. He is primarily responsible for the 6-3 conservative majority in our Supreme Court, and he did it by cheating, which is what Republicans do on a regular basis. It is too bad the Conservative Supreme Court Justices are not making Constitutional decisions, but political decisions just because they CAN.
Even worse, six of the nine are Roman Catholic, and making decisions based on their religion. This is unconstitutional, and another argument for 1) expanding the court; and 2) NOT making lifetime appointments. What's next, forced conversion and auto-de-fe?
That's my fear as well, that KINtucky is NOT 'turning purple' (like the turkey necked turtle boy did last year, most likely from an over high dose of Plavix??), let alone blue like other formerly solidly rightwingnut states possibly are, and that his replacement WILL be an all-out unabashed fascist wannbe NAZI POS. :( :(
You are right to be concerned. McConnell helped save the country on the evening of Jan 6. He and Pence rendered the country a most valuable service (along with others) by validating the electoral results. Since then the feckless Pence has lost all authority, making McConnell almost indispensable now (pun not intended).
McConnell may have helped save our country on Jan. 6, but he’s also more than partially responsible for what happened Jan. 6. Regarding his health issues, I’m ambivalent.
Well said...totally agree...I will never get over how he packed the SC by refusing to even have hearing for Merrick Garland (Obama's pick for SC). He is evil and his evil is coming for him. Let's get all these old white guys who are lying, self-serving, hypocrites out. We need a new young Congress who gets it...and CARES about the people of our country who need support and not the filthy money-worshippers.
This kind of response really bothers me. Here Roger is, pouring out his heart and you are mocking him for being so forthright. I wish that retort would disappear from our culture and lexicon. It is gleefully mean spirited and reflects poorly on the person who employs it.
It may be that you have only experienced that remark as mean-spirited, but I don't think it is or has to be. I've heard it used in a gentle way, joking but also admiring the passion of the person who spoke. I'm prepared to believe Smiling Guy offered it in that spirit.
Looking at your profile, I see you moved to Portugal. I know a married couple that retired there and from what I hear, love it. I do live in the USA. Not sure what you mean about not accepting an expat. My user name has to do with my fondness for the English band Yes.
I’m going to try to remember that I’ve been surprised before when someone I honestly believed was essentially “beyond redemption” - hit a pivotal moment in his/her life when some experience or something someone said “out of the blue,” ... just came at a moment when s/he was open and vulnerable - and a “light went on.” I continue not to trust those whose beliefs & actions have historically been cruel, but I also try to hold the space for a moment when s/he has an experience that "changes everything.”
There is an amazing Buddhist teaching story where a Tibetan monk has been physically tortured by a Chinese captor for several months. When asked about the experience he says: ,"There was only one moment when he felt that he was in danger.... In danger of losing compassion for his torturer". I so admire that story but I must say I am way not at that level of spirituality... Even though I sometimes strive for it. My compassion is strong for the victims of Mitch McConnell's horrible behavior... But I just can't get any for him. More growth on my part may be possible for me, but it's not coming easily.
But for me it's pretty easy to balance. Because my disgust with politicians (or influential oligarchs) is driven by their lack of empathy for humanity. In almost every case. Even when they pretend that they are defending or supporting the interests of their supposed constituency they could really care less about them. The majority of Republican voters have become the true definition of "useful idiots." They vote against their own interest in the name of tribalist and culture war "issues" when it is clear that their interest do not line up in any way with the interests of those they follow blindly.
Yes. McConnell almost redeemed himself with that speech right after the insurrection that condemned Trump. Unfortunately, he neglected to condemn the horse he rode in on.
Agreed, Janet--Beau is right about a lot of this, but the whole "better the devil you know" is a bitter pill to swallow. This "devil" created the worst, most imbalanced Supreme Court, ever by playing fast and loose by the rules, and we're going to feel the deleterious effects of this judiciary for a generation, at least.
Agreed - conditionally. Had the DNC and Hillary exercised better judgement, both in campaign strategy - all the areas they felt no need to campaign in, for example - and candidate selection in the first place, I'm almost certain we'd've had 3 liberal justices seated instead of what that lapse in judgement led to. Yes. McConnel's a snake, not many years away from being a dead snake. But I can't help thinking ol' Tweety didn't win in '16 so much as the Democrats screwed up massively and lost. Their ineptitude made ol' Tweety's win possible in the first place. McConnel would've been marginalized had a Democrat been elected, and his obstructionism and this SCOTUS itself would have been aborted at its conception. Hindsight has 20/20 vision, if you face it. It's necessary to admit mistakes before learning from and correcting them. It's not "all their fault" - or Moscow Mitch's.
Not sure the world has a generation left. Isnt there a song "Have u seen the weather?" If there's not, there will be one on the hit parade....9, 8, 7,.......................
I kinda think the best case would be for Moscow Mitch to refuse to step down, but be "unavailable" for the next few years. His arrogance may just be strong enough to refuse to resign, and if he cannot attend Senate functions, the seat would be effectively empty.
the "liberal" media is only as liberal as its conservative owners allow it to appear. clinton allowed for the concentrated ownership/monooly of our media and it is now the biggest propaganda machine the world has ever known and has enabled those monied interests to steer debate and control the narrative and capture our entire government .
Unfortunately your hope is probably in vain. He had polio and has had lifelong struggles to overcome and compensate for it. So, it’s not likely he’ll see things differently now.
I absolutely concur with Roger L's excellent analysis as well. Mitch McConnell is a cruel, cold hearted human being with absolutely no empathy for the majority of Americans who are not rich, powerful nor a Republican. With that being said however, I do not wish suffering on anyone. He will continue to be a horrible person and I have to admit I will feel no sadness at all when he is no longer among us.
Yes, he and even the ones much much worse than him (I know, that does seem impossible, but it's a SAD, rage inducing reality today :( ) I wish no actual physical harm to, except that they be removed from power, NEVER to return to perpetrate their fascist EVIL on all of the rest of U.S.!
The moments Mitch lost touch with basically everything should have given rise to some sever apprehension on the part of those caring for him. A rushed trip to the hospital for a talk with a good neurologist would have been an excellent place to start. The fact that this precaution wasn't taken leads one to believe the mental pause Mr. McConnell suffered wasn't anything new. It could be there is more going on in his head due to his recent fall and subsequent concussion then they are telling us.
I thank God he wasn't driving a car, swimming, or engaged in an activity that require you to focus (on what you are doing for safety reasons) when this happened. It could have been fatal to him or others. He should see a doctor to ensure that this is not going to be a recurring event.
If his fellow repubs had had any compassion, they would have gotten an ambulance immediately and called his wife or his neurologist, if he has one. He could also have had a stroke.
A TIA is a stroke, albeit, temporary. Did you notice that NO ONE was surprised?? So I have to wonder how often this is happening. And who the heck lets an orthopedic surgeon "treat" them for a neurological issue??
I was assisting on a bone marrow aspiration. We had just finished. I asked the resident if she could hand me something. She just stood there staring at me. Then she went over to the window and made grand gestures, turned around and started falling down, her eyes rolling back, her mouth open.
If that had happened while she had the blade or Jamshidi 5” needle in the patient it could have caused great damage.
I've had them. First was in 1993 when I was giving a speech. Thought it was a MI, but couldn't establish cause. Had one a couple of weeks ago. Not dementia -- low blood pressure. I have some "senior moments" but so do everyone my age.
And many not your age. Since we are not privy to his general health (and rightfully so) there are many possibilities for this occurrence. I hope this will not add to that “age” conversations for our current president but think of who and what is best to lead this country away from the autocratic path we are on.
Apparently he has fallen not just once or twice but multiple times. He must not be getting the help he needs before he seriously injured himself or others.
Oh, I am sure he has. We only heard about the 2 at home due to the seriousness of his injuries. He needs to retire and spend what time he has left on this earth enjoying something other than trying to destroy democracy.
Your compassion reminds us of the difference between compassion for humanity (which, alas for humanity, McConnell lacks) and criticism of a powerful individual's actions--not the person, but the behavior, including what he says.
I wrote this note as a Brit with a strong interest in US politics and with family in Detroit. Just back from another visit. The U.K. suffers from much the same divisiveness and there are strong links and parallels between our Tories and your Republicans. Both are I suspect an embarrassment to Republicans and Tories of the past. I know enough of McConnell to understand why there is every reason to dislike him. We have politicians I thoroughly dislike over here. However, Robert Reich reminds as that however tempting it is, and mea culpa, we should try hard not sink to their level.
I’m encouraged by just how many people have been supportive of Roberts sentiments.
Yes....empathy Mr. McConnell never shows to anyone across the aisle. I find it ironic and a tad hilarious that Mitch pokes fun at the POTUS for falling when he, himself has taken at least 3 falls in the last 3.5 years...fracturing his shoulder, then a concussion and at the airport not even 2 weeks ago!
I agree! I DESPISE Moscowmitch with every fiber of my being for birthing Bunkerboy and his 1,000,000++ murders, but I still wish him to pass comfortably in his bed . . . What happens after that is up to your interpretation of an afterlife.
More than that, McConnell could run right over to the Office of the Attending Physician of the United States Congress to receive free medical care, no strings attached, paid for by us taxpayers.
Agreed. There's a commonality that all humans share, that when we're physically vulnerable, our reaction should be empathy. It's a little harder to separate that out from our visceral reaction to the ugliness that some humans perpetrate on a daily basis, but it's a bridge to our universal humanity.
I watched the video of McConnell several times and it sure looked like a seizure. His concussion background and recovery yesterday implied it too, as if nothing had happened. Good thing there was a doctor nearby in Sen. Barrasso.
I hope that Dr. Reich has not had a recurrence, because the experience he described must have been terrifying!
True, but after Biden called him to make sure he was okay guess what he said later when ask how he was feeling “It wasn't a sandbag” I didn't know he had any sense of humor, I'm sure some e told him to say that since they'll all puppets of #DonTheCon #DonTheCriminal #DonTheRapist #Don3TimeIndicted
We will all age or fail physically in some way. It is only a matter of time and how. I think as a human being everyone deserves empathy in that regard.
I was about to say something along these lines, but you said it beautifully and all I would add is that one of the things I’ve observed in our politics & our “discourse” is such anger, hostility, and just plain “meanness.” I salute ANYONE who takes an opportunity to “do otherwise.” Thank You. :-)
If this had been a Democrat, I guarantee people like MTG would not be so kind. They attack, attack, attack.
On another note, they just will not let Hunter Biden rest. (I think the Republicans got to that Trump appointed judge. I was shocked she wouldn’t accept the plea and his admission of guilt. It seemed highly unusual and suspicious.
You should read Joyce Vance’s piece on this. I think the judge did the proper thing. The plea agreement required the judge to determine if a charge should be brought later by DOJ should the insane dumpty return to office, which is not the responsibility of the justice department. Apparently there is ongoing investigations in the President's son, which is not the normal state of affairs. A plea agreement is supposed to put everything to rest. The lunatic asylum that is the GOP is hoping to find a fairy in all the pony manure they wallow in, and charge Hunter Biden with some crime. The judge wants all this clarified before a plea deal is finalized.
The stupidity and hatred of this group of idiots is really scary. And they love their guns. Probably all they love, since they apparently don’t love their children enough to do something about climate change.
WHY aren’t the Democrats going after Jared Kushner? He is MUCH MORE of a threat to our country and MORE of a CRIMINAL than Hunter Biden’s who didn’t even work in the White House! It’s unbelievable that after FIVE years they keep investigating him.
I understand your outrage. But the thing is, we’re practical. It would be a waste of time, and really, WHO has the power to “go after”Kushner? We don’t hold the majority in the House, and the Senate has more important things to try to do.
And here’s the thing: this kind of revenge politics can blow up in your face. People do eventually see through the BS. We’re all hoping it dooms the rethugnican party, and so far it seems to be slowly doing just that.
If they nominate drumpf, they will lose If they don’t, I think there’s a good chance he’ll try to run anyway, and they’ll lose.
Let’s just hope there no third party spoiler that’s remotely interesting.
I think Jack Smith will still have plenty to do once his initial focus is complete, and if much of the "stuff" jared has busied himself with falls outside Jan. 6, etc,, I'd HOPE the DOJ would be doing its job..
But in the meantime, why not keep bringing Jared Kushner, and all his unscrupulous and possibly criminal dealings, to the forefront? Keep REMINDING the public before it is excused by being forgotten.
Jared accepted over TWO BILLION DOLLARS from someone who authorized the journalist Kashoggi to be killed and dismembered. We must not forget or forgive. And we should ask ourselves why? The answer is glaringly obvious.
ALSO was the sudden? surge of power for the Crown Prince, with his PGA "merger", with so many tournaments in Saudi Arabia. Maybe due to New Jersey backroom meetings, where possible briefcases of docs changed hands.
And now tfg has a golf course & resort being built...
This was from CNN “ the Trump-appointed judge said she had "concerns" about the parties seemingly linking the tax plea deal to resolving a felony gun charge.”
They've already been unkind. Think of every critique of President Biden. Every move, every slip of the tongue, him being tripped up by a carelessly laid duffle bag in the stage path and more was pointed to by the right as a reason he's unfit.
I consider myself fair and humane and that's why I vote for the Democratic Party. Not only do I believe their policies are that way but their actions towards the vilest behaved of their opposition are usually gracious, kind and sympathetic. Professor Reich displayed that again today. Republicans loudly claim and wear iconography of Jesus, Democrats quietly go about behaving like him.
Susan, I agree with your comments. What I find reprehensible is that Republicans would want concern and compassion offered to Mitch McConnell, they are unwilling to offer care and concern to others unless it benefits them.
And yet, when Biden called Mitch to check on him, Mitch said “I was sandbagged”. What kind of person takes a jab at you when you call with concern? Only someone this despicable. He referring to Biden tripping on a sandbag leaving the stage after presenting diplomas to US Air Force graduates. Term limits.
Considering how much I detest Mitch McConnell and how much damage I think he has done to our country, I was surprised at how bad I felt for him when I saw this on the news. I’m glad President Biden checked in on him.
i wish i could be like you, Professor Reich, and be concerned about mitch mcconnell's health. but i am much more concerned about the health of MILLIONS of americans who do not have any form of health care available to them, and the many MILLIONS MORE whose access to health care is unstable / not guaranteed / questionable ... at best. i do not waste my thoughts on the problems of wealthy white men.
I ran for office twice Susan, both times against the DFL chosen insider. The first time I ran as a Democrat and it took my breath away to see how many little ways I was cheated. The second time I ran as a Green Party candidate... That way at least I had friends and support. I actually secured 46% of the vote but there was no way I could win because of the money and power and manipulation against me. A project intended to destroy the environment and make a lot of money was on the line and mine could have been the deciding vote, so no one would let me win. The first time, when I ran as a Democrat, I was actually offered a chance to run again later when I could be the chosen person by the insider sorority, but the whole thing was so disgusting I couldn't go through with it. When Ralph Nader was running we got two Green people on the city council... When it came time to redistrict the Democrats teamed up with the Republicans (there were no Republicans on the city council) to redistrict the Greens out of the districts they had won. I do think it's more effective to work from the outside... When you run for office you are asked to compromise a lot of who you are if you want to win.
Thanks for the reality check. Too many people don’t trust government at any level. There are good reasons for the mistrust. Your case-in-point is one example. I recently had my own come-to-Jesus moment in local politics. Disgusting!
Also being opened minded enough to listen to more information, maybe change your mind, is a rare quality in our society today... so thank you for that. I don't think that's true of 95% of our population... And maybe the very most important thing we need in order to move forward.
Don't feel that way. At the end of all of that we lost our two Green Party candidates but did get a third Green Party candidate in to the city council. All the Democrats often team up against him ,but he's still there speaking his truth. I didn't mean to suggest it was impossible, but it's just not so easy as people think. Jessica Cisneros ran for congress against Henry Cuellar... who was The dfl insider Cuellar was being investigated for several corruption charges, as well as being "pro life". Nancy Pelosi made robocalls for him. He beat Jessica Cisneros, a true progressive, by very few votes even with all the DFL insider money poured into his campaign. I didn't mean to say give up, but I do know it's not so simple as one might think.
You first. Or are you a hypocrite? We all have our talents and roles to play in advocating on behalf of policies that help ourselves and others. Not everyone is suited to be a retail politician, and that's a GOOD thing.
It was heart-aching to see McConnell freeze in the manner in which he did, however it is terribly difficult to pity a guy who moulded this disgraceful “Supreme” Court and who is so beholden to the thugs to the Right.
I wish no one ill, by the same token it would be great if all of the abhorrent noise of the Right was silenced, somehow.
I wonder how many young women have died because they needed an abortion for health reasons and couldn't get one, thanks to Mitch McConnell, who' had a minor health event in his 80's.
Steven--That was way harsh. He's a missguided Republican, I'll give you that. But past that he's an integral part of a close net family and I'm sure there are good people that care deeply for the man no matter how our side of the aisle views him. The empathy we as Democrats feel for others is the separation point that defines who we are.
it’s important to feel empathy for other human beings. But he is not a misguided Republican. He is a truly repugnant person, who has spent his entire career working diligently to enrich a tiny fraction of this country, while simultaneously working even harder to hurt the vast majority of this country, not least of which are his own constituents.
Mark--When I was younger it really didn't really matter which party was in the White House because you had faith the country would some how continue. That path to the future has been altered by some "Missguided" political figures, Mitch being one of them. Age affects us in different ways that's why term limits should be implemented. The man has just lost touch with reality due to his advanced years. Mental prowess weakens with age.
Mitch has been this way since I've known who he was, for the past quarter century or so, one of the most evil politicians. In fact, as he hasn't changed, & some other politicians have come on the scene even worse, he doesn't look so bad in comparison, but he's still awful.
Jaime--After the attack on our capitol on 1/6 the elderly gentleman in question criticized the efforts of Trump as being dangerous and unacceptable. The weakness in Mitch's spirit was too easily compromised. We just need stronger people sitting in those seats. We as private citizens must be able to see personal qualities in candidates that make them good prospects for the jobs we elect them to fill. Greene and Boebert didn't just walk into their positions they were elected by foolish voters. When someone gets to where Mitch currently is it's because the people put them where they are. Blame the public not the man.
The people who put them in office are the actual people who supply the political money and bribes that sustains all these make-believe representatives and makes their political lives possible. The voters are the ones they disdain the most.
Mark--When we begin to treat others in the same way that met with our own distain, we have succeeded in degrading who we are as individuals, look in the mirror to find the truth.
I would really not like to see Jamie Raskin, Adam Schiff, Katy Porter, Jasmine Crocket, Ted Lieu and many others term limited. Be careful what you ask for...
Paula--Their replacement could have newer and better ideas that the existing people either haven't thought of yet or are incapable of thinking along those lines all together. Yes, I concede they could be worse, but that is the nature of change, you can't go there without taking a chance every once in a while.
Agreed. I feel like I'm supposed to feel empathy for a Mafia don with a "close-knit family." I just can't. I mean, the guy had polio- that would engender empathy in most people, but with chameleon Mitchell, who was pro-choice early in his career, it seems to have made him into "get as much as you can while alive" politician.
Donald: I'm sure there are good people who care deeply for the man. I'm just a bad person who does not care deeply for the man. Maybe next lifetime. Ever working on my flaws.
Yes. And that's why Dems constantly get steamrolled. We bring empathy to gunfights. Plus, you don't know anything about his family. They may loathe him, too.
Rich--You are right I don't, but compassion would lead me to believe his care for him in the same manner mine care for me. To begin to understand others we have to step in their shoes for a second and picture what life would be like from that stand point. We don't get steamed rolled, we just exhibit the American ideal.
Thank you for this, Mr. Reich. I was saddened when I saw the news clip. Mr. McConnell is one of my least favourite people, but I would not wish this on him. Seeing in played over and over by the media was horrifyingly tasteless.
Maybe he had a moment of consciousness... where the statement he was making about how great it is that one of the few places we have bipartisan agreement is for the inflated military budget. Maybe for about 20 seconds he just couldn't get the rest of that disgusting sentence out. Probably not though... it probably was just a seizure.
That crossed my mind when I saw him "glitch out," as well. Specifically, it was something along the lines of: "What's'a'matter Mitch? Is the lie you must utter this time so egregious you can't even bear to have it in your mouth?"
How kind. My initial response was not as generous, too much damage has been done. And yes, we must do the right thing regarding the flesh and blood part of us, even in the face of repugnance, of unprincipled, dastardly, and dishonorable deeds.
Snag is, it brings us face to face with the existential cognitive dissonance that separates empathy and hypocrisy. I, for one, feel ambivalent about the whole thing. I think we should all face the fact that simultaneously feeling empathy and disgust is at best, ambivalence.
True enough. I will admit that my first reaction was not ambivalent at all; like, um, "May he rot in hell!" That WAS my first gut reaction, and I still mean it, cause enough is enough! As much as one can however, as example if for nothing else, rising above, going high, to be decent about human suffering, to be outwardly civil on principal, doesn't necessarily constitute ambivalence, even if the other side couldn't give a fig for decency, which they do nor, but also for when the tables are turned. Imagine the role of any judge sitting in a position to meet out judgment!!
I am no where near as nice as you, Robert. I felt let down that he didn't drop dead on the spot. For the amount of harm, damage, death, and suffering he has caused it would have been a small justice. And he intends to continue his cruelty and hate until he can witness his dictator installed as our leader. He's vile, and I wish upon him only that which he's done to others, to us, and to this country. He would kill either or both of us to achieve his goals and I remain disappointed he didn't drop dead. The alternative would be for him to suffer every second of every day in unimaginable pain untill he dropped dead. So I'm being nice wishing he'd have fallen and never got up.
At least let him be aware, as the end of his miserable, self-important, wasted life nears, how hated he is by his own compatriots and how much he didn't do when he was in a position to do so much good for so many. What a waste.
That's how I feel about evil people like Trump, Putin or the Koch Brothers, who have caused so much harm during their miserable lives, that they should have a time of reckoning for their evil deeds. That didn't happen to David Koch & probably won't happen to brother Charles, but there may be hope for Trump & Putin to get at least part of their just desserts before they die.
People like Robert Reich & Bernie Sanders won't have that after a life well done, trying to do everything they could to make a better world. Sure, they'll have regrets... "I wish I had done this, & hadn't done that", but all in all they've been lives well lived full of important accomplishments, not least of which is how they've inspired others to be better people & do good for society.
Suzi, I had to remind myself of the difference between sympathy and empathy. Don’t let the enemy take your humanity. Like it or not, and it can feel repugnant, he is a part of humanity.
That low life didn't take my humanity, it's well intact. He has spent his entire adult life lying, cheating, and harming others to fill his bank accounts. He is a calculating evil person who looks on while others struggle and suffer with the only thought being how much money and or power he'll get from it. He isn't human or humane and deserves nothing less than what he's done to so many others who have not survived because of him. I've no problem wishing he is the recipient of all that he's done to others. Being disappointed he didn't drop dead is a kindness, he should suffer horribly every day for all the years he has left, if there was justice in this world.
Lol. That was my initial response when I heard the news. Then I was shocked at myself and I immediately self corrected, remembering that he is a human being. Also, the wealthy puppet masters will just replace him when he is out of commission. I'm guessing he had a moment of sensory overload that can cause flight, fight, or in this case, freeze. It is like when your computer freezes and needs a reboot. Somebody in X comments yesterday pointed out that he will get the best healthcare while he doesn't care what happens to millions who have no healthcare. True. He is despicable.
Thank you for showing empathy and compassion. We don’t need to agree with anything from another to honor their humanity. I blame McConnell for many of the horrific things happening in our country. That being said, I don’t believe mocking his obvious physical decline is ever appropriate or right-showing disrespect is never ok. “When they go low, we go high.” We cannot allow the GOP’s disregard for simple compassion and decency to change us or make us in their likeness. Thank you.
I hope he sees a doctor and finds out why that happened. I also hope he steps down and goes back home to Kentucky. He has done enough damage to our country and I’m tired of the GOP constantly criticizing Biden at 80 about his age and ability. He is doing an incredible job and gets no credit.
Mitch McConnell will receive the best medical care available in this country, something he has used his position to deny to tens of millions of Americans.
Good point! He'll get the kind of media attention few of us here could afford, all the while he stands against providing even minimal medical care for the least fortunate among us. How much "right to life" can they afford to buy ‽
Thank you Robert for showing that it is still possible to show empathy across the aisle, no matter how wide it becomes.
When I heard this news, my mind went back and forth between feeling that McConnell deserved this moment of confusion and feeling pity. Then I also felt bad for feeling all that. Yes, what McConnell does as a politician is really disgusting. I hope that as he learns about his own fragility that he recognizes and regrets what he has done as a politician has been very cruel and inhumane. But I doubt he’ll learn that.
I should wish him well and hope he does get well. And I also wish that his career as a politician ends like now.
You are right. He will not learn from this, and he will not gain any empathy. He is the same calculated, ruthless, evil, tone deaf, power hungry and cold-blooded and cruel garbage that he's always been. He hides behind the "civility" of "tradition" while having not a single honorable bone in his body. He may even think that the fact that believes he's "doing good" justifies his heartless, vicious, calculated and despicable actions.
He may not be the completely off the rails MAGA, white nationalist proud fascist that infects the chambers of congress these days, but he is the typical "polite Republican" that got us to this point in time.
I refuse to pretend that I feel for him as a human. He deserves and has earned anything bad that happens to him now and in the future, and I will consider the world a better place when he no longer walks among us. Nobody should be judged by their worst or their best moment. But when your whole professional life has been defined by worst moment after worst moment, and horrendous hypocrisy you deserve to be judged harshly.
I am reluctant to give your statement a”like “. But sadly my gut is on board with what you wrote and I admire your courage for expressing it. Jay
Because we embrace our humanity we must feel compassion for even the most misguided amongst us.
After they are out of office
Yes, if Mitch were ethical, he’d resign for the good of the Party. We know he won’t resign for the good of the USA.
I cannot show humane compassion for someone who is obviously educated, not ignorant and yet consistently fails to show any humanity himself. Sorry. Not gonna happen.
I feel more compassion for the millions of Americans he cheated out of democracy by his hypocritical power-grabbing. His demons are coming for him and I say good riddance Mitch.
I am by no means a fan of the man who has done so much damage. As for the millions of Americans cheated out of democracy? I am one of those Americans. Your point is not lost on me.
He's not misguided. He's amoral and evil. there's a difference.
maybe in a perfect world, definitely not this one.
understood. I'm not about "perfect" I'm about humanity which is decidedly imperfect. It's a continuum. But I take your point. I strive to be a better person as I age
So you're good with "folks" like Jeffrey Dahmer and Hitler?
To be fair, they are human. But just SEVERELY DAMAGED humans! Just like Bunkerboy and Moscowmitch.
Actually I thought I this was about Mitch McConnell but okay take my words where you will.
Even Hitler?
Louder for the people in the back! I find it impossible to sympathize with a man who has actively done so much harm to the country he is supposed to serve. Perhaps if the GOP hadn't turned me into a hater--something I'm ashamed of, BTW, but there it is--I would be able to spare a thought for him. As it is, no. My only concern is who's going to replace him? Someone even worse?
He is past 80 and should retire. He is primarily responsible for the 6-3 conservative majority in our Supreme Court, and he did it by cheating, which is what Republicans do on a regular basis. It is too bad the Conservative Supreme Court Justices are not making Constitutional decisions, but political decisions just because they CAN.
Even worse, six of the nine are Roman Catholic, and making decisions based on their religion. This is unconstitutional, and another argument for 1) expanding the court; and 2) NOT making lifetime appointments. What's next, forced conversion and auto-de-fe?
Who expects the Spanish Inquisition?
AGREE!
That's my fear as well, that KINtucky is NOT 'turning purple' (like the turkey necked turtle boy did last year, most likely from an over high dose of Plavix??), let alone blue like other formerly solidly rightwingnut states possibly are, and that his replacement WILL be an all-out unabashed fascist wannbe NAZI POS. :( :(
It may be they have already taken his seat and he is a place holder. This would explain his lack of engagement.
You are right to be concerned. McConnell helped save the country on the evening of Jan 6. He and Pence rendered the country a most valuable service (along with others) by validating the electoral results. Since then the feckless Pence has lost all authority, making McConnell almost indispensable now (pun not intended).
McConnell may have helped save our country on Jan. 6, but he’s also more than partially responsible for what happened Jan. 6. Regarding his health issues, I’m ambivalent.
Mother Nature knows best.
Tell it like it is!!!
Well said...totally agree...I will never get over how he packed the SC by refusing to even have hearing for Merrick Garland (Obama's pick for SC). He is evil and his evil is coming for him. Let's get all these old white guys who are lying, self-serving, hypocrites out. We need a new young Congress who gets it...and CARES about the people of our country who need support and not the filthy money-worshippers.
When he's "gone" really won't solve anything. There are countless others like him and worse ready to fill the void. It's always that way.
Fantastic comment the only comment that i will make is that you were much to nice to him.
So, how do you really feel Roger?
As with any human I have plenty of faults. Probably more than many. But one fault I don't possess is that I will not fail to tell the truth.
Roger, I have even used truth as a weapon!
This kind of response really bothers me. Here Roger is, pouring out his heart and you are mocking him for being so forthright. I wish that retort would disappear from our culture and lexicon. It is gleefully mean spirited and reflects poorly on the person who employs it.
It may be that you have only experienced that remark as mean-spirited, but I don't think it is or has to be. I've heard it used in a gentle way, joking but also admiring the passion of the person who spoke. I'm prepared to believe Smiling Guy offered it in that spirit.
How can such a comment be gentle? Joking is even worse. If you poured your heart out and someone said that to you, how would you feel?
(I'm interested in your user name. Do you live outside the USA, like me, and do not accept the lanle "expat" ?
Looking at your profile, I see you moved to Portugal. I know a married couple that retired there and from what I hear, love it. I do live in the USA. Not sure what you mean about not accepting an expat. My user name has to do with my fondness for the English band Yes.
Roger L: BRAVO!! .. I Absolutely And Unequivocally Agree With Your 100%
Excellent Statement!! .. Thank You!!!
I’m going to try to remember that I’ve been surprised before when someone I honestly believed was essentially “beyond redemption” - hit a pivotal moment in his/her life when some experience or something someone said “out of the blue,” ... just came at a moment when s/he was open and vulnerable - and a “light went on.” I continue not to trust those whose beliefs & actions have historically been cruel, but I also try to hold the space for a moment when s/he has an experience that "changes everything.”
I think most of us can agree that the man is despicable. As a nurse, I am very concerned by what I saw.
yup.
Schadenfreude. I commiserate with you.
There is an amazing Buddhist teaching story where a Tibetan monk has been physically tortured by a Chinese captor for several months. When asked about the experience he says: ,"There was only one moment when he felt that he was in danger.... In danger of losing compassion for his torturer". I so admire that story but I must say I am way not at that level of spirituality... Even though I sometimes strive for it. My compassion is strong for the victims of Mitch McConnell's horrible behavior... But I just can't get any for him. More growth on my part may be possible for me, but it's not coming easily.
But for me it's pretty easy to balance. Because my disgust with politicians (or influential oligarchs) is driven by their lack of empathy for humanity. In almost every case. Even when they pretend that they are defending or supporting the interests of their supposed constituency they could really care less about them. The majority of Republican voters have become the true definition of "useful idiots." They vote against their own interest in the name of tribalist and culture war "issues" when it is clear that their interest do not line up in any way with the interests of those they follow blindly.
If he retires, would his replacement be any better? Ted Cruz or Lindsey Graham? God save us from those two!
"Better the devil you know," for now, at least.
Yes. McConnell almost redeemed himself with that speech right after the insurrection that condemned Trump. Unfortunately, he neglected to condemn the horse he rode in on.
A little, more thoughtful reflection on the devil we know:
- OL' BEAU SPEAKS ON MCCONNEL GLITCH-OUT:
https://youtu.be/9yzj85qz5M8
ADDENDUM:
In case ol' Beau's use of the term "accelerationist" caught your ear and perplexed you as it did me:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Accelerationism
What the devil misbegotten ideology will the psycho-extremists - on either side - try to hustles us all with next ‽
Whoa! This is exactly what I was thinking. Thanks for posting.
Agreed, Janet--Beau is right about a lot of this, but the whole "better the devil you know" is a bitter pill to swallow. This "devil" created the worst, most imbalanced Supreme Court, ever by playing fast and loose by the rules, and we're going to feel the deleterious effects of this judiciary for a generation, at least.
Agreed - conditionally. Had the DNC and Hillary exercised better judgement, both in campaign strategy - all the areas they felt no need to campaign in, for example - and candidate selection in the first place, I'm almost certain we'd've had 3 liberal justices seated instead of what that lapse in judgement led to. Yes. McConnel's a snake, not many years away from being a dead snake. But I can't help thinking ol' Tweety didn't win in '16 so much as the Democrats screwed up massively and lost. Their ineptitude made ol' Tweety's win possible in the first place. McConnel would've been marginalized had a Democrat been elected, and his obstructionism and this SCOTUS itself would have been aborted at its conception. Hindsight has 20/20 vision, if you face it. It's necessary to admit mistakes before learning from and correcting them. It's not "all their fault" - or Moscow Mitch's.
Not sure the world has a generation left. Isnt there a song "Have u seen the weather?" If there's not, there will be one on the hit parade....9, 8, 7,.......................
I kinda think the best case would be for Moscow Mitch to refuse to step down, but be "unavailable" for the next few years. His arrogance may just be strong enough to refuse to resign, and if he cannot attend Senate functions, the seat would be effectively empty.
Thanks for the article. I still keep wondering what's so liberal about the liberal media - so called!
the "liberal" media is only as liberal as its conservative owners allow it to appear. clinton allowed for the concentrated ownership/monooly of our media and it is now the biggest propaganda machine the world has ever known and has enabled those monied interests to steer debate and control the narrative and capture our entire government .
Americans around the country are praying that you and your neighbors “boot Bieber” in 2024!
Exactly right!
Time to pass the baton, Mitch.
I would absolutely yes! Moscow is a SPECIAL kind of pure evil that America has NEVER seen.
I think we say some very potent evil in Mussolini, Hitler, Franco, and Stalin, just to mention the Europeans.
Well, AMERICA has never seen anyway.
Oh hell yeah.
Graham or Cruz 🤔 one is syphilis, and the other is gonorrhea.
Guess we’re gonna get “screwed”, either way.
🤨🙄
Unfortunately your hope is probably in vain. He had polio and has had lifelong struggles to overcome and compensate for it. So, it’s not likely he’ll see things differently now.
You summed up my own feelings precisely.
I absolutely concur with Roger L's excellent analysis as well. Mitch McConnell is a cruel, cold hearted human being with absolutely no empathy for the majority of Americans who are not rich, powerful nor a Republican. With that being said however, I do not wish suffering on anyone. He will continue to be a horrible person and I have to admit I will feel no sadness at all when he is no longer among us.
He could have stopped tfg back in the beginning and did nothing.
Yes, he and even the ones much much worse than him (I know, that does seem impossible, but it's a SAD, rage inducing reality today :( ) I wish no actual physical harm to, except that they be removed from power, NEVER to return to perpetrate their fascist EVIL on all of the rest of U.S.!
I wondered if the demon that possesses McConnell has narcolepsy.
The moments Mitch lost touch with basically everything should have given rise to some sever apprehension on the part of those caring for him. A rushed trip to the hospital for a talk with a good neurologist would have been an excellent place to start. The fact that this precaution wasn't taken leads one to believe the mental pause Mr. McConnell suffered wasn't anything new. It could be there is more going on in his head due to his recent fall and subsequent concussion then they are telling us.
Exactly!
He won't learn anything
I thank God he wasn't driving a car, swimming, or engaged in an activity that require you to focus (on what you are doing for safety reasons) when this happened. It could have been fatal to him or others. He should see a doctor to ensure that this is not going to be a recurring event.
If his fellow repubs had had any compassion, they would have gotten an ambulance immediately and called his wife or his neurologist, if he has one. He could also have had a stroke.
A TIA is a stroke, albeit, temporary. Did you notice that NO ONE was surprised?? So I have to wonder how often this is happening. And who the heck lets an orthopedic surgeon "treat" them for a neurological issue??
Absolute madness.
I was assisting on a bone marrow aspiration. We had just finished. I asked the resident if she could hand me something. She just stood there staring at me. Then she went over to the window and made grand gestures, turned around and started falling down, her eyes rolling back, her mouth open.
If that had happened while she had the blade or Jamshidi 5” needle in the patient it could have caused great damage.
I've had them. First was in 1993 when I was giving a speech. Thought it was a MI, but couldn't establish cause. Had one a couple of weeks ago. Not dementia -- low blood pressure. I have some "senior moments" but so do everyone my age.
And many not your age. Since we are not privy to his general health (and rightfully so) there are many possibilities for this occurrence. I hope this will not add to that “age” conversations for our current president but think of who and what is best to lead this country away from the autocratic path we are on.
That describes a temporal lobe seizure......easily treated but wow....yeah. That is SO scary.
Apparently he has fallen not just once or twice but multiple times. He must not be getting the help he needs before he seriously injured himself or others.
Oh, I am sure he has. We only heard about the 2 at home due to the seriousness of his injuries. He needs to retire and spend what time he has left on this earth enjoying something other than trying to destroy democracy.
I doubt he knows of anything else that will fulfill him like sticking it to the voters and rewarding all his donors. Power is all he knows.
Ha ha! He hasn't driven a car in a half-century and likely has NEVER exercised like his child, Bunkerboy!
Your compassion reminds us of the difference between compassion for humanity (which, alas for humanity, McConnell lacks) and criticism of a powerful individual's actions--not the person, but the behavior, including what he says.
I wrote this note as a Brit with a strong interest in US politics and with family in Detroit. Just back from another visit. The U.K. suffers from much the same divisiveness and there are strong links and parallels between our Tories and your Republicans. Both are I suspect an embarrassment to Republicans and Tories of the past. I know enough of McConnell to understand why there is every reason to dislike him. We have politicians I thoroughly dislike over here. However, Robert Reich reminds as that however tempting it is, and mea culpa, we should try hard not sink to their level.
I’m encouraged by just how many people have been supportive of Roberts sentiments.
Yes....empathy Mr. McConnell never shows to anyone across the aisle. I find it ironic and a tad hilarious that Mitch pokes fun at the POTUS for falling when he, himself has taken at least 3 falls in the last 3.5 years...fracturing his shoulder, then a concussion and at the airport not even 2 weeks ago!
What’s that old joke about Cleopatra and de-Nile?
It is like the playground bully. No one really likes the kd, they just don't want to be his enemy.
Hypocrisy IS the number 1 character trait of the current crop of republican politicians.
I agree! I DESPISE Moscowmitch with every fiber of my being for birthing Bunkerboy and his 1,000,000++ murders, but I still wish him to pass comfortably in his bed . . . What happens after that is up to your interpretation of an afterlife.
There but for fortune.....https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6omDSxTCXE
More than that, McConnell could run right over to the Office of the Attending Physician of the United States Congress to receive free medical care, no strings attached, paid for by us taxpayers.
He might be a friend of socialized medicine (for the few).
I agree. Thank you.
Agreed. There's a commonality that all humans share, that when we're physically vulnerable, our reaction should be empathy. It's a little harder to separate that out from our visceral reaction to the ugliness that some humans perpetrate on a daily basis, but it's a bridge to our universal humanity.
I watched the video of McConnell several times and it sure looked like a seizure. His concussion background and recovery yesterday implied it too, as if nothing had happened. Good thing there was a doctor nearby in Sen. Barrasso.
I hope that Dr. Reich has not had a recurrence, because the experience he described must have been terrifying!
Empathy across the aisle ... at least from left to right.
True, but after Biden called him to make sure he was okay guess what he said later when ask how he was feeling “It wasn't a sandbag” I didn't know he had any sense of humor, I'm sure some e told him to say that since they'll all puppets of #DonTheCon #DonTheCriminal #DonTheRapist #Don3TimeIndicted
We will all age or fail physically in some way. It is only a matter of time and how. I think as a human being everyone deserves empathy in that regard.
I was about to say something along these lines, but you said it beautifully and all I would add is that one of the things I’ve observed in our politics & our “discourse” is such anger, hostility, and just plain “meanness.” I salute ANYONE who takes an opportunity to “do otherwise.” Thank You. :-)
Ditto
Thank you indeed Mr. Reich for reminding us that empathy and civility must be present even in the fiercest of political discourse.
If this had been a Democrat, I guarantee people like MTG would not be so kind. They attack, attack, attack.
On another note, they just will not let Hunter Biden rest. (I think the Republicans got to that Trump appointed judge. I was shocked she wouldn’t accept the plea and his admission of guilt. It seemed highly unusual and suspicious.
You should read Joyce Vance’s piece on this. I think the judge did the proper thing. The plea agreement required the judge to determine if a charge should be brought later by DOJ should the insane dumpty return to office, which is not the responsibility of the justice department. Apparently there is ongoing investigations in the President's son, which is not the normal state of affairs. A plea agreement is supposed to put everything to rest. The lunatic asylum that is the GOP is hoping to find a fairy in all the pony manure they wallow in, and charge Hunter Biden with some crime. The judge wants all this clarified before a plea deal is finalized.
The stupidity and hatred of this group of idiots is really scary. And they love their guns. Probably all they love, since they apparently don’t love their children enough to do something about climate change.
WHY aren’t the Democrats going after Jared Kushner? He is MUCH MORE of a threat to our country and MORE of a CRIMINAL than Hunter Biden’s who didn’t even work in the White House! It’s unbelievable that after FIVE years they keep investigating him.
I understand your outrage. But the thing is, we’re practical. It would be a waste of time, and really, WHO has the power to “go after”Kushner? We don’t hold the majority in the House, and the Senate has more important things to try to do.
And here’s the thing: this kind of revenge politics can blow up in your face. People do eventually see through the BS. We’re all hoping it dooms the rethugnican party, and so far it seems to be slowly doing just that.
If they nominate drumpf, they will lose If they don’t, I think there’s a good chance he’ll try to run anyway, and they’ll lose.
Let’s just hope there no third party spoiler that’s remotely interesting.
I think Jack Smith will still have plenty to do once his initial focus is complete, and if much of the "stuff" jared has busied himself with falls outside Jan. 6, etc,, I'd HOPE the DOJ would be doing its job..
But in the meantime, why not keep bringing Jared Kushner, and all his unscrupulous and possibly criminal dealings, to the forefront? Keep REMINDING the public before it is excused by being forgotten.
Jared accepted over TWO BILLION DOLLARS from someone who authorized the journalist Kashoggi to be killed and dismembered. We must not forget or forgive. And we should ask ourselves why? The answer is glaringly obvious.
ALSO was the sudden? surge of power for the Crown Prince, with his PGA "merger", with so many tournaments in Saudi Arabia. Maybe due to New Jersey backroom meetings, where possible briefcases of docs changed hands.
And now tfg has a golf course & resort being built...
Hmmm...
Indeed, Jen, Joyce Vance explained it clearly. Definitely worth a read and reread.
This was from CNN “ the Trump-appointed judge said she had "concerns" about the parties seemingly linking the tax plea deal to resolving a felony gun charge.”
Or guns
Yes, well said
They've already been unkind. Think of every critique of President Biden. Every move, every slip of the tongue, him being tripped up by a carelessly laid duffle bag in the stage path and more was pointed to by the right as a reason he's unfit.
I consider myself fair and humane and that's why I vote for the Democratic Party. Not only do I believe their policies are that way but their actions towards the vilest behaved of their opposition are usually gracious, kind and sympathetic. Professor Reich displayed that again today. Republicans loudly claim and wear iconography of Jesus, Democrats quietly go about behaving like him.
Sadly, I think you’re correct. Case in point all of the cruel, ignorant things said aboutvJohn Fetterman
Oh yea!
The Repugnicans would have organized another insurrection but this time at the White House if this happened to a Democrat.
These Repugnicans are like whiny babies, and their Mission Statements’, MO, and platforms, are based on their weapon of choice the
“I know you are, but what am
I”, “I didn’t start it, He started it, I
This should be forwarded, in LARGE PRINT, to all members of Congress. It is a requirement that all memebers of Congress be able to read, isn't it?
..
😆😂
When lives are at stake and children dying?
I find many of Mitch McConnell's political views and actions repugnant and scary.
But when I saw that happen to him, another human being,
I felt a deep empathy and fear. If we cannot respond to another person, no matter
their political persuasion,
with compassion, we are truly lost
Susan, I agree with your comments. What I find reprehensible is that Republicans would want concern and compassion offered to Mitch McConnell, they are unwilling to offer care and concern to others unless it benefits them.
Exactly JennSH.....which is why I find it so hard to excuse such hypocrisy !!!!!
Jen
it's not about you
It's about doing what is right
I get it
I think I will never get over Roe vs Wade
being turned over, it makes me want to throw up
but if all of us descend into this
awful way of thinking, the us vs them nothing will ever
change That is what I really meant about being lost.
Karma’s a bitch only if you are, so Mitch Himmler will hopefully now see what it’s like to get his awareness heightened, or probably not.
You can lead a brain to water, but you can’t make it think.
If I sound Harsh and un sympathetic,, I remind myself that I’m still a “work in
Progress”.
Just sayin 🙄
And yet, when Biden called Mitch to check on him, Mitch said “I was sandbagged”. What kind of person takes a jab at you when you call with concern? Only someone this despicable. He referring to Biden tripping on a sandbag leaving the stage after presenting diplomas to US Air Force graduates. Term limits.
I get it
I really do
Well said
Considering how much I detest Mitch McConnell and how much damage I think he has done to our country, I was surprised at how bad I felt for him when I saw this on the news. I’m glad President Biden checked in on him.
i wish i could be like you, Professor Reich, and be concerned about mitch mcconnell's health. but i am much more concerned about the health of MILLIONS of americans who do not have any form of health care available to them, and the many MILLIONS MORE whose access to health care is unstable / not guaranteed / questionable ... at best. i do not waste my thoughts on the problems of wealthy white men.
You get a round of applause from me for that comment
RUN FOR OFFICE or stop complaining
That’s not the solution you think it is. Have you been paying attention?
Have you?
Easy to complain from the sidelines
I ran for office twice Susan, both times against the DFL chosen insider. The first time I ran as a Democrat and it took my breath away to see how many little ways I was cheated. The second time I ran as a Green Party candidate... That way at least I had friends and support. I actually secured 46% of the vote but there was no way I could win because of the money and power and manipulation against me. A project intended to destroy the environment and make a lot of money was on the line and mine could have been the deciding vote, so no one would let me win. The first time, when I ran as a Democrat, I was actually offered a chance to run again later when I could be the chosen person by the insider sorority, but the whole thing was so disgusting I couldn't go through with it. When Ralph Nader was running we got two Green people on the city council... When it came time to redistrict the Democrats teamed up with the Republicans (there were no Republicans on the city council) to redistrict the Greens out of the districts they had won. I do think it's more effective to work from the outside... When you run for office you are asked to compromise a lot of who you are if you want to win.
Thanks for the reality check. Too many people don’t trust government at any level. There are good reasons for the mistrust. Your case-in-point is one example. I recently had my own come-to-Jesus moment in local politics. Disgusting!
Thank you for educating me and I am so very, very sorry for my complete and total ignorance, I am a jerk
I am ashamed of myself
Also being opened minded enough to listen to more information, maybe change your mind, is a rare quality in our society today... so thank you for that. I don't think that's true of 95% of our population... And maybe the very most important thing we need in order to move forward.
You are so kind
Yes, I think I am changing my mind, but I have many questions
You are right
It would be great to meet in person
In my whole life what matters to me is that kids get enough to eat
I will be going to Narobi in March
How does your week work?
Please forgive me
Don't feel that way. At the end of all of that we lost our two Green Party candidates but did get a third Green Party candidate in to the city council. All the Democrats often team up against him ,but he's still there speaking his truth. I didn't mean to suggest it was impossible, but it's just not so easy as people think. Jessica Cisneros ran for congress against Henry Cuellar... who was The dfl insider Cuellar was being investigated for several corruption charges, as well as being "pro life". Nancy Pelosi made robocalls for him. He beat Jessica Cisneros, a true progressive, by very few votes even with all the DFL insider money poured into his campaign. I didn't mean to say give up, but I do know it's not so simple as one might think.
I didn't know that I didn't know
No excuses
on my part I am so truly sorry
Does anyone need reminding of the years Republicans have been fighting to deny health care to millions of Americans?
Go Grrl!!
Thank you for speaking truth!
Terrific
RUN FOR OFFICE
or stop complaining
You first. Or are you a hypocrite? We all have our talents and roles to play in advocating on behalf of policies that help ourselves and others. Not everyone is suited to be a retail politician, and that's a GOOD thing.
You are a generous soul, Professor.
It was heart-aching to see McConnell freeze in the manner in which he did, however it is terribly difficult to pity a guy who moulded this disgraceful “Supreme” Court and who is so beholden to the thugs to the Right.
I wish no one ill, by the same token it would be great if all of the abhorrent noise of the Right was silenced, somehow.
Your friend in MD,
A. 🌻🙏💙
We all share that we will die. That does not make me sympathetic with that evil toad.
I wonder how many young women have died because they needed an abortion for health reasons and couldn't get one, thanks to Mitch McConnell, who' had a minor health event in his 80's.
After all the brave women fought for our rights we are now back to just being another other.
No, we can do better
Email me
First of all, a closed head injury in an 80 year old is not a "minor" event
Secondly, we are talking about the issue of how we treat All human beings with traumatic events, physical or psychological or other or both
Third, This brings up the whole issue of how long should folks serve in our government
and the 4th and most important is:
what are you doing to change the status quo in your neighborhood?
What are you specifically doing to assure abortion rights?
Please email me, Lynn. Love to have your help. Thank you for having the courage to comment
Steven--That was way harsh. He's a missguided Republican, I'll give you that. But past that he's an integral part of a close net family and I'm sure there are good people that care deeply for the man no matter how our side of the aisle views him. The empathy we as Democrats feel for others is the separation point that defines who we are.
it’s important to feel empathy for other human beings. But he is not a misguided Republican. He is a truly repugnant person, who has spent his entire career working diligently to enrich a tiny fraction of this country, while simultaneously working even harder to hurt the vast majority of this country, not least of which are his own constituents.
Mark--When I was younger it really didn't really matter which party was in the White House because you had faith the country would some how continue. That path to the future has been altered by some "Missguided" political figures, Mitch being one of them. Age affects us in different ways that's why term limits should be implemented. The man has just lost touch with reality due to his advanced years. Mental prowess weakens with age.
Mitch has been this way since I've known who he was, for the past quarter century or so, one of the most evil politicians. In fact, as he hasn't changed, & some other politicians have come on the scene even worse, he doesn't look so bad in comparison, but he's still awful.
Jaime--After the attack on our capitol on 1/6 the elderly gentleman in question criticized the efforts of Trump as being dangerous and unacceptable. The weakness in Mitch's spirit was too easily compromised. We just need stronger people sitting in those seats. We as private citizens must be able to see personal qualities in candidates that make them good prospects for the jobs we elect them to fill. Greene and Boebert didn't just walk into their positions they were elected by foolish voters. When someone gets to where Mitch currently is it's because the people put them where they are. Blame the public not the man.
Maybe instead of blaming the public, take a look at the powerful Political Machines that helped propel some of these creatures forward.
People voted for them, swayed by the huge amount of money that bought their election.
The people who put them in office are the actual people who supply the political money and bribes that sustains all these make-believe representatives and makes their political lives possible. The voters are the ones they disdain the most.
I blame both.
Not a politically popular thing to say. It's a dirty job, but someone's got to do it!
Like I say elsewhere, "better the devil you know," for now, at least.
Mark--When we begin to treat others in the same way that met with our own distain, we have succeeded in degrading who we are as individuals, look in the mirror to find the truth.
Donald, you remind me that Margaret Mead measured civilization by how many people outside our own circle we care about. I do try to keep that in mind.
Dorothy--Its nice to meet a fellow human.
I would really not like to see Jamie Raskin, Adam Schiff, Katy Porter, Jasmine Crocket, Ted Lieu and many others term limited. Be careful what you ask for...
Paula--Their replacement could have newer and better ideas that the existing people either haven't thought of yet or are incapable of thinking along those lines all together. Yes, I concede they could be worse, but that is the nature of change, you can't go there without taking a chance every once in a while.
I agree, but we could do worst. Imagine Ted Cruz as the Senate Minority Leader!
UGH!
Agreed. I feel like I'm supposed to feel empathy for a Mafia don with a "close-knit family." I just can't. I mean, the guy had polio- that would engender empathy in most people, but with chameleon Mitchell, who was pro-choice early in his career, it seems to have made him into "get as much as you can while alive" politician.
Agreed.
How does sending all kinds of negative energy change anything?
How does it make you larger?
What does it do for his constituents?
How can you really change things? Run for office, other wise you are simply just one of the people contributing to the deception.
If you people really want to make a difference, run for office
Otherwise, quit complaining
Susan, not everyone can run for office. I will voice my concerns.
It’s your choice to couch it as complaining.
I will voice my concerns as is my right and as I see fit.
I will not be silenced or admonished for speaking my peace. Nor will I tolerate it accept that my opinion be reduced to ‘complaining’.
Well said
Ditto!
What an inane comment, Susan. Why not tell someone to "just become the CEO of Chevron, and change the culture. Otherwise quite complaining."
Donald: I'm sure there are good people who care deeply for the man. I'm just a bad person who does not care deeply for the man. Maybe next lifetime. Ever working on my flaws.
👍
dnkarr--Your human and because of that fact each of us has to learn to live with who we are. Self correction is a gift.
Yes. And that's why Dems constantly get steamrolled. We bring empathy to gunfights. Plus, you don't know anything about his family. They may loathe him, too.
Nicely said Rich!
Rich--You are right I don't, but compassion would lead me to believe his care for him in the same manner mine care for me. To begin to understand others we have to step in their shoes for a second and picture what life would be like from that stand point. We don't get steamed rolled, we just exhibit the American ideal.
Ok, please tell us how much you care for the orange genius.
S--It would easier to just flush the toilet and bid him adieu.
Empathy and sympathy are too different matters. I feel for him, but I still want him to step off the track and allow meaningful progress.
Whoa, c'mon! Show some respect. It's MR. Evil Toad.
See Donald's comments
Thank you for this, Mr. Reich. I was saddened when I saw the news clip. Mr. McConnell is one of my least favourite people, but I would not wish this on him. Seeing in played over and over by the media was horrifyingly tasteless.
Yes I agree.
Maybe he had a moment of consciousness... where the statement he was making about how great it is that one of the few places we have bipartisan agreement is for the inflated military budget. Maybe for about 20 seconds he just couldn't get the rest of that disgusting sentence out. Probably not though... it probably was just a seizure.
That crossed my mind when I saw him "glitch out," as well. Specifically, it was something along the lines of: "What's'a'matter Mitch? Is the lie you must utter this time so egregious you can't even bear to have it in your mouth?"
It was his AI glitching not Mitch.
How kind. My initial response was not as generous, too much damage has been done. And yes, we must do the right thing regarding the flesh and blood part of us, even in the face of repugnance, of unprincipled, dastardly, and dishonorable deeds.
Snag is, it brings us face to face with the existential cognitive dissonance that separates empathy and hypocrisy. I, for one, feel ambivalent about the whole thing. I think we should all face the fact that simultaneously feeling empathy and disgust is at best, ambivalence.
True enough. I will admit that my first reaction was not ambivalent at all; like, um, "May he rot in hell!" That WAS my first gut reaction, and I still mean it, cause enough is enough! As much as one can however, as example if for nothing else, rising above, going high, to be decent about human suffering, to be outwardly civil on principal, doesn't necessarily constitute ambivalence, even if the other side couldn't give a fig for decency, which they do nor, but also for when the tables are turned. Imagine the role of any judge sitting in a position to meet out judgment!!
Professor.
Thank you for sharing this.
I am reminded that I am not in control of my mind. I have not been all my life. Sometimes it works and sometimes it does not. It is scary as you said.
In my case, it is not twenty seconds or even a few hours, it may be days, or months
On that note, I am going back to bed and hope that when I wake up I have control of my mind.
It hurts my heart.
I am no where near as nice as you, Robert. I felt let down that he didn't drop dead on the spot. For the amount of harm, damage, death, and suffering he has caused it would have been a small justice. And he intends to continue his cruelty and hate until he can witness his dictator installed as our leader. He's vile, and I wish upon him only that which he's done to others, to us, and to this country. He would kill either or both of us to achieve his goals and I remain disappointed he didn't drop dead. The alternative would be for him to suffer every second of every day in unimaginable pain untill he dropped dead. So I'm being nice wishing he'd have fallen and never got up.
At least let him be aware, as the end of his miserable, self-important, wasted life nears, how hated he is by his own compatriots and how much he didn't do when he was in a position to do so much good for so many. What a waste.
That's how I feel about evil people like Trump, Putin or the Koch Brothers, who have caused so much harm during their miserable lives, that they should have a time of reckoning for their evil deeds. That didn't happen to David Koch & probably won't happen to brother Charles, but there may be hope for Trump & Putin to get at least part of their just desserts before they die.
People like Robert Reich & Bernie Sanders won't have that after a life well done, trying to do everything they could to make a better world. Sure, they'll have regrets... "I wish I had done this, & hadn't done that", but all in all they've been lives well lived full of important accomplishments, not least of which is how they've inspired others to be better people & do good for society.
Well said Jaime!
Ditto!
Suzi, I had to remind myself of the difference between sympathy and empathy. Don’t let the enemy take your humanity. Like it or not, and it can feel repugnant, he is a part of humanity.
That low life didn't take my humanity, it's well intact. He has spent his entire adult life lying, cheating, and harming others to fill his bank accounts. He is a calculating evil person who looks on while others struggle and suffer with the only thought being how much money and or power he'll get from it. He isn't human or humane and deserves nothing less than what he's done to so many others who have not survived because of him. I've no problem wishing he is the recipient of all that he's done to others. Being disappointed he didn't drop dead is a kindness, he should suffer horribly every day for all the years he has left, if there was justice in this world.
Lol. That was my initial response when I heard the news. Then I was shocked at myself and I immediately self corrected, remembering that he is a human being. Also, the wealthy puppet masters will just replace him when he is out of commission. I'm guessing he had a moment of sensory overload that can cause flight, fight, or in this case, freeze. It is like when your computer freezes and needs a reboot. Somebody in X comments yesterday pointed out that he will get the best healthcare while he doesn't care what happens to millions who have no healthcare. True. He is despicable.
He’s not a good human, but he’s a human.
He's human, and there are good humans and there are evil humans. Guess which he is.
Holy cow
BREATHE
SEND ME YOUR ADDRESS,
i am sending you an amazing book:
Yes, and they say Putin can be very pleasant company in private.
For years and years I said about Hitler when a similar point came up in discussion: "Face it. He >had< to be nice enough to >someone!<"
That I can’t believe.
I suggest you research some of the harmful things this man has done in his too long career.
Suzi Suzi Suzi What yer sayin is a doozy. Don't go spoutin that thar curse cuz things might go from bad to worse. 🤯😱🙀
Linsey Graham as Senate Minority Leader, for example ‽ Or Cruz ‽
Yeah somethin like that fer instance!!
I agree with you Suzi...I was hoping he'd fall over & die...I just can not & will not feel bad for him...Nope...
That’s cold, Suzi.
Well, some like it hot and some like it cold, Rick.
It may have been a TIA. Have seen that happen in others a few times and this looked exactly the same.
Came here to say exactly that.
Thank you for showing empathy and compassion. We don’t need to agree with anything from another to honor their humanity. I blame McConnell for many of the horrific things happening in our country. That being said, I don’t believe mocking his obvious physical decline is ever appropriate or right-showing disrespect is never ok. “When they go low, we go high.” We cannot allow the GOP’s disregard for simple compassion and decency to change us or make us in their likeness. Thank you.
A very decent commentary. Thanks for writing it and showing that people can have some serious disagreements yet remain empathetic to others. 👍👍
I hope he sees a doctor and finds out why that happened. I also hope he steps down and goes back home to Kentucky. He has done enough damage to our country and I’m tired of the GOP constantly criticizing Biden at 80 about his age and ability. He is doing an incredible job and gets no credit.
This Kentuckian doesn't want him..........
Mitch McConnell will receive the best medical care available in this country, something he has used his position to deny to tens of millions of Americans.
Good point! He'll get the kind of media attention few of us here could afford, all the while he stands against providing even minimal medical care for the least fortunate among us. How much "right to life" can they afford to buy ‽