I agree with all of your suggestions, but I would add that Biden - and all the congressional democrats - need to engage the public much, much, much more, perhaps also with fireside chats, talking about the popular measures he is trying to pass and how they are being blocked, talking about the threat to democracy from state legislation destroying voting rights, talking about the past sacrifice of American activists to protect the vote - for example Biden could talk about your childhood friend who was murdered by the klan for trying to register voters in Mississippi. Biden needs to throw a bright light onto what is going on for the American people; the corporate press won't be able to ignore it because the speeches would be coming from the president. Then he needs to at least reach out to every Republican senator on the voting rights legislation and report back to the American people, especially the people from the senator's state, on how that effort went, whether the senator agreed to meet, and if they met, exactly what the senator's excuses were for refusing to support the voting rights bill. Who knows, maybe a few Republicans will actually see the light. Manchin and Sinema will not do this work for him - they have not reached out to anybody on the Republican side and neither of them cares, Romney admitted as much. Clearly the current approach has failed so it's past time to abandon it: Biden has to come out of hiding and really engage the people if he cares about democracy. But not just Biden, Harris and every member of Congress who supports the voting rights act needs to hit the air waves non-stop about the threat to democracy, and above all reach out to their Republican colleagues and try hard to persuade them. Today most congressional democrats simply vote, throw up their hands, and go home. We are at a crossroads in American history and politicians need to act like they actually care about it.
We are so in sync, you and I. This is in my latest communications about what to do: "Fireside Chats — Talking to the human family, uniting us and inspiring us." But that requires people who could do that. Like you. Maybe, Robert, have a contest. Tryouts for who can do this well. Anyone can try. I bet it could go viral: The Save the World Challenge...??? Do this with me?
I have a feeling, being 85 years old , that electing people with little stamina is a downfall of the United States, we need leaders who can meet stress of physical exposure to the public concerns on a face to face encounter, even the younger legistlaters shun this approach possible due to fear, or maybe it’s not demanded enough by the public
I agree. The Administration repeatedly fails from its inability to create and spread a compelling message. Even as they strive to do the very best for America and Americans - real help for real people - they falter in the message. The other side can spin landfill sludge and persuade way too many that it's gold. This Administration has gold to give, and can't even get that out, persuasively. Biden needs a better core team around him.
AGREED! This current situation is COMPLETELY DIRE! COMMUNICATION is their GREATEST WEAPON! They have access to many media outlets, I don’t understand why it’s not happening with fervor.🤷🏽♀️
Right now, what the Democratic party needs most is a first class salesperson -- someone who will go on all the talk shows, news shows, and Sunday morning shows and explain to the American people what is in these bills that have been stalled in the senate, how they would benefit the average American, and what American citizens can do to help get them passed (ie, call your senator, write your senator, write letters to the editor of your local paper). It doesn't matter if you live in a blue, red or purple state, put pressure on your senator to get this legislation passed. Then this salesperson needs to brag about what has been accomplished since Biden took office, the general state of the American economy, and the bright future that we could have if we all pulled together. Explain the need for bipartisanship -- which means Republicans working with Democrats to find ways of compromising, as opposed to using the filibuster. Make it clear that Democrats are open to debate but that Republicans are using the filibuster to stymie even that. Democrats have never been good at taking control of the narrative -- it is past time they learned to do it.
Let Transportation Sec'y, former candidate Mayor Pete, go on a huge national Infrastructure Tour, becoming everyone's favorite Local Mayor - a Santa Claus with a bag full of pothole, road & bridge improvements, recreation & sports complexes, high speed internet hook-ups, nutritious breakfasts, after-school daycares, and more!
... if only voters asked their legislators to allow it* to proceed. Make it so popular that any Senator (running in '22) or House Rep who doesn't get on board, might fear paying a price in November 2022.
(*or some version of a 50-vote Reconciliation package)
Remember: the Parliamentarian ruled the Dems could have 4 Reconciliation-eligible packages during Biden's first 2 years, but Manchin thinks he has the power to prevent this. Hammer every WV town with shovel- and hammer-ready projects, and JOBS, JOBS, JOBS that their Senator Grinch opposes
Linda's ideas echo my own. We need Biden to be present and to talk honestly and openly to the American people. The truth is always the right thing to say, never more than right now when there is so much deception and obfuscation, seemingly coming from one side but truthfully coming from many sides, most of them malevolent in intent. Some time back, long before the state primaries for the national election of 2020, I watched a video town-hall meeting with Bernie Sanders and an audience of prospective voters. At the meeting, a Trump supporter raised her hand and indicated that she was keenly opposed to anything the Democrats and particularly Bernie proposed; she threw out the label of "Socialist" at Bernie and declared that he was trying to take over the government and allow the government to enter our lives and make all the decisions regarding health care for us. When Bernie responded, he did not reproach or demean the woman or attack her in any way; he figured quite rightly that she had not read much of the health care debate and was totally unfamiliar with what he was proposing and fighting for. He calmly and respectfully outlined the past and present state of affairs with Obamacare (ACA) and what changes he proposed to make the situation better for average working people. That is: he acknowledged the views and opinions of the woman and then worked on explaining the pros and the cons (NB) of what he was proposing. After his response, the woman indicated that she intended to vote for Bernie Sanders as what he was proposing would better serve her needs and the needs of her family. What Bernie had done was make his views personal, not personal for him but personal for her. Bernie used the media to go to the people and that is precisely what Biden needs to do. Most people are exposed to a huge amount of opinion from media hosts, especially from right-wing hosts but also from the left. Most are not involved in politics on any level and a good many missed out on solid courses in history, government, civics, and ethics. They operate from self-interest alone, never realizing that that is precisely what the oligarchs running the country are doing. When ordinary people listen to Bernie, they see an elected official who is putting their concerns and interests at the top of his list and speaking plainly, cogently, and truthfully to them. What Biden needs to do is direct his attention and his comments to those who will benefit/suffer because of what he does. This should be sobering to think of but I don't believe BIden will get far by continuing to appease and coddle the right-wing into coming along when it is not in their own interests to do so. If BIden wants to emulate FDR (or Sanders, for that matter), he will have to take it to the people and count on their support. And his appeal will have to be as constant and urgent as the problems we are now facing.
That's what I've been wondering, too. It needs to be someone who has time enough to get as much exposure as possible -- which pretty much eliminates both Biden and Harris. Either Elizabeth Warren or Bernie Sanders could do a bang up job, but I wonder if they are too controversial -- especially Bernie, much as I love him. It doesn't have to be someone in the current administration -- might be better if it weren't. But whoever it is needs to be well-informed, charismatic, and persuasive. Frankly, I can't think of anyone who could do a better job than Robert Reich.
Linda, It may turn out that Warren and Sanders are mainstream, that is, if the American voters turn to the progressive agenda wholeheartedly. We have spent a good 40 years with the "me and my own self-interests--first crowd," surely it might be worth our country's future and prosperity (for all) to give the "we and a better world (for all)" approach a spin. Appealing to wealthy individuals for their largesse and support of democracy will not work if they are primarily concerned with their own self-interest; we have to go to those who are not motivated by division and self-interest but by concern of everyone in our society;. BIden is supposed to be there but he cannot fully commit to the democratic ideal if he wants to defer to the folks who currently own the country and operate it for their benefit.
Oh, I agree that's what we need -- a wholehearted progressive agenda. But if we are to put pressure on senators from Republican states to support voter protection laws, then we need to bring their Republican constituents onboard. Polls have shown that these bills are popular across the political spectrum; that reality is not reflected in the senate. While Republican voters might respond to exhortations from say, Robert Reich, they might balk at supporting Bernie Sanders. Many mistakenly believe that Sanders is one thin line away from being a communist and dismiss him out of hand. As for Biden being the salesperson -- a fireside chat format might work, but Biden often comes across as rather flat and vague. He can give a great speech -- I've heard him do it -- but he doesn't always deliver. There's also a problem with audience -- those who tune in to Biden's speeches are generally in the choir. The salesperson needs to go where the audience is -- even if it is on Fox News -- and needs to be able to handle hostile questions.
Yeah, it can't be someone who the Republicans have already demonized. And yet it need to be someone who is at least a semi-public person. Please! Someone step up out of the shadows!
When the VP is not reading from a "canned script", and not being bound by DNC norms, and her real personality comes through, she can be just as persuasive as either Bernie Sanders or Elizabeth Warren. Once she gets fired up and off script, she's great at calling out the BS.
The message may be there but her awkward self-conscious tone and mannerisms detract from her credibility. An eloquent speaker like Stacey Abrams would knock the same message out of the ballpark.
Give us some ideas and maybe we can promote them. I'm almost in tears every day when I read your post and Heather Cox Richardson's letter. I've given money, I've sent messages to my congress people which is an exercise in futility in TN, no need to keep posting on FB because only the same 6 people respond and they are already on my side. It's beyond frustrating. I joined the local Democratic party organization, but they don't seem to be doing much either.
Lynnda, I live in a community that is probably quite different from yours but I would say that you might want to approach your neighbors and organize a friendly get-together of some kind, an occasion in which you discuss possible solutions to the problems in your own community. I would imagine that you would want to include everyone as long as they were willing to accept divergent views and wanted to help, not throw any dialog off course by arguing, etc. This sounds humble enough, maybe ineffectual, but, if you and one other person agree or if you are able to encourage someone else to "check it out" you will have done a great deal. I constantly contact my Representative in Congress but she happens to have a lot of seniority and is current serving on the Select Committee for January 6th; she was previously involved in the impeachment hearings so, what with her other work, she is quite busy. I would say that she does respond but, as you understand, I am not on top of her priorities--just now. Keep seeking out you rep and other reps. I have on occasion written to another rep in another state (someone also on the 1/ 6 committee) and he has replied. The fact that you are writing means that you deserve a response and should get one. I would also consider meeting with the head of the Democratic Party in your area and trying to get him/her to attend a town-hall meeting or perhaps organizing one. You have to be persistent as (if you are fortunate) your reps will be working full-time on proposals and policies and ideas for the country. I would say the place to start is your own neighborhood...that's how my street and neighborhood managed to hold meetings and get-togethers for everyone---fun times in which we aired our grievances, voiced our support for our chosen candidate, and (perhaps most importantly) got to know (and respect) each other.
I would forget the bipartisan junk. Republicans have. They consistently make this clear by their actions.
What they need to drive home ARE THE CONSEQUENCES IF THE BILL DOESN’T PASS!
That is what Americans need to understand.
The salesperson should be someone people can actually respect and they know this person speaks truth even when others don’t want to hear it. Someone like Lieutenant Alexander Vindman, or maybe the former Ambassador to Ukraine, Marie Yovanovitch.
It doesn’t have to be these people per se, but people like them.
Prof. Reich, Momentarily, I’m going to propose you add expanding the High Court to your list, using data that stuck with me from one of your earlier newsletters. However, I start with a quick survey of a handful of recent High Court decisions, partly to affirm Justice Correspondent Elie Mystal’s portrayal of Chief Justice John Roberts as an “enemy of voting rights and racial equality.” In 2013, Roberts authored Shelby County v Holder, which eviscerated Section 5 of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. In 2020, Roberts authored Rucho v Common Cause, wherein it was decided that particular gerrymandering disputes presented a political question beyond the realm of the Court. In 2021, Roberts provided the crucial vote in Brnovich v Democratic National Committee, which arguably eviscerated Section 2 of the 1965 Voting Rights Act.
Presently, we’re in an election year facing the likely absence of any meaningful federal voter protection safeguards that, otherwise, would have superseded the guaranteed onslaught of GOP voter suppression and election subversion measures, creating, in my view, obstacles around which no amount of organizing can compete. Setting aside that the fool posting this comment, nonetheless, will persist, I am deeply troubled by a seeming dismantling of federal safeguards and don’t imagine that this methodical evisceration by Republicans and the Court (ie The Federalist Society) ends here.
Shifting to my recollections of your newsletter from a while ago, I believe you had established a promising precedent for expanding the Court. My understanding is that in 1789 five Justices and one Chief Justice were seated, each of whom presided over one of the six Federal Circuit Courts. Today, because there are thirteen Federal Circuit Courts, over which only nine Justices presided, I imagine the High Court accepts fewer cases.
Though my knowledge here is extremely limited, I suspect invoking precedent both to expand the High Court and possibly add judges to the Lower Court is far more persuasive than basing one’s argument on the need to balance the Court.
I would welcome hearing from anyone on this thread about this painfully neglected issue by Democrats.
I stand by my earlier comments recommending that the Supreme Court be expanded in size. But that requires an act of Congress -- which brings us right back to the filibuster, because there's no way Republican senators will vote to expand the size of the high court.
Professor, Of course you’re right to prioritize workable initiatives that hopefully will incentivize the base. Still, with respect to the first half of my comment, I do wonder whether you, too, believe that the battle for federal voter protections, troubling as it is, is but one piece of a more widespread effort to dismantle federal safeguards.
Your list of suggestions are excellent and all would help move the ball forward. I'm glad you mentioned executive orders. A writer here mentioned it last week and a day or two later the new governor of Virginia issued 11 of them right after being sworn in for his governorship. Had them already on his desk after his swearing in. He didn't waste a nanosecond. One of his orders repealed vaccine mandates for all state workers and mask mandates in schools, public work places. He then declared, "Virginia is open for business again!" Glenn Youngkin is an equities, mergers and acquisitions business man, a history of some of the riches companies in America. Executive orders and elections have consequences. I have this suggestion, STOP VOTING FOR RICH REPUBLICAN BUSINESSMEN.
Mostly agree. Kevin McCarthy and Mitch McConnell keep calling the voting rights bill "a Democrat power grab." I would like Biden and Senate Democrats to repeatedly demand that they explain precisely what provisions in the bill make it a Democratic power grab, and explain how all those state voter suppression bills aren't Republican power grabs, until they get answers. U.S. House and Senate Republicans' votes against election fairness and integrity, and against freedom to vote, should definitely be used against them as campaign issues in this year's elections.
Also point out that the filibuster in its current form stifles speech and debate, exacerbates division, and prevents Congress from working to serve the American people.
With regard to # 4 and 10, Democrats have done much to improve the lives of most Americans, while Republicans have done almost nothing. Yet, instead of touting their successes, effectively criticizing Republicans for failing to do their job, and making the argument that they can do more if more Democrats are elected, Democrats always seem to be on the defensive. Why is this?
I agree. President Biden should not be allowing either McCarthy's or McConnell's "trash talk" to go on without a response. It's not like "water off a duck's back", these comments stick. He needs to call them out just like you've said.
Democrats are always playing defense because GOP and many pseudo-independent voters live in a right-wing media bubble, and never hear that Democrats have leadership, fielded an offensive team, or scored any goals. Sorry for the sports analogy, but voters love the successes of winning teams, and they don't see Democrats as winners. McConnell thinks he can win his Murkowski turf-battle vs #45 without giving Biden, Cheney or the House Jan.6 committee any support or credit.
I think your suggestions are excellent and will lead to expanded majorities in the midterms. For his first year in office, I think the Biden Administration has accomplished a lot and that in the next year we will get voter protections and BBB Legislation (much easier when Sinema is replaced by a real Democrat).
Agreed- a "real democrat" who can also win the general election. I am sick of Sinema being described as a "moderate democrat". She and Manchin are more aptly described as "head-scratchingly infuriating democrats", who are nonetheless better than all Republican senators at this point by my thinking.
It seems to me that President Biden should be listening to you instead of others around him. You make a good case against Democrats shooting themselves in the foot.
BBB should be used as a jobs-creation program that will become a gateway for creating a national public service program. By that I mean that every citizen will perform at least 2 years of public service either in federal or state programs that will focus on supporting/remediating the educational, environmental, agricultural, and/or public infrastructures of the country.
High School graduates should have the privilege of finding out how the country actually works in a hands-on sense before going on to college, assuming that is what they want. College grads should serve at least 3 years if they didn't serve before entering college. I was an Army Officer for 2 years following graduation: those years were eye-opening me and invaluable. I realized how very fortunate I was in many dimensions of life.
My mother's father was an indentured worker for 7 years and during that time, he learned English - spoken and written - saved money, and became an American citizen. What we MUST recognize is the fundamental role that Hispanic, Meso-, and South American workers perform in agriculture. These people must be included in the American economy.
The Federal government should legislate and oversee programs that provide education [parents and children], proper housing, medical, and nourishment for these essential workers. The horror stories of agricultural worker exploitation are too numerous to cite. Let's make them citizens instead of pariahs and simultaneously reinforce food security for the US.
GCC will create weather that is more unstable and less predictable in future, which has and will impact everyone. As a country, we must learn to work together, and a national service program would contribute to that end.
Yes! If we want a secure and securely democratic country for everyone, we must ensure that people living here receive decent housing and health care, fine education with a future in it and considerable attention to civics, government, and ethics, training for future employment, and an assurance that their efforts will be rewarded with a promising future for themselves and their children. As it now is, the corporate ceos, the owners of large concerns and corporate farms, the directors of educational and research institutions, the financial king-pins, determine everything and plan for the exploitation of all their workers. (Such workers are only now looking to unions to help level the playing field.) Divisions have intentionally been created along racial and economic lines, with the result that the ones at the top of every enterprise remain at the top and dependent on poorly compensated and socially disadvantaged to hang onto and increase their wealth. We need a federal government and a leader that will act in the interest of the underserved and those relegated to the bottom rungs in what should be an equalitarian society. And we need a leader not afraid to take bold measures to achieve bold and necessary ends.
Frankly, I’m very suspicious of comments bashing Biden when we are in the crisis of our lifetime by the fascist turned Republican party! Biden rolled out massive vaccine program after the orange goof ball wasted time saying the pandemic was a hoax, confirmed at least 40 judges which is phenomenally and desperately needed to counteract the lock on lunatic judges, Reversed Trump executive orders, which were extensive, Rejoined the Paris agreement, after Trump damaged our reputation further by leaving it!, Revoked permits for Keystone XL pipeline, xpanded Medicaid, got us out of a 20 year war!, 1.9 trillion dollars went to the Rescue Plan, gave extra unemployment benefits, food stamps during major unemployment during this crisis, Allocated $1.2TRILLION infrastructure package for roads, bridges, ports etc, has THE MOST DIVERSE admin in US history, added more jobs to economy in one year than Orange lunatic fid in 4!!!
Trump: DID NOT bring back jobs from China as promised
Did NOT lower health care costs as promised
Gave $2 TRILLION in tax cuts to uber wealthy only!
Allowed coal miners to go back to polluting waterways.
For those whining that Biden isn’t doing enough, we all want more action. But if Biden bashing is something you feel a need to do right now, you are a fool or a troll.
I don’t see the constructive part of your criticism. Of course constructive criticism is fine, but I’m saying we have way bigger things to criticize and do something about. What are your solutions, other than saying we need to be more aggressive. Exactly by doing what?
art ; with all due respect, the media is doing a thorough job of saying he will be defeated. We don't have time nor is it good strategy to join the chorus! All hands on deck! We are like a man with is hands tied behind his back, trying to fight a pack of bullies. Which side are you really on?
art ; what does that have to do with my comment? He can't change the fact that he has been in D.C. 40 or so years. Nor can we. He is our President for now and the only one we have.
Exactly. And he knows how treacherous people can be, not only in other countries, but here in America. He has witnessed assassinations, and knows how messy Democracy can be.
You sound like you wish to be argumentative. We basically agree. Let’s let it go at that. Biden responding to January 6th 14 months later is pathetic. His approach in my opinion was very weak
Ed Shook ; Biden's A.G. and Justice Department are doing their job. Because it is an investigation, he has not been at liberty to talk about it. They are making progress that could turn things around for the country.
Ed shook ; Biden is the only President we have at the moment, and possibly we won't get to vote another Democrat in again ever! If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem!
I totally agree. We have to pray and hope for the best. I don’t believe he can save us without more support from the American people. They are the real problem
It is good to support him in every way we can, and support each other, when we can. We have a very messed up Democracy, trying to form a more perfect union. And it 'ain't easy'!
How is what I posted above criticism? Because people wish to be heard? I voted for Biden, fully understanding that he could be a one-term president. I'd term that acceptance, not criticism. A change was in order.
What I can't figure out is where Biden wants us to go.
The most powerful man in the world they say. Republicans are running the country. It’s not worth arguing because to me it’s rhetorical and obvious that he has not done anything that he should be doing in terms of dealing with fascism. When he was elected he should’ve been very assertive and informed the American people we are under attack and we must prepare for Civil War and save our democracy
Thank you, Prof. Reich, for the lift. Your resilience is inspiring.
President Biden has built a great team. Turn the Cabinet loose. Get them speaking out from where they stand to stir the passion of the American people.
Biden's agenda isn't too ambitious; it's not ambitious enough. He needs to feed on the needs of the people and the planet, feed on the passion of his Cabinet and those in Congress whose fingers are on the pulse of the nation to build and communicate Rooseveltian vision, offering idea after idea after idea. Clearly sounded, the people around him, with him, will collectively leave voters with the thought "if only we could get true control of Congress, look what we can do."
We can still do much. This nadir we're in may yet be a solid launching pad.
I love that! "If only we could get true control of Congress, look what we can do." What I haven't seen from President Biden though is any ideas on how to or how we help him to get that done. His institutionalist leanings seem to keep him stuck in the past, and not looking forward, seeming to forget that many of these institutions along with the Constitution are still flawed, that they were originally put in were put in place to protect slavery, property and the wealthy.
For President Biden, maybe a change in mindset may be needed, particularly in getting his message out. For my purposes here, I am going to assume that the President has always been and is still fully committed to the progressive agenda that he laid out at the beginning of his administration (but sometimes what appears to be his passivity in responding to the ongoing obstruction to this agenda makes me wonder how strong that commitment really is). What I'm talking about, and it's been mentioned or alluded to in some of today's comments, is responding directly to those public statements and concerns given by the opposition. I'm particularly thinking about Senators Manchin and Sinema here, but it would also apply to others like Senator McConnell and Rep McCarthy. When, for example, Sinema says she won't support in any way changing the filibuster, because in her words “I will not support separate actions that worsen the underlying disease of division infecting our country”, he should not let that stand, but needs to respond directly as to why it isn't true or just plain misleading. Basically, he needs to call her out! Don't let these things slide! Of course, I understand that Presidents don't do these sorts of things traditionally, or it's not proper etiquette, or it's beneath the President to respond or comment, but we're way past that in this country now. Joe seems too often mired in tradition and institutionalism. Now seems like the time a direct approach is needed. Call them all out and take the debate public. I think we're at that point now. These representatives certainly do not hesitate in calling the President out, or if at least not directly, his agenda and policies. Maybe call out those Fox News personalities too, maybe even invite them to the White House to share a sippy cup!
I do not think Biden is "committed" to a progressive agenda. If Bernie & AOL could have sold it to America, then he would've supported it. Sen. Murray & Rep. Jayamal wouldn't even accept Manchin's support for a weak Build Back Better.
It's way beyond time for Biden to declare that he felt he was elected to seek bipartisanship, he tried well-beyond what most of his party wanted & was spurned, and it's time to act.
...Anything short of that makes him just another President from PA with the initials J.B., sitting in the White House while a large portion of the electorate want a Civil War over the issue of Abo##tion. Then it was ##=LI, now it's ##=R
I do believe that BIden has asserted that he plans to model his presidency on that of FDR who decided that the purpose of government was to serve the public and use the resources of the government to improve the lives of everyday working people. That is: FDR was a progressive in a time of crisis and he decided to focus on the needs of citizens instead of the whims of the wealthy. It is my understanding that Biden expressed a desire to emulate FDR who was perhaps the most progressive president we have had. (FDR was a man of immense wealth who was influenced by his Secretary of Labor Frances Perkins (first woman Cabinet Secretary) and by his wife Eleanor Roosevelt who was connected to the same wealthy family. The Roosevelts were both unlikely progressives but they both saw the situation for what it was and dealt with it head-on. It is also true that FDR downplayed his own infirmity and ill-health for the media but not when it came to dealing personally with polio victims at the camp he established for them.) What people need to understand now is that the wealthy will thrive no matter what happens to working-class individuals. During his very first debate with Hillary Clinton in 2016, Trump boasted that he had always finagled his way out of paying what he owed in taxes, that is, he confessed to a crime (tax evasion) before a tv audience. If things had been right with the world, the Republicans would have risen out of their stupor, the public would have decried the prospect of electing a self-confessed criminal, and that would have been the last we all heard of Trump except for news from the courtroom. Instead, we got to see what happens when things really run amok and no one stops the running. The American working class will once again foot the bill.
I do not expect that Biden will succeed in that goal if he is trying to unite people as polarized as we are turning out to be. He can keep trying to tie staunch conservatives to just as staunch liberals and he will fail. If, however, he decides to address the needs of the middle and lower-income people and to stress adherence to rule of law and justice for all plus honesty (the whole and unvarnished truth communicated directly to the public), he may come ahead a bit. Trying to appease the unwavering on the other side of the divide will not work. Trying to unite people that the former president aimed to divide (and conquer) might bring us further on. I do not have much hope left and I do not know what will happen in the future but I also think that trying to work with people who will have none of that will not bring us forward.
Of course he won't succeed in uniting anyone, even if he gets provoked into a war over Ukraine or Taiwan (which I hope doesn't happen). I was just trying to say he seems more on the record for seeking bipartisanship than for leading boldly, like FDR. Now, unless he does something drastically different, he's too weak and toxic for anyone (Murkowski, Collins, Romney or even anyone retiring) to want to help him. In fact, the weaker he seems domestically, the more likely Putin & Xi will test him. (Elsewhere, I posted he should get Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan to teach him to be a pack leader)
Thank you Mr. Tedford. I think many of us expect the president to step up to the plate and try to hit the ball. I did not have such expectations but I had hoped that the gravity of our situation might inspire Biden to more than faint words of protest. But from the start, I feared that Biden would try to "get along" with the opposition as that seems to be what he has done in the past and to this point. If he persists in this direction, he will fail to achieve any of his objectives and he will imply that it doesn't really matter to him if he accomplishes his (our?) goals. There are, however, people counting on him to make a difference in their lives, to break the chain of lies and speak the truth to power (aren't we supposed to be the power?). If he continues to try to appease or reconcile with the opposition, the opposition will carry the day, he will escape any negative feedback, and the American voters will pick up another tab. Is that what he wants? Failure to lead paid for by the long-suffering American public? We lament the fact that the former president refused to accept responsibility for his actions (or neglect) and his decisions. Are we going to go through that again with another leader more concerned with his own position and power than with doing what he promised to do?
I completely endorse this approach. I only have one caveat. Look at the front page of the Bezos owned Washington Post. Look at the photo of MLKs descendants marching in Washington for voting rights. There should have been a million people there. Every reform requires a mass movement in order to happen. That is what we are lacking and need now to support Robert’s leadership proposal.
On the same front page is another article. That article focuses on how the Biden agenda was too ambitious. You should just accept the billionaires taking over, your grandchildren should accept global warming and it is really too ambitious to change the status quo. It’s right there in black and white. I call it how to accept the slide into fascism.
But don’t be fooled by that approach. The centrists will be replaced in the Fall by right wing Republicans in the elections. The progressives will pick off a few more Republocrats and the Party will be where is was after 1968 and 1972—waiting for a new generation of politicians. Unfortunately time is running out on the American century. Global warming doesn’t care who is in office.
Did you see Elizabeth Warren on Colbert last night? Now that’s the kind of rationale and fire and fury the democrats need to show America…that there ARE ways to accomplish the goals
for majority of Americans, now squelched by the minority of fake Republican! There are ways to get things done; but I fear most Democrats - in government and in general - are failing to rise to the seriousness of the occasion: the life or death of our democracy. With the obstruction and demise of voting rights, what is America but a sham for wealthy whites fearful of who the citizens of our marvelous country really are! SHAME on Republicans for showing no integrity and still enmeshed in the Civil War, SHAME on Democrats for fighting a forest fire with a garden hose, SHAME on so many of us who aren’t infuriated enough to get
actively involved…as we sit glued to our cell phones as the world burns…
And I agree: Biden looks weak because he does not implement Presidential Orders as you stated. Time to step up and be aggressive, not watch us go down…
Sue ; I feel your fury and frustration! Our Democracy is tied in knots after years of incremental changes made by the wealthy and unethical. From the filibuster to the Senate rules to the stacked 'Supreme Court' to the present attempt by the Republican party,(controlled by a twice impeached and 'investigated' charlatan, directing an attempt to make himself King of the Universe, complete with his own intergalactic 'Death Star')!
I agree. He could also still hold rallies with unions in Virginia and Arizona to publicly shame Manchin and Sinema, and twist their arms a lot harder. He should have done that a long time ago.
He’s too weak. Republicans will reinstate trump after they steal midterms. Aggressive people need to be stopped and voting them out ain’t happening in the real world
Holding a vote is not an empty gesture - I want it ON THE RECORD which Senators think it's okay to NOT support voter rights and voter protections.
Absolutely agree! Our 'public servants' should be accountable! One way or the other they will be fired if they don't do their jobs.
I agree with all of your suggestions, but I would add that Biden - and all the congressional democrats - need to engage the public much, much, much more, perhaps also with fireside chats, talking about the popular measures he is trying to pass and how they are being blocked, talking about the threat to democracy from state legislation destroying voting rights, talking about the past sacrifice of American activists to protect the vote - for example Biden could talk about your childhood friend who was murdered by the klan for trying to register voters in Mississippi. Biden needs to throw a bright light onto what is going on for the American people; the corporate press won't be able to ignore it because the speeches would be coming from the president. Then he needs to at least reach out to every Republican senator on the voting rights legislation and report back to the American people, especially the people from the senator's state, on how that effort went, whether the senator agreed to meet, and if they met, exactly what the senator's excuses were for refusing to support the voting rights bill. Who knows, maybe a few Republicans will actually see the light. Manchin and Sinema will not do this work for him - they have not reached out to anybody on the Republican side and neither of them cares, Romney admitted as much. Clearly the current approach has failed so it's past time to abandon it: Biden has to come out of hiding and really engage the people if he cares about democracy. But not just Biden, Harris and every member of Congress who supports the voting rights act needs to hit the air waves non-stop about the threat to democracy, and above all reach out to their Republican colleagues and try hard to persuade them. Today most congressional democrats simply vote, throw up their hands, and go home. We are at a crossroads in American history and politicians need to act like they actually care about it.
Agree. I don't know why Biden isn't doing more of this kind of "fireside chat" communication with the American people.
We are so in sync, you and I. This is in my latest communications about what to do: "Fireside Chats — Talking to the human family, uniting us and inspiring us." But that requires people who could do that. Like you. Maybe, Robert, have a contest. Tryouts for who can do this well. Anyone can try. I bet it could go viral: The Save the World Challenge...??? Do this with me?
I have a feeling, being 85 years old , that electing people with little stamina is a downfall of the United States, we need leaders who can meet stress of physical exposure to the public concerns on a face to face encounter, even the younger legistlaters shun this approach possible due to fear, or maybe it’s not demanded enough by the public
I agree. The Administration repeatedly fails from its inability to create and spread a compelling message. Even as they strive to do the very best for America and Americans - real help for real people - they falter in the message. The other side can spin landfill sludge and persuade way too many that it's gold. This Administration has gold to give, and can't even get that out, persuasively. Biden needs a better core team around him.
I’ve been feeling this way for a long time now.
AGREED! This current situation is COMPLETELY DIRE! COMMUNICATION is their GREATEST WEAPON! They have access to many media outlets, I don’t understand why it’s not happening with fervor.🤷🏽♀️
Right now, what the Democratic party needs most is a first class salesperson -- someone who will go on all the talk shows, news shows, and Sunday morning shows and explain to the American people what is in these bills that have been stalled in the senate, how they would benefit the average American, and what American citizens can do to help get them passed (ie, call your senator, write your senator, write letters to the editor of your local paper). It doesn't matter if you live in a blue, red or purple state, put pressure on your senator to get this legislation passed. Then this salesperson needs to brag about what has been accomplished since Biden took office, the general state of the American economy, and the bright future that we could have if we all pulled together. Explain the need for bipartisanship -- which means Republicans working with Democrats to find ways of compromising, as opposed to using the filibuster. Make it clear that Democrats are open to debate but that Republicans are using the filibuster to stymie even that. Democrats have never been good at taking control of the narrative -- it is past time they learned to do it.
Who might that salesperson be?
Let Transportation Sec'y, former candidate Mayor Pete, go on a huge national Infrastructure Tour, becoming everyone's favorite Local Mayor - a Santa Claus with a bag full of pothole, road & bridge improvements, recreation & sports complexes, high speed internet hook-ups, nutritious breakfasts, after-school daycares, and more!
... if only voters asked their legislators to allow it* to proceed. Make it so popular that any Senator (running in '22) or House Rep who doesn't get on board, might fear paying a price in November 2022.
(*or some version of a 50-vote Reconciliation package)
Remember: the Parliamentarian ruled the Dems could have 4 Reconciliation-eligible packages during Biden's first 2 years, but Manchin thinks he has the power to prevent this. Hammer every WV town with shovel- and hammer-ready projects, and JOBS, JOBS, JOBS that their Senator Grinch opposes
Brilliant
Linda's ideas echo my own. We need Biden to be present and to talk honestly and openly to the American people. The truth is always the right thing to say, never more than right now when there is so much deception and obfuscation, seemingly coming from one side but truthfully coming from many sides, most of them malevolent in intent. Some time back, long before the state primaries for the national election of 2020, I watched a video town-hall meeting with Bernie Sanders and an audience of prospective voters. At the meeting, a Trump supporter raised her hand and indicated that she was keenly opposed to anything the Democrats and particularly Bernie proposed; she threw out the label of "Socialist" at Bernie and declared that he was trying to take over the government and allow the government to enter our lives and make all the decisions regarding health care for us. When Bernie responded, he did not reproach or demean the woman or attack her in any way; he figured quite rightly that she had not read much of the health care debate and was totally unfamiliar with what he was proposing and fighting for. He calmly and respectfully outlined the past and present state of affairs with Obamacare (ACA) and what changes he proposed to make the situation better for average working people. That is: he acknowledged the views and opinions of the woman and then worked on explaining the pros and the cons (NB) of what he was proposing. After his response, the woman indicated that she intended to vote for Bernie Sanders as what he was proposing would better serve her needs and the needs of her family. What Bernie had done was make his views personal, not personal for him but personal for her. Bernie used the media to go to the people and that is precisely what Biden needs to do. Most people are exposed to a huge amount of opinion from media hosts, especially from right-wing hosts but also from the left. Most are not involved in politics on any level and a good many missed out on solid courses in history, government, civics, and ethics. They operate from self-interest alone, never realizing that that is precisely what the oligarchs running the country are doing. When ordinary people listen to Bernie, they see an elected official who is putting their concerns and interests at the top of his list and speaking plainly, cogently, and truthfully to them. What Biden needs to do is direct his attention and his comments to those who will benefit/suffer because of what he does. This should be sobering to think of but I don't believe BIden will get far by continuing to appease and coddle the right-wing into coming along when it is not in their own interests to do so. If BIden wants to emulate FDR (or Sanders, for that matter), he will have to take it to the people and count on their support. And his appeal will have to be as constant and urgent as the problems we are now facing.
That's what I've been wondering, too. It needs to be someone who has time enough to get as much exposure as possible -- which pretty much eliminates both Biden and Harris. Either Elizabeth Warren or Bernie Sanders could do a bang up job, but I wonder if they are too controversial -- especially Bernie, much as I love him. It doesn't have to be someone in the current administration -- might be better if it weren't. But whoever it is needs to be well-informed, charismatic, and persuasive. Frankly, I can't think of anyone who could do a better job than Robert Reich.
Linda, It may turn out that Warren and Sanders are mainstream, that is, if the American voters turn to the progressive agenda wholeheartedly. We have spent a good 40 years with the "me and my own self-interests--first crowd," surely it might be worth our country's future and prosperity (for all) to give the "we and a better world (for all)" approach a spin. Appealing to wealthy individuals for their largesse and support of democracy will not work if they are primarily concerned with their own self-interest; we have to go to those who are not motivated by division and self-interest but by concern of everyone in our society;. BIden is supposed to be there but he cannot fully commit to the democratic ideal if he wants to defer to the folks who currently own the country and operate it for their benefit.
Oh, I agree that's what we need -- a wholehearted progressive agenda. But if we are to put pressure on senators from Republican states to support voter protection laws, then we need to bring their Republican constituents onboard. Polls have shown that these bills are popular across the political spectrum; that reality is not reflected in the senate. While Republican voters might respond to exhortations from say, Robert Reich, they might balk at supporting Bernie Sanders. Many mistakenly believe that Sanders is one thin line away from being a communist and dismiss him out of hand. As for Biden being the salesperson -- a fireside chat format might work, but Biden often comes across as rather flat and vague. He can give a great speech -- I've heard him do it -- but he doesn't always deliver. There's also a problem with audience -- those who tune in to Biden's speeches are generally in the choir. The salesperson needs to go where the audience is -- even if it is on Fox News -- and needs to be able to handle hostile questions.
Again, I would suggest Hillary Clinton!
What about Hillary Clinton?
Yeah, it can't be someone who the Republicans have already demonized. And yet it need to be someone who is at least a semi-public person. Please! Someone step up out of the shadows!
Good question. Unfortunately, neither the POTUS nor the Vice-POTUS is an inspiring speaker. Jen Psaki would kill it!
When the VP is not reading from a "canned script", and not being bound by DNC norms, and her real personality comes through, she can be just as persuasive as either Bernie Sanders or Elizabeth Warren. Once she gets fired up and off script, she's great at calling out the BS.
The message may be there but her awkward self-conscious tone and mannerisms detract from her credibility. An eloquent speaker like Stacey Abrams would knock the same message out of the ballpark.
I've seen the same things, particularly when she's reading something scripted. Maybe I could say she's a great conversationalist?
Katie Porter comes to mind!!
Yes!
Give us some ideas and maybe we can promote them. I'm almost in tears every day when I read your post and Heather Cox Richardson's letter. I've given money, I've sent messages to my congress people which is an exercise in futility in TN, no need to keep posting on FB because only the same 6 people respond and they are already on my side. It's beyond frustrating. I joined the local Democratic party organization, but they don't seem to be doing much either.
Lynnda, I live in a community that is probably quite different from yours but I would say that you might want to approach your neighbors and organize a friendly get-together of some kind, an occasion in which you discuss possible solutions to the problems in your own community. I would imagine that you would want to include everyone as long as they were willing to accept divergent views and wanted to help, not throw any dialog off course by arguing, etc. This sounds humble enough, maybe ineffectual, but, if you and one other person agree or if you are able to encourage someone else to "check it out" you will have done a great deal. I constantly contact my Representative in Congress but she happens to have a lot of seniority and is current serving on the Select Committee for January 6th; she was previously involved in the impeachment hearings so, what with her other work, she is quite busy. I would say that she does respond but, as you understand, I am not on top of her priorities--just now. Keep seeking out you rep and other reps. I have on occasion written to another rep in another state (someone also on the 1/ 6 committee) and he has replied. The fact that you are writing means that you deserve a response and should get one. I would also consider meeting with the head of the Democratic Party in your area and trying to get him/her to attend a town-hall meeting or perhaps organizing one. You have to be persistent as (if you are fortunate) your reps will be working full-time on proposals and policies and ideas for the country. I would say the place to start is your own neighborhood...that's how my street and neighborhood managed to hold meetings and get-togethers for everyone---fun times in which we aired our grievances, voiced our support for our chosen candidate, and (perhaps most importantly) got to know (and respect) each other.
I would forget the bipartisan junk. Republicans have. They consistently make this clear by their actions.
What they need to drive home ARE THE CONSEQUENCES IF THE BILL DOESN’T PASS!
That is what Americans need to understand.
The salesperson should be someone people can actually respect and they know this person speaks truth even when others don’t want to hear it. Someone like Lieutenant Alexander Vindman, or maybe the former Ambassador to Ukraine, Marie Yovanovitch.
It doesn’t have to be these people per se, but people like them.
I think this is a great idea! I'm with RR. Who would that salesperson or representative be?
Prof. Reich, Momentarily, I’m going to propose you add expanding the High Court to your list, using data that stuck with me from one of your earlier newsletters. However, I start with a quick survey of a handful of recent High Court decisions, partly to affirm Justice Correspondent Elie Mystal’s portrayal of Chief Justice John Roberts as an “enemy of voting rights and racial equality.” In 2013, Roberts authored Shelby County v Holder, which eviscerated Section 5 of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. In 2020, Roberts authored Rucho v Common Cause, wherein it was decided that particular gerrymandering disputes presented a political question beyond the realm of the Court. In 2021, Roberts provided the crucial vote in Brnovich v Democratic National Committee, which arguably eviscerated Section 2 of the 1965 Voting Rights Act.
Presently, we’re in an election year facing the likely absence of any meaningful federal voter protection safeguards that, otherwise, would have superseded the guaranteed onslaught of GOP voter suppression and election subversion measures, creating, in my view, obstacles around which no amount of organizing can compete. Setting aside that the fool posting this comment, nonetheless, will persist, I am deeply troubled by a seeming dismantling of federal safeguards and don’t imagine that this methodical evisceration by Republicans and the Court (ie The Federalist Society) ends here.
Shifting to my recollections of your newsletter from a while ago, I believe you had established a promising precedent for expanding the Court. My understanding is that in 1789 five Justices and one Chief Justice were seated, each of whom presided over one of the six Federal Circuit Courts. Today, because there are thirteen Federal Circuit Courts, over which only nine Justices presided, I imagine the High Court accepts fewer cases.
Though my knowledge here is extremely limited, I suspect invoking precedent both to expand the High Court and possibly add judges to the Lower Court is far more persuasive than basing one’s argument on the need to balance the Court.
I would welcome hearing from anyone on this thread about this painfully neglected issue by Democrats.
I stand by my earlier comments recommending that the Supreme Court be expanded in size. But that requires an act of Congress -- which brings us right back to the filibuster, because there's no way Republican senators will vote to expand the size of the high court.
Professor, Of course you’re right to prioritize workable initiatives that hopefully will incentivize the base. Still, with respect to the first half of my comment, I do wonder whether you, too, believe that the battle for federal voter protections, troubling as it is, is but one piece of a more widespread effort to dismantle federal safeguards.
Well said! I totally agree.
The arc of justice is long --- here is a weather prediction ---
When you strive for justice,
when you stand with the poor,
when you speak out for the care of the earth,
and forces descend against you,
remember: they are fueled by ignorance,
by fear and self-serving. These are small engines.
The spirit that empowers the work of justice
is as given as your breathing,
and as deep as all of our breathing together.
It is the breath of the whole earth.
It is of the very fabric of the universe,
and is gentle, strong and infinite.
_____________
Weather Report
Windy:
expect gusts of divine energy,
with periods of deep calm.
Watch for large structures
to come apart.
Hopes high through the day. With eventual hope ----
Your list of suggestions are excellent and all would help move the ball forward. I'm glad you mentioned executive orders. A writer here mentioned it last week and a day or two later the new governor of Virginia issued 11 of them right after being sworn in for his governorship. Had them already on his desk after his swearing in. He didn't waste a nanosecond. One of his orders repealed vaccine mandates for all state workers and mask mandates in schools, public work places. He then declared, "Virginia is open for business again!" Glenn Youngkin is an equities, mergers and acquisitions business man, a history of some of the riches companies in America. Executive orders and elections have consequences. I have this suggestion, STOP VOTING FOR RICH REPUBLICAN BUSINESSMEN.
Mostly agree. Kevin McCarthy and Mitch McConnell keep calling the voting rights bill "a Democrat power grab." I would like Biden and Senate Democrats to repeatedly demand that they explain precisely what provisions in the bill make it a Democratic power grab, and explain how all those state voter suppression bills aren't Republican power grabs, until they get answers. U.S. House and Senate Republicans' votes against election fairness and integrity, and against freedom to vote, should definitely be used against them as campaign issues in this year's elections.
Also point out that the filibuster in its current form stifles speech and debate, exacerbates division, and prevents Congress from working to serve the American people.
With regard to # 4 and 10, Democrats have done much to improve the lives of most Americans, while Republicans have done almost nothing. Yet, instead of touting their successes, effectively criticizing Republicans for failing to do their job, and making the argument that they can do more if more Democrats are elected, Democrats always seem to be on the defensive. Why is this?
I agree. President Biden should not be allowing either McCarthy's or McConnell's "trash talk" to go on without a response. It's not like "water off a duck's back", these comments stick. He needs to call them out just like you've said.
Democrats are always playing defense because GOP and many pseudo-independent voters live in a right-wing media bubble, and never hear that Democrats have leadership, fielded an offensive team, or scored any goals. Sorry for the sports analogy, but voters love the successes of winning teams, and they don't see Democrats as winners. McConnell thinks he can win his Murkowski turf-battle vs #45 without giving Biden, Cheney or the House Jan.6 committee any support or credit.
I think your suggestions are excellent and will lead to expanded majorities in the midterms. For his first year in office, I think the Biden Administration has accomplished a lot and that in the next year we will get voter protections and BBB Legislation (much easier when Sinema is replaced by a real Democrat).
Agreed- a "real democrat" who can also win the general election. I am sick of Sinema being described as a "moderate democrat". She and Manchin are more aptly described as "head-scratchingly infuriating democrats", who are nonetheless better than all Republican senators at this point by my thinking.
It seems to me that President Biden should be listening to you instead of others around him. You make a good case against Democrats shooting themselves in the foot.
BBB should be used as a jobs-creation program that will become a gateway for creating a national public service program. By that I mean that every citizen will perform at least 2 years of public service either in federal or state programs that will focus on supporting/remediating the educational, environmental, agricultural, and/or public infrastructures of the country.
High School graduates should have the privilege of finding out how the country actually works in a hands-on sense before going on to college, assuming that is what they want. College grads should serve at least 3 years if they didn't serve before entering college. I was an Army Officer for 2 years following graduation: those years were eye-opening me and invaluable. I realized how very fortunate I was in many dimensions of life.
My mother's father was an indentured worker for 7 years and during that time, he learned English - spoken and written - saved money, and became an American citizen. What we MUST recognize is the fundamental role that Hispanic, Meso-, and South American workers perform in agriculture. These people must be included in the American economy.
The Federal government should legislate and oversee programs that provide education [parents and children], proper housing, medical, and nourishment for these essential workers. The horror stories of agricultural worker exploitation are too numerous to cite. Let's make them citizens instead of pariahs and simultaneously reinforce food security for the US.
GCC will create weather that is more unstable and less predictable in future, which has and will impact everyone. As a country, we must learn to work together, and a national service program would contribute to that end.
Yes! If we want a secure and securely democratic country for everyone, we must ensure that people living here receive decent housing and health care, fine education with a future in it and considerable attention to civics, government, and ethics, training for future employment, and an assurance that their efforts will be rewarded with a promising future for themselves and their children. As it now is, the corporate ceos, the owners of large concerns and corporate farms, the directors of educational and research institutions, the financial king-pins, determine everything and plan for the exploitation of all their workers. (Such workers are only now looking to unions to help level the playing field.) Divisions have intentionally been created along racial and economic lines, with the result that the ones at the top of every enterprise remain at the top and dependent on poorly compensated and socially disadvantaged to hang onto and increase their wealth. We need a federal government and a leader that will act in the interest of the underserved and those relegated to the bottom rungs in what should be an equalitarian society. And we need a leader not afraid to take bold measures to achieve bold and necessary ends.
Bravo; I strongly support everything you've said here.
Thanks, DMS. All the best ...
Frankly, I’m very suspicious of comments bashing Biden when we are in the crisis of our lifetime by the fascist turned Republican party! Biden rolled out massive vaccine program after the orange goof ball wasted time saying the pandemic was a hoax, confirmed at least 40 judges which is phenomenally and desperately needed to counteract the lock on lunatic judges, Reversed Trump executive orders, which were extensive, Rejoined the Paris agreement, after Trump damaged our reputation further by leaving it!, Revoked permits for Keystone XL pipeline, xpanded Medicaid, got us out of a 20 year war!, 1.9 trillion dollars went to the Rescue Plan, gave extra unemployment benefits, food stamps during major unemployment during this crisis, Allocated $1.2TRILLION infrastructure package for roads, bridges, ports etc, has THE MOST DIVERSE admin in US history, added more jobs to economy in one year than Orange lunatic fid in 4!!!
Trump: DID NOT bring back jobs from China as promised
Did NOT lower health care costs as promised
Gave $2 TRILLION in tax cuts to uber wealthy only!
Allowed coal miners to go back to polluting waterways.
For those whining that Biden isn’t doing enough, we all want more action. But if Biden bashing is something you feel a need to do right now, you are a fool or a troll.
Constructive criticism shouldn’t be considered bashing
I don’t see the constructive part of your criticism. Of course constructive criticism is fine, but I’m saying we have way bigger things to criticize and do something about. What are your solutions, other than saying we need to be more aggressive. Exactly by doing what?
Look at the facts
What is truly constructive that you offer? Specifically. We don't have time to waste.
You tell ‘em, Seeking!
I don't see it as Biden bashing at all. I sense most Americans are concerned he will be a one-term President, and they wish to be heard.
art ; with all due respect, the media is doing a thorough job of saying he will be defeated. We don't have time nor is it good strategy to join the chorus! All hands on deck! We are like a man with is hands tied behind his back, trying to fight a pack of bullies. Which side are you really on?
Just to be clear about the media- I didn't vote for the media.
art; You did vote for Biden. Please see my recent comment on your comment made 5 hours ago, above.
With all do respect? Which side am I really on, you asked... Puhleeeeeze
How long has Biden been in D.C.? 40 or so years?
art ; what does that have to do with my comment? He can't change the fact that he has been in D.C. 40 or so years. Nor can we. He is our President for now and the only one we have.
I understand that. I voted for him.
He knows how the system works is my point.
Exactly. And he knows how treacherous people can be, not only in other countries, but here in America. He has witnessed assassinations, and knows how messy Democracy can be.
Based on what? If you want to criticize, provide some answer#.
You sound like you wish to be argumentative. We basically agree. Let’s let it go at that. Biden responding to January 6th 14 months later is pathetic. His approach in my opinion was very weak
Ed Shook ; Biden's A.G. and Justice Department are doing their job. Because it is an investigation, he has not been at liberty to talk about it. They are making progress that could turn things around for the country.
Ed shook ; Biden is the only President we have at the moment, and possibly we won't get to vote another Democrat in again ever! If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem!
I totally agree. We have to pray and hope for the best. I don’t believe he can save us without more support from the American people. They are the real problem
It is good to support him in every way we can, and support each other, when we can. We have a very messed up Democracy, trying to form a more perfect union. And it 'ain't easy'!
How is what I posted above criticism? Because people wish to be heard? I voted for Biden, fully understanding that he could be a one-term president. I'd term that acceptance, not criticism. A change was in order.
What I can't figure out is where Biden wants us to go.
I'm sure his Justice Department and A.G. are starting to move. As has been stated earlier, he is not all powerful, and must work with what he has.
The most powerful man in the world they say. Republicans are running the country. It’s not worth arguing because to me it’s rhetorical and obvious that he has not done anything that he should be doing in terms of dealing with fascism. When he was elected he should’ve been very assertive and informed the American people we are under attack and we must prepare for Civil War and save our democracy
I wonder what Civil War would look like?
Clearly, Merrick Garland has done his homework. There are people in jail awaiting trial.
Yes. It's encouraging. I hope it is the beginning of the end of at least some of the corruption, and the beginning of better things.
Thank you, Prof. Reich, for the lift. Your resilience is inspiring.
President Biden has built a great team. Turn the Cabinet loose. Get them speaking out from where they stand to stir the passion of the American people.
Biden's agenda isn't too ambitious; it's not ambitious enough. He needs to feed on the needs of the people and the planet, feed on the passion of his Cabinet and those in Congress whose fingers are on the pulse of the nation to build and communicate Rooseveltian vision, offering idea after idea after idea. Clearly sounded, the people around him, with him, will collectively leave voters with the thought "if only we could get true control of Congress, look what we can do."
We can still do much. This nadir we're in may yet be a solid launching pad.
I love that! "If only we could get true control of Congress, look what we can do." What I haven't seen from President Biden though is any ideas on how to or how we help him to get that done. His institutionalist leanings seem to keep him stuck in the past, and not looking forward, seeming to forget that many of these institutions along with the Constitution are still flawed, that they were originally put in were put in place to protect slavery, property and the wealthy.
For President Biden, maybe a change in mindset may be needed, particularly in getting his message out. For my purposes here, I am going to assume that the President has always been and is still fully committed to the progressive agenda that he laid out at the beginning of his administration (but sometimes what appears to be his passivity in responding to the ongoing obstruction to this agenda makes me wonder how strong that commitment really is). What I'm talking about, and it's been mentioned or alluded to in some of today's comments, is responding directly to those public statements and concerns given by the opposition. I'm particularly thinking about Senators Manchin and Sinema here, but it would also apply to others like Senator McConnell and Rep McCarthy. When, for example, Sinema says she won't support in any way changing the filibuster, because in her words “I will not support separate actions that worsen the underlying disease of division infecting our country”, he should not let that stand, but needs to respond directly as to why it isn't true or just plain misleading. Basically, he needs to call her out! Don't let these things slide! Of course, I understand that Presidents don't do these sorts of things traditionally, or it's not proper etiquette, or it's beneath the President to respond or comment, but we're way past that in this country now. Joe seems too often mired in tradition and institutionalism. Now seems like the time a direct approach is needed. Call them all out and take the debate public. I think we're at that point now. These representatives certainly do not hesitate in calling the President out, or if at least not directly, his agenda and policies. Maybe call out those Fox News personalities too, maybe even invite them to the White House to share a sippy cup!
I do not think Biden is "committed" to a progressive agenda. If Bernie & AOL could have sold it to America, then he would've supported it. Sen. Murray & Rep. Jayamal wouldn't even accept Manchin's support for a weak Build Back Better.
It's way beyond time for Biden to declare that he felt he was elected to seek bipartisanship, he tried well-beyond what most of his party wanted & was spurned, and it's time to act.
...Anything short of that makes him just another President from PA with the initials J.B., sitting in the White House while a large portion of the electorate want a Civil War over the issue of Abo##tion. Then it was ##=LI, now it's ##=R
I do believe that BIden has asserted that he plans to model his presidency on that of FDR who decided that the purpose of government was to serve the public and use the resources of the government to improve the lives of everyday working people. That is: FDR was a progressive in a time of crisis and he decided to focus on the needs of citizens instead of the whims of the wealthy. It is my understanding that Biden expressed a desire to emulate FDR who was perhaps the most progressive president we have had. (FDR was a man of immense wealth who was influenced by his Secretary of Labor Frances Perkins (first woman Cabinet Secretary) and by his wife Eleanor Roosevelt who was connected to the same wealthy family. The Roosevelts were both unlikely progressives but they both saw the situation for what it was and dealt with it head-on. It is also true that FDR downplayed his own infirmity and ill-health for the media but not when it came to dealing personally with polio victims at the camp he established for them.) What people need to understand now is that the wealthy will thrive no matter what happens to working-class individuals. During his very first debate with Hillary Clinton in 2016, Trump boasted that he had always finagled his way out of paying what he owed in taxes, that is, he confessed to a crime (tax evasion) before a tv audience. If things had been right with the world, the Republicans would have risen out of their stupor, the public would have decried the prospect of electing a self-confessed criminal, and that would have been the last we all heard of Trump except for news from the courtroom. Instead, we got to see what happens when things really run amok and no one stops the running. The American working class will once again foot the bill.
Biden's Inaugural Address theme was a national call for Unity
I do not expect that Biden will succeed in that goal if he is trying to unite people as polarized as we are turning out to be. He can keep trying to tie staunch conservatives to just as staunch liberals and he will fail. If, however, he decides to address the needs of the middle and lower-income people and to stress adherence to rule of law and justice for all plus honesty (the whole and unvarnished truth communicated directly to the public), he may come ahead a bit. Trying to appease the unwavering on the other side of the divide will not work. Trying to unite people that the former president aimed to divide (and conquer) might bring us further on. I do not have much hope left and I do not know what will happen in the future but I also think that trying to work with people who will have none of that will not bring us forward.
Of course he won't succeed in uniting anyone, even if he gets provoked into a war over Ukraine or Taiwan (which I hope doesn't happen). I was just trying to say he seems more on the record for seeking bipartisanship than for leading boldly, like FDR. Now, unless he does something drastically different, he's too weak and toxic for anyone (Murkowski, Collins, Romney or even anyone retiring) to want to help him. In fact, the weaker he seems domestically, the more likely Putin & Xi will test him. (Elsewhere, I posted he should get Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan to teach him to be a pack leader)
Thank you Mr. Tedford. I think many of us expect the president to step up to the plate and try to hit the ball. I did not have such expectations but I had hoped that the gravity of our situation might inspire Biden to more than faint words of protest. But from the start, I feared that Biden would try to "get along" with the opposition as that seems to be what he has done in the past and to this point. If he persists in this direction, he will fail to achieve any of his objectives and he will imply that it doesn't really matter to him if he accomplishes his (our?) goals. There are, however, people counting on him to make a difference in their lives, to break the chain of lies and speak the truth to power (aren't we supposed to be the power?). If he continues to try to appease or reconcile with the opposition, the opposition will carry the day, he will escape any negative feedback, and the American voters will pick up another tab. Is that what he wants? Failure to lead paid for by the long-suffering American public? We lament the fact that the former president refused to accept responsibility for his actions (or neglect) and his decisions. Are we going to go through that again with another leader more concerned with his own position and power than with doing what he promised to do?
I completely endorse this approach. I only have one caveat. Look at the front page of the Bezos owned Washington Post. Look at the photo of MLKs descendants marching in Washington for voting rights. There should have been a million people there. Every reform requires a mass movement in order to happen. That is what we are lacking and need now to support Robert’s leadership proposal.
On the same front page is another article. That article focuses on how the Biden agenda was too ambitious. You should just accept the billionaires taking over, your grandchildren should accept global warming and it is really too ambitious to change the status quo. It’s right there in black and white. I call it how to accept the slide into fascism.
But don’t be fooled by that approach. The centrists will be replaced in the Fall by right wing Republicans in the elections. The progressives will pick off a few more Republocrats and the Party will be where is was after 1968 and 1972—waiting for a new generation of politicians. Unfortunately time is running out on the American century. Global warming doesn’t care who is in office.
I agree
Did you see Elizabeth Warren on Colbert last night? Now that’s the kind of rationale and fire and fury the democrats need to show America…that there ARE ways to accomplish the goals
for majority of Americans, now squelched by the minority of fake Republican! There are ways to get things done; but I fear most Democrats - in government and in general - are failing to rise to the seriousness of the occasion: the life or death of our democracy. With the obstruction and demise of voting rights, what is America but a sham for wealthy whites fearful of who the citizens of our marvelous country really are! SHAME on Republicans for showing no integrity and still enmeshed in the Civil War, SHAME on Democrats for fighting a forest fire with a garden hose, SHAME on so many of us who aren’t infuriated enough to get
actively involved…as we sit glued to our cell phones as the world burns…
And I agree: Biden looks weak because he does not implement Presidential Orders as you stated. Time to step up and be aggressive, not watch us go down…
Sue ; I feel your fury and frustration! Our Democracy is tied in knots after years of incremental changes made by the wealthy and unethical. From the filibuster to the Senate rules to the stacked 'Supreme Court' to the present attempt by the Republican party,(controlled by a twice impeached and 'investigated' charlatan, directing an attempt to make himself King of the Universe, complete with his own intergalactic 'Death Star')!
I agree. He could also still hold rallies with unions in Virginia and Arizona to publicly shame Manchin and Sinema, and twist their arms a lot harder. He should have done that a long time ago.
He’s too weak. Republicans will reinstate trump after they steal midterms. Aggressive people need to be stopped and voting them out ain’t happening in the real world