Trying to cut through the muck and sort out what we are seeing played out
I am sure some people enjoy the blood sport, conflict aspect of politics. Maybe the truth is that many do - at least those who have the ability to get out in front of people's faces - pundits, media - and that leaks into sites like ours, here at DU. I have to confess that I am not in that camp - don't seek or enjoy conflicts, or arguments for the sake of arguing - so I try to seek what lies beneath.
The passion on each of the players for the Democratic nomination is great to see. That passion is what it will take to ensure continuity with the White House, of course.
When I see the inevitable rifts forming (it is human nature, and we are humans, after all), I've wracked my brain thinking of the actual root cause of the conflict. Maybe it all boils down to this - perceived idealism vs perceived realism (I use the word perceived because each election is different, and each of us interpret the reactions of others differently, based upon our own beliefs and wishes).
If this was math, would it be a set of simple equations like this (and, yes, I am going to generalize a bit and in no way make a clain to covering anywhere near all bases, all opinions):
Bernie Sanders certainly says the right things and is a breath of fresh air in what has become a pretty awful political process that favors the wealthy. But CAN he win? (and we can all harken back to great liberal candidates who for various reasons don't get traction and win the election).
Hillary Clinton is fully deserving and able to be the next president of the US - and although there are some nicks in her decision portfolio, considering the context of her roles, and timing, she is head and shoulders above any Republican and would make a great president. Under the current climate, she certainly CAN win and deserves our support.
But each election is different - perhaps the paradigm will shift and Sanders can, with increasing momentum and support, win the presidency. But perhaps not. Perhaps Hillary is in a better position to win - and that is what really is critical. But if we all get behind Bernie. But..but...but - it becomes something of a circular discussion - and none of us know the right answer.
I am actually going to give us all here a lot of credit and acknowledge we know fully well what is at stake, and it has all been stated so many times that I won't repeat any of it. But this is an absolutely critical election. It isn't about whose turn it is, it isn't about cults of personality. It is about ensuring that we win.
So among the arguing, conflicts, hidden posts and all, I see a group of passionate democrats fully invested and involved in ensuring that there is a Democrat in the white house for another 8 years. It may be messy, loud, not always pretty, feelings will get hurt - but in all of this, I actually see HOPE!
= new reply since forum marked as read
Saying Hillary can win is a huge assumption. She is the one most likely to make some outrageous claim that destroys her own campaign. Remember Snipergate? You can bet the (R)s do and already have attack ads up.
Bernie is more likely to win. There are far fewer ways to attack him and his trustworthy numbers are right side up. He can stay on message as well as anyone in the business. If we are smart enough to make him our nominee we will have a much better chance in the GE. Not only for holding onto the White House but also for down ticket races.
"Nicks in her decision portfolio". Good one!
As you can tell from my avatar, I am a Bernie supporter. But I like to take an analytical view and respect all viewpoints.
