Think about this: When was the last time you saw genuine joy at a political rally? And, we should never forget that we have Joe Biden to thank for some of this joy. Few politicians are willing to step back for the common good.
Amen! While President Biden was being bashed by the media, undercut by anonymous members of his own party, and accused by Republicans of being senile, he was quietly orchestrating the release of 24 "detainees" from Putin's Russia.
You know my suspicion, Susan, that Biden has been “Feeble like a Fox”, using his stubbornness and timing his selfless move perfectly to jam up Republicans, trying to cast Kamala in some wacky light with a Dem convention coming up and little time left on the clock! (Yea, I know the Nancy narrative, and yes, she is another hero…)
So, all of it was a carefully thought-out and orchestrated ruse? All of it all along? Including having House and Senate members create fictional stories about their interactions with Joe? All the unnamed sources were in on it as well as some members of the press? Did Joe go to acting school to appear feeble (your word)? Did the practice and prep for the debate include how to come off as being in a galaxy far far away?
Who keeps me honest?? Only You, ~Shadowcloud~! Yes, this is more of a happy daydream. I’ll watch the recorded Frontline: “Biden’s Decision” soon, and get corrected.
Initially, it was a way to comfort people around me that Biden bowing out so late in the game could have benefits, and doesn’t have to be a disaster.
I do believe that Republicans not having the previous 8 months to try to cast Harris in some wacky negative characterization is a blessing, however unintended it may have been.
Then again, is Biden not astute and talented enough not to have been the only one who was in on it? You won’t hear that from me!
Full disclosure, Biden carried my wife’s bag off an Amtrak in DC when he was a senator at his sister’s suggestion, and I still honor him for the only sober statements and guest appearances from folks like Joe Cirincione that he facilitated as committee chair after 911. Other folks in both houses of congress were making absolutely hysterical statements. (And yes, Joe did vote to invade.) Besides Joe and a number of his hearing guests, by the way, some of the most accurate forecasting on our post-911 world came from the late Tom Clancy of all people, on programs like the (valuable contributor) Charley Rose.
Anyhow, I agree with you. An orchestrated ruse is quite unlikely. And it’s quite possible he thought he was the only one who could beat Trump, just like he said.
In a different thread remarked how Trump needed and stills needs an intervention.
My reply (shortened here) was yes, however no family member or acquaintance loves Trump enough to pursue an intervention. And then pivoted to Joe.
Joe is beloved. That's the reason so many intervened. While some can debate the methods used by some, one cannot argue it wasn't done out of love.
Keep in mind they knew there would be blowback and there was. Individually and collectively they were maligned for doing the right thing.
Not one asked for a pat on the head or back or heaven forbid play the childish told ya so card since Joe stepped aside. Doing what's right doesn't come with the license to gloat or rub it into the faces of others. Indeed, they all credited Joe as if it was his idea all along.
So, can see how you went astray. Fiction reads and feels better than non-fiction, until non-fiction (truth and reality) surpasses the fictional feeling. As it has in this larger story for most, not all.
In that set is Trump, the Trump campaign, enablers, supporters, right-wing media, a segment of mainstream media, and while it pains me to say this, some Ds. Those Ds are adults. As individuals, they know how to climb out of a hole of their own making because they've all done it countless times before.
~Shadowcloud~ I didn’t realize those around him were saying it was Joe’s idea all along. I’m not sure I’m seeing where I went astray.
I think I’ve avoided social media for too long, and I’m posting too much in a rarified environment where there are some like me, but many more experienced and up-to-date participants, and I need to back off.
I tried to make my comment tongue in cheek by referring to it as a “suspicion”, but you’re telling me that I went wrong somewhere, and so either I’m failing to communicate effectively, or maybe there is something I’ve said in the past that let’s others see through me in some way. I even provided full disclosure about my regard for President Biden.
Anyhow, my exuberance over the increased possibility that our democracy may survive is finally waning, and I’ll try not to post so much. I think this may help you somehow as well, and I am happy to serve. I respect you, and don’t want to continue to get under your skin with my thoughts.
Having been part of more than one intervention -- I clapped my hand over my mouth when I read "no family member or acquaintance loves Trump enough to pursue an intervention." Yes, yes, and yes again. Those in the GOP who might have done for Trump, and for the party, what the Dems did for President Biden -- they've long since been driven out. Now I'm starting to think of the January 6 hearings as the beginning of an intervention on behalf of the country . . .
By the way, besides mentioning I left a double-negative in there in the pivotal Biden “the only one in on it” paragraph, I should mention that I kind of prefer “Doddering like a Fox”, but my wife prefers the more alliterative Feeble, and she has a way better track record on these things than I do!
Can't recall another time in my life when so many lost their minds and said/wrote the oddest things. Felt like The Twilight Zone.
One thing can bank on a few inside the Beltway journos and a few from NYC will write books on those few weeks and peddle them on the teevee after the election claiming they have the inside scoop.
Note: I miss Michelle even more than O. Miss the gurlz who aren't gurlz anymore. How many recall the 2007/8 Republican rumor that O and Kamala were having an affair?
I was at (squooshed by crowd and cops on horseback) JFK's 1960 rally in NYC's Garment District. Watched on TV election night , Chicago, 2008. Genuine joy, both. Philly was in same ballpark.
Wow+1! JFK and Barack Obama, two guys who express our highest ideals as well as anyone! You’ve been at pivot points when hope has been kept alive, Lawrence! Let this be another one!
Amid all the enthusiasm and joy everyone witnessed in the Walz introduction last night, the NYT has to of course try to dampen enthusiasm. The lead story this morning, headlined as Dems strategy to put a liberal in Carhartt's to talk to rural voters and "obscure" a liberal record, immediately descends into a hit piece by Lisa Lerer. The second lead story trumpets Walz's '95 arrest for drunk driving, as if this is a new revelation and how critics are "questioning his fitness to serve." What critics, where?? It's finally sinking into me why so many people here have cancelled subscriptions. This isn't equal coverage, it's a bare attempt like Fox to resuscitate a failing campaign.
No one has really explained why the NYTs is so "down" on Biden and Harris - and evidently now, on Walz. It makes me think some on the right are correct when they identify East Coast elitism as an enemy within. If anything, that negativity masquerading as both-siderism is going to backfire once Harris and Walz are elected and the NYTs is last on a long list of media sources to get an interview with either the Prez of her VP. (I love saying that - HER VP!)
My subscription ended as of Aug 1st. I still haven't figured out what to do with all of the extra time I have in the morning before work. (I'm not a morning person).
Walz is everyone's favorite teacher. Vance is the creeper they try to keep kids from being left alone with. Harris and Walz have a positive vision for the future. Trump/Vance promise a bombed-out dystopia of serfs and oligarchs.
This from Cox Richards states it well, "Vice President Harris had a very deep bench from which to choose a running mate, but her choice of Walz seems to have been widely popular. Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Joe Manchin of West Virginia, who are usually on opposite sides of the party, both praised the choice, prompting Ocasio-Cortez to post: “Dems in disconcerting levels of array.”'
Knowing that Neo-Nazis are at the door should be a motivator to get out the vote. But a little optimism, a little joy, also helps people do the work that needs to be done. Maybe this Roevember you can help drive people to the polls.
"Ocasio-Cortez to post: “Dems in disconcerting levels of array.”'
Whatever folk think of AOC's politics, it's a mistake to underestimate her intellect, wit, authenticity, political instincts (inc handling being wrong) and communication skills. There are more. Can't say that about many in politics today. Ds are fortunate she is with them.
Flawless roll-out. I rarely say that, being an editor by profession, by training and at heart. I ALWAYS see something to improve; not here or now with the Harris-Walz campaign. Brilliant and genius, married.
Yes, there is now hope. But,, as most recent polls show among committed voters the Ds trail in the key swing states. Some are within the margin of error but the MAGA core is holding fast.
What I am hoping for is an all out blitz by both Harris and Walz in these states to sell one pretty simple message. Unless voters come out in droves a mimority of Americans are going to rob the majorith of the benefits and freedoms we have long enjoyed. The Democrats can rely on hope and aspirations only so much. At a certain point they are going to have to effectively drive home the message "what you have now in terms of your own personal social satety net is going to be taken away. Your Soical Security, your Medicare, your public schools and, yes, your freedom to choose a whole array of choices about your personal life you have been taking for granted for over half a centur.
This election cannot be won without a massive turnout from infrequent Democratic and Independent voters and, most importatnly, from that vast pool of 1/3 of us who sit home all the time in the belief "my vote does not count." This time it will but unless Democrat messaging persuades millions of drop outs they need to exercise their right, Trump and his MAGA acolytes are going to be put in positions of power they will wield to destroy not build a nation supposedly dedicated to E PLURIBUS UNUM.
Very well put, especially the part that people have to turn out and vote. No doubt Magas will make that as difficult as possible, it's going to take a tsunami of ongoing enthusiasm.
I suspect the orange clown is having to change pants a couple times a day. Even Joe Rogan in his podcast admitted Trump is too divisive and he expects him to lose even though he does not want that. While Walz is not the future of the party being 60, he is very likable and will not hurt, maybe even help. Now the party has to hammer home that Trump is a traitor, an insurrectionist, a criminal, a poster boy for narcissism, and the phony Vance should not be allowed to be a dog catcher.
Walz amplifies Kamala’s tremendous energy, his record is totally progressive, and his midwestern dad vibe is perfect for her campaign. His speech at the rally last night was a barn-burner, and he even got a dig in re Vance and the "couch" prank.
I’m glad I’m here and watching this all happen in real time to the most defanged and demented ex president. Elected only by the ignorant who knew nothing about him, save for his tv program. Well Donald, “You’re Fired!”
My bet: it's gonna be a blowout. Not that we should be over confident - but it's going to be a blowout. "Mind Your Own Damn Business" - MYODB caps anyone?
In the immortal words of the great sage Taj Mahal "Why don't you mind your own business? 'Cause if you mind your own business then you won't be mindin' mine."
This is the kind of whirlwind I love to see. The election is opening up for us. We can preserve our democracy this November if we continue with our joyous enthusiasm and vote Harris-Walz!
I hope the Harris/Walz campaign is prepared to spend what it will need to see to it that the results are certified...the republicans have gotten election deniers in place to refuse to certify the votes when the Democrats win. This worries me.
The Harris/Walz campaign has the finances to take on the Maga gloom campaign. They are forcing them to spend money in safe states.
As for election deniers? The Democratic party is well aware of what is afoot. They are preparing for it. We all just need to do our part: GIVE, if we can afford to, GET out the vote, GET to the polls and vote blue the entire ticket. If we stick to the three Gs, we will win.
Trump, who is mystified by anyone who doesn't think like he does, said that Biden will appear at the Convention and retake his rightful place at the top of the ticket.
I have also heard a conspiracy theory that the entire switch from Biden to Harris was a choreographed act. It's hard for me to think of Joe Biden having that kind of duplicity.
Think about this: When was the last time you saw genuine joy at a political rally? And, we should never forget that we have Joe Biden to thank for some of this joy. Few politicians are willing to step back for the common good.
Amen! While President Biden was being bashed by the media, undercut by anonymous members of his own party, and accused by Republicans of being senile, he was quietly orchestrating the release of 24 "detainees" from Putin's Russia.
I totally agree. He’s been a great president.
You know my suspicion, Susan, that Biden has been “Feeble like a Fox”, using his stubbornness and timing his selfless move perfectly to jam up Republicans, trying to cast Kamala in some wacky light with a Dem convention coming up and little time left on the clock! (Yea, I know the Nancy narrative, and yes, she is another hero…)
So, all of it was a carefully thought-out and orchestrated ruse? All of it all along? Including having House and Senate members create fictional stories about their interactions with Joe? All the unnamed sources were in on it as well as some members of the press? Did Joe go to acting school to appear feeble (your word)? Did the practice and prep for the debate include how to come off as being in a galaxy far far away?
What comes next?
Who keeps me honest?? Only You, ~Shadowcloud~! Yes, this is more of a happy daydream. I’ll watch the recorded Frontline: “Biden’s Decision” soon, and get corrected.
Initially, it was a way to comfort people around me that Biden bowing out so late in the game could have benefits, and doesn’t have to be a disaster.
I do believe that Republicans not having the previous 8 months to try to cast Harris in some wacky negative characterization is a blessing, however unintended it may have been.
Then again, is Biden not astute and talented enough not to have been the only one who was in on it? You won’t hear that from me!
Full disclosure, Biden carried my wife’s bag off an Amtrak in DC when he was a senator at his sister’s suggestion, and I still honor him for the only sober statements and guest appearances from folks like Joe Cirincione that he facilitated as committee chair after 911. Other folks in both houses of congress were making absolutely hysterical statements. (And yes, Joe did vote to invade.) Besides Joe and a number of his hearing guests, by the way, some of the most accurate forecasting on our post-911 world came from the late Tom Clancy of all people, on programs like the (valuable contributor) Charley Rose.
Anyhow, I agree with you. An orchestrated ruse is quite unlikely. And it’s quite possible he thought he was the only one who could beat Trump, just like he said.
In a different thread remarked how Trump needed and stills needs an intervention.
My reply (shortened here) was yes, however no family member or acquaintance loves Trump enough to pursue an intervention. And then pivoted to Joe.
Joe is beloved. That's the reason so many intervened. While some can debate the methods used by some, one cannot argue it wasn't done out of love.
Keep in mind they knew there would be blowback and there was. Individually and collectively they were maligned for doing the right thing.
Not one asked for a pat on the head or back or heaven forbid play the childish told ya so card since Joe stepped aside. Doing what's right doesn't come with the license to gloat or rub it into the faces of others. Indeed, they all credited Joe as if it was his idea all along.
So, can see how you went astray. Fiction reads and feels better than non-fiction, until non-fiction (truth and reality) surpasses the fictional feeling. As it has in this larger story for most, not all.
In that set is Trump, the Trump campaign, enablers, supporters, right-wing media, a segment of mainstream media, and while it pains me to say this, some Ds. Those Ds are adults. As individuals, they know how to climb out of a hole of their own making because they've all done it countless times before.
~Shadowcloud~ I didn’t realize those around him were saying it was Joe’s idea all along. I’m not sure I’m seeing where I went astray.
I think I’ve avoided social media for too long, and I’m posting too much in a rarified environment where there are some like me, but many more experienced and up-to-date participants, and I need to back off.
I tried to make my comment tongue in cheek by referring to it as a “suspicion”, but you’re telling me that I went wrong somewhere, and so either I’m failing to communicate effectively, or maybe there is something I’ve said in the past that let’s others see through me in some way. I even provided full disclosure about my regard for President Biden.
Anyhow, my exuberance over the increased possibility that our democracy may survive is finally waning, and I’ll try not to post so much. I think this may help you somehow as well, and I am happy to serve. I respect you, and don’t want to continue to get under your skin with my thoughts.
I wish you the best, ~Shadowcloud~
Having been part of more than one intervention -- I clapped my hand over my mouth when I read "no family member or acquaintance loves Trump enough to pursue an intervention." Yes, yes, and yes again. Those in the GOP who might have done for Trump, and for the party, what the Dems did for President Biden -- they've long since been driven out. Now I'm starting to think of the January 6 hearings as the beginning of an intervention on behalf of the country . . .
By the way, besides mentioning I left a double-negative in there in the pivotal Biden “the only one in on it” paragraph, I should mention that I kind of prefer “Doddering like a Fox”, but my wife prefers the more alliterative Feeble, and she has a way better track record on these things than I do!
I've heard that same theory but with Michelle Obama coming in to save the day! LOL!
Can't recall another time in my life when so many lost their minds and said/wrote the oddest things. Felt like The Twilight Zone.
One thing can bank on a few inside the Beltway journos and a few from NYC will write books on those few weeks and peddle them on the teevee after the election claiming they have the inside scoop.
Note: I miss Michelle even more than O. Miss the gurlz who aren't gurlz anymore. How many recall the 2007/8 Republican rumor that O and Kamala were having an affair?
I was at (squooshed by crowd and cops on horseback) JFK's 1960 rally in NYC's Garment District. Watched on TV election night , Chicago, 2008. Genuine joy, both. Philly was in same ballpark.
Wow!
Wow+1! JFK and Barack Obama, two guys who express our highest ideals as well as anyone! You’ve been at pivot points when hope has been kept alive, Lawrence! Let this be another one!
So true...what a selfless act.
Amid all the enthusiasm and joy everyone witnessed in the Walz introduction last night, the NYT has to of course try to dampen enthusiasm. The lead story this morning, headlined as Dems strategy to put a liberal in Carhartt's to talk to rural voters and "obscure" a liberal record, immediately descends into a hit piece by Lisa Lerer. The second lead story trumpets Walz's '95 arrest for drunk driving, as if this is a new revelation and how critics are "questioning his fitness to serve." What critics, where?? It's finally sinking into me why so many people here have cancelled subscriptions. This isn't equal coverage, it's a bare attempt like Fox to resuscitate a failing campaign.
No one has really explained why the NYTs is so "down" on Biden and Harris - and evidently now, on Walz. It makes me think some on the right are correct when they identify East Coast elitism as an enemy within. If anything, that negativity masquerading as both-siderism is going to backfire once Harris and Walz are elected and the NYTs is last on a long list of media sources to get an interview with either the Prez of her VP. (I love saying that - HER VP!)
They be out of business long before they get that interview!
👍👍
They believe the whole world is in thrall to the “smarties” on Wall Street (who all prefer a Repub president)
I’m glad I canceled my subscription to The NY Times!
Same here. Just sick that they’ve gone into the toilet. There are things I miss that aren’t political but really … can’t do it
Me too.
Thanks
The NYT’s bothsideism is nauseating
cancel NYT - long on my todo list - got moved up to top five tasks. WTF happened to them? where have all the editors gone, from copy to page?
Canceled mine 2 years ago now. Picked up Lucian's Substack instead. Well worth the change!
My subscription ended as of Aug 1st. I still haven't figured out what to do with all of the extra time I have in the morning before work. (I'm not a morning person).
It's SO very nice to see, for once, Democrats doing everything right. Thanks Kamala, thanks Tim. Whew!!
Walz is everyone's favorite teacher. Vance is the creeper they try to keep kids from being left alone with. Harris and Walz have a positive vision for the future. Trump/Vance promise a bombed-out dystopia of serfs and oligarchs.
Love this, James! A more family values version of the old “have a beer with…” candidate test.:
“Would you leave your children alone with either of the candidates on this ticket?”
Man oh man:
Karisma and the Coach vs Grumpy and Creepy. Bring it, hahaha
Bravo! I am stealing and attributing…
Me, too!
LOL I can just hear “Grumpy and Creepy” sung to the tune of the old Simpsons TV favorite: “The Itchy and Scratchy Show!”
😂😂😂
This from Cox Richards states it well, "Vice President Harris had a very deep bench from which to choose a running mate, but her choice of Walz seems to have been widely popular. Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Joe Manchin of West Virginia, who are usually on opposite sides of the party, both praised the choice, prompting Ocasio-Cortez to post: “Dems in disconcerting levels of array.”'
Knowing that Neo-Nazis are at the door should be a motivator to get out the vote. But a little optimism, a little joy, also helps people do the work that needs to be done. Maybe this Roevember you can help drive people to the polls.
"Ocasio-Cortez to post: “Dems in disconcerting levels of array.”'
Whatever folk think of AOC's politics, it's a mistake to underestimate her intellect, wit, authenticity, political instincts (inc handling being wrong) and communication skills. There are more. Can't say that about many in politics today. Ds are fortunate she is with them.
Agree...she's brilliant!
Hi Ho, Hi Ho, it's off to vote we go!
Flawless roll-out. I rarely say that, being an editor by profession, by training and at heart. I ALWAYS see something to improve; not here or now with the Harris-Walz campaign. Brilliant and genius, married.
Yes, there is now hope. But,, as most recent polls show among committed voters the Ds trail in the key swing states. Some are within the margin of error but the MAGA core is holding fast.
What I am hoping for is an all out blitz by both Harris and Walz in these states to sell one pretty simple message. Unless voters come out in droves a mimority of Americans are going to rob the majorith of the benefits and freedoms we have long enjoyed. The Democrats can rely on hope and aspirations only so much. At a certain point they are going to have to effectively drive home the message "what you have now in terms of your own personal social satety net is going to be taken away. Your Soical Security, your Medicare, your public schools and, yes, your freedom to choose a whole array of choices about your personal life you have been taking for granted for over half a centur.
This election cannot be won without a massive turnout from infrequent Democratic and Independent voters and, most importatnly, from that vast pool of 1/3 of us who sit home all the time in the belief "my vote does not count." This time it will but unless Democrat messaging persuades millions of drop outs they need to exercise their right, Trump and his MAGA acolytes are going to be put in positions of power they will wield to destroy not build a nation supposedly dedicated to E PLURIBUS UNUM.
Very well put, especially the part that people have to turn out and vote. No doubt Magas will make that as difficult as possible, it's going to take a tsunami of ongoing enthusiasm.
I want to eliminate the Electoral College - it's ridiculous and does the exact opposite of what it was designed to accomplish!
I suspect the orange clown is having to change pants a couple times a day. Even Joe Rogan in his podcast admitted Trump is too divisive and he expects him to lose even though he does not want that. While Walz is not the future of the party being 60, he is very likable and will not hurt, maybe even help. Now the party has to hammer home that Trump is a traitor, an insurrectionist, a criminal, a poster boy for narcissism, and the phony Vance should not be allowed to be a dog catcher.
The walls of Mara Lago are going to be covered with ketchup for some time to come.
LP's colleague at Salon, Amanda Marcotte, has an article out today comparing the Democrats' rally last night with Vance's competing event across town that's a fun read: https://www.salon.com/2024/08/07/bringing-back-the-joy-kamala-harris-rally-blows-away-jd-vances-weird-appearance-across-town/
Amanda's piece is a good one. Highly recommended.
Walz amplifies Kamala’s tremendous energy, his record is totally progressive, and his midwestern dad vibe is perfect for her campaign. His speech at the rally last night was a barn-burner, and he even got a dig in re Vance and the "couch" prank.
I’m glad I’m here and watching this all happen in real time to the most defanged and demented ex president. Elected only by the ignorant who knew nothing about him, save for his tv program. Well Donald, “You’re Fired!”
My bet: it's gonna be a blowout. Not that we should be over confident - but it's going to be a blowout. "Mind Your Own Damn Business" - MYODB caps anyone?
In the immortal words of the great sage Taj Mahal "Why don't you mind your own business? 'Cause if you mind your own business then you won't be mindin' mine."
This is the kind of whirlwind I love to see. The election is opening up for us. We can preserve our democracy this November if we continue with our joyous enthusiasm and vote Harris-Walz!
I hope the Harris/Walz campaign is prepared to spend what it will need to see to it that the results are certified...the republicans have gotten election deniers in place to refuse to certify the votes when the Democrats win. This worries me.
The Harris/Walz campaign has the finances to take on the Maga gloom campaign. They are forcing them to spend money in safe states.
As for election deniers? The Democratic party is well aware of what is afoot. They are preparing for it. We all just need to do our part: GIVE, if we can afford to, GET out the vote, GET to the polls and vote blue the entire ticket. If we stick to the three Gs, we will win.
I’m glad they are aware of the election deniers and already they are refusing to certify the Georgia election results!
I hope they have a team of lawyers ready to pounce and are working on a scheme to thwart the Drumpf scheming!!
Trump, who is mystified by anyone who doesn't think like he does, said that Biden will appear at the Convention and retake his rightful place at the top of the ticket.
I have also heard a conspiracy theory that the entire switch from Biden to Harris was a choreographed act. It's hard for me to think of Joe Biden having that kind of duplicity.
Of course not! He wishes Biden would return as he is scared shitless of Harris!
He's shitting large bricks on an hourly basis.😂😂
Projection is big with Trump and the Trumpers!