Robert Reich: Meet the Future of the Democratic Party

[slightlv]

27. Yes, it takes a big ego to get into politics, I agree...

but too often that big ego is tied into a dark myriad of other anti-social thoughts and behaviors. Arrogant but humble? I've yet to see the type in real life. Someone who is self-effacing, regardless of their station in life, is much more charismatic to the common person.

I hold no balance on the politician vs non-politician for prez scale. The person, him/herself, what they've done in their life, their history of actions and words... these are what matters most to me. Show me what a person was like as a kid, and you'll get a pretty good idea what they're like as an adult, IMO. Kids who hurt small animals, pets, or siblings often grow up to become multi-millionaires, but at everyone else's expense. Prime example is the moron in the WH now. Give me someone who grew up poor or middle class, who didn't have all the breaks handed to them. Give me the person who worked his/her way in whatever the chosen career and you'll usually find (tho not always) someone who has empathy for those below them on the ladder.

One thing I absolutely do agree with, tho... the Democratic apparatus in all its forms, better finally listen to its' constituents. We've had over 10 years of trauma and violence done to us by the R's. But we're not going to vote D just "because." There are too many things people need and want for there to be a dearth of good talking points for Democrats. Mamdami is an excellent example... putting the walk in the talk. We need champions. There are no saviors, unfortunately, but we sure as hell we a fighter for what is right, moral, and ethical (and can keep his pants zipped - a shoutout to the last dem male politician I placed so much hope and work into... only to find him as bad as any of the others). I am very tired of being disappointed. Schumer and the others need to understand just how deep the violence done to us actually goes. They need to understand our deepest need for community and tolerance for all. It's as important to us as are the kitchen table issues. Although those are becoming practically paramount now. I've been working towards eating just one meal a day to make things last until the next SS check. And sure enough, it lands 3 days later than the one last month. I can't prove anything, but my gut tells me they're playing games with our money more than just 1 billion dollars on a ballroom.

Give me a fighter... give me a young Martin Sheen in real life. Give me a JFK (even with his unforgiveable foibles). Give me a Statesman and someone I can look up to and proudly say "That's my President!" I do so look forward to that day.