“And Biden possesses an ally that Carter did not have — the US media”. I’ve lived through the 60’s onward and to me this recent systemic bias is the most troubling development of all. So many of todays’ coddled young people seem to lack even the barest basics of the mental toughness and skepticism needed to withstand such a daily onslaught of selectively biased news (from all sides). Yes that’s a gross generalization but I offer up the perceived need for “trigger warnings” as peoples exhibit A.
In the US you can also add-in the late night so-called comedy talk shows to the mix as well. Jay Leno was left leaning but when he skewered one side he would always, and very deliberately, skewer the other side in the next joke. I always appreciated that as a subtle sign of respect for, or at least a tactical acknowledgment of, the mix and sensibilities of his audience.
I must be of a similar age to you. I remember that the most important thing for me was to be a ‘Grown-Up’. If I acted childishly people would say, “Grow up, will you!!” Growing up meant taking on a toughness – or at least a veneer of toughness. Nobody would look after me. I would have to stand on my own two feet.
Today young people seem to want to be young for ever. Someone else has to be there to protect them. If not the parents, then the government. Just the act of going to work produces ‘mental problems’ and help is required.
Where has this come from? Extenuating circumstances? The demise of the blue collar worker? I think it has come from OLD people.
When I was young the idea was to (at least) respect your parents – maybe to see their views as old-fashioned but views nevertheless. Today this has switched to parents having to respect their children and factor the childrens’ views into their everyday lives. Children will always be children, even if they are 30 years old. The children learn to play the vulnerability card, to get away from taking responsibility for themselves. They actually want to be treated as children for ever. Governments pounce on this as a means of controlling the voters – as you would expect governments to do.
“OLD people” ?? Not so.
Middle to late-middle aged perhaps, but i can assure you that parents of my generation (i’m in my 60s) didn’t treat their children as you suggest.
But it may depend on how you define “old” – since i’m still nowhere near that stage!
“Where has this come from?” I
I agree partially with your assessment that the ‘old’ – my generation – are responsible. I suggest a more significant contribution comes from the determined deconstruction of our Judeo-Christian heritage. The tough-speaking, uncompromising, clear-thinking, vision-imparting, love-dealing, violence-eschewing Jesus of Nazareth, who demonstrated his commitment to solving the existential dilemmas of humanity by not resisting the most barbaric of executions, once acted for successive generations as a sublime role-model of soft power and grace and peace and wisdom and truth.
In failing to defend and promote his legacy, we have left this generation with a most perplexing question: “Who do we follow?”
Indeed, who now is qualified to reconcile man to God and usher us out of the despair and chaos of our times into a totally ‘other’ Kingdom?
Thank God! Jesus still reigns! There is always HOPE.
“OLD people” ?? Not so.
Middle to late-middle aged perhaps, but i can assure you that parents of my generation (i’m in my 60s) didn’t treat their children as you suggest.
But it may depend on how you define “old” – since i’m still nowhere near that stage!
“Where has this come from?” I
I agree partially with your assessment that the ‘old’ – my generation – are responsible. I suggest a more significant contribution comes from the determined deconstruction of our Judeo-Christian heritage. The tough-speaking, uncompromising, clear-thinking, vision-imparting, love-dealing, violence-eschewing Jesus of Nazareth, who demonstrated his commitment to solving the existential dilemmas of humanity by not resisting the most barbaric of executions, once acted for successive generations as a sublime role-model of soft power and grace and peace and wisdom and truth.
In failing to defend and promote his legacy, we have left this generation with a most perplexing question: “Who do we follow?”
Indeed, who now is qualified to reconcile man to God and usher us out of the despair and chaos of our times into a totally ‘other’ Kingdom?
Thank God! Jesus still reigns! There is always HOPE.
Agreed. The media bias has been moving strongly in this direction since the Clinton years, but it has gotten woefully obvious in the last 6 years. There is only State media these days.
I must be of a similar age to you. I remember that the most important thing for me was to be a ‘Grown-Up’. If I acted childishly people would say, “Grow up, will you!!” Growing up meant taking on a toughness – or at least a veneer of toughness. Nobody would look after me. I would have to stand on my own two feet.
Today young people seem to want to be young for ever. Someone else has to be there to protect them. If not the parents, then the government. Just the act of going to work produces ‘mental problems’ and help is required.
Where has this come from? Extenuating circumstances? The demise of the blue collar worker? I think it has come from OLD people.
When I was young the idea was to (at least) respect your parents – maybe to see their views as old-fashioned but views nevertheless. Today this has switched to parents having to respect their children and factor the childrens’ views into their everyday lives. Children will always be children, even if they are 30 years old. The children learn to play the vulnerability card, to get away from taking responsibility for themselves. They actually want to be treated as children for ever. Governments pounce on this as a means of controlling the voters – as you would expect governments to do.
Agreed. The media bias has been moving strongly in this direction since the Clinton years, but it has gotten woefully obvious in the last 6 years. There is only State media these days.
Bruce V
1 year ago
“And Biden possesses an ally that Carter did not have — the US media”. I’ve lived through the 60’s onward and to me this recent systemic bias is the most troubling development of all. So many of todays’ coddled young people seem to lack even the barest basics of the mental toughness and skepticism needed to withstand such a daily onslaught of selectively biased news (from all sides). Yes that’s a gross generalization but I offer up the perceived need for “trigger warnings” as peoples exhibit A.
In the US you can also add-in the late night so-called comedy talk shows to the mix as well. Jay Leno was left leaning but when he skewered one side he would always, and very deliberately, skewer the other side in the next joke. I always appreciated that as a subtle sign of respect for, or at least a tactical acknowledgment of, the mix and sensibilities of his audience.
Last edited 1 year ago by Bruce V
Amy Horseman
1 year ago
Interesting, if depressing, piece. One correction. “And Biden possesses an ally that Carter did not have — the US media.” The US mainstream media is not a self-identifying “ally”, it is a bought and paid-for PR operation. State propaganda now permeates all of American life. The Biden administration even infiltrated and controlled the narrative on alternative media for a time. See the so-called “Twitter files” and censoring of academics such as Jay Battacharya. But they’ve just showed all their cards. Tucker Carlson’s departure from Fox (regardless of whose choice this move was) will galvanise the backlash against the glaringly totalitarian agenda. It will be fascinating to watch the fall out.
Yes – US media is utterly polarised. And in any event, voters pay no attention to news anyway. On all sides, lies and facts are treated equally. On all sides, stories liked by any faction (left or right) will be highlighted, and conversely. In 2023, Watergate would barely make the front pages. And any censorious exposure thereof would nowadays only make a current-day Mr. Nixon more, not less, popular. The game has changed, and the rules now favour the people of shiny-eyed certainty, on all sides. Moderate / doubtful people everywhere now are a beleaguered and shrinking minority.
Yes – US media is utterly polarised. And in any event, voters pay no attention to news anyway. On all sides, lies and facts are treated equally. On all sides, stories liked by any faction (left or right) will be highlighted, and conversely. In 2023, Watergate would barely make the front pages. And any censorious exposure thereof would nowadays only make a current-day Mr. Nixon more, not less, popular. The game has changed, and the rules now favour the people of shiny-eyed certainty, on all sides. Moderate / doubtful people everywhere now are a beleaguered and shrinking minority.
Amy Horseman
1 year ago
Interesting, if depressing, piece. One correction. “And Biden possesses an ally that Carter did not have — the US media.” The US mainstream media is not a self-identifying “ally”, it is a bought and paid-for PR operation. State propaganda now permeates all of American life. The Biden administration even infiltrated and controlled the narrative on alternative media for a time. See the so-called “Twitter files” and censoring of academics such as Jay Battacharya. But they’ve just showed all their cards. Tucker Carlson’s departure from Fox (regardless of whose choice this move was) will galvanise the backlash against the glaringly totalitarian agenda. It will be fascinating to watch the fall out.
Steven Carr
1 year ago
‘Both were elected into eras of high inflation’
What was the inflation rate in Nov, 2020 when Biden was elected?
Two percent?
Of course, if Biden runs in 2024, he will get 82 or 83 million votes. Guaranteed.
Pretty generous of the author to say they were both elected “into” eras of high inflation.
Steven Carr
1 year ago
‘Both were elected into eras of high inflation’
What was the inflation rate in Nov, 2020 when Biden was elected?
Two percent?
Of course, if Biden runs in 2024, he will get 82 or 83 million votes. Guaranteed.
Cathy Carron
1 year ago
First – the author wrote: “Both (Carter and Biden) were elected into eras of high inflation” – FALSE – when Biden took over from Trump inflation was 1.6%….after Biden’s ENORMOUS spending push – inflation shot up to 10%+ and today hovers at 5 to 6 %.
Second – “Few Americans will condemn Biden for finally ending the war in Afghanistan” – Biden’s polls were fine, even great, prior to the debacle of a really horrendous pullout from Afghanistan. Biden’s polls subsequently dropped dramatically and have never risen again.
As for the Democrat Party – the author is correct – it is a shell of its former self. It was always corrupt (Kennedy cheated in Chicago in the 1960’s, etc)…but it’s corruption has reached new heights – Obama tapping Trump’s campaign, Hillary fake dossier and her Russia, Russia, Russia campaign, two faux impeachments, the FBI & CIA corruption for the DNC and now we find out that 51 CIA officials lied about the Hunter laptop (and there’s so much more..) – Who know what the Democrat Party stands for today – but for sure its hunger for power has exceeded all bounds.
Last edited 1 year ago by Cathy Carron
Cathy Carron
1 year ago
First – the author wrote: “Both (Carter and Biden) were elected into eras of high inflation” – FALSE – when Biden took over from Trump inflation was 1.6%….after Biden’s ENORMOUS spending push – inflation shot up to 10%+ and today hovers at 5 to 6 %.
Second – “Few Americans will condemn Biden for finally ending the war in Afghanistan” – Biden’s polls were fine, even great, prior to the debacle of a really horrendous pullout from Afghanistan. Biden’s polls subsequently dropped dramatically and have never risen again.
As for the Democrat Party – the author is correct – it is a shell of its former self. It was always corrupt (Kennedy cheated in Chicago in the 1960’s, etc)…but it’s corruption has reached new heights – Obama tapping Trump’s campaign, Hillary fake dossier and her Russia, Russia, Russia campaign, two faux impeachments, the FBI & CIA corruption for the DNC and now we find out that 51 CIA officials lied about the Hunter laptop (and there’s so much more..) – Who know what the Democrat Party stands for today – but for sure its hunger for power has exceeded all bounds.
And the comment in the article about ‘the effects of age’. How kind. He clearly has dementia.
TheElephant InTheRoom
1 year ago
The Biden admin is a disaster on every level.
Kent Ausburn
1 year ago
Biden was not “elected into an era of inflation”, he and his party created the Era of inflation we are now in with their profligate spending.
Kent Ausburn
1 year ago
Biden was not “elected into an era of inflation”, he and his party created the Era of inflation we are now in with their profligate spending.
Warren Trees
1 year ago
I’m immediately suspect of the motivation of any “fellow” from New America, which is a think tank funded mostly by big tech, including the Gates Foundation. George Soros’s son is on the board for heaven’s sake and so are many elite left wing media people. If Wiki acknowledges them as merely a think tank, and Influence Watch labels them as “left-of-center”, then they must be a hard left organization. If an organization or think tank contains a shred of conservative thought, however, they are immediately labeled as “Far Right” by many.
Last edited 1 year ago by Warren Trees
Warren Trees
1 year ago
I’m immediately suspect of the motivation of any “fellow” from New America, which is a think tank funded mostly by big tech, including the Gates Foundation. George Soros’s son is on the board for heaven’s sake and so are many elite left wing media people. If Wiki acknowledges them as merely a think tank, and Influence Watch labels them as “left-of-center”, then they must be a hard left organization. If an organization or think tank contains a shred of conservative thought, however, they are immediately labeled as “Far Right” by many.
Last edited 1 year ago by Warren Trees
Cho Jinn
1 year ago
“Well, there was something poignant about Biden recently letting slip that Carter had asked him to deliver his eulogy.”
Not the least dubious thing he has mumbled.
Cho Jinn
1 year ago
“Well, there was something poignant about Biden recently letting slip that Carter had asked him to deliver his eulogy.”
Not the least dubious thing he has mumbled.
Nicky Samengo-Turner
1 year ago
Biden will definitely NOT run for President, he may stagger, or totter, but he wont run.. Nor will Trump… he will just slide on his own slime…
Nicky Samengo-Turner
1 year ago
Biden will definitely NOT run for President, he may stagger, or totter, but he wont run.. Nor will Trump… he will just slide on his own slime…
Betsy Warrior
1 year ago
I’ll never vote again because the only two candidates are: worse and worser. These candidates aren’t chosen by the people. They’re chosen by party hacks, corporate paymasters, and billionaire hedge fund executives. Don’t tell me it’s my fault that I don’t get the government I want if I didn’t vote cause I’ve voted for decades and didn’t get the government I want and donated my hard-earned dollars as well. I remember when Howard Dean’s anti-war candidacy was smashed by the media and the Democratic party, and Al Gore’s win was sacraficed to the Supreme court, when the Dems tried to arrest Ralph Nader in Boston when he attempted to join the primary debate, and the shut off of Shirley Chisholm’s “Unbought & Unbossed” campaign, not to mention the shuttering of Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren campaigns in Iowa.
It’s you who vote who are to blame because you go along with the charade, uphold the lie, participate in the stagecraft, perform in the performance. Not I, no longer. You, go ahead, lend them legitimacy and sell the lie to others by example.
Last edited 1 year ago by Betsy Warrior
Betsy Warrior
1 year ago
I’ll never vote again because the only two candidates are: worse and worser. These candidates aren’t chosen by the people. They’re chosen by party hacks, corporate paymasters, and billionaire hedge fund executives. Don’t tell me it’s my fault that I don’t get the government I want if I didn’t vote cause I’ve voted for decades and didn’t get the government I want and donated my hard-earned dollars as well. I remember when Howard Dean’s anti-war candidacy was smashed by the media and the Democratic party, and Al Gore’s win was sacraficed to the Supreme court, when the Dems tried to arrest Ralph Nader in Boston when he attempted to join the primary debate, and the shut off of Shirley Chisholm’s “Unbought & Unbossed” campaign, not to mention the shuttering of Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren campaigns in Iowa.
It’s you who vote who are to blame because you go along with the charade, uphold the lie, participate in the stagecraft, perform in the performance. Not I, no longer. You, go ahead, lend them legitimacy and sell the lie to others by example.
Last edited 1 year ago by Betsy Warrior
Nicky Samengo-Turner
1 year ago
I did ask Biden’s charge nurse, but apparently He is in the patients TV room waiting to hear more about the Kennedy news just in from Dallas…
Penny NG
1 year ago
Don’t forget, they also served together in federal offices in the 1970s. Some of us in a slightly younger group of their generation saw a Carter redux in the making in 2019. Even we, however, didn’t expect this.
Andrew Halliday
1 year ago
As a left-winger myself I would not describe the Biden administration as the “most left-wing in US history”. “Very slightly less right-wing than some previous administrations” would be my description.
Biden’s politics and presidency don’t belong to any “wing”. Even with its progressive dimension, the institutional alignment and personal traditionalism (blue-collar-born churchgoer) of Biden makes him decidedly centrist and mainstream. That’s part of what makes many hate him.
Trump was very pro-business and presents a nostalgic, egoistic view of American greatness–but he is not man of tradition or old-fashioned good character (perhaps Biden isn’t either, but more so in my opinion) and not much of a political or social conservative. Trump has a radical disregard for norms, traditions, and people that do not serve him. That’s part of how he attracts an impressively broad coalition of the angry, desperate, and mischievous.
Your comment only makes sense if one focuses on personality and demeanor while entirely ignoring policy moves. As if being chief executive of the United States is rather like hosting a talk show.
So what Biden policies are radical or far-left and which Trump initiatives are big-C Conservative?
(Also, I’m talking more about electability, perception, and voter appeal–valid aspects of a political chat–than legislative or executive substance)
I think some of Trump’s moves were clearly conservative. Most crucially: the refusal to pursue further wars in the Middle East. Under constant pressure to do so, he wouldn’t escalate against Assad and he wouldn’t start anything in Iran. He put a stop to their regime change cash cow. This, more than anything, may be the reason the Deep State pulled out all the stops to get rid of him.
I’m also convinced Ukraine wouldn’t have happened had Trump been in the White House. He’d have seen the demand for Ukraine’s inclusion in NATO for what it clearly was: a recipe for war, *intended* to lead to war. He’d have scuttled it or insisted on a deal.
Wow. Glad you’re convinced. The idea that Putin would have sat on his expansionist yearnings because of big bad Trump is not very convincing to anyone who’s not under DJT’s spell, from where I sit.
I think it’s far likelier Trump would have let Ukraine fall, denying, on the example of his bromance object Putin, that at least most of Ukraine was a separate nation at all.
I agree that Trump’s de facto lack of war-making, despite some reckless talk, was a positive aspect of his disastrous presidency and that his isolationism is a form of Conservatism.
Wow. Glad you’re convinced. The idea that Putin would have sat on his expansionist yearnings because of big bad Trump is not very convincing to anyone who’s not under DJT’s spell, from where I sit.
I think it’s far likelier Trump would have let Ukraine fall, denying, on the example of his bromance object Putin, that at least most of Ukraine was a separate nation at all.
I agree that Trump’s de facto lack of war-making, despite some reckless talk, was a positive aspect of his disastrous presidency and that his isolationism is a form of Conservatism.
I think some of Trump’s moves were clearly conservative. Most crucially: the refusal to pursue further wars in the Middle East. Under constant pressure to do so, he wouldn’t escalate against Assad and he wouldn’t start anything in Iran. He put a stop to their regime change cash cow. This, more than anything, may be the reason the Deep State pulled out all the stops to get rid of him.
I’m also convinced Ukraine wouldn’t have happened had Trump been in the White House. He’d have seen the demand for Ukraine’s inclusion in NATO for what it clearly was: a recipe for war, *intended* to lead to war. He’d have scuttled it or insisted on a deal.
So what Biden policies are radical or far-left and which Trump initiatives are big-C Conservative?
(Also, I’m talking more about electability, perception, and voter appeal–valid aspects of a political chat–than legislative or executive substance)
Your comment only makes sense if one focuses on personality and demeanor while entirely ignoring policy moves. As if being chief executive of the United States is rather like hosting a talk show.
As an ex-left-winger, I’d say the Biden admin is by far the most left wing in US history, if we take “left wing” in its dismal current usage, i.e. woke identity politics + censorship = being of the left.
As for standing up for any working class, regardless of race or sexual proclivity, no—of course Biden isn’t left wing. No Democrat is.
You’re also referring largely to talking points or public presentation (identity politics) rather than policy–like the New Deal, which was far more left-wing than any recent major legislation–as if the presidency was largely a personality driven “bully pulpit”, which it is.
Incidentally, I largely agree with you despite the combative footing we’re on.
No, Biden’s identity politics are backed up by policy moves. Not to mention by FBI investigations and harassment where there is no crime (of parents upset at school boards, of pro-life protesters). The spread of the definition of “domestic terrorism” is widely noted.
As for breaking of “norms and traditions”, Trump, for all his crassness, never sent the feds to invade Hillary Clinton’s home. Biden tacitly allowing a DA on his team to go after an ex-president over something as lame as the Stormy Daniels payments—thats a very, very bad precedent. Not sure I’ve seen a more signal break from American political norms in my lifetime, and I’m in my fifties.
But yes, we agree on the New Deal and that there is nothing really authentically left about Biden’s policies.
Trump openly, publicly called for Clinton to be locked up. Led chants to that effect. No one but Trump or Jefferson Davis advocated overturning/revolting against an election–for any reason (there may have been an 1876 thing with Hayes and Sam Tilden, but I’m not well-versed and I won’t wiki-cheat). These aren’t mere personality quirks, nor trivial afterthoughts.
I don’t know where you’ve landed as a “former left-winger” (standpoint epistemology?), but it seems to be in quite a Trumpy or Trump-apologist place. Correct?
Chanting at rallies vs. sending the FBI/actual indictments. Notice the difference?
Step back and listen to what you’re saying. Trump’s “bromance” with Putin? Where did you even get that? I know where.
Compare Trump’s policies re: Russia with Obama’s.
As for why the war in Ukraine was inevitable, and stupidly walked into, John Mearsheimer’s summary lecture at the University of Chicago from a few years back (2016, I think) is the place to start. Expansionism? Indeed.
Well my sources are left leaning, but varied and unlikely to be as bubble-wrapped as yours. I can certainly hear (“listen to”) myself assert that Trump engaged in sustained, wholesale demonization of his opponents, calling Democrats bad and evil people as a whole. Yes, many partisan and extreme lefties do this too, but not from the Oval Office.
Riling up crowds is worse than an FBI search Trump could have easily avoided, over the course of many months of refusing to comply. And inflaming the significant portion of the Jan 6 crowd (not half the electorate, or even half that crowd mind you) with a violent/white-power mindset was selfish, low, and deadly. Pence and Pelosi (for starters) were nearly mobbed to death.
Trump has repeatedly praised and adopted his version of a fawning tone in praising Putin’s strength, smarts, and “savviness” well into the Ukraine invasion–that’s where I get it. Where do you get the idea that Trump doesn’t admire dictatorial leaders like Vlad, Duterte, and Kim Jong Un?
I’m glad you don’t want Trump in 2024. Since I know you despise Old Joe (I don’t love him as a president): Who do you want to win?
Well my sources are left leaning, but varied and unlikely to be as bubble-wrapped as yours. I can certainly hear (“listen to”) myself assert that Trump engaged in sustained, wholesale demonization of his opponents, calling Democrats bad and evil people as a whole. Yes, many partisan and extreme lefties do this too, but not from the Oval Office.
Riling up crowds is worse than an FBI search Trump could have easily avoided, over the course of many months of refusing to comply. And inflaming the significant portion of the Jan 6 crowd (not half the electorate, or even half that crowd mind you) with a violent/white-power mindset was selfish, low, and deadly. Pence and Pelosi (for starters) were nearly mobbed to death.
Trump has repeatedly praised and adopted his version of a fawning tone in praising Putin’s strength, smarts, and “savviness” well into the Ukraine invasion–that’s where I get it. Where do you get the idea that Trump doesn’t admire dictatorial leaders like Vlad, Duterte, and Kim Jong Un?
I’m glad you don’t want Trump in 2024. Since I know you despise Old Joe (I don’t love him as a president): Who do you want to win?
Chanting at rallies vs. sending the FBI/actual indictments. Notice the difference?
Step back and listen to what you’re saying. Trump’s “bromance” with Putin? Where did you even get that? I know where.
Compare Trump’s policies re: Russia with Obama’s.
As for why the war in Ukraine was inevitable, and stupidly walked into, John Mearsheimer’s summary lecture at the University of Chicago from a few years back (2016, I think) is the place to start. Expansionism? Indeed.
Biden is the more signal break?! Nah. You seem keen to deny that the U.S. presidency is also a position of world influence and governance across instead of toward division, not executive policy alone (or even mainly). I’m in my fifties too.
I have plenty of problems with Trump, and would prefer he not run again. I think our fake left, however, is ruining the republic. Treating half the electorate as terrorists and baselessly labelling them “white supremacists” is not democratic. Or prudent. Aside from all the other imprudence and weaponization of our institutions.
I agree with the substance of those particular remarks, though not your absolute, to-me-hyperbolic tone (“ruining the republic!!!”). And I think it’s absurd to put Biden on the hook for woke idiocy.
I agree with the substance of those particular remarks, though not your absolute, to-me-hyperbolic tone (“ruining the republic!!!”). And I think it’s absurd to put Biden on the hook for woke idiocy.
I have plenty of problems with Trump, and would prefer he not run again. I think our fake left, however, is ruining the republic. Treating half the electorate as terrorists and baselessly labelling them “white supremacists” is not democratic. Or prudent. Aside from all the other imprudence and weaponization of our institutions.
Trump openly, publicly called for Clinton to be locked up. Led chants to that effect. No one but Trump or Jefferson Davis advocated overturning/revolting against an election–for any reason (there may have been an 1876 thing with Hayes and Sam Tilden, but I’m not well-versed and I won’t wiki-cheat). These aren’t mere personality quirks, nor trivial afterthoughts.
I don’t know where you’ve landed as a “former left-winger” (standpoint epistemology?), but it seems to be in quite a Trumpy or Trump-apologist place. Correct?
Biden is the more signal break?! Nah. You seem keen to deny that the U.S. presidency is also a position of world influence and governance across instead of toward division, not executive policy alone (or even mainly). I’m in my fifties too.
No, Biden’s identity politics are backed up by policy moves. Not to mention by FBI investigations and harassment where there is no crime (of parents upset at school boards, of pro-life protesters). The spread of the definition of “domestic terrorism” is widely noted.
As for breaking of “norms and traditions”, Trump, for all his crassness, never sent the feds to invade Hillary Clinton’s home. Biden tacitly allowing a DA on his team to go after an ex-president over something as lame as the Stormy Daniels payments—thats a very, very bad precedent. Not sure I’ve seen a more signal break from American political norms in my lifetime, and I’m in my fifties.
But yes, we agree on the New Deal and that there is nothing really authentically left about Biden’s policies.
You’re also referring largely to talking points or public presentation (identity politics) rather than policy–like the New Deal, which was far more left-wing than any recent major legislation–as if the presidency was largely a personality driven “bully pulpit”, which it is.
Incidentally, I largely agree with you despite the combative footing we’re on.
A true left winger understands it’s always about the money. The sleight of hand that took the left from Occupy Wall St to Woke is no accident. The soi-disant left is now simply a mouthpiece of billionnaire weath protectionists who permit a left of centre culturalism as a way to divde and rule.
Biden’s politics and presidency don’t belong to any “wing”. Even with its progressive dimension, the institutional alignment and personal traditionalism (blue-collar-born churchgoer) of Biden makes him decidedly centrist and mainstream. That’s part of what makes many hate him.
Trump was very pro-business and presents a nostalgic, egoistic view of American greatness–but he is not man of tradition or old-fashioned good character (perhaps Biden isn’t either, but more so in my opinion) and not much of a political or social conservative. Trump has a radical disregard for norms, traditions, and people that do not serve him. That’s part of how he attracts an impressively broad coalition of the angry, desperate, and mischievous.
As an ex-left-winger, I’d say the Biden admin is by far the most left wing in US history, if we take “left wing” in its dismal current usage, i.e. woke identity politics + censorship = being of the left.
As for standing up for any working class, regardless of race or sexual proclivity, no—of course Biden isn’t left wing. No Democrat is.
A true left winger understands it’s always about the money. The sleight of hand that took the left from Occupy Wall St to Woke is no accident. The soi-disant left is now simply a mouthpiece of billionnaire weath protectionists who permit a left of centre culturalism as a way to divde and rule.
Andrew Halliday
1 year ago
As a left-winger myself I would not describe the Biden administration as the “most left-wing in US history”. “Very slightly less right-wing than some previous administrations” would be my description.
Emery Roe
1 year ago
Yes, let’s blame Biden and forget all about the alt-right crazies in the US.
Here’s a few introductory examples: Bogaloo Bois, Oath Keepers, Proud Boys, the “classic good ol’ boys” of the KKK, Nick Fuentes, and Richard Spencer.
Many among the above list keep their composure and their views differ, but they are all some combination of violence-ready ethnocentrists and straight-up blood-and-soil bigots.
Here’s a few introductory examples: Bogaloo Bois, Oath Keepers, Proud Boys, the “classic good ol’ boys” of the KKK, Nick Fuentes, and Richard Spencer.
Many among the above list keep their composure and their views differ, but they are all some combination of violence-ready ethnocentrists and straight-up blood-and-soil bigots.
“And Biden possesses an ally that Carter did not have — the US media”. I’ve lived through the 60’s onward and to me this recent systemic bias is the most troubling development of all. So many of todays’ coddled young people seem to lack even the barest basics of the mental toughness and skepticism needed to withstand such a daily onslaught of selectively biased news (from all sides). Yes that’s a gross generalization but I offer up the perceived need for “trigger warnings” as peoples exhibit A.
In the US you can also add-in the late night so-called comedy talk shows to the mix as well. Jay Leno was left leaning but when he skewered one side he would always, and very deliberately, skewer the other side in the next joke. I always appreciated that as a subtle sign of respect for, or at least a tactical acknowledgment of, the mix and sensibilities of his audience.
I must be of a similar age to you. I remember that the most important thing for me was to be a ‘Grown-Up’. If I acted childishly people would say, “Grow up, will you!!” Growing up meant taking on a toughness – or at least a veneer of toughness. Nobody would look after me. I would have to stand on my own two feet.
Today young people seem to want to be young for ever. Someone else has to be there to protect them. If not the parents, then the government. Just the act of going to work produces ‘mental problems’ and help is required.
Where has this come from? Extenuating circumstances? The demise of the blue collar worker? I think it has come from OLD people.
When I was young the idea was to (at least) respect your parents – maybe to see their views as old-fashioned but views nevertheless. Today this has switched to parents having to respect their children and factor the childrens’ views into their everyday lives. Children will always be children, even if they are 30 years old. The children learn to play the vulnerability card, to get away from taking responsibility for themselves. They actually want to be treated as children for ever. Governments pounce on this as a means of controlling the voters – as you would expect governments to do.
“OLD people” ?? Not so.
Middle to late-middle aged perhaps, but i can assure you that parents of my generation (i’m in my 60s) didn’t treat their children as you suggest.
But it may depend on how you define “old” – since i’m still nowhere near that stage!
“Where has this come from?” I
I agree partially with your assessment that the ‘old’ – my generation – are responsible. I suggest a more significant contribution comes from the determined deconstruction of our Judeo-Christian heritage. The tough-speaking, uncompromising, clear-thinking, vision-imparting, love-dealing, violence-eschewing Jesus of Nazareth, who demonstrated his commitment to solving the existential dilemmas of humanity by not resisting the most barbaric of executions, once acted for successive generations as a sublime role-model of soft power and grace and peace and wisdom and truth.
In failing to defend and promote his legacy, we have left this generation with a most perplexing question: “Who do we follow?”
Indeed, who now is qualified to reconcile man to God and usher us out of the despair and chaos of our times into a totally ‘other’ Kingdom?
Thank God! Jesus still reigns! There is always HOPE.
“OLD people” ?? Not so.
Middle to late-middle aged perhaps, but i can assure you that parents of my generation (i’m in my 60s) didn’t treat their children as you suggest.
But it may depend on how you define “old” – since i’m still nowhere near that stage!
“Where has this come from?” I
I agree partially with your assessment that the ‘old’ – my generation – are responsible. I suggest a more significant contribution comes from the determined deconstruction of our Judeo-Christian heritage. The tough-speaking, uncompromising, clear-thinking, vision-imparting, love-dealing, violence-eschewing Jesus of Nazareth, who demonstrated his commitment to solving the existential dilemmas of humanity by not resisting the most barbaric of executions, once acted for successive generations as a sublime role-model of soft power and grace and peace and wisdom and truth.
In failing to defend and promote his legacy, we have left this generation with a most perplexing question: “Who do we follow?”
Indeed, who now is qualified to reconcile man to God and usher us out of the despair and chaos of our times into a totally ‘other’ Kingdom?
Thank God! Jesus still reigns! There is always HOPE.
trigger warnings…and safe spaces… yup!
The coddling has accelerated. There exisits rumbling from Language Patrol that “trigger warning” is itself, triggering.
Agreed. The media bias has been moving strongly in this direction since the Clinton years, but it has gotten woefully obvious in the last 6 years. There is only State media these days.
When Elon Musk labeled NPR and PBS as ‘state media’ – they got all huffy and left the platform. The truth hurts.
When Elon Musk labeled NPR and PBS as ‘state media’ – they got all huffy and left the platform. The truth hurts.
I must be of a similar age to you. I remember that the most important thing for me was to be a ‘Grown-Up’. If I acted childishly people would say, “Grow up, will you!!” Growing up meant taking on a toughness – or at least a veneer of toughness. Nobody would look after me. I would have to stand on my own two feet.
Today young people seem to want to be young for ever. Someone else has to be there to protect them. If not the parents, then the government. Just the act of going to work produces ‘mental problems’ and help is required.
Where has this come from? Extenuating circumstances? The demise of the blue collar worker? I think it has come from OLD people.
When I was young the idea was to (at least) respect your parents – maybe to see their views as old-fashioned but views nevertheless. Today this has switched to parents having to respect their children and factor the childrens’ views into their everyday lives. Children will always be children, even if they are 30 years old. The children learn to play the vulnerability card, to get away from taking responsibility for themselves. They actually want to be treated as children for ever. Governments pounce on this as a means of controlling the voters – as you would expect governments to do.
trigger warnings…and safe spaces… yup!
The coddling has accelerated. There exisits rumbling from Language Patrol that “trigger warning” is itself, triggering.
Agreed. The media bias has been moving strongly in this direction since the Clinton years, but it has gotten woefully obvious in the last 6 years. There is only State media these days.
“And Biden possesses an ally that Carter did not have — the US media”. I’ve lived through the 60’s onward and to me this recent systemic bias is the most troubling development of all. So many of todays’ coddled young people seem to lack even the barest basics of the mental toughness and skepticism needed to withstand such a daily onslaught of selectively biased news (from all sides). Yes that’s a gross generalization but I offer up the perceived need for “trigger warnings” as peoples exhibit A.
In the US you can also add-in the late night so-called comedy talk shows to the mix as well. Jay Leno was left leaning but when he skewered one side he would always, and very deliberately, skewer the other side in the next joke. I always appreciated that as a subtle sign of respect for, or at least a tactical acknowledgment of, the mix and sensibilities of his audience.
Interesting, if depressing, piece. One correction. “And Biden possesses an ally that Carter did not have — the US media.” The US mainstream media is not a self-identifying “ally”, it is a bought and paid-for PR operation. State propaganda now permeates all of American life. The Biden administration even infiltrated and controlled the narrative on alternative media for a time. See the so-called “Twitter files” and censoring of academics such as Jay Battacharya. But they’ve just showed all their cards. Tucker Carlson’s departure from Fox (regardless of whose choice this move was) will galvanise the backlash against the glaringly totalitarian agenda. It will be fascinating to watch the fall out.
Yes – US media is utterly polarised. And in any event, voters pay no attention to news anyway. On all sides, lies and facts are treated equally. On all sides, stories liked by any faction (left or right) will be highlighted, and conversely. In 2023, Watergate would barely make the front pages. And any censorious exposure thereof would nowadays only make a current-day Mr. Nixon more, not less, popular. The game has changed, and the rules now favour the people of shiny-eyed certainty, on all sides. Moderate / doubtful people everywhere now are a beleaguered and shrinking minority.
Yes – US media is utterly polarised. And in any event, voters pay no attention to news anyway. On all sides, lies and facts are treated equally. On all sides, stories liked by any faction (left or right) will be highlighted, and conversely. In 2023, Watergate would barely make the front pages. And any censorious exposure thereof would nowadays only make a current-day Mr. Nixon more, not less, popular. The game has changed, and the rules now favour the people of shiny-eyed certainty, on all sides. Moderate / doubtful people everywhere now are a beleaguered and shrinking minority.
Interesting, if depressing, piece. One correction. “And Biden possesses an ally that Carter did not have — the US media.” The US mainstream media is not a self-identifying “ally”, it is a bought and paid-for PR operation. State propaganda now permeates all of American life. The Biden administration even infiltrated and controlled the narrative on alternative media for a time. See the so-called “Twitter files” and censoring of academics such as Jay Battacharya. But they’ve just showed all their cards. Tucker Carlson’s departure from Fox (regardless of whose choice this move was) will galvanise the backlash against the glaringly totalitarian agenda. It will be fascinating to watch the fall out.
‘Both were elected into eras of high inflation’
What was the inflation rate in Nov, 2020 when Biden was elected?
Two percent?
Of course, if Biden runs in 2024, he will get 82 or 83 million votes. Guaranteed.
Pretty generous of the author to say they were both elected “into” eras of high inflation.
Pretty generous of the author to say they were both elected “into” eras of high inflation.
‘Both were elected into eras of high inflation’
What was the inflation rate in Nov, 2020 when Biden was elected?
Two percent?
Of course, if Biden runs in 2024, he will get 82 or 83 million votes. Guaranteed.
First – the author wrote: “Both (Carter and Biden) were elected into eras of high inflation” – FALSE – when Biden took over from Trump inflation was 1.6%….after Biden’s ENORMOUS spending push – inflation shot up to 10%+ and today hovers at 5 to 6 %.
Second – “Few Americans will condemn Biden for finally ending the war in Afghanistan” – Biden’s polls were fine, even great, prior to the debacle of a really horrendous pullout from Afghanistan. Biden’s polls subsequently dropped dramatically and have never risen again.
As for the Democrat Party – the author is correct – it is a shell of its former self. It was always corrupt (Kennedy cheated in Chicago in the 1960’s, etc)…but it’s corruption has reached new heights – Obama tapping Trump’s campaign, Hillary fake dossier and her Russia, Russia, Russia campaign, two faux impeachments, the FBI & CIA corruption for the DNC and now we find out that 51 CIA officials lied about the Hunter laptop (and there’s so much more..) – Who know what the Democrat Party stands for today – but for sure its hunger for power has exceeded all bounds.
First – the author wrote: “Both (Carter and Biden) were elected into eras of high inflation” – FALSE – when Biden took over from Trump inflation was 1.6%….after Biden’s ENORMOUS spending push – inflation shot up to 10%+ and today hovers at 5 to 6 %.
Second – “Few Americans will condemn Biden for finally ending the war in Afghanistan” – Biden’s polls were fine, even great, prior to the debacle of a really horrendous pullout from Afghanistan. Biden’s polls subsequently dropped dramatically and have never risen again.
As for the Democrat Party – the author is correct – it is a shell of its former self. It was always corrupt (Kennedy cheated in Chicago in the 1960’s, etc)…but it’s corruption has reached new heights – Obama tapping Trump’s campaign, Hillary fake dossier and her Russia, Russia, Russia campaign, two faux impeachments, the FBI & CIA corruption for the DNC and now we find out that 51 CIA officials lied about the Hunter laptop (and there’s so much more..) – Who know what the Democrat Party stands for today – but for sure its hunger for power has exceeded all bounds.
The Biden admin is a disaster on every level.
And the comment in the article about ‘the effects of age’. How kind. He clearly has dementia.
And the comment in the article about ‘the effects of age’. How kind. He clearly has dementia.
The Biden admin is a disaster on every level.
Biden was not “elected into an era of inflation”, he and his party created the Era of inflation we are now in with their profligate spending.
Biden was not “elected into an era of inflation”, he and his party created the Era of inflation we are now in with their profligate spending.
I’m immediately suspect of the motivation of any “fellow” from New America, which is a think tank funded mostly by big tech, including the Gates Foundation. George Soros’s son is on the board for heaven’s sake and so are many elite left wing media people. If Wiki acknowledges them as merely a think tank, and Influence Watch labels them as “left-of-center”, then they must be a hard left organization. If an organization or think tank contains a shred of conservative thought, however, they are immediately labeled as “Far Right” by many.
I’m immediately suspect of the motivation of any “fellow” from New America, which is a think tank funded mostly by big tech, including the Gates Foundation. George Soros’s son is on the board for heaven’s sake and so are many elite left wing media people. If Wiki acknowledges them as merely a think tank, and Influence Watch labels them as “left-of-center”, then they must be a hard left organization. If an organization or think tank contains a shred of conservative thought, however, they are immediately labeled as “Far Right” by many.
“Well, there was something poignant about Biden recently letting slip that Carter had asked him to deliver his eulogy.”
Not the least dubious thing he has mumbled.
“Well, there was something poignant about Biden recently letting slip that Carter had asked him to deliver his eulogy.”
Not the least dubious thing he has mumbled.
Biden will definitely NOT run for President, he may stagger, or totter, but he wont run.. Nor will Trump… he will just slide on his own slime…
Biden will definitely NOT run for President, he may stagger, or totter, but he wont run.. Nor will Trump… he will just slide on his own slime…
I’ll never vote again because the only two candidates are: worse and worser. These candidates aren’t chosen by the people. They’re chosen by party hacks, corporate paymasters, and billionaire hedge fund executives. Don’t tell me it’s my fault that I don’t get the government I want if I didn’t vote cause I’ve voted for decades and didn’t get the government I want and donated my hard-earned dollars as well. I remember when Howard Dean’s anti-war candidacy was smashed by the media and the Democratic party, and Al Gore’s win was sacraficed to the Supreme court, when the Dems tried to arrest Ralph Nader in Boston when he attempted to join the primary debate, and the shut off of Shirley Chisholm’s “Unbought & Unbossed” campaign, not to mention the shuttering of Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren campaigns in Iowa.
It’s you who vote who are to blame because you go along with the charade, uphold the lie, participate in the stagecraft, perform in the performance. Not I, no longer. You, go ahead, lend them legitimacy and sell the lie to others by example.
I’ll never vote again because the only two candidates are: worse and worser. These candidates aren’t chosen by the people. They’re chosen by party hacks, corporate paymasters, and billionaire hedge fund executives. Don’t tell me it’s my fault that I don’t get the government I want if I didn’t vote cause I’ve voted for decades and didn’t get the government I want and donated my hard-earned dollars as well. I remember when Howard Dean’s anti-war candidacy was smashed by the media and the Democratic party, and Al Gore’s win was sacraficed to the Supreme court, when the Dems tried to arrest Ralph Nader in Boston when he attempted to join the primary debate, and the shut off of Shirley Chisholm’s “Unbought & Unbossed” campaign, not to mention the shuttering of Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren campaigns in Iowa.
It’s you who vote who are to blame because you go along with the charade, uphold the lie, participate in the stagecraft, perform in the performance. Not I, no longer. You, go ahead, lend them legitimacy and sell the lie to others by example.
I did ask Biden’s charge nurse, but apparently He is in the patients TV room waiting to hear more about the Kennedy news just in from Dallas…
Don’t forget, they also served together in federal offices in the 1970s. Some of us in a slightly younger group of their generation saw a Carter redux in the making in 2019. Even we, however, didn’t expect this.
As a left-winger myself I would not describe the Biden administration as the “most left-wing in US history”. “Very slightly less right-wing than some previous administrations” would be my description.
Biden’s politics and presidency don’t belong to any “wing”. Even with its progressive dimension, the institutional alignment and personal traditionalism (blue-collar-born churchgoer) of Biden makes him decidedly centrist and mainstream. That’s part of what makes many hate him.
Trump was very pro-business and presents a nostalgic, egoistic view of American greatness–but he is not man of tradition or old-fashioned good character (perhaps Biden isn’t either, but more so in my opinion) and not much of a political or social conservative. Trump has a radical disregard for norms, traditions, and people that do not serve him. That’s part of how he attracts an impressively broad coalition of the angry, desperate, and mischievous.
Your comment only makes sense if one focuses on personality and demeanor while entirely ignoring policy moves. As if being chief executive of the United States is rather like hosting a talk show.
So what Biden policies are radical or far-left and which Trump initiatives are big-C Conservative?
(Also, I’m talking more about electability, perception, and voter appeal–valid aspects of a political chat–than legislative or executive substance)
I think some of Trump’s moves were clearly conservative. Most crucially: the refusal to pursue further wars in the Middle East. Under constant pressure to do so, he wouldn’t escalate against Assad and he wouldn’t start anything in Iran. He put a stop to their regime change cash cow. This, more than anything, may be the reason the Deep State pulled out all the stops to get rid of him.
I’m also convinced Ukraine wouldn’t have happened had Trump been in the White House. He’d have seen the demand for Ukraine’s inclusion in NATO for what it clearly was: a recipe for war, *intended* to lead to war. He’d have scuttled it or insisted on a deal.
Wow. Glad you’re convinced. The idea that Putin would have sat on his expansionist yearnings because of big bad Trump is not very convincing to anyone who’s not under DJT’s spell, from where I sit.
I think it’s far likelier Trump would have let Ukraine fall, denying, on the example of his bromance object Putin, that at least most of Ukraine was a separate nation at all.
I agree that Trump’s de facto lack of war-making, despite some reckless talk, was a positive aspect of his disastrous presidency and that his isolationism is a form of Conservatism.
Wow. Glad you’re convinced. The idea that Putin would have sat on his expansionist yearnings because of big bad Trump is not very convincing to anyone who’s not under DJT’s spell, from where I sit.
I think it’s far likelier Trump would have let Ukraine fall, denying, on the example of his bromance object Putin, that at least most of Ukraine was a separate nation at all.
I agree that Trump’s de facto lack of war-making, despite some reckless talk, was a positive aspect of his disastrous presidency and that his isolationism is a form of Conservatism.
I think some of Trump’s moves were clearly conservative. Most crucially: the refusal to pursue further wars in the Middle East. Under constant pressure to do so, he wouldn’t escalate against Assad and he wouldn’t start anything in Iran. He put a stop to their regime change cash cow. This, more than anything, may be the reason the Deep State pulled out all the stops to get rid of him.
I’m also convinced Ukraine wouldn’t have happened had Trump been in the White House. He’d have seen the demand for Ukraine’s inclusion in NATO for what it clearly was: a recipe for war, *intended* to lead to war. He’d have scuttled it or insisted on a deal.
So what Biden policies are radical or far-left and which Trump initiatives are big-C Conservative?
(Also, I’m talking more about electability, perception, and voter appeal–valid aspects of a political chat–than legislative or executive substance)
Your comment only makes sense if one focuses on personality and demeanor while entirely ignoring policy moves. As if being chief executive of the United States is rather like hosting a talk show.
As an ex-left-winger, I’d say the Biden admin is by far the most left wing in US history, if we take “left wing” in its dismal current usage, i.e. woke identity politics + censorship = being of the left.
As for standing up for any working class, regardless of race or sexual proclivity, no—of course Biden isn’t left wing. No Democrat is.
You’re also referring largely to talking points or public presentation (identity politics) rather than policy–like the New Deal, which was far more left-wing than any recent major legislation–as if the presidency was largely a personality driven “bully pulpit”, which it is.
Incidentally, I largely agree with you despite the combative footing we’re on.
No, Biden’s identity politics are backed up by policy moves. Not to mention by FBI investigations and harassment where there is no crime (of parents upset at school boards, of pro-life protesters). The spread of the definition of “domestic terrorism” is widely noted.
As for breaking of “norms and traditions”, Trump, for all his crassness, never sent the feds to invade Hillary Clinton’s home. Biden tacitly allowing a DA on his team to go after an ex-president over something as lame as the Stormy Daniels payments—thats a very, very bad precedent. Not sure I’ve seen a more signal break from American political norms in my lifetime, and I’m in my fifties.
But yes, we agree on the New Deal and that there is nothing really authentically left about Biden’s policies.
Trump openly, publicly called for Clinton to be locked up. Led chants to that effect. No one but Trump or Jefferson Davis advocated overturning/revolting against an election–for any reason (there may have been an 1876 thing with Hayes and Sam Tilden, but I’m not well-versed and I won’t wiki-cheat). These aren’t mere personality quirks, nor trivial afterthoughts.
I don’t know where you’ve landed as a “former left-winger” (standpoint epistemology?), but it seems to be in quite a Trumpy or Trump-apologist place. Correct?
Chanting at rallies vs. sending the FBI/actual indictments. Notice the difference?
Step back and listen to what you’re saying. Trump’s “bromance” with Putin? Where did you even get that? I know where.
Compare Trump’s policies re: Russia with Obama’s.
As for why the war in Ukraine was inevitable, and stupidly walked into, John Mearsheimer’s summary lecture at the University of Chicago from a few years back (2016, I think) is the place to start. Expansionism? Indeed.
Well my sources are left leaning, but varied and unlikely to be as bubble-wrapped as yours. I can certainly hear (“listen to”) myself assert that Trump engaged in sustained, wholesale demonization of his opponents, calling Democrats bad and evil people as a whole. Yes, many partisan and extreme lefties do this too, but not from the Oval Office.
Riling up crowds is worse than an FBI search Trump could have easily avoided, over the course of many months of refusing to comply. And inflaming the significant portion of the Jan 6 crowd (not half the electorate, or even half that crowd mind you) with a violent/white-power mindset was selfish, low, and deadly. Pence and Pelosi (for starters) were nearly mobbed to death.
Trump has repeatedly praised and adopted his version of a fawning tone in praising Putin’s strength, smarts, and “savviness” well into the Ukraine invasion–that’s where I get it. Where do you get the idea that Trump doesn’t admire dictatorial leaders like Vlad, Duterte, and Kim Jong Un?
I’m glad you don’t want Trump in 2024. Since I know you despise Old Joe (I don’t love him as a president): Who do you want to win?
Well my sources are left leaning, but varied and unlikely to be as bubble-wrapped as yours. I can certainly hear (“listen to”) myself assert that Trump engaged in sustained, wholesale demonization of his opponents, calling Democrats bad and evil people as a whole. Yes, many partisan and extreme lefties do this too, but not from the Oval Office.
Riling up crowds is worse than an FBI search Trump could have easily avoided, over the course of many months of refusing to comply. And inflaming the significant portion of the Jan 6 crowd (not half the electorate, or even half that crowd mind you) with a violent/white-power mindset was selfish, low, and deadly. Pence and Pelosi (for starters) were nearly mobbed to death.
Trump has repeatedly praised and adopted his version of a fawning tone in praising Putin’s strength, smarts, and “savviness” well into the Ukraine invasion–that’s where I get it. Where do you get the idea that Trump doesn’t admire dictatorial leaders like Vlad, Duterte, and Kim Jong Un?
I’m glad you don’t want Trump in 2024. Since I know you despise Old Joe (I don’t love him as a president): Who do you want to win?
Chanting at rallies vs. sending the FBI/actual indictments. Notice the difference?
Step back and listen to what you’re saying. Trump’s “bromance” with Putin? Where did you even get that? I know where.
Compare Trump’s policies re: Russia with Obama’s.
As for why the war in Ukraine was inevitable, and stupidly walked into, John Mearsheimer’s summary lecture at the University of Chicago from a few years back (2016, I think) is the place to start. Expansionism? Indeed.
Biden is the more signal break?! Nah. You seem keen to deny that the U.S. presidency is also a position of world influence and governance across instead of toward division, not executive policy alone (or even mainly). I’m in my fifties too.
I have plenty of problems with Trump, and would prefer he not run again. I think our fake left, however, is ruining the republic. Treating half the electorate as terrorists and baselessly labelling them “white supremacists” is not democratic. Or prudent. Aside from all the other imprudence and weaponization of our institutions.
I agree with the substance of those particular remarks, though not your absolute, to-me-hyperbolic tone (“ruining the republic!!!”). And I think it’s absurd to put Biden on the hook for woke idiocy.
I agree with the substance of those particular remarks, though not your absolute, to-me-hyperbolic tone (“ruining the republic!!!”). And I think it’s absurd to put Biden on the hook for woke idiocy.
I have plenty of problems with Trump, and would prefer he not run again. I think our fake left, however, is ruining the republic. Treating half the electorate as terrorists and baselessly labelling them “white supremacists” is not democratic. Or prudent. Aside from all the other imprudence and weaponization of our institutions.
Trump openly, publicly called for Clinton to be locked up. Led chants to that effect. No one but Trump or Jefferson Davis advocated overturning/revolting against an election–for any reason (there may have been an 1876 thing with Hayes and Sam Tilden, but I’m not well-versed and I won’t wiki-cheat). These aren’t mere personality quirks, nor trivial afterthoughts.
I don’t know where you’ve landed as a “former left-winger” (standpoint epistemology?), but it seems to be in quite a Trumpy or Trump-apologist place. Correct?
Biden is the more signal break?! Nah. You seem keen to deny that the U.S. presidency is also a position of world influence and governance across instead of toward division, not executive policy alone (or even mainly). I’m in my fifties too.
No, Biden’s identity politics are backed up by policy moves. Not to mention by FBI investigations and harassment where there is no crime (of parents upset at school boards, of pro-life protesters). The spread of the definition of “domestic terrorism” is widely noted.
As for breaking of “norms and traditions”, Trump, for all his crassness, never sent the feds to invade Hillary Clinton’s home. Biden tacitly allowing a DA on his team to go after an ex-president over something as lame as the Stormy Daniels payments—thats a very, very bad precedent. Not sure I’ve seen a more signal break from American political norms in my lifetime, and I’m in my fifties.
But yes, we agree on the New Deal and that there is nothing really authentically left about Biden’s policies.
You’re also referring largely to talking points or public presentation (identity politics) rather than policy–like the New Deal, which was far more left-wing than any recent major legislation–as if the presidency was largely a personality driven “bully pulpit”, which it is.
Incidentally, I largely agree with you despite the combative footing we’re on.
Less right-wing than all previous presidents. Perhaps Franklin Roosevelt or Johnson made bigger changes, but Biden is less right-wing than them.
So now even FDR is some version of right-wing? If that’s the case, then the term has been exploded to the point of incoherence.
I’m trying not to trigger the guy I was responding to. I should have said “less to the right of”. Relative vs absolute terms.
I see. Fair enough.
I see. Fair enough.
I’m trying not to trigger the guy I was responding to. I should have said “less to the right of”. Relative vs absolute terms.
So now even FDR is some version of right-wing? If that’s the case, then the term has been exploded to the point of incoherence.
A true left winger understands it’s always about the money. The sleight of hand that took the left from Occupy Wall St to Woke is no accident. The soi-disant left is now simply a mouthpiece of billionnaire weath protectionists who permit a left of centre culturalism as a way to divde and rule.
Biden’s politics and presidency don’t belong to any “wing”. Even with its progressive dimension, the institutional alignment and personal traditionalism (blue-collar-born churchgoer) of Biden makes him decidedly centrist and mainstream. That’s part of what makes many hate him.
Trump was very pro-business and presents a nostalgic, egoistic view of American greatness–but he is not man of tradition or old-fashioned good character (perhaps Biden isn’t either, but more so in my opinion) and not much of a political or social conservative. Trump has a radical disregard for norms, traditions, and people that do not serve him. That’s part of how he attracts an impressively broad coalition of the angry, desperate, and mischievous.
As an ex-left-winger, I’d say the Biden admin is by far the most left wing in US history, if we take “left wing” in its dismal current usage, i.e. woke identity politics + censorship = being of the left.
As for standing up for any working class, regardless of race or sexual proclivity, no—of course Biden isn’t left wing. No Democrat is.
Less right-wing than all previous presidents. Perhaps Franklin Roosevelt or Johnson made bigger changes, but Biden is less right-wing than them.
A true left winger understands it’s always about the money. The sleight of hand that took the left from Occupy Wall St to Woke is no accident. The soi-disant left is now simply a mouthpiece of billionnaire weath protectionists who permit a left of centre culturalism as a way to divde and rule.
As a left-winger myself I would not describe the Biden administration as the “most left-wing in US history”. “Very slightly less right-wing than some previous administrations” would be my description.
Yes, let’s blame Biden and forget all about the alt-right crazies in the US.
Who are the “alt-right” crazies? I’m not familiar with this term.
Here’s a few introductory examples: Bogaloo Bois, Oath Keepers, Proud Boys, the “classic good ol’ boys” of the KKK, Nick Fuentes, and Richard Spencer.
Many among the above list keep their composure and their views differ, but they are all some combination of violence-ready ethnocentrists and straight-up blood-and-soil bigots.
Here’s a few introductory examples: Bogaloo Bois, Oath Keepers, Proud Boys, the “classic good ol’ boys” of the KKK, Nick Fuentes, and Richard Spencer.
Many among the above list keep their composure and their views differ, but they are all some combination of violence-ready ethnocentrists and straight-up blood-and-soil bigots.
General rule, Emery: Read the article before you comment.
Who are the “alt-right” crazies? I’m not familiar with this term.
General rule, Emery: Read the article before you comment.
Yes, let’s blame Biden and forget all about the alt-right crazies in the US.