Out With The Old?
While being cautious in their headline by using the word “possible,” the NYT offers a sensible assessment of the current state of not just the race for the nomination but that of the party of a whole on the Democrat side of the aisle:
Certainly, no one is expecting a couple with such political skills, an extended network, history and broad appeal — not to mention fund-raising power — to disappear from the Democratic stage. Mrs. Clinton would presumably return to what could be a potentially very high-profile role in the Senate. Mr. Clinton is only 61, and never has been the kind of politician happy on the sidelines.
But Mr. Obama’s move to the brink of the nomination was fraught with symbolism and evidence of a party in transition. A first-time presidential candidate, he has so far outmaneuvered the vaunted Clinton political machine. He positioned his candidacy as a repudiation of the kind of politics the Clintons practiced and a generational break. And he drew thousands of new voters and donors into his fold, giving the party a fresh face and new energy.
“The Clintons had an important role in the recent history of the Democratic Party and will always play some role, given their success at bringing this country peace and prosperity,” said Senator Edward M. Kennedy, the Massachusetts Democrat who backed Mr. Obama. “But elections are about the future, not the past. It’s a new era. This is a new spirit that’s out there.”
The evidence may be mounting that Senator Clinton has very few options left to secure the nomination of her party but it was a pleasure to read an article which is not presuming to ask her to leave the race.
I see no one moving that mountain except the candidate herself and only after she is firmly convinced all of her avenues are exhausted be they in the best interest of the party or not.
Interviews with current party leaders and those who have gone before make this piece a worthwhile read.
Written by Sue
Guss Says:
May 8th, 2008 at 5:15 amVisit Guss
Eight years ago we were presented with a new kind of republican and now a new kind of democrat. GOD HELP US.
I don’t know about you but I’m tired of new and like my jeans, I want them a little worn and with a few wrinkles.
We have come to the age of silliness and slogans. Haven’t we learned anything?
David M Says:
May 8th, 2008 at 6:55 amVisit David M
Hi Guss-I always enjoy reading your comments and often agree with you. I think I’m like most Americans and a very moderate person. However, symbolism can be far deeper than the word itself implies. There was a very dark time in England before America entered WWII when Winston Churchill and the Royal Family kept the hope of the British people alive through words and symbolism, i.e. the Royal Family’s visits to the people during the Nazi straffing of London and Churchill’s rousing speeches. I know your current preference among these candidates, but symbolism and words, when followed by action, can be critical for a nation in crisis. Symbolism and words without action are meaningless pandering to the voters however.
Guss Says:
May 9th, 2008 at 5:03 amVisit Guss
David
Am I a sore looser? Probably.
I have been around a long time and see things a little different. I’ve seen a lot of false promises and lost a lot of hope by hooking my wagon to people that sounded good but did little when in office.
~J~ Says:
May 9th, 2008 at 1:30 pmVisit ~J~
Guss, Just FYI, David is only a few months younger than I. He’s been around the track a few times too.
Guss Says:
May 10th, 2008 at 9:08 amVisit Guss
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David M Says:
May 10th, 2008 at 1:38 pmVisit David M
I’ll be 60 on May 26th. Birthday gifts can be direct-deposited into a retirement account. I figure I only have to work about 15 more years to afford to retire. I am so lucky I get a car and gasoline with my job. It pays less than private practice, but the perks are great.
Sue Says:
May 10th, 2008 at 2:01 pmVisit Sue
That’s 60 years young, right David?
David M Says:
May 10th, 2008 at 9:48 pmVisit David M
Absolutely! I’ve been up since 5 am and have done laundry, cleaned the house; walked the freeloaders for an hour, did the big grocery headache and am preparing for my wife’s b-day next week. I don’t what you to think she doesn’t do anything around the house, but she had to work today. I really do not feel old, but I did sneak in a 30 minute nap—what luxury!
~J~ Says:
May 11th, 2008 at 1:03 amVisit ~J~
I love you, David,
and your wife is a very lucky woman. From our personal correspondence I can say you are a very lucky man to have her.
My best to both of you, but sorry, no contribution to your retirement fund from me. We’re living off our hard-earned money now ourselves.
Our lifestye hasn’t changed but I was used to spending frivolously whenever the urge hit me and now my husband has us on a strict budget since we don’t know how long it has to last us.