This election is, I believe, one of the most important ones we will have faced in our lifetimes. Its outcome matters deeply, dramatically and for the long term. Nothing illustrates that more than the Democracy Spring movement that emerged following the Occupy Wall Street and Black Lives Matter movements.
Something is happening in America, as in other countries that will shape our individual and collective futures in ways we have yet to realize. Not since the Populist movement that followed the Gilded Age have Americans seen such a frenzied plea for social justice and social change.
It is the responsibility of all politicians, but especially Democrats -- as well as the media -- to hear what is being articulated by the 99 percent, to understand the critical underpinnings of their call for meaningful reform, and to respond to such calls with intelligence, compassion, clarity, honesty, strategy, and the sense of urgency the message demands. There are vital connections to be made with respect to class, race, gender, poverty and more. That leaves no time or taste for nasty attacks, minimalist crawlers, or meaningless and repetitive banter.
The time for mean-spirited exchange, empty slogans, and dumbed-down discourse is over. It's time for civility and sensible action. The question is: Can the Democrats, and the news media, rise to it?
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