While I disagree with Bernie Sanders on a host of important policy issues, I will certainly give credit where it's due.
The man, admirably, has raised the awareness of the American public on critical challenges to the American way of life -- like income inequality, corporate malfeasance, the plundering of the working and middle classes by Wall Street and the 1%, the corruption of our democracy by the Citizens United decision and unprecedented influx of money into electoral politics.
There is now real talk of major reform. The word "revolution" is being floated.
Perhaps more laudably, Sanders has said that the movement fueled by his presidential campaign must go on with or without him. If he is drummed out of the election by the Machiavellian apparatus of the Democratic Party, or if he loses to Trump or Cruz or which ever imbecile the Republicans nominate, we shouldn't give up. We must fight on for what he stands for and for the vision of America he has presented.
Bravo! This is excellent advice.
But let me make a point I've made repeatedly to a deafening silence. Even if Bernie does win, we must fight for what he stands for and the vision of America he has presented, and this fight goes way beyond just getting him into the White House.
Translation: If Obama with majorities of both houses of Congress on his side couldn't get anything "revolutionary" done, with the current complexion of the House and Senate what chance does a Sanders presidency have? (I really don't want to get into why Obama failed. I have my own rather extreme take on that. It's not relevant. My point is still valid.)
Let me also offer my solution.
Let me offer it as a challenge to all of you Bernie supporters, because I know you are way above average intelligence, well-read and versed in history, informed and armed with a deeper understanding of the realities of our political system.
If you folks are really feeling the Bern, then you need to build on your enthusiasm and support for Bernie and take it to a whole new level. This means transforming Congress into something allied with and totally supportive of the "Bernie Sanders revolution".
This accords with his entire vision for remaking America, is true to the selfless spirit of his campaign, and assures genuine progress -- WITH OR WITHOUT HIM!
If he gets elected, he gets a Congress he can work with.
If he doesn't get elected, the thrust and wisdom of his vision continues, promoted by those leading the charge in our legislative bodies.
So here's the plan.
District by district, state by state, we give an ultimatum to every single candidate running for Congress in the 2016 election. Every single candidate for the House and Senate.
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