1/ I was thinking about the differences between the Dems and GOP and something clicked, bringing the failures of this era into focus:
The Democratic Party is absolutely terrified of power. They're perennial permission seekers and incapable of acting in their own self interest.
The Democratic Party is absolutely terrified of power. They're perennial permission seekers and incapable of acting in their own self interest.
2/ In contrast, the GOP gets off on power and abuses it relentlessly. They don't even feign asking for forgiveness anymore.
Both parties have unhealthy relationships with power and this dynamic won't change until the Dems stop asking for permission before using their power.
Both parties have unhealthy relationships with power and this dynamic won't change until the Dems stop asking for permission before using their power.
3/ Permission seeking is the opposite of taking charge. There are several simultaneous crisises and action is needed to save lives.
When power isn't used humans become hesitant and tentative. The Dems are scared to flex, which begs the GOP to take the power back next cycle.
When power isn't used humans become hesitant and tentative. The Dems are scared to flex, which begs the GOP to take the power back next cycle.
4/ This doesn't mean Dems should abuse their power, but they need to stop sitting on their hands. Asking for permission to do something you're allowed to do demonstrates a lack of confidence.
It also leaves an opening for right-wing media to chime in with disapproval.
It also leaves an opening for right-wing media to chime in with disapproval.
5/ The answer is for Dems to stop asking for permission. It makes them look like children.
They need to be bold. Instead of asking, they need to reframe and say "We have this authority, so this is happening".
That's a lesson Dem Leadership needs to learn.
They need to be bold. Instead of asking, they need to reframe and say "We have this authority, so this is happening".
That's a lesson Dem Leadership needs to learn.
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