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brentspeak

(18,290 posts)
Thu May 28, 2015, 01:35 PM May 2015

Bernie Sanders, surrounded by lily white people:

April 22, 2015:




On a side-note: There are two easy ways to disempower the trolls who are race-baiting:

a) hide their threads; and

b) put them on ignore.

Look at it this way: the fewer clicks they get, the less they get paid. Eventually, they will shrivel up and fade away into the internet ether.

151 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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Bernie Sanders, surrounded by lily white people: (Original Post) brentspeak May 2015 OP
This is now getting to be really uncomfortable. NCTraveler May 2015 #1
Yeah, let's brush it off BrotherIvan May 2015 #4
"Yeah, let's brush it off" NCTraveler May 2015 #6
Yet you ignore the fact that not a single DUer has accused Sanders of being racist. MohRokTah May 2015 #12
I'm a Hillary supporter but even the suggestion that was implied but not written lookatme May 2015 #14
It wasn't implied. It was an observation. MohRokTah May 2015 #17
It could be called a gaff I agree but some posters took it just a little beyond that.. lookatme May 2015 #22
Obama made much worse gaffes during the 2008 primaries. MohRokTah May 2015 #28
Not to change the subject and I might get lambasted but lookatme May 2015 #35
Haven't heard that one before about a hundred times from the 10% of this site Ed Suspicious May 2015 #39
Hey I'm happy either way lookatme May 2015 #45
The Presidency will be won the one with the most votes. It is an Election not an auction. Vincardog May 2015 #81
Not anymore lookatme May 2015 #91
Nope. Still an election, unless someone rigs the vote. merrily May 2015 #114
+1 appalachiablue May 2015 #92
" It is an Election not an auction." pangaia May 2015 #120
Knowing it's a long shot, Paka May 2015 #109
There's really no proof of how much money it takes to win a Presidency. merrily May 2015 #110
Oh, I definitely disagree with the last line. lark May 2015 #147
everyone I know who used to be excited about Hillary is now "Hillary who?" Voice for Peace May 2015 #94
No one I knew IRL was excited about Hillary. merrily May 2015 #112
had to figure out IRL and I think it means "in real life" Voice for Peace May 2015 #146
Yes, in real life. merrily May 2015 #148
He is going to win the primary. I have no doubt about that. And I believe sabrina 1 May 2015 #102
Quitter. pangaia May 2015 #119
LMAO. Sanders has no need to "come back from" fake drama manufactured by a minority of merrily May 2015 #108
It is only a gaffe to tribal DUers yearning for one. morningfog May 2015 #33
So you take this opportunity to double-down on the insinuations, delrem May 2015 #38
Not only OPs. merrily May 2015 #113
+1 Geez. Can't you just politely thank her for her concern? merrily May 2015 #115
Really black people don't care about Social Security, tuition, debt, jobs, health care,trade policy? Cheese Sandwich May 2015 #98
+1 an entire shit load. Enthusiast May 2015 #130
No it is not. pangaia May 2015 #118
Welcome to DU wryter2000 May 2015 #42
thanks lookatme May 2015 #47
. LondonReign2 May 2015 #16
. MohRokTah May 2015 #30
You poor, poor thing LondonReign2 May 2015 #64
. MohRokTah May 2015 #65
Yay! The Official Symbol of the BOG! LondonReign2 May 2015 #66
Yay, I've never posted in the BOG! MohRokTah May 2015 #68
This is one of the threads that the OP is upset about kenfrequed May 2015 #20
The post pulled out current events of an issue that directly affects POC. MohRokTah May 2015 #31
Right. and there you have it. nt delrem May 2015 #40
Seriously? kenfrequed May 2015 #41
When a candidate makes an announcement speech, it is a definition of the campaign. MohRokTah May 2015 #49
So... kenfrequed May 2015 #53
Precisely, the entire body of a candidate's work in legislation and civil rights has no bearing... MohRokTah May 2015 #56
The only thing I am getting... is disgusted kenfrequed May 2015 #57
I live in reality. MohRokTah May 2015 #60
The gall kenfrequed May 2015 #62
I sleep like a baby. MohRokTah May 2015 #63
You mean for 4 hours at a time, in a diaper? Warren DeMontague May 2015 #83
Well, I am an idealistic dreamer who sees things the way they are, pangaia May 2015 #124
LOLOLOL! merrily May 2015 #125
'Optics' used 4 times. Oh boy this is getting good, the Neophyte & St. Bernard repeats appalachiablue May 2015 #97
That makes two of us disgusted. Paka May 2015 #111
"the entire body of a candidate's work in legislation and civil rights has no bearing" cui bono May 2015 #100
+1 Very well put. merrily May 2015 #123
So very much wrong with you saying there is nothing wrong with that post. cui bono May 2015 #99
A bizarre, incongruent post of absurd and reprehensible claims. Embarrassing. appalachiablue May 2015 #93
The OP doesn't seem upset. merrily May 2015 #122
Several posters have asked me what Sanders' stance is on race. JDPriestly May 2015 #43
Sanders will correct this gaffe. MohRokTah May 2015 #50
When Dean ran, a Republican posted on another board about how few merrily May 2015 #127
It was implied in what looks to be a coordinated rash of posts today. Mojorabbit May 2015 #58
No. It was NEVER "implied". MohRokTah May 2015 #61
Wow. Qutzupalotl May 2015 #67
No, I think failing to address the issues of concern to the largest constituency of the Democratic.. MohRokTah May 2015 #69
How about YOU pointing out... CANDO May 2015 #116
While a "racially tinged" primary campaign against the first African American with a merrily May 2015 #117
It was very much implied and it very much looks coordinated. Mojorabbit May 2015 #72
It was not impied and peple are just getting butthurt because of criticism of Sanders. MohRokTah May 2015 #76
My opinion rpannier May 2015 #86
. MohRokTah May 2015 #87
.... rpannier May 2015 #88
Agreed! Best for Clinton supporters not to go negative on Sanders tonybgood May 2015 #144
It was mildly successful at stirring lies and negativity as intended. They're pleased with appalachiablue May 2015 #95
+1 Lots of evidence points to shameless, though. merrily May 2015 #128
LMAO. merrily May 2015 #107
I can't imagine why no one seems to be buying your denials. merrily May 2015 #129
No, an OP was made that implied he had something to do w/ a horribly racist picture by Chicago cops Warren DeMontague May 2015 #77
+1 merrily May 2015 #106
This one comes damned close hootinholler May 2015 #80
Maybe the word was not used but a few posters certainly implied strongly. merrily May 2015 #105
Actually, saying something gets one on the internet forever ... 1StrongBlackMan May 2015 #51
wait. it's just fine and dandy to post criticism of pics of the crowd in Burlington cali May 2015 #10
I called them cheap shots cali. Please be honest in your replies. NCTraveler May 2015 #18
No, it's a tactic called the denial defense sulphurdunn May 2015 #25
Meh. There is also the "repeating the Big Lie" tactic. I don't know that merrily May 2015 #121
It does a lot of harm. sulphurdunn May 2015 #142
Thing is, once one side goes with deceit, the other side has an uphill fight. merrily May 2015 #143
Funny, I've already posted a couple times that this attack on Bernie looks like ... ieoeja May 2015 #37
It's not uncomfortable. It's moronic, pointless and embarassing as all hell Number23 May 2015 #75
Some DUers Aerows May 2015 #90
This message was self-deleted by its author merrily May 2015 #104
Don't let the photo mislead you. The opening post IS a "brush it off" post, not a merrily May 2015 #132
Do you really think people are paid to post here? Cali_Democrat May 2015 #2
Yes, absolutely. Jester Messiah May 2015 #8
Oh yeah they would, Mbrow May 2015 #13
Anytime someone disagrees with you, you're "paid" 7962 May 2015 #15
Why would the DNC or any Democratic politician or campaign have anyone posting at the largest merrily May 2015 #139
Was this Sanders's kickoff event? Buzz Clik May 2015 #3
It was a rally by striking federal workers demanding a $15 minimum wage onenote May 2015 #23
Hmm. So calling people "race-baiters" is the Sanders crowd's new way of addressing the race issue. DanTex May 2015 #5
Has Bernie pulled even with Hillary yet? Cali_Democrat May 2015 #9
And she's only been campaigning for 20 years to his 2 weeks, too! merrily May 2015 #134
The Clinton crowd should be careful playing the race card on Bernie. 2008 isn't that long ago. Comrade Grumpy May 2015 #21
+1 Apparently, the Hillary campaign is counting on collective amnesia. merrily May 2015 #138
There is no Sanders race issue LittleBlue May 2015 #70
AFAIK, Sanders supporters do not coordinate with each other. merrily May 2015 #126
Good advice Bobbie Jo May 2015 #7
is this a group i can get ban from? stonecutter357 May 2015 #11
One of the funniest post on du today. Love it. nt. NCTraveler May 2015 #19
Try the Hillary Group. You can get banned there with a lot less provocation than merrily May 2015 #140
If people talked to each other in real life the way they do here they would get punched in the face. DemocratSinceBirth May 2015 #24
Gee, I missed all the crap (I guess)... SoapBox May 2015 #26
Yes he's resonating with people of all backgrounds. And the St. Bernanrd & Neophyte memes appalachiablue May 2015 #96
This message was self-deleted by its author Sissyk May 2015 #27
Race baiting is a right-wing concept BainsBane May 2015 #29
Several people on DU have asked me about Bernie's stance on race. JDPriestly May 2015 #48
Does a primary excuse behavior such as these threads BainsBane May 2015 #52
I think that we should ask Bernie that question. He answers questions. He is not afraid of JDPriestly May 2015 #54
Absolutely. I myself have noted that BainsBane May 2015 #55
I think Jon Stewart covers this better than I could: Scootaloo May 2015 #84
Gotcha BainsBane May 2015 #85
Riiight. Because "not good enough, Bernie" is simply an honest question about a candidate's merrily May 2015 #135
Hillary has said she wants to "empower communities and families" Warren DeMontague May 2015 #79
Her cast of thousands of campaign advisors will fill in the details of what she truly believes in merrily May 2015 #137
I'm just curious to know how you know how many African Americans post at DU. Do totodeinhere May 2015 #101
I read and participate in the African American group BainsBane May 2015 #103
Fair enough. Thanks for your detailed explanation. But surely not every African American at DU even totodeinhere May 2015 #149
Of course, and I don't presume to know BainsBane May 2015 #150
I hope all that baloney at least comes with a side of fries. merrily May 2015 #131
Don't feed the trolls. Good rule going forward. n/t pa28 May 2015 #32
Bernie has striker friends! johnnyreb May 2015 #34
And American Indian friends Mnpaul May 2015 #71
Now those are comfortable shoes I can believe in. nt raouldukelives May 2015 #141
These unfounded attacks on Bernie only serves to take down DU in the long run. Call out the trolls. glinda May 2015 #36
We can try, but I suspect there's enough of them who will keep kicking those Zorra May 2015 #44
Bernie's not a fascist. Why would he be racist? Racism exists to keep the non-elite valerief May 2015 #46
But there were visible yachts awoke_in_2003 May 2015 #59
Or you could mock them MFrohike May 2015 #73
Did he talk about abortion rights and the right to contraception? I listened, but don't remember. libdem4life May 2015 #74
Kicking with this whatchamacallit May 2015 #78
#6 and #7 especially! K&R this thread again. marble falls May 2015 #145
Hillary, surrounded by lily white money whereisjustice May 2015 #82
If Mr. Sanders only surround himself with white people, akbacchus_BC May 2015 #89
What a shameful bs post. merrily May 2015 #133
Go Bernie GO! yuiyoshida May 2015 #136
K&R woo me with science May 2015 #151
 

NCTraveler

(30,481 posts)
1. This is now getting to be really uncomfortable.
Thu May 28, 2015, 01:39 PM
May 2015

We now have a "Sanders has black friends" post. Damn near every single person here knows he isn't racist. Why are some fighting so hard to prove something that is known. Is this what is going to happen throughout his whole campaign? Brush it off. He is on the national stage and will take some cheap shots.

BrotherIvan

(9,126 posts)
4. Yeah, let's brush it off
Thu May 28, 2015, 01:51 PM
May 2015

Let's let people say whatever they want and it's on the internet forever. Let's just shrug our shoulders when it's on right wing media. Oops, oh well. Let's just let people lie and lie. Too bad there weren't more disgusting photos in that post, that would have made it even better. Let's just all call people the worst possible names and then act like nothing happened.

Let's see, what name would you let people call you and just shrug it off? I, for one, don't take the word racist lightly. I use that word against people who deserve it and I mean it with all venom and scorn. I do not use it lightly and I do not approve of other people using it to score political points.

 

NCTraveler

(30,481 posts)
6. "Yeah, let's brush it off"
Thu May 28, 2015, 02:00 PM
May 2015

Please. Lets brush of what wasn't really a conversation in the first place.

"Let's just all call people the worst possible names and then act like nothing happened."

We are all just running around crazily calling Sanders a racist.

"Let's see, what name would you let people call you and just shrug it off?"

I have been called every name in the book and shrugged it off.

"I, for one, don't take the word racist lightly"

Nor do I. The insinuation is baseless on your part. Pretty sure your issue with that aspect needs to be addressed to the op.

You are completely making my point. But look, there is a picture with some black people standing next to a white guy. That is some serious debate on race right there. Nothing offensive. He has white friends and that has been proven by the op. Who would have known. Well, except for all of us.



 

lookatme

(54 posts)
14. I'm a Hillary supporter but even the suggestion that was implied but not written
Thu May 28, 2015, 03:16 PM
May 2015

makes some DUers sound desperate to find ANYTHING on Sanders

Bad JuJu my friend

 

MohRokTah

(15,429 posts)
17. It wasn't implied. It was an observation.
Thu May 28, 2015, 03:26 PM
May 2015

A candidate for the Democratic nomination failed to directly address issues of concern for POC in the announcement speech.

That's a pretty significant optics gaffe for a would be nominee.

 

lookatme

(54 posts)
22. It could be called a gaff I agree but some posters took it just a little beyond that..
Thu May 28, 2015, 03:39 PM
May 2015

That's all I'm trying to say.

We all know this man is not a racist or indifferent to the abuses African Americans and people of color face everyday
as a fact of life.

I just came home from work and reading all these threads started about this was not
something I was expecting on DU



 

MohRokTah

(15,429 posts)
28. Obama made much worse gaffes during the 2008 primaries.
Thu May 28, 2015, 03:58 PM
May 2015

It isn't anything the Senator cannot come back from.

I think it's more of an indication of his complete inexperience with internal Democratic politics, especially at the national level.

 

lookatme

(54 posts)
35. Not to change the subject and I might get lambasted but
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:07 PM
May 2015

I really don't think he has any chance in winning the primary.
At least the way I see it now.

He's a good man and I think he would make a fine President but
our chances of keeping the White House will come down to Hillary and who ever wins the Republican nomination .

just my 2 cents

Ed Suspicious

(8,879 posts)
39. Haven't heard that one before about a hundred times from the 10% of this site
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:12 PM
May 2015

who prefer a second Clinton family presidency.

 

lookatme

(54 posts)
45. Hey I'm happy either way
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:19 PM
May 2015

If Bernie was to win the nomination it would be great
but even his supporters know it's a very, very long shot .

I think he's going to run out of money and will have to withdraw less than half way through the primary.
It sucks to say it but it takes about a billion dollars to win a Presidency

Paka

(2,760 posts)
109. Knowing it's a long shot,
Fri May 29, 2015, 03:20 AM
May 2015

and you have to work hard for it is a lot different than "knowing" this early in the game that he can't win. That meme has been all over this board.

merrily

(45,251 posts)
110. There's really no proof of how much money it takes to win a Presidency.
Fri May 29, 2015, 03:24 AM
May 2015

The fact that a winning candidate spent $X does not prove $X are required to win.

BTW, in terms of what gets spent, a billion is probably way low. Soft money brings up the total

But Bernie's biggest financial challenges will be in the primary, not the general

lark

(23,003 posts)
147. Oh, I definitely disagree with the last line.
Fri May 29, 2015, 01:34 PM
May 2015

The Clintons' backers are nothing compared to the Kochs, not even in the same universe as far as spending money. Whoever wins the Repug primary will have the Kochs and Adelsohn running more ads for them and against the Dem candidate than anything we've ever seen before x10. Clinton's handling of him will be so kid globe compared to the frothing lying ranting we'll hear from the right wing, no matter which D is candidate in the general.



 

Voice for Peace

(13,141 posts)
146. had to figure out IRL and I think it means "in real life"
Fri May 29, 2015, 12:43 PM
May 2015

as opposed to on the internets? Now come to think of it,
I know people who were only grudgingly enthusiastic,
if there is such a thing; but Bernie!

sabrina 1

(62,325 posts)
102. He is going to win the primary. I have no doubt about that. And I believe
Fri May 29, 2015, 02:19 AM
May 2015

that the more that becomes a possibility, the more smears, first they will be 'implications' we will see.

It won't matter, the people are sick to death of negative BS. Bernie is right about that too. THEY WANT TO HEAR ABOUT ISSUES.

So ignore or hide threads that are not focused on the issues. Don''t kick them, don't pay any attention to them, just ignore them.

merrily

(45,251 posts)
108. LMAO. Sanders has no need to "come back from" fake drama manufactured by a minority of
Fri May 29, 2015, 03:06 AM
May 2015

posters on a message board.

delrem

(9,688 posts)
38. So you take this opportunity to double-down on the insinuations,
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:11 PM
May 2015

but oh so sweetly, while pretending there aren't several OPs that are pretty damn ugly.

 

Cheese Sandwich

(9,086 posts)
98. Really black people don't care about Social Security, tuition, debt, jobs, health care,trade policy?
Fri May 29, 2015, 01:45 AM
May 2015

Those are not issues of concern for people of color?

Do you realize when Wall Street banks crashed the economy people of color were hit hardest and first, many losing homes and life savings?

Do you get that when bad trade deals sent jobs overseas that black communities were destroyed?

Some people seem to be mistaking words for deeds. Take a look at whose policies actually help people of color, and whose policies hurt.

pangaia

(24,324 posts)
118. No it is not.
Fri May 29, 2015, 03:40 AM
May 2015

What, you want a 20 mile long list of everything a candidate should say he supports?

Suppose he left off bringing back the 1965 Mustang as one of his "planks?"

Which I actually think is important because the present Mustang ain't no Mustang in my book. Close, but no cigar. Now the modern version of the Beetle. THAT was well done.

kenfrequed

(7,865 posts)
20. This is one of the threads that the OP is upset about
Thu May 28, 2015, 03:33 PM
May 2015

And I can completely understand why when you look at the pictures in the post.


http://www.democraticunderground.com/10026737025

 

MohRokTah

(15,429 posts)
31. The post pulled out current events of an issue that directly affects POC.
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:00 PM
May 2015

Events and an issue that the Senator failed to address in his speech.

It was a significant optics issue related directly to the largest constituency of the Democratic Party and was a 100% legitimate criticism of the Senator's speech.

Nothing at all wrong with that post.

kenfrequed

(7,865 posts)
41. Seriously?
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:12 PM
May 2015



Sanders has a history of civil rights support and was one of the few Democratic candidates that actually spoke at Selma this year for the anniversary. His history and record is beyond impeachment.

An optics issue?

Dear gods, did you look at the pictures included in that post? A mocking racist photo included for no discernable reason. Your cut and paste response is repugnant.
 

MohRokTah

(15,429 posts)
49. When a candidate makes an announcement speech, it is a definition of the campaign.
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:26 PM
May 2015

Hillary Clinton made note of those issues in her speech.

Sanders failed to do so.

History has no bearing on the political optics.

It is a general statement on Bernie Sanders' ineptitude when it comes to internal Democratic Party politics, regardless of anything else he has ever done.

kenfrequed

(7,865 posts)
53. So...
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:37 PM
May 2015

The entire body of a candidates work in legislation and civil rights has no bearing? I daresay that Sanders has done a hell of a lot more than Hillary Clinton and I trust deeds, not mere words.

In the face of history you should be ashamed for defending this kind of a meme.

 

MohRokTah

(15,429 posts)
56. Precisely, the entire body of a candidate's work in legislation and civil rights has no bearing...
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:43 PM
May 2015

when it comes to the political optics of the announcement speech.

You're starting to get it.

Obama made worse gaffes than this one by Bernie. Bernie will make it right with a speech somewhere down the line.

kenfrequed

(7,865 posts)
57. The only thing I am getting... is disgusted
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:53 PM
May 2015

I am disgusted by someone reducing the quantity of a mans work on race and class based issues legislatively and in terms of civil action and disobedience down to a photo op.

You are a part of the problem. Congratulations.

 

MohRokTah

(15,429 posts)
60. I live in reality.
Thu May 28, 2015, 05:37 PM
May 2015

I am not some idealistic dreamer who wishes things were a way when they are not.

kenfrequed

(7,865 posts)
62. The gall
Thu May 28, 2015, 05:43 PM
May 2015

How do you sleep at night?

Bernie has done action in the real world and you are playing fantasy-land with images and nonsense and spin.

Do you really think that if Bernie wins that the republicans are going to magically capitalized on the African American vote with his record? Seriously?

You aren't interfacing with the reality of his record or his actions in the real world.

I am done with you.

 

MohRokTah

(15,429 posts)
63. I sleep like a baby.
Thu May 28, 2015, 05:45 PM
May 2015

I accept the reality in which I live.

You deny that reality.

Let's see whose candidate is more successful.

pangaia

(24,324 posts)
124. Well, I am an idealistic dreamer who sees things the way they are,
Fri May 29, 2015, 03:54 AM
May 2015

wishes they were different, and then tries to change them.
That is also Bernie Sanders.

appalachiablue

(41,055 posts)
97. 'Optics' used 4 times. Oh boy this is getting good, the Neophyte & St. Bernard repeats
Fri May 29, 2015, 01:45 AM
May 2015

and starting in with the tired 'idealist' vs. reality, how unoriginal. It's ok, all will come out in the wash.

cui bono

(19,926 posts)
100. "the entire body of a candidate's work in legislation and civil rights has no bearing"
Fri May 29, 2015, 02:03 AM
May 2015

You probably wouldn't discount that if Sanders' record wasn't so stellar. I guess you need that as your excuse.

cui bono

(19,926 posts)
99. So very much wrong with you saying there is nothing wrong with that post.
Fri May 29, 2015, 02:00 AM
May 2015

That post was a vile attempt to smear Sanders by putting that disgustingly racist pic in the OP and hoping people's takeaway would be that Sanders had something to do with that pic. That is the lowest of lows and the most despicable and disgusting OP ever posted on DU. And you and all sheshe's defenders are the ones who won't shut up about Pitt using the used car salesman line in an emotional outburst. Her OP was premeditated with a clear goal in mind. It is the same tripe that is in the bowels of the most extreme right wing. So good for you if you think there's nothing wrong with it. It's clear you have absolutely no decency and no integrity what so ever, just like the OP.

Why the hell would you and others want to go so far as to swiftboat the best fighter for ALL of the people of the US? Well, not all, he's against the 1%.

JDPriestly

(57,936 posts)
43. Several posters have asked me what Sanders' stance is on race.
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:17 PM
May 2015

Today, I read in a Nation article that Sanders backed Jesse Jackson for president in 1988.

http://www.thenation.com/article/206521/bernies-race

I have also read remarks about the fact that Vermont is such a white state and that the crowd at Bernie's kick-off was mostly white. There have also been many statements about the poll stating that a large percentage of African-Americans supports Hillary.

So, yes, the issue of Sanders' views on race has been raised numerous times on DU. Time to respond to it.

 

MohRokTah

(15,429 posts)
50. Sanders will correct this gaffe.
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:27 PM
May 2015

Obama made worse gaffes in 2008.

Of course, even acknowledging that Sanders made a gaffe is enough to have some people get all butthurt about it.

merrily

(45,251 posts)
127. When Dean ran, a Republican posted on another board about how few
Fri May 29, 2015, 04:07 AM
May 2015

African Americans he had had on his staff as Governor. She was from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, so she probably knew very well how much bullshit her canard was.

The way campaign events are staged nowadays, from the fake cheering to the fake diversity turns my stomach. I hope Sanders doesn't jump on that bandwagon.

Mojorabbit

(16,020 posts)
58. It was implied in what looks to be a coordinated rash of posts today.
Thu May 28, 2015, 05:13 PM
May 2015

A very low point for this site.

 

MohRokTah

(15,429 posts)
61. No. It was NEVER "implied".
Thu May 28, 2015, 05:38 PM
May 2015

There was never an implication of racism, only butthurt people who cannot accept the fact that Bernie Sanders made a political optics gaffe in his announcement speech.

Qutzupalotl

(14,230 posts)
67. Wow.
Thu May 28, 2015, 06:43 PM
May 2015

You think your subjective impressions are facts. You think constituents showing up to an announcement speech constitute a gaffe. You need to get over yourself and stop trying to stir the shit.

 

MohRokTah

(15,429 posts)
69. No, I think failing to address the issues of concern to the largest constituency of the Democratic..
Thu May 28, 2015, 06:56 PM
May 2015

base in a presidential bid announcement is a pretty damned significant gaffe by what amounts to a neophyte in national Democratic politics.

 

CANDO

(2,068 posts)
116. How about YOU pointing out...
Fri May 29, 2015, 03:36 AM
May 2015

Which issues of concern that POC have that Sen Sanders missed? Because he didn't say "people of color", doesn't mean each and every issue he talked about wouldn't also apply to that demographic. That's some damned shallow analysis on your part. Of course if he had bussed in POC, you'd have attacked him for those optics as well...after all, what matters is the attack and smear, whatever way you can. Don't quit your day job, a campaign operative is not your strong suit.

merrily

(45,251 posts)
117. While a "racially tinged" primary campaign against the first African American with a
Fri May 29, 2015, 03:38 AM
May 2015

realistic shot at the nomination won the hearts and mind of African American voters? See also Reply 37.

Besides, Sanders did not fail to address. When he says equal, he means it and his lifetime backs him up.

You can fall for a carefully orchestrated campaign and ever "evolving" political philosophy, or you can look at the last 40 years.

Mojorabbit

(16,020 posts)
72. It was very much implied and it very much looks coordinated.
Thu May 28, 2015, 07:50 PM
May 2015

That is my opinion and the people doing this should be ashamed of themselves...again in my opinion.

 

MohRokTah

(15,429 posts)
76. It was not impied and peple are just getting butthurt because of criticism of Sanders.
Thu May 28, 2015, 08:21 PM
May 2015

That is my opinion and the people being butthurt over this should be ashamed of themselves...again in my opinion.

rpannier

(24,304 posts)
86. My opinion
Fri May 29, 2015, 12:05 AM
May 2015

That supporters of Hillary Clinton are grasping at any straws to go after Sanders (or anyone else) because they're all butthurt that anyone would deign to challenge their candidate. They're clutching their pearls and fanning themselves over the indignity that she will have to defend her positions instead of getting the automatic, no primary opponent they feel their candidate deserves

And they should be ashamed of themselves for being so undemocratic as to be all butthurt that she didn't get what her supporters feel she deserves

Just an opinion

tonybgood

(218 posts)
144. Agreed! Best for Clinton supporters not to go negative on Sanders
Fri May 29, 2015, 08:33 AM
May 2015

IF (and that is a huge "IF&quot Clinton were to win the nomination, you're going to need those Sanders votes. Try to destroy Bernie with smears and innuendos and those voters are liable to stay at home. Sanders will make this moot by winning the nomination with a very simple strategy: the issues!

appalachiablue

(41,055 posts)
95. It was mildly successful at stirring lies and negativity as intended. They're pleased with
Fri May 29, 2015, 01:31 AM
May 2015

themselves, note the tone, language. But wait until truths come out. Remember to say, "just brush it off". I can't wait.

merrily

(45,251 posts)
129. I can't imagine why no one seems to be buying your denials.
Fri May 29, 2015, 04:13 AM
May 2015

And, given no one is buying, I can't imagine why you keep wasting your time repeating them. I mean, if they went nowhere the first thirty times, what are the odds forty will do the trick?

Warren DeMontague

(80,708 posts)
77. No, an OP was made that implied he had something to do w/ a horribly racist picture by Chicago cops
Thu May 28, 2015, 08:30 PM
May 2015

among other pinnacles of nonsensical "throw shit at the wall and see if it sticks" lame-itude that have come up in GD in the past 48 hours.

Let's not be cute, and pretend these things aren't what they are.

merrily

(45,251 posts)
105. Maybe the word was not used but a few posters certainly implied strongly.
Fri May 29, 2015, 02:45 AM
May 2015

One said Sanders was about nothing but white men, which bullshit, if true, would make him both racist and sexist. Yet the poster denies implying he's racist. And there's certainly been enough ugly, false, shameful shit on this board about his supporters who are DUers being racist and sexist. Things we were meant to see or they would have been posted on another board or on facebook or some other locale. But, they were posted here, for us to see. And we're still operating under the bs mythology that no one attacks Bernie or his supporters. It's only ever the other way around.

Interesting, too, that you know what every single poster on this board technically refrains from saying.

But sure, I'll buy your claim that "not a single poster" actually called Sanders racist, using that exact word.
.

Sorry, the innocent act and lame denials on technical grounds fail big time. You all may be convincing each other, but none of you are convincing us, so you may as well save your breath.

Oh, almost forgot: BRUSH.

 

1StrongBlackMan

(31,849 posts)
51. Actually, saying something gets one on the internet forever ...
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:27 PM
May 2015

but responding to something again and again get something seen on the internet.

 

cali

(114,904 posts)
10. wait. it's just fine and dandy to post criticism of pics of the crowd in Burlington
Thu May 28, 2015, 02:59 PM
May 2015

but it's the equivalent of saying "Sanders has black friends" to post a pic of Bernie's original announcement crowd which does include people of color?

Wow. That's interesting.

 

NCTraveler

(30,481 posts)
18. I called them cheap shots cali. Please be honest in your replies.
Thu May 28, 2015, 03:28 PM
May 2015

Please stop putting words in my mouth. Yes, candidates on the national stage will have to deal with things like this. Only a political neophyte would think campaign optics aren't open for discussion at this level of politics. Fine and dandy? Where do you get this stuff? Read your post again with respect to my reply. I get that you are outraged over a non-story. I am beginning to really feel for the perpetually outraged brigade.

 

sulphurdunn

(6,891 posts)
25. No, it's a tactic called the denial defense
Thu May 28, 2015, 03:45 PM
May 2015

in which I keep asking the same loaded question no matter how many times you deny it with your answer, and so you are forced to keep denying it until the allegation becomes credible because you continue to deny it. The worst thing possible is to keep responding to and denying the allegation.

merrily

(45,251 posts)
121. Meh. There is also the "repeating the Big Lie" tactic. I don't know that
Fri May 29, 2015, 03:44 AM
May 2015

allowing the Big Lie to be stated over and over without contradiction does a lot of good, either.

 

sulphurdunn

(6,891 posts)
142. It does a lot of harm.
Fri May 29, 2015, 07:59 AM
May 2015

As the Nazis made clear, if you tell a big enough lie, keep it simple enough and repeat it endlessly, it will eventually be accepted as truth. The Bush administration used the same tactic in the run-up to the Iraq War.

merrily

(45,251 posts)
143. Thing is, once one side goes with deceit, the other side has an uphill fight.
Fri May 29, 2015, 08:12 AM
May 2015

There was a study once that showed (supposedly) that people tend to believe the first version of a story they hear. And, get this, a retraction only reinforces the original, false impression.

Ever notice for example how many time during the recession that the government put out unemployment figures twice for the same month, with the original unemployment figure ALWAYS being lower than the later, corrected figure?

I tended not to kissass or gossip at work. But, then I noticed my superiors coming to me with something they'd heard about me. It would be a lie, but suddenly, somehow, I had the burden of proving I had NOT done something, when the burden should have been on the accuser to prove I had done it. And, I worked for some very smart people. Unhealthy work environment, but smart people.

I swear, this is the kind of thing they should teach in school.

 

ieoeja

(9,748 posts)
37. Funny, I've already posted a couple times that this attack on Bernie looks like ...
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:10 PM
May 2015

... the Hillary team preparing, "but I have more Black friends than Bernie," as a possible way to deflect attention from her racist 2008 campaign.

If so, they're not doing her any favor. Bernie has made it clear he won't bring up that 2008 unpleasantness. If the Hillary team does bring race into it, someone is going to point out the obvious. And nobody who made a last minute attempt to change election laws in the Nevada primary to suppress the Black vote should ever be qualified to hold office as a Democrat ever again.

Number23

(24,544 posts)
75. It's not uncomfortable. It's moronic, pointless and embarassing as all hell
Thu May 28, 2015, 08:16 PM
May 2015

And the fact that all of these folks suddenly touting his records are hardly ever to be found in the threads about Black Lives Matter and have never stepped even a toe in the African American forum on this web site makes all of these "he's got black friends!1" posts beyond insane.

 

Aerows

(39,961 posts)
90. Some DUers
Fri May 29, 2015, 12:38 AM
May 2015

intimated that Bernie Sanders was privileged and that he didn't discuss race or have anyone other than white folks at his announcement for candidacy.

Is a post like this unnecessary? It *should* be unnecessary, but some least common denominator types "called him out", so I think it is appropriate.

No one is going to shut up and shut out candidates other than Clinton and her supporters. That's not democracy, nor is it what the Democratic party is about, either.



Response to NCTraveler (Reply #1)

merrily

(45,251 posts)
132. Don't let the photo mislead you. The opening post IS a "brush it off" post, not a
Fri May 29, 2015, 04:23 AM
May 2015

Sanders has black friends post. The text of the post is:



On a side-note: There are two easy ways to disempower the trolls who are race-baiting:

a) hide their threads; and

b) put them on ignore.

Look at it this way: the fewer clicks they get, the less they get paid. Eventually, they will shrivel up and fade away into the internet ether.


And brentspeak is a consummate master of brush it off OPs.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1002&pid=5767160

 

Jester Messiah

(4,711 posts)
8. Yes, absolutely.
Thu May 28, 2015, 02:42 PM
May 2015

Shills are a known fact of political life. Sure, they'll probably aim more for Reddit or the like, but why wouldn't they salt some resources towards Kos and DU? Just make it part of a plan. Post to Reddit, post to Fark, post to Redstate, post to Kos, post to Freeperville, post to DU, lather rinse repeat.

Mbrow

(1,090 posts)
13. Oh yeah they would,
Thu May 28, 2015, 03:15 PM
May 2015

Cali, even in our little world here in Idaho we have paid trolls doing our local paper and blog. they make no bones about who they are, (Idaho Freedom Foundation). The director works for ALEC and one of the other leading knuckle heads was elected to the state congress. they are reaching havoc with the state and I keep hoping people will wake up here.

merrily

(45,251 posts)
139. Why would the DNC or any Democratic politician or campaign have anyone posting at the largest
Fri May 29, 2015, 07:01 AM
May 2015

Democratic message board?

that's not to say it's the full time job of any poster. So many message boards, so little time.

onenote

(42,383 posts)
23. It was a rally by striking federal workers demanding a $15 minimum wage
Thu May 28, 2015, 03:39 PM
May 2015

Sanders and other members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus attended. Sanders was one of the speakers. But it wasn't a "Sanders" event per se.

DanTex

(20,709 posts)
5. Hmm. So calling people "race-baiters" is the Sanders crowd's new way of addressing the race issue.
Thu May 28, 2015, 01:54 PM
May 2015

This kind of brilliant PR tactic must explain his meteoric rise in the polls...

 

LittleBlue

(10,362 posts)
70. There is no Sanders race issue
Thu May 28, 2015, 06:57 PM
May 2015

Unless you're one of weak-minded birther types who will believe any lie no matter how far-fetched

merrily

(45,251 posts)
126. AFAIK, Sanders supporters do not coordinate with each other.
Fri May 29, 2015, 03:59 AM
May 2015

Treating a single OP as though it were posted by all of DU's Sanders' supporters is therefore bizarre. If so much as one Sanders' supporter does something, I get accused of it, with answers demanded, no less. The Whacko of it all was amusing at times, but it's gotten very old.

merrily

(45,251 posts)
140. Try the Hillary Group. You can get banned there with a lot less provocation than
Fri May 29, 2015, 07:04 AM
May 2015

you gave to get banned from the Sanders Group.

SoapBox

(18,791 posts)
26. Gee, I missed all the crap (I guess)...
Thu May 28, 2015, 03:53 PM
May 2015

All I see is that Bernie is resonating with a LOT of Americans!

Totally exciting!

appalachiablue

(41,055 posts)
96. Yes he's resonating with people of all backgrounds. And the St. Bernanrd & Neophyte memes
Fri May 29, 2015, 01:40 AM
May 2015

are already overworked, I love it!

Response to brentspeak (Original post)

BainsBane

(53,003 posts)
29. Race baiting is a right-wing concept
Thu May 28, 2015, 03:59 PM
May 2015

that reveals a hostility to the concerns of people of color. You will not advance any politician's career by excluding them. Carry on with your efforts to delegtimate the voices of everyone but your select group. You clearly want nothing more than to make your candidate irrelevant. I would say your cause, but you have no cause. You have shown that any principle, economic or social cause is less important that uncritical reverence for a single politician, a great man you clearly value over your fellow citizens, especially the ones who dare to voice concerns of the subaltern.

Sanders is not racist. No one has claimed he is racist. Too many of his supporters, however, have showed your backsides. You cannot win an election with such a hostile, exclusionary attitude, but such behavior indicates that Sanders so-called supporters cannot possibly care about that because so many of their posts actively work to drive away voters. I suspect, however, that you will succeed in what you do care about: making this one website completely homogeneous in every way possible. The ten remaining posters of color may well leave in response to this disgusting demonstration of white privilege in GD before. Skinner has set up alternative platforms for Clinton supporters. He himself seems to have abandoned ship. So congratulations on creating an insular little website where anything but uncritical adoration for the one person the orthodoxy has chosen to stand above the citizenry. We see open war on the subaltern who dare to ask questions about someone they might consider voting for. There are only about a dozen active AA posters remaining on DU, if that. That tiny number in no way represents the make up of the Democratic party or America at large. But even that small number is too much for you, if they dare to question the man that you all have determined is superior to them and any and all citizens he seeks to represent.

I have little doubt that Sanders would be horrified at what is being carried out in his name. He deserves better. Most importantly, citizens, the 99 percent, deserve better. Here they get worse.

JDPriestly

(57,936 posts)
48. Several people on DU have asked me about Bernie's stance on race.
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:24 PM
May 2015

And may I add that Hillary supporters are showing their backsides in this very thread.

Fact is that we have a primary going in the Democratic Party, and it is important to scrutinize the candidates carefully.

As I said in a post above, the Nation magazine reports that Bernie Sanders backed Jesse Jackson in the 1988 election cycle. That should put to rest any questions about Bernie Sanders' possible racism. As you say, BainsBane, he is not.

Here is the Nation article. It is a one-sentence comment.

http://www.thenation.com/article/206521/bernies-race

BainsBane

(53,003 posts)
52. Does a primary excuse behavior such as these threads
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:29 PM
May 2015

that actively argue against scrutiny of candidates on issues of diversity?

I backed Jackson in 84 and 88 too. I was a delegate for Jackson in MN in 84. So what? That doesn't address the question of what Sanders, Clinton, or any other candidate will do for communities of color. And it certainly doesn't excuse calling anyone who asks the question of being a race-baiting troll.

JDPriestly

(57,936 posts)
54. I think that we should ask Bernie that question. He answers questions. He is not afraid of
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:38 PM
May 2015

answering questions. He even talks to the press at every possible opportunity. Amazing isn't it?

BainsBane

(53,003 posts)
55. Absolutely. I myself have noted that
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:42 PM
May 2015

Why is it that some of his supporters respond with such hostility when potential voters ask about his positions?

BainsBane

(53,003 posts)
85. Gotcha
Thu May 28, 2015, 10:56 PM
May 2015

You are among those who believe the citizenry has no right to ask a prospective candidate--at least Sanders--what he will do to address their concerns. You elevate a great man above the people he seeks to represent. The irony is that you have claimed to be a leftist, yet you reveal a profoundly conservative view of the role between citizen and elected official.

Now, one would think if someone supports a candidate, they would seek to inform the public about his view. But not here. Here hte goal is to target with contempt anyone who asks about a candidate's plans and accomplishments. The goal is not to persuade voters but to exclude. The astounding thing is that anyone could think the effect of that would be to do anything but turn voters off.

Sanders deserves far better than what is being carried out on this site in his name. Clearly some of his supporters lack his commitment to democracy, integrity, and transparency.

I used to consider you someone who upheld values and principle. I'm not sure how I had that impression, if you ever actually did, but it seems now your only response is to treat with hostility anyone you merely suspect of failing to conform to site orthodoxy. I will never hold any politician among the people he seeks to represent, and I cannot respect any conception of politics that does. It is neither Democratic nor democratic.

merrily

(45,251 posts)
135. Riiight. Because "not good enough, Bernie" is simply an honest question about a candidate's
Fri May 29, 2015, 04:35 AM
May 2015

positions, asked in good faith.

Poster, please.

No one has asked a Bernie supporter an honest, good faith question and gotten anything but a sincere answer, often laden with links. Then again, there haven't been that many questions, just mostly smears, insinuations and the like.

Warren DeMontague

(80,708 posts)
79. Hillary has said she wants to "empower communities and families"
Thu May 28, 2015, 08:32 PM
May 2015

If that's not a wonkish, detailed, specific list of policy proposals, I don't know what is.

merrily

(45,251 posts)
137. Her cast of thousands of campaign advisors will fill in the details of what she truly believes in
Fri May 29, 2015, 04:42 AM
May 2015

very soon, I'm sure.

totodeinhere

(13,037 posts)
101. I'm just curious to know how you know how many African Americans post at DU. Do
Fri May 29, 2015, 02:12 AM
May 2015

you know what race I am? Some people may mention what their race is and you might be acquainted with some people. But surely you don't know everybody and some don't ever mention their race.

BainsBane

(53,003 posts)
103. I read and participate in the African American group
Fri May 29, 2015, 02:38 AM
May 2015

I pay attention to how they view these issues on the site. I see them discuss how many African American members have left the site due to hostility, and I read their frustrations about discussions that go on in GD. Of course African Americans aren't the only people of color, but their group is the most active. I can also tell from the way the many discuss issues, and the way they dismiss concerns of racism and, in some cases, resentment toward the party's appeal to women and people of color, that they themselves are white.

There is a certain kinship of sorts between certain safe haven groups on this site. Members of the African American group and many LGBT members have been particularly supportive of feminist issues. We have discussed our various backgrounds and our position relative to the dominant culture. Equal rights is a priority for me. I have participated in discussions on racism and sexism throughout my membership here. Overtime, I have learned a bit about some of the most active posters in those discussions, and in turn who reacts with hostility to our addressing those concerns. All of this precedes the Democratic primary. The issues have been there all along but are now coming to a head.

totodeinhere

(13,037 posts)
149. Fair enough. Thanks for your detailed explanation. But surely not every African American at DU even
Fri May 29, 2015, 02:35 PM
May 2015

participates in the AA group. And I don't think that you can always tell what someone's race is by their comments. After all AA's are a very diverse group with varying views on important issues and you cannot pigeonhole them. (Not that that's what you are trying to do.)
And BTW, I am Asian American and gay so I too know what it's like to be in a minority.

BainsBane

(53,003 posts)
150. Of course, and I don't presume to know
Fri May 29, 2015, 02:43 PM
May 2015

just on a post or two. It's only after time that I know certain posters, far from all. However, it is true that the majority demographic on this site is older, whiter, and more affluent than the national average. Skinner has said so.

johnnyreb

(915 posts)
34. Bernie has striker friends!
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:06 PM
May 2015

Has any other candidate appeared with strikers?

http://www.google.com/images?q=bernie+sanders+with+strikers

http://www.google.com/images?q=hillary+clinton+with+strikers

"Call it democracy, or call it democratic socialism, but there must be a better distribution of wealth within this country for all God’s children."

http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Martin_Luther_King,_Jr.

Mnpaul

(3,655 posts)
71. And American Indian friends
Thu May 28, 2015, 07:02 PM
May 2015

He will be speaking at the Minneapolis American Indian Center this weekend. The union hall he originally planned to use was too small.

Zorra

(27,670 posts)
44. We can try, but I suspect there's enough of them who will keep kicking those
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:19 PM
May 2015

annoying threads to the top, believing that DUers are actually buying the silly propaganda memes, if no one calls them on it.

"See in my line of work you got to keep repeating things over and over and over again for the truth to sink in, to kind of catapult the propaganda." - George W. Bush

valerief

(53,235 posts)
46. Bernie's not a fascist. Why would he be racist? Racism exists to keep the non-elite
Thu May 28, 2015, 04:21 PM
May 2015

fighting each other so the elite can plunder, plunder, plunder!

MFrohike

(1,980 posts)
73. Or you could mock them
Thu May 28, 2015, 07:56 PM
May 2015

You know the type. They know everything there is to know about campaigning, but you've never seen their name on a ballot.

 

libdem4life

(13,877 posts)
74. Did he talk about abortion rights and the right to contraception? I listened, but don't remember.
Thu May 28, 2015, 08:10 PM
May 2015

If he didn't, then that's just it...Fail. He must be a woman-hater/misogynist and I demand he put us prominently in his next speech. There's a lot more of us than minorities. Oh right, we come in all colors. But...but...but Bernie Must Pay.

whatchamacallit

(15,558 posts)
78. Kicking with this
Thu May 28, 2015, 08:32 PM
May 2015

On Thu May 28, 2015, 05:20 PM an alert was sent on the following post:

Bernie Sanders, surrounded by lily white people:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/10026741009

REASON FOR ALERT

This post is disruptive, hurtful, rude, insensitive, over-the-top, or otherwise inappropriate.

ALERTER'S COMMENTS

This OP is nothing but a call out and personal attack on DUers. The "put them on ignore" bit could not make that more clear. There is enough drama and garbage in this forum right now without this clear attempt at division and disruption.

You served on a randomly-selected Jury of DU members which reviewed this post. The review was completed at Thu May 28, 2015, 05:27 PM, and the Jury voted 3-4 to LEAVE IT.

Juror #1 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: Accusing those not agreeing to vote for Sanders in a party primary "trolls who are race-baiting" is more than rude and offensive.
Juror #2 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: No explanation given
Juror #3 voted to LEAVE IT ALONE
Explanation: No explanation given
Juror #4 voted to LEAVE IT ALONE
Explanation: No explanation given
Juror #5 voted to HIDE IT
Explanation: As a Bernie supporter, this is far beneath the man. He would not endorse this post, so why make it?

The campaigns are about ideas, not posters here. Also, the term 'race baiting' has applied to black leaders by racist rightwing media.

Quit, please.


Juror #6 voted to LEAVE IT ALONE
Explanation: Yeah lets just hide this inconvenient truth. The Hillbots have lost their shit
Juror #7 voted to LEAVE IT ALONE
Explanation: You mean someone is responding to the lame "Sanders campaign is racist" attacks which have been floated in the past 2 days? Heaven forfend. Well, lets try to get some Sanders people hidden- THAT will make sure Hillary is REALLY inevitable, this time!

Thank you very much for participating in our Jury system, and we hope you will be able to participate again in the future.

whereisjustice

(2,941 posts)
82. Hillary, surrounded by lily white money
Thu May 28, 2015, 09:40 PM
May 2015

Hillary Rodham Clinton (L) rings the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange.

akbacchus_BC

(5,700 posts)
89. If Mr. Sanders only surround himself with white people,
Fri May 29, 2015, 12:31 AM
May 2015

guess people of colour are not invited to his camp!

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