Democratic Manifesto

I know that I'm not the only Democrat who was singing John Lennon's classic 1969 song during the breaks in the debate last night – for my son who was watching the debate with me joined in once, in a failing attempt to keep me on key. Older forum members will recall that Lennon wrote the song for Timothy Leary's run for governor of California against Ronald Reagan. Others may be familiar with the 2019 release of the Abbey Road album, featuring an outtake where Lennon adds the line, “He got teen-aged lyrics ...”

I was impressed and encouraged by all of the Democratic Party's candidates last night. I'll be delighted to campaign and vote for the eventual nominee for president. There were several candidates who I believe would provide balance to the ticket as vice president. And that balance will insure that we beat whoever the republicans run for president in 2020.

The only thing that I was unhappy with was when candidates attacked another candidate. Yet, in some instances, another candidate would point out that this was not why they were there. It's good to point out the areas where you may differ from other candidates, but do so respectfully. In the powerful words of the Civil Rights movement, keep your eyes on the prize.

The only thing, quite literally, that could prevent a Democratic Party win in the presidential election is divisions within the numerous groups that comprise the party. By no coincidence, that was the exact goal of the Russian attacks upon our system in 2016, and their 2020 goal. For that is the “prize” that they are eyeing.

It is not only our candidates that have to keep this in mind. It is the people who are engaged in campaigning for a specific candidate. It is everyone at the grass roots' level who is aware of what is at stake. We are in a position now, at this tense time in our nation's history, to not only take the White House, and to maintain control of the House of Representatives, but to take control of the Senate. But that requires – indeed, demands – that we keep our eyes on the prize, and recognize that this requires a united democratic front.

Let's consider, briefly, but one example. There are differing opinions on how to improve health care. That is a huge issue. There are different opinions on medicare for all versus improving Obama care. What seems clear to me is that if we keep our eyes on the prize – which implies building upon the Obama coalition – we will be in a position to make the correct improvements.

Thank you for your consideration,
H2O Man