Former Clinton USDA Official: “Our political system is basically evil versus spineless now"

[ProSense]

22. I take issue

"I think Bernie's statement counters Berg's assertion. I understand and agree with Berg's frustration over the Republican demanded cuts to an essential program. However, for the Democrats, this is not a case of being "evil" or wanting these cuts. It is a realization that the Republican House would not pass a Farm bill without cutting food stamps. I don't know if they could have had more leverage if they argued for steep cuts in agricultural welfare. However, looking at Sanders statement, it may be that many Senators are pushed by their own constituents to support the provisions that help their state - which leads them to avoid pushing cuts."

...with Berg's attempt to excuse Welfare reform. http://www.democraticunderground.com/10024447216#post4

Senator Sanders' statement does a good job of explain the difficult vote. Still, his statement isn't likely to provide comfort to those who don't understand why Democrats would vote for a program that people view as harmful.