Sorry, Bernie but the Democrats know whose side they are on and whose side they have always been on

[Jim Lane]

123. You say you want reconciliation. Bernie's speech is part of the process.

One obvious path to reconciliation is that the more progressive wing of the party just accepts the instruction to STFU about public issues like single-payer health care, and about internal issues like the DNC's conduct. Unity for the sake of unity! Everything is for the best in this best of all possible parties!

Frankly, it sometimes seems to me that many Democrats have no other idea of reconciliation. To them, reconciliation means that everyone who disagrees with them should feign agreement -- group hug, and all will be well.

The alternative (and more sensible path) to reconciliation is the one Bernie is pursuing. We have open and candid discussions about issues, about past failures, about future alternatives, and even about individuals. For example, my guess is that Bernie would be the last person to condemn anyone for criticizing him. His reaction, instead, would be to consider and respond to the criticism. This approach produces some unpleasantness along the way, but it's the only one that will work in the long run.