It's about numbers of votes and how to get them.

[merrily]

16. Thank you! Your post is more than relevant. It's very thoughtful.

I think the number of primary votes Bernie Sanders received is an indication of how many Democrats lean left--and very probably on the low side. I say on the low side because many Democrats still believe that nominating a liberal is tantamount to electing a Republican, still going by 1972 and McGovern.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/12778825 ("This ain't 1972&quot (Please read the replies, as well as the OP.)

Democratic politicians have invested a lot in propagating that theme/meme; and certainly Republicans have as well.

I think Hillary also did get a lot of votes that she may not otherwise have received because she is a woman and because she is a Clinton, though the last was probably a blessing and a curse even among Democrats. (Unlike many here, I believe being a woman got her more primary votes than she would otherwise have received. I think Democrats in particular are ready for a woman and even someone like Palin re-vitalized McCain's campaign.)

Another reason I think Sanders votes were on the low side of indicating how many are left--and, indeed, some on all segments of the political continuum-- is that people have become apathetic and cynical about politics in general and elections in particular.

There are reasons as well, but they have been discussed on DU to death already.

Anyway, I think a significant number of people out there are "Ready for Someone/Something Else" in Washington than business as usual. Whether they believe it can happen or not is another issue. BUT, will they stay home or go "third" party rather than vote Trump or HIllary? I have no idea. I think Trump is so awful he may bring out voters for Hillary that might otherwise have done something else in November. Will the Greens be a force again? I have no idea. I personally am more into raising issues than making predictions. "We'll soon see" is one of my frequent posts.