We are less than 1 year from the California Democratic Primary (March 3, 2020). It's been moved up in the primary schedule so it will be more relevant, and potentially quite influential in selecting the Democratic Presidential candidate.
It's a wide field with lots of considerations, along with the primary consideration: Can they beat Donald Trump (assuming he is still in office and is still running for re-election ). So I thought I'd open up this thread to discuss the field and the considerations.
It's bound to be an exciting season of news, but this thread isn't for the latest news, but rather it's for what you're thinking about the news and generally how your thinking is evolving and why. You're welcome to post to a link to an important story that might have been overlooked, but please include your comments about it.
First, a bit of news, that you may not have seen in full: Kristen Gilibrand's announcement video. I think it is well done. What catches my eye is how directly it call's out Trump's fear-mongering. Pointing it out as such will hopefully help some people realize that they are being manipulated, a choose to be "brave" instead.
I suppose she would call it "brave" to call it brave for Franken to resign.I'm still pissed about that!
And if you haven't tuned into the gay 37 year old mayor from South Bend Indiana, Pete Buttigieg, now's the time. Check out another recent thread about his sudden relevance!
I was underwhelmed by Beto's video announcement and campaign so far. I knew his hands would be an issue immediately, through his passion did come through. I really liked his line of " maximum peril and maximum potential" but mostly its been a bunch of happy talk, since. I want to hear what he is going to do. Even though he is 46, generally he's coming off as an eager college student compared to the other candidates. Even the 37 y/o Buttigieg who brings surprising (if practiced and polished) gravitas.
I think climate change is the most important issue, so I was encouraged when Jay Inslee got into the race and is unequivocally making it his top issue. However, I haven't found him that compelling as a messenger so far. I look forward to him revealing his plan to combat climate change in the coming weeks. I hope the other candidates give his plan a fair review and embrace portions they can agree with, including crediting Inslee. In general, I'm hoping all the candidates will borrow policies of some of the other candidates so they can each bring the strongest portfolio and the have the eventual winner be the strongest of them all!
So what's important to you? Who do you like and why? Would you consider supporting a straight white male?