By GottaLaff



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How can we ask Republican senators to resist pressure from their right wing and vote against flawed appointees like John Bolton, if we engage in similar rhetoric against Democrats who dissent from our own party line

if we make similar threats to those who buck our party orthodoxy?

When we lash out at those who share our fundamental values because they have not met the criteria of every single item on our progressive "checklist," then we are essentially preventing them from thinking in new ways about problems.

we are hamstringing our ability to build a majority. We won't be able to transform the country with such a polarized electorate.

Let me be clear: I am not arguing that the Democrats should trim their sails and be more "centrist."

try to create the sort of serious, adult, consensus around our problems that can admit Democrats, Republicans and Independents of good will.

speak with the utmost conviction about the great issues of the day without ever belittling those who opposed them, and without denying the limits of their own perspectives.

In that spirit, let me end by saying I don't pretend to have all the answers to the challenges we face, and I look forward to periodic conversations with all of you in the months and years to come. I trust that you will continue to let me and other Democrats know when you believe we are screwing up. And I, in turn, will always try and show you the respect and candor one owes his friends and allies.