To All Those Who Pushed Biden into Withdrawing:

[MineralMan]

OK. You got what you wanted. Now STFU!

[sinkingfeeling]

1. And don't ask me for money.

[we can do it]

5. No more money, no more time. My vote is all you will get.

[femmedem]

28. But defeating Trump is just as important now as it was yesterday. n/t

[piddyprints]

68. Yes, but

We just lost the incumbency key and maybe more.

[radius777]

182. Kamala carries that key with her,

and with a better ability to speak on the Biden accomplishments.

[piddyprints]

232. No she does not.

I just listened to Allan Lichtman explain that we only keep the incumbency key if Biden steps down and Harris becomes president. We may retain the contest key if the Democrats are united and easily nominate Harris. We are 3 keys down and 4 shaky ones. Looking for 3rd party, social unrest, foreign/military failure and success, which are the uncertain keys.

[MistakenLamb]

82. Which is why my money is only going to Harris and my Congressman

[Demsrule86]

110. Money decided our ticket...I will vote of course.

[Zipgun]

227. General elections, I vote blue no matter who. Primaries? I hold grudges.

I will support all democratic candidates in every general election. But don’t look for that same unconditional support for incumbents beyond that. Primary season, I vote my conscience. And I hold grudges.

[thinkingagain]

32. I get that, but we need to get support behind whoever is running for

We need to get support behind those that would rent for the house and Senate so we still need to not only vote but at least a few dollars and we need to get out promote them but what we don’t have to do is ever go and see if like another movie that George Clooney is involved in for example.
And every time we donate or do anything to support another Canidate, we can say we do this in the name of Joe Biden.

Just so you know, I fully supported Joe
I am crying. I don’t really have money to support people either or the ability to much but I know we can’t abandon all candidates right now.

[BigMin28]

176. I will vote

Let the donors pay for the rest, they made the decision.

[Wicked Blue]

181. Clooney is dead to me

[thinkingagain]

191. Yep

Same

[GoreWon2000]

193. No more Clooney movies for me either.

[Demsrule86]

200. I now hate Clooney

[diva77]

218. you mean George DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM Clooney?

[FemDemERA]

197. absolutely. You said what I was feeling, ThinkingAgain

Last edited Sun Jul 21, 2024, 11:02 PM - Edit history (2)

I was 100% behind a Biden/Harris ticket. I am now 100% behind Kamala Harris and will donate and vote for her and whomever she chooses for a running mate. That said, I am grieving, angry, disappointed in many people I once had respect for, and just feeling like crap right now. I will likely continue to feel like this for awhile. I also realize that it would be shortsighted to not support all the Dems that I am currently angry at and disappointed in. Trump and Trumplicans are still a threat. I will work towards defeating Repubs this time around and then make decisions on how I vote for some Dems in later elections. That said, George Clooney is not someone who needs my support in any way. He won't miss the $30 I had been planning on spending on his movie.

[Happy Hoosier]

80. That's a mistake. The nominee will need help

I intend to give as much as I can. I didn’t want this, but now that it’s happened, I intend to do what I can.

[Demsrule86]

134. The donors after they decide if Kamala can or can't be the nominee are of course going to help.

[MorbidButterflyTat]

179. They'll be donating that 90 million dollar

ransom any minute now, I'm sure.

[Demsrule86]

201. You made me laugh for the first time today...thanks

[FoxNewsSucks]

180. GIve directly to Harris, and downballot candidates.

The national orgs are funded by "our betters", and don't work for our good anyway. We're definitely finding that out now.

They managed to not just force out an incumbent president right before an election, but a HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL president. They don't need our money, the candidates do.

[Cuthbert Allgood]

131. Oh, man

when that was said in the past, it was fighting words. When people didn't get what they wanted in the party, the line was suck it up and support the nominee. Interesting how that has changed here.

[Demsrule86]

135. We at least got to pick our own nominee in a primary back in the day.

[Cuthbert Allgood]

144. Not everybody gets their pony. Or so I've heard.

[Demsrule86]

202. I guess I just got used to voting and not have some rich asshole take it away from me after the primary.

[choie]

209. Right only democratic leaders and donors

get a pony. Is that what you call democracy?

[DiamondShark]

224. Mega donors got their pony. n/t

[BlueSky3]

155. I think we need to set our

hurt feelings and anger aside and concentrate on saving democracy. In a 50:50 country, we’re each going to do all we can to put Democrats over the top.

[Demsrule86]

203. I will vote assuming I can...which is anyone's guess. I live in Ohio.

[Desert grandma]

7. I already started receiving texts

to donate. Forget it. Let the Big Money Donors fund this now. I will vote blue but refuse to give money to support these political shenanigans.

[Attilatheblond]

21. ONLY donate via Act Blue

I've has SERIOUS doubts about a lot of texts pleaded for money that don't go thru Act Blue, or DU

Am I cynical enough to wonder if GOP or other con artists are sending texts hoping we will send THEM money, thinking we are support DEM candidate? YES I FUCKING AM THAT CYNICAL. I am not supporting maga hooligans and con men accidentally.

Only donate to a site YOU go to and know to be legit. DO NOT click on links that come from text messages. If you don't initiate the contact, don't give. ALWAYS verify.

[Progressive dog]

118. Act blue is accepting

donations for Kamala Harris

[Attilatheblond]

120. Yes, but there are a lot of people getting a lot of texts with links to donate

and, as has been done with banks, there can be cloned sites that are bogus but look like the real deal. ONLY give to site you personally went to on your own, not a link from a random text or email.

[Progressive dog]

122. Actblue doesn't have to be reached

by a link from an email. google it

[Attilatheblond]

132. PULEEZ, been using Act Blue for years

My point is: SOME of the texts being sent may well not be legit so people shouldn't click those links. Instead, go directly to the site and avoid ANY chance of a link that might send you to a cloned site and do bad things with your card #. It's the same consumer protection advice banks give their customers.

[AllyCat]

158. I report those all as junk. ActBlue is the way to go!!

[PatSeg]

96. Yes, all the Big Money Donors

who pressured some politicians to call for Biden to step down from the race.

[thinkingagain]

105. Don't support the big money

whatever they do. Make movies, write books, own businesses. We could have a list it is a boycott.
But support any abd all Dems until at least the election is over, Then we can work on replacing the ones that did this to Joe.
My concern is more for America and us than my hurt feelings right now.

Vent to day rant and then please get behind all the Dems so we can get the house Hopefully by wide margins improve on our numbers in the Senate again hopefully with wide enough margins we can do somethings and Keep Americas house.
Joe is backing Kamala and advise on any advise she would ask I am sure.

[PatSeg]

112. I know what you're saying, but it is too soon for me

I feel like I've punched in the gut and I haven't recovered yet. Meanwhile, it rather feels like a lot of people are "dancing on Joe's metaphorical grave" already. I'm still grieving and very angry at a whole lot of people.

[Bettie]

147. Me too

and there's the overwelming feeling of doom.

And yes, there are people dancing on his grave. It sickens me.

[PatSeg]

150. So it's not just me

Watching people switch gears so easily and so quickly is unsettling.

[MorbidButterflyTat]

183. Agree.

All this spontaneous over the top enthusiasm on social media makes me very uncomfortable.

Almost as if no one knew VP Harris was already on the ticket.

So what happens when the big money donors change their mind again in two weeks? two months?

[PatSeg]

204. Good point about the donors

And after all Joe has done for the economy and the stock market, they'll still turn on him to get more tax breaks.

As for the over the top enthusiasm, I understand people saying stakes are high and we have to move forward, but too many people seem like they are enjoying all of this while people are still processing the shock. Even people within the administration and the campaign didn't find out until today.

[Wicked Blue]

237. We were always at war with EastAsia

I agree with you. I resent being told to develop amnesia.

[PatSeg]

240. And it bothers me

that it seems to come so easily for some. My support was genuine and heartfelt. I can't just turn it on and off like a lightswitch.

[Wicked Blue]

241. EXACTLY

[LakeArenal]

172. A lot of people are minimizing our anger and disillusionment.

That only makes me more angry and disillusioned.

All the accusations about us not voting. No one is saying they won’t vote.

We are saying we are pissed as hell and some of those top people sure as hell better be right.

And if they can’t stand the heat from some of us they shouldn’t have started the fire.

Humans disappoint people all the time. They are the ones that should get over it.

[PatSeg]

174. Thank you

It's good to know I'm not alone.

For many of us, this was really a major blow, but for others, it is just politics as usual and after just hours, I'm not ready for all the upbeat, optimistic campaign planning.

To see all the threads about who would be the best Democratic ticket so soon after Joe dropped out was depressing. It is like if someone died and everyone tries to find a new spouse for the widow/widower before there is even a funeral.

[Tarheel_Dem]

188. I'm sure I'll get over it, but I feel exactly the same way today. This was an underhanded coup AFAIC.

[PatSeg]

207. Yes, I'm sure we will move on,

but that taste will stay with us for a very long time, much like when Trump was elected. In a sense, I will never actually get over it and I may have trust issues for a very long time.

[radius777]

185. Data, not money is what forced him out.

He had some of the worst numbers for an incumbent president. Nobody with an approval rating under 40% has every won - it was shaping up to be a landslide loss that would've taken down Congress with it.

It was also what we could see with our own eyes. Biden was struggling with basic questions, and being behind, there was no way he would be able to make up that ground.

Any normal Dem could win this race - because they could campaign energetically in a way that Biden no longer could.

He made the correct decision, and now the party has to come together to defeat Trump.

[Demsrule86]

199. He was attacked by the media and donors...so fuck them all.

[PatSeg]

210. What Demsrule86 said

I think a lot of people were looking for a reason to undermine his candidacy.

[choie]

213. Whose fault was that?

The Dems and the mediia

[ibegurpard]

216. The public pressure

The drip drip drip and leaks is what has enraged so many. It should have all been occurring behind closed doors.
Those that participated in that process deserve all the pushback they're getting.

[radius777]

220. Private pressure wasn't working so they had to go public.

Pelosi - who is a political genius and one of the greatest leaders in American history - would not have organized a pressure campaign if she didn't feel it was absolutely necessary. The data clearly pointed to disaster, and just watching Biden (not just the debate, but even follow up appearances) showed he was not going to be capable of making up ground.

Biden did the right thing, and we all need to unite behind the ticket to beat Trump.

[ZZenith]

102. That's an extremely misguided position to take.

Grassroots donations are important and indicate the true will of the people. It’s going to take much more than just our votes to get her across the finish line.

[Desert grandma]

115. Really?

I am a monthly donor to the BIDEN/HARRIS campaign. I see how much the "true will of the people" was respected.

[ZZenith]

126. As am I.

And my wife and I will continue to donate as much as we can possibly afford, because at the end of the day, I don’t care if I am voting for a brain in a jar on a shelf so long as it’s a vote against fascism, and the big money people need to see that popular support for Democratic ideals is NOT tied to personalities.

[we can do it]

125. Misguided?!? Rude to say the very least. Throwing our votes out was misguided.

Money over voters misguided… asking for money now, misguided.

[ZZenith]

129. Yes, misguided.

Your votes were not “thrown out.” The candidate recognized that the political headwinds were too strong and his energy too low to combat them, so he passed the baton to his second-in-command and now it’s her job to run with it and it’s our job to provide support as much as humanly possible in every way that’s possible.

“Politics is the art of the possible, the attainable — the art of the next best.
— Otto von Bismarck

[Desert grandma]

157. And you know all of this how?

You talked to the candidate,right?

[ZZenith]

159. No, he talked to me.

“While it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”

Joe Biden July 21, 2024

[choie]

215. You do realize this was all put in motion by

the Dem leadership, their donors and the media. It wasn’t organic.

[ZZenith]

223. I realize that the Democratic Party had some very serious problems on its hands.

I believe it found the least painful solution to many of those problems. I understand that some would disagree on the solution but the decisions have been made and everyone needs to get their hands on the oars and start rowing as if their lives depended on it, else Joe Biden’s sacrifice will have been in vain.

[Demsrule86]

137. Oh really...I thought only big donors mattered since the drove Biden out of the primary he won.

[Demsrule86]

205. But clearly, given that the big donors made all the decisions...and Biden was abandoned by elected Democrats...they

don't care about grass roots.

[LakeArenal]

104. Exactly.

I donated to Joe this am. Got the shaft a bit later.

[orangecrush]

165. Same happened here

[LakeArenal]

170. Now you are orangecrushed?

[orangecrush]

171. I'm terrified

That's what I am.

[LakeArenal]

173. And we shall remain so for quite awhile I'm afraid.

I’m not feeling many comforting vibes for those who have just had their foundation swiped away.

[MorbidButterflyTat]

186. I guess we'll find out how soon

the sharpened knives come out for VP Harris.

Then the big money donors may decide they want someone else, and they'll get their new toy, because they know what to do to get it.

Trust was broken. I don't trust anyone now.

[RazorbackExpat]

222. You and me both

[we can do it]

123. I'm with you. Already told 3 to fuck off/ report spam.. they didn't even wait an hour.

[StarryNite]

39. Our little donations was not what they were after.

They wanted the big bucks from those billionaires. I wonder how it feels to be bought and paid for?

[Demsrule86]

138. Well bully for them.

[Dave says]

41. I just donated to Biden (again) last night

Not sure where that money goes now.

[bearsfootball516]

76. That money goes to Kamala

When you donated to Biden, you were donating to the Biden/Harris ticket. That money stays with her.

[Demsrule86]

140. You think she will be the nominee...I am not sure of that at all.

[Wavelight]

168. Yes

She will be the nominee

[MorbidButterflyTat]

189. Agree.

All this exuberant jubilation over VP Harris seems premature.

[FireChild]

130. Same here

And many previous times as well. I had counted that as my last donation as I can't afford anymore. My vote is about all I can give now. I hope it's enough.

[musicblind]

133. Do you want to win, or do you want to feel righteous?

One of those two choices would be a selfish choice, and I doubt that you are a selfish person. I know you feel demoralized and angry, but imagine how much worse you will feel if Trump wins.

Deep down, I don't think you, or anyone on DU, would sacrifice the future of our nation's children to feel self-righteous, to feel justified, or to give into the temptations of despondency.

[sinkingfeeling]

136. I have donated to Biden-Harris and will continue to do so, but will not

fund those who told Biden to drop out. I have the list and you are free to fund their campaigns.

[musicblind]

141. If that is the case, then I misunderstood the intentions if your post,

and for that, I apologize.

[sinkingfeeling]

146. It's okay. The OP was addressed to all those who pushed Biden's exit.

[Desert grandma]

162. Same here

[Demsrule86]

208. big money donor are now picking our candidates...don't lecture me about my kids. I played by the rules. There was a

primary and a presumptive nominee. All that was taken away.

[Demsrule86]

214. You need to understand that this may cause us to lose...I hope not.

[CrispyQ]

2. What I would say is, "You got what you wanted now get off your whiny asses & GOTV!"

It's disgraceful the way Biden was treated.

[newdayneeded]

3. Consider this:

Why wouldn't you
add the option of Biden himself realized he doesn't have the strength. Do you really think he himself didn't know he was getting weaker, and seriously worried about 4 1/2 more years of presidency? Please stop pretending Joe could jog up stairs like 4 years ago. Even he knew it was hard for him to board air force 1.

[MineralMan]

9. OK, whatever you say.

This is not about that. This is about something else. He was forced into his decision. Good day to you, sir or madam.

[Ms. Toad]

40. Based on your personal conversations with him about his decision, I assume? n/t

[bluewater]

83. Was your reply intended for MineralMan or the person he was replying too?

Thanks in advance for you clarifying this for me.

[Ms. Toad]

85. I was responding to MineralMan -

in response to his assertion that this wasn't a personal decision by Biden - that he was forced into it.

[bluewater]

95. Thank You. I thought you might have been responding to the prior poster's assertions

These assertions by the prior poster also seem to be based on personal conversations or perhaps mind-reading too, hence my confusion.

Do you really think he himself didn't know he was getting weaker, and seriously worried about 4 1/2 more years of presidency? Please stop pretending Joe could jog up stairs like 4 years ago. Even he knew it was hard for him to board air force 1.

Thanks for clearing up my confusion.

[Ms. Toad]

97. I see the confusion. n/t

[Alwayshopefull]

166. Alwayshopefull

I agree with you completely.

[LisaL]

10. Yes, being stabbed in the back repeatedly is going to mess up anyone's health.

NT

[StarryNite]

42. Yes, and all those gd knives sticking out of his back

didn't make walking any easier.

[LakeArenal]

108. Al Franken on steroids.

[MustLoveBeagles]

142. This

We never learn

[MorbidButterflyTat]

190. His situation seems almost quaint at this point

A child could recognize that right wing hit job on Al Franken.

I will never forgive smarmy Gillibrand.

[LakeArenal]

196. Some of the same are ready today.

[Desert grandma]

11. WHY?

Because just yesterday he was talking about getting ready to campaign and that we would win.

[newdayneeded]

51. Can you tell me with 100%

accuracy that he wrote that? it might have been staff sending out that stuff to maintain donors.

[AZSkiffyGeek]

81. Didn't he say he was ready to campaign for the Biden/Harris agenda?

That doesn't mean he was still running. All of the statements have been very specifically worded to give wiggle room.

[soandso]

45. Then why

as recently as last night did he tweet he was running and going to win? He was forced out.

[bearsfootball516]

77. Biden doesn't send those tweets, they're from social media staffers.

[soandso]

90. I'm aware

But do think they send tweets making statements that are completely contrary to his wishes and positions?

[bearsfootball516]

91. I've worked on reasonably large campaigns before.

The first rule of social media is, you ALWAYS make it clear that you’re in the fight and you’re fighting to win, no matter what you think may happen in the future.

Biden likely made this decision several days ago, it doesn’t just happen and get announced on a whim. In the mean time, the social media team has to keep posting as if he’s going to be the nominee into November, they aren’t going to be alerted about what’s happening until the very last second, to avoid any leaks.

[livetohike]

53. FDR couldn't jog up steps. Not everyone who ages physically

loses their ability to think and make decisions. The ageism here sucks and I’m 72 today and still hiking mountains.

[newdayneeded]

54. 72 is way different than 82.

Glad you're able to get outdoors!

[livetohike]

57. Use it or lose it! n/t

[newdayneeded]

60. Any waterfalls by you?

those are my favorite hikes. my state has many dozens.

[livetohike]

65. Sadly no, but I'm looking forward to cooler weather

and a trip to the border of SC and GA where there are many. Waterfalls are my favorite natural feature 🙂. We just moved to the Low Country in SC.

[newdayneeded]

87. Wi and the UP have huge

beautiful waterfalls, smokey falls, bond falls, eagle river falls tahquamenom falls.....just awesome.

[livetohike]

106. We've been to the UP several times. I love

Tahquemenon Falls 👍🏻.

[japple]

103. You should put Tallulah Gorge and Falls on your list. It is not that far from you.

[Demsrule86]

143. Because it is not true...money decides primaries now I guess.

[AverageJoe]

4. Agreed

Pushing Biden out was a HUGE political miscalculation IMHO. I will support our ticket, 100 percent, whoever it is, but Biden dropping out makes winning the election a tougher proposition.

VOTE BLUE NO MATTER WHO!

[Takket]

6. i said to my wife a little while ago......

The NYT did with Biden's age what 34 felony convictions could not do to drumpf.... get a candidate to drop out of the race.

[MontanaFarmer]

8. I'm writing Harris a big check as soon as it's clear

she's the nominee. I think there's momentum to be gained here. Joe is the best president in my lifetime. I'm grateful for him. And I'm excited for VP Harris. Let's go!

[Blue Full Moon]

14. Not so sure about that. Seems like they are trying to push her aside too. (Not me)

[ananda]

16. I will also get behind her 100%

!!!

[Blue Full Moon]

12. Ditto

[FemDemERA]

13. I will donate to VP Harris as soon as a website

Is set up to do so.

[ImNotGod]

63. I would pay big bucks to watch her kick tRumps butt on the debate stage. nt

[Demsrule86]

145. She needs to be the candidate...I think they may try to get rid of her.

[blurplenurple]

15. Stop being divisive. We're all on the same side. Do better.

From my observations, the vast majority of negativity leading up to the announcement today has been from the pro-Biden folks. It seems it's continuing after the announcement too.

Post debate:
Concerned DUers: I'm worried about Biden's ability to win. I'll still support him if he's on the ticket, but I'm worried.
Pro-Biden DUers: STFU and stop wetting the bed.

Post withdrawal:
Concerned DUers: Let's support Kamala!
Pro-Biden DUers: You got your way, now STFU.

Seriously, it seems pretty one-sided when it comes to the disrespectful language and divisiveness. That's all. I'm going to go back to not posting now. Thanks.

[MineralMan]

19. That's probably a good idea.

Not posting, I mean.

[blurplenurple]

24. You're just making my point.

Please be respectful of others with differing opinions.

[MineralMan]

26. Oh, I'm always respectful.

It was your decision to "stop posting," not mine. Just as it was Biden's decision to withdraw.

[blurplenurple]

36. This makes me sad.

It seems like this isn't going to be a productive dialogue, and I'm sorry that's the case. I hope you have a great day. (And to be clear, this isn't a "bless your heart" type comment.) I truly hope that you're able to come to peace with whatever frustration you're feeling about this situation.

[MineralMan]

38. LOL!

[choie]

219. That was a pat on the head, MineralMan

[OnDoutside]

86. Stick with it

Back in 2015/16, I was attacked by the very same poster who's having a go at you now for being a Russian bot (!) just because my opinion was different to his. Ignore him, there are plenty of fantastic people on here.

[Demsrule86]

153. What is productive about big donors blackmailing us into getting rid of our nominee?

[radius777]

192. 2/3 of Dem voters wanted Biden to drop out.

Nearly two-thirds of Democrats want Biden to withdraw, new AP-NORC poll finds
Updated 11:28 AM EDT, July 17, 2024
WASHINGTON (AP) — Nearly two-thirds of Democrats say President Joe Biden should withdraw from the presidential race and let his party nominate a different candidate, according to a new poll, sharply undercutting his post-debate claim that “average Democrats” are still with him even if some “big names” are turning on him.

The new survey by the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, conducted as Biden works to salvage his candidacy two weeks after his debate flop, also found that only about 3 in 10 Democrats are extremely or very confident that he has the mental capability to serve effectively as president, down slightly from 40% in an AP-NORC poll in February.

[Demsrule86]

198. I call bullshit on that. He was the nominee...and changing this late is not a good thing.

[Wicked Blue]

242. How very con-vee-nient that there's a poll

I don't believe in polls any more than I believe in leprechauns

[mercuryblues]

119. Even when you agree with some people

They still find a reason complain.

[TwilightZone]

167. Telling people to STFU is kinda disrespectful.

Just sayin'.

I think it's also a bit disrespectful for people to insist, based on no personal knowledge of the conversations, that they know exactly what happened in the president's conversations with family and staff and exactly why the president declined to run again. It's remarkably presumptuous.

His brother says it was about the president's overall health and vitality and the need for Trump to lose in November. Maybe some billionaire paid him to say that.

(Sarcasm, in case it wasn't blatantly obvious)

[niyad]

229. . . .

[Chasing Dreams]

25. Well Said!

And the attacks from those here on “low post” DUers who expressed opinions wanting a change in n the ticket as trolls, bots, etc was just sickening. I’ve been here for 20 years, am real as hell, and am a proud Democrat. I’m proud of Joe and Kamala. It is time to come together and support her campaign. Let’s go!!!

[blurplenurple]

35. The attacks on folks without a lot of posts is weird.

I don't usually post anything online, period. Doesn't mean I'm any less worthy of respect.

I'm 36, have always voted blue, volunteered for Obama in 2012, have donated a cumulative thousands over the years to Dem candidates, and (without being too specific for fear of doxxing) work in election administration for my state government. I'm very committed to democracy, and I believe in the power of having people in office who want government to work (Dems). Is all of that negated by the fact that I joined DU only recently and don't usually like to comment?

For what it's worth, this isn't limited to DU. I was on my church council after being encouraged as one of the few younger folks to participate in leadership. There were certain folks who liked to emphasize how long they'd been attending the church before they said anything at the council meetings, which felt so incredibly dismissive to folks like me who were newer. I mean, the whole "OK, Boomer" thing even started as a reaction against older folks being dismissive of the opinions and experiences of young people (though it often swung way too far in the opposite direction).

All that to say, I believe DU can do better, and I sincerely hope it does. I would love to feel like it's worth it to stick around. I keep going back and forth on it, but posts like this one (the OP, not you) make me think I'm probably in the wrong place if I'm looking for an inclusive, caring online community for folks on the left.

[Akacia]

50. Yes, I have low post count but have been here for years.

It really irritates me when people here act like that. I come here to learn and do not have too much to say if i know little about what is being discussed and figure most people probably could care less about my 2 cents. By the way I am one of those pesky Boomers.

[femmedem]

52. I'm glad you're here.

And I agree, some posters can be horrifically untrusting and dismissive of new posters. But look at how many people recommended your post. Most of us value being inclusive--but we're not always loud about it. I, for one, will try to be better about standing up for newcomers.

[padfun]

56. I'm on your side

I agree with everything you said here.

You sound like a voice of reason. Keep up the good work.

[Demsrule86]

154. Especially folks who have been here for a while...I wasn't able to post much until I left my job.

[TwilightZone]

169. Try not to take it personally.

This has been a contentious issue from the start and many got very deeply invested in the circumstances and the eventual outcome. Some are taking President Biden's decision to withdraw very hard and very personally, and some are lashing out at anyone who might have a different perspective. Or the same perspective, for that matter.

At times like this, there's often a large influx of "new" accounts and many of them are trolls, trying to disrupt and cause problems. That leads some DUers to look at any new or low-post account with suspicion.

None of that is justification for personal attacks and the like, of course, but what you're experiencing is also not indicative of how the place usually operates outside of times of high stress. I hope that you give the place a chance and that other posters give you a chance, as well.

A belated welcome.

[Lulu KC]

244. It really can be a tough room

But there's so much good info here. I use "ignore" for mean people.

[we can do it]

31. Bye then Felicia.

[blurplenurple]

47. Why did you say that to me?

I really don't understand why you'd post that when you see me already teetering on the edge of leaving DU specifically because of the disrespect and divisiveness I've witnessed.

Do you really want a smaller DU community? Do you really only want to see posts from people who agree with you? I'm asking for a more positive, encouraging discourse. I don't want to make anyone mad. I don't want to tell people to stop expressing themselves. I don't want to go on yet another search for an online community that nourishes my political side (instead of inflaming it, as is the case with Reddit). I really want to feel like I belong here.

[mia]

61. Welcome to DU, blurplenurple. Your voice is needed on DU.

Thank you for your input!

[Emrys]

89. Hey, this is a very difficult evening for many or us, probably the most difficult since the last but one election night

Folks need time and space to process stuff, and nerves are raw.

This place can get a bit jumpy at the best of times. A relatively thick skin is sometimes required.

But that thick skin would be well accompanied by a little empathy, in my experience.

You entered the thread telling the OP off. Maybe it wasn't your intention, but it seemed presumptious from someone who has a lot less time on the board. That sort of thing shouldn't matter, but it has on every forum I've ever spent time on. You also need to bear in mind that the last couple of weeks have seen a major influx of low-post count trolls, who've usually been gone after a few posts.

FWIW, this place skews older, partly because of when it was set up in 2001, partly because forums aren't as fashionable nowadays, just as blogs aren't any more, whereas once they in turn took over from forums. It could always do with some younger voices.

[bluewater]

111. Well said.

Tone matters. It's easy to be misunderstood in a text only discussion since that lacks voice inflection, facial expressions and body language.

I mean, no one should want to be perceived as being sanctimonious or engaging in gaslighting, I would think.

[Emrys]

113. "sanctimonious or engaging in gaslighting" - WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY THAT????

Just kidding, in case that wasn't clear.

I think ...

[bluewater]

116. Yes, Heaven forfend! lol

[Polly Hennessey]

93. You belong. As with any group we have a few mean spirits.

They might be vocal but not all that meaningful.

[stonecutter357]

184. LoL are you Polly7 ?

[femmedem]

99. That was rude and unwelcoming.

And the person you're responding to doesn't deserve it.

[bluewater]

92. blurplenurple posted: "Stop being divisive. ... Do better."

Hmmm.

Personally, I try to be more polite and respectful and to avoid telling other people what to do when I disagree with their opinions.

Also, I try to reply to the specific comment I took issue with and avoid making sweeping broad brushed generalities directed at a large number of DU members based solely on my personal opinions or "observations".

Case in point:

From my observations, the vast majority of negativity leading up to the announcement today has been from the pro-Biden folks. It seems it's continuing after the announcement too.

Post debate:
Concerned DUers: I'm worried about Biden's ability to win. I'll still support him if he's on the ticket, but I'm worried.
Pro-Biden DUers: STFU and stop wetting the bed.

Post withdrawal:
Concerned DUers: Let's support Kamala!
Pro-Biden DUers: You got your way, now STFU.

Seriously, it seems pretty one-sided when it comes to the disrespectful language and divisiveness.

In any case, Welcome to DU!

Enjoy your day.

[MorbidButterflyTat]

195. I thought similar

"Stop being divisive!" Then proceeds to divide.

[bluewater]

221. Nicely put.

"Stop being divisive!" Then proceeds to divide.

[BoycottTimHortons]

228. Some people

deliberately fish for a fight then cry foul when it actually happens.

[ProudMNDemocrat]

17. I still have Joe's back and will support his decision to step aside..

I am sad that Joe has decided to step aside and has endorsed Kamala Harris to run instead.

Kamala Harris has the moxie and can unite not only the Party, but women too! Women of all stripes, backgrounds, on issues concerning Reproductive rights, voting rights, child care, jobs, immigration, etc. She has been prepping for this since Joe picked her to be his running mate. She cares about the rights of all Americans. Her youth and vigor is a plus. Of course, to be silly, will change into comfy shoes from now on.

Kamala has the smarts too to run circles around CF#45 and his vp pick. I was depressed, but now after hearing of this news, I am more hopeful for the future.

Let's get to work people!

[Demsrule86]

148. There was no decision, Joe was forced out. I hope on the day after the election...you guys are still happy and we won.

It is going to be a very tough race.

[Hiawatha Pete]

18. +1

[mcar]

20. It's past time to campaign against the felon

instead of eating our own.

[bdamomma]

43. I agree

with your post, mcar.

[Demsrule86]

211. Do we have a nominee? I keep hearing about an open convetion which would leave us what a month or so before

early voting?

[whopis01]

231. The nominee will be decided before the convention

Some states have certification deadlines prior to the convention. Ohio Republicans, in particular, have made it clear that they were trying to use that as a tactic to keep Biden off the ballot altogether.

There will be a virtual roll-call prior to August 7th. Harris will be named the nominee at that point.

There will not be an open convention.

[Blue Full Moon]

22. Looks like and hope I am wrong

But this just gave Trump the election. They are demanding that Biden resign immediately. That the democrats have been lying to the American people. But if that does happen Harris will be president. Which would make some of the I want a woman president people happy. But from all the posts and articles I doubt that it will make her the nominee. Although I believe that she should be it. She has been VP, Senator but somehow she isn’t qualified. Boiling mad right now. So money does trump our civil rights.

[MineralMan]

23. Well, since I have no idea how much knowledge you have,

I will have to just take your prediction with a mountain of salt, I guess. I'm not sure you really are able to predict much of anything regarding this.

Have a good day.

[Demsrule86]

212. Can't do it. Kamala has to count the votes and we will not get anyone approved in Congress.

[XanaDUer2]

27. I just unsubscriped from one nt

[fishwax]

29. as colin powell told dubya back in the day regarding iraq: it's like Pottery Barn--you break it, you bought it

[StarryNite]

72. Yup.

[debm55]

30. I agree with you Mineral Man.

[BlueInPhilly]

33. We have work to do!!!

Take this day to cry, then go back to supporting your party and your country. Don’t leave the playground because somebody went home.

Biden did what he promised he would do 4 years ago - that he would not run for reelection.

I would vote for anyone running against Trump.

[Iggo]

44. Except he did run. And I voted for him. And now my vote is fucked.

[soandso]

55. Exactly

And what about democracy? I don't get this shit about suck it up, move on and capitulating to the whims of billionaires. That's oligarchy vs democracy and orders to just ignore that and fall in line are what isn't helpful. It's a big fucking deal.

It feels like these elites who just stole 14 million primary votes are arrogant and entitled and they're completely secure in that because the know Democrats will vote for whomever they choose - which is true. It's like "what are you peons gonna do about it? Now shut up." It does not feel right.

[Demsrule86]

149. That is the bottom line.

[whopis01]

233. Many weren't allowed to vote at all

In Florida, for example, the Democratic Party decided to not even hold a vote for the nominee.

The party nomination process has never been particularly Democratic.

[emulatorloo]

127. Biden ----never---- promised he would not run for re-election.

For one thing Would have made him a lame duck from day one.

For another thing, he ——never—— said that.

[Demsrule86]

151. Yeah ...funny how they need to justify caving to big donors which is what happened.

[Pisces]

206. Big donors didn't raise 47 mill in 7 hours. It was small donation, showing approval with their dollars. Real democrats

[yowzayowzayowza]

37. What makes you think they "wanted" this?

Perhaps they felt the same duty that Biden expressed.

[valleyrogue]

46. Unless Biden withdrew because of COVID concerns on his own health,

these people are going to have a LOT to answer for if and very possibly when we lose the general election.

This is unforgivable. Furthermore, the USSC needs to be expanded so that Citizens United can be thrown out.

This is what has created the mess we have. The rich and corporations should not have any more say than the rest of us.

[Iggo]

48. Wait for the gaslighting.

"Joe agrees with us!"

"We were only doing what Joe wants."

"He said so himself!"

Should be fun...

EDIT: Actually, you don't have to wait. It's everywhere already...lol.

[onandup]

49. So two thirds of Democrats should STFU

Okay.

[Ocelot II]

58. And now we proceed with the situation we have.

To coin a cliche, we were handed a lemon and now we have to figure out how to make lemonade with it. For the purposes of this election it doesn't matter why Biden decided to withdraw, whether he jumped or was pushed. Retribution can be saved until after the election, at which point we can each decide for ourselves what we want to do about the pushers. For the next 3-1/2 months we work our asses off to be sure Trump isn't elected, whether or not we love the new ticket and no matter how pissed off we might be right now.

[MineralMan]

59. Exactly. But will we?

The answer to that will be revealed in November.

[Ocelot II]

62. I can speak only for myself, but I intend to be more active this election

than I've been in years, and I hope everyone realizes that this isn't the time to punish the party even if they deserve it.

[Deminpenn]

71. We'll see what happens for sure

I myself am really angry. I feel the same way I felt when my alma mater threw its longtime football coach, who was sick and dying at the time, under the bus for the actions of someone else because they needed a scapegoat. If Joe Biden was my dad and this happened to him, I'd be ready to punch someone.

FTR, I voted "uncommitted" in the PA Dem primary as a protest vote over the war in Gaza.

[Norbert]

64. I just hope this nextchoice is it.

At least when LBJ stepped aside we still had almost 8 months to go.

[CanonRay]

66. STFU, and open your wallets

[Electrolite]

69. Not exactly helpful.

STFU is generally considered impolite by most people.

[CanonRay]

98. I'm talking about the big donors who started this

[Electrolite]

178. OK, I see now.

regrets.

[Autumn]

67. It's over and done with. Nobody needs to STFU

[BootinUp]

70. I was not one of those people. I would like to also point out

that the delegates are now released. They are not VP Harris's delegates. I assume some deals have been worked out in advance of Biden's announcement. Lets see what happens.

[peggysue2]

73. Today we mourn, get angry and scream to the heavens

Personally, I'm heartsick about the forced withdrawal of a good, decent man and an extraordinary leader, the best president of my living memory. Today I'm pissed at the howls that drove this action--the media, the GOP, malevolent foreign entities, the far-right fringe, the propaganda etc., etc., etc.

I plan to wallow in my sadness and pissed-off mood all day.

But tomorrow?

The fight begins, again.

No excuses for bitterness, further delays or endless recriminations. We have a country to save; a future to ensure; a legacy to preserve; and sacrifices to honor, those made in our behalf including the one just made by President Biden.

Kamala Harris is our go-to nominee. There better not be moaning and groaning from any quarter or I am sure to blow a gasket.

We have less than 4 months to turn this disaster around. Everything and I mean everything depends on our full commitment to the task ahead.

I have a disabled grand baby, a child who has fought for every breath since the day she was born. There's no way I'm turning her fate over to a bunch of rabid wolves. We all have loved ones, people to protect, even if its ourselves. The end note is squarely on us now. We better be prepared to play it right and strong right to the finish line.

As for President Biden? He will always be the People's President in my heart and mind. He earned that title with integrity, decency and grit.

Time to show him what we've got!

[SYFROYH]

74. I don't think they should STFU. They were told to STFU for quite a while.

They weren't speaking to Biden. They were speaking to the party and voters.

They still have something to say.

[Baggies]

75. Doesn't work that way

nt

[orangecrush]

79. Thank you

I will vote for whomever is on the ticket (assuming the courts even allow a new ticket) but other than that I'm fucking done.

[RandomNumbers]

84. Stronger words, please

Like FUCK YOU ALL TO HELL.

(the you being those who pushed Biden into withdrawing - not YOU, MM)

[anamnua]

88. It was not quite as simple as that.

I bow to nobody in terms of my respect and admiration for JB. But it was pretty clear that he was fighting a losing battle against Father Time. I am also a medical doctor with decades of experience in geriatrics and his cognitive decline was starkly obvious. The adverse implications of his staying on under those circumstances are crystal clear. And it would also would have been cruel to the man himself to expect him to do do.
And he was not pushed. He might have been advised but he was not pushed. He alone could call it. And being the selfless patriot that he is he called it the right way. The contrasts with his opponent -- which are now powerfully pushed into national focus -- could not be starker.

[Bongo Prophet]

160. Fuck You Father Time!!!

Couldn't resist.

[Xolodno]

94. I didn't see many on here pushing for Biden to drop out.

In fact, I thought he should have stayed in.

Most threads were of "FUCK MSNBC, CNN, *insert D politician*, etc. for pushing that narrative.

The others were more of "What the fuck is going on?! Why is this being pushed? What aren't they telling us?" I was one of those and took some heat for it and accused for wanting Biden to drop out, when I wasn't.

There were few actually advocating for Biden to drop out. So, not that many will need to STFU.

I'll rally behind whoever is the nominee, even if its a pile of manure. The alternative is far too worse.

[ColinC]

101. K/R

[JustAnotherGen]

107. Amen

Very interesting county committee call this afternoon. I live in the 6th wealthiest County in America. A lot of money thrown at Biden.

[honest.abe]

109. History will likely prove them correct.

So no need for them to say anything.

[Susan Calvin]

114. I particularly don't want to hear a peep out of Clooney. nt

[3825-87867]

117. So now, can we expect those "rich people" who wanted Biden out

to make up contributions lost by donating huge sums?
I can't wait for Clooney and Co. to chip in a few bucks.
I want to see them fork over millions.
Or be called cheap by the likes of Musk.


Not putting money on them contributing any more to make up for the losses.

[ibegurpard]

121. Many things can be true at once

You can want to unite and move on and still hold a grudge and take notes. I won't be forgetting those that stirred up this chaos instead of coming to Biden's defense when the media pile on began in the wake of the Afghanistan withdrawal.

[alarimer]

124. Yes.

Call them what they are: backstabbers. They are never, ever to be trusted from here on out.

[totodeinhere]

128. No, I think that is the wrong attitude.

We will need to unite the Democratic party if we are going to win in November. We can't be fighting among ourselves. Joe is out and that is a done deal. But holding grudges against those in our party who tried to push him out is not productive at this point. We need everybody working together.

[Sympthsical]

139. Now now

Sometimes the tiny horse leaves the stable and there's nothing to be done for it.

I do believe that is the advice I often receive as a gay man.

But I only have mostly fond memories of farms. Except when that goat attacked me. But I was wearing a hoodie that was basically highlighter yellow at the time.

[Island Blue]

152. And they better donate a shit ton of money

by the end of the business day on Monday!

[a kennedy]

156. I'M SO PISSED I CAN'T EVEN TALK ABOUT IT.

🤬 🤬 🤬 🤬 🤬 🤬 🤬 🤬 🤬 🤬

[musette_sf]

161. At a few minutes after your post

I AM ALSO *STILL* SOOOOO PISSED

[Demsrule86]

217. Me too.

[lees1975]

163. We better win now.

Or I wouldn't want to be you if we don't.

[Prairie Gates]

164. Ya heard!

They want us to LIKE IT, too. That's the galling part.

[Festivito]

175. Consider also, others asking would be better than just stepping down out of the blue.

His downhill seems to be going as fast as the downhill we saw with Justice Thurgood Marshall.

[LisaM]

177. Thank you.

Look, I will stand behind Kamala Harris front and center. I put her ahead of Biden on my list of choices in 2020, and in the event, I was probably proven wrong, because he has been an absolutely exceptional President.

But all the people who can't even wait a day to post Kamala Harris memes or "I'm With Her" photos etc., please cut it out. It looks like grave dancing to me. Have some grace.

[Hugin]

187. It's on them now...

Last edited Mon Jul 22, 2024, 07:31 AM - Edit history (2)

* putting on my hat and heading out the door *

If the chorus fucks this up, I am going to have to stand in line to kick their asses.

[GoreWon2000]

194. Change the rules so that this never happens again

and FU to the mostly white anglo male elitists who disenfranchised 14 million dem primary voters. Full speed ahead V.P. Harris!

[The Grand Illuminist]

235. Taking this to the courts.

Since after 1968 Chicago, states passed laws to prevent these fiasco ever happening. This might be going to the courts.

[GoreWon2000]

236. The DNC needs to change its rules

so that never again are we the people disenfranchised by a small group of mostly privileged white anglo men. It's GOP SCOTUS 2000 all over again.

[The Grand Illuminist]

238. More like '68 Chicago.

nt

[GoreWon2000]

239. That's my worry/

We know how that one turned out. 2024 is a life and death election for women.

[Sky Jewels]

225. It was what needed to happen.

We were on track to get slaughtered.

Now we’re not.

[BannonsLiver]

226. You first.

[Meowmee]

230. They probably won't though imo

They have to reinforce their decision to hound him until he dropped out... it has happened before, and it will happen again. I have not been here for ages, I am not sure why I came back, but someone here had emailed me so I replied.

I stopped donating to dems years ago after they got rid of Franken. Then it was only to candidates I liked.

Fetterman is the only one I have donated money to recently when he was attacked after having a stroke. I will always vote dem but only because there is no other choice now and so it shall always be. Not a penny from me and no help other than my vote. They finally stopped calling my father for money after he died and I had asked them numerous times to stop and that he was dead!

I wish I could get all of my money back except to Fetterman that I donated since 2016.

Pretending this is normal or that anything in this country is normal or ever will be again is lunacy. What happened is a disgrace.

[onenote]

234. To all those saying they won't donate to anyone who urged Biden to drop out: I hope you'll reconsider

If not, I hope the rest of us need to step up and increase our donations to Brown, Heinrich, and Tester, just to name three Senators that urged Biden to drop out. Those are all vulnerable Democratic Senators who we need to keep in office come hell or high water.

So while some of you say you're taking your ball and going home, my hope is that the more thoughtful among us will realize what is at stake here and put party above bruised feelings.

[republianmushroom]

243. Don't think they will, but, we can shut them up, plain and simple.

Support Ms. Harris