avatarLon Shapiro

Summary

The website content discusses the need for unity among Democrats, criticism of President Obama for not reclassifying marijuana, and the importance of voter mobilization in the face of electoral challenges.

Abstract

The text reflects on the internal criticisms within the Democratic Party, noting the historical friction between the Clinton and Obama campaigns. It calls for President Obama to take action on marijuana reclassification, which could reduce the disproportionate arrest rates of black Americans. The author, who worked for Obama's campaigns, expresses a mix of support and disappointment in Obama's presidency. Emphasizing the significance of the upcoming election, the author warns against intra-party alienation, citing the need to overcome gerrymandering, voter suppression, and the influence of corporate money in politics. The call to action is for Democrats, particularly millennials, to unite and engage in the political process to prevent another presidency similar to Reagan or W. Bush.

Opinions

  • The author believes that President Obama has the power to alleviate the disproportionate impact of marijuana laws on black Americans by reclassifying it from a Category I drug.
  • There is a sense of disappointment with some of Obama's decisions, suggesting that he could have done more to live up to the expectations of his supporters.
  • The author is critical of the divisive rhetoric within the Democratic Party during the primary season, arguing that it could harm the party's chances in the general election.
  • The text conveys a strong concern about the structural challenges facing American democracy, including gerrymandering, voter suppression laws, and unlimited campaign spending by anonymous corporations.
  • The author advocates for a united front among Democrats, urging party members to work together and mobilize voters, especially the younger generation, to ensure a successful election outcome.

Brandon, the problem is Clinton was extremely critical of Obama in 2008. Maybe you don’t remember how ugly that campaign got, with some really harsh comments by her campaign staff.

I worked for Obama in both elections, but like many Democrats, have been disappointed by some of his decisions. All he has to do is nudge the attorney general and they can remove marijuana from the Category I drug classification that should be reserved for heroin and cocaine. This would immediately help black pot smokers who are four times as likely to be arrested as whites.

This is not about trying to diminish our President. It’s about saying Obama can do better, and we as a country need to do better.

It doesn’t matter if it’s you laying the smack down on Sanders, or Holly Wood flaming Clinton on an almost daily basis. We simply can’t afford to alienate each other during the primary season.

This is a huge election. With gerrymandering, voter suppression laws, and unlimited campaign spending by anonymous corporations, the deck is already stacked against we the people.

We have to rally our base, especially millennials, to work on campaigns and vote in unprecedented numbers. We can’t afford a third assault on our country by the people that brought us Reagan and W.

Peace.

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