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Chasstev365

(7,234 posts)
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 07:23 AM 8 hrs ago

Have Schumer and Jefferies forgotten how to hold a press conference?

* State that the Davos Speech shows that Trump is a raving loon and an embarrassment to the USA. Talk about Trump's dementia the way Republicans attacked Joe Biden.

* State that ICE is arresting children and the DOJ believes that ICE DOESN’T NEED A WARRANT TO BURST INTO PEOPLE'S HOMES! Hello: the 4th Amendment in the Bill of Rights?

* Explain the according the GOP, the Clinton's must testify to Congress or be held in contempt, yet numerous Republicans, including some on the very committee, blew off their own subpoenas with zero consequences

MY GOD: AT LEAST TRY TO FIGHT THE MADNESS AND EXPOSE THE GOP TO AMERICANS WHO AREN'T PAYING ATTENTION!

126 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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Have Schumer and Jefferies forgotten how to hold a press conference? (Original Post) Chasstev365 8 hrs ago OP
Whatever they ARE doing, it's not enough. It's ridiculous they aren't capitalizing on this moment of abject madness by LymphocyteLover 8 hrs ago #1
I agree. Alliepoo 2 hrs ago #92
Schumer and Jeffries can't believe what good luck they're having bucolic_frolic 8 hrs ago #2
People are gonna vote for a party led by the "timid". AloeVera 8 hrs ago #6
Yeah, because timidity has been such a triumph for Democrats, all these years. Paladin 7 hrs ago #18
Post removed Post removed 6 hrs ago #44
Making themselves a target for MAGA and FauxNoise does nothing bucolic_frolic 3 hrs ago #88
Making themselves a target? Cirsium 2 hrs ago #98
I don't think they're exercising sound strategy. Alliepoo 2 hrs ago #99
Jeffries voted to approve jared kushners daddy as a diplomat Javaman 6 hrs ago #23
Why did any dem vote for any of TSF's nominees? n/t returnee 5 hrs ago #71
exactly. nt Javaman 5 hrs ago #72
Good question. NT Bozvotros 1 hr ago #118
I think you're confusing him with Se. Cory Booker.. people in the House don't vote to approve apointees. LymphocyteLover 1 hr ago #111
THANK YOU. maxsolomon 45 min ago #124
The Supreme Court's decision to allow unlimited campaign donations and dark money Bozvotros 1 hr ago #117
No, Hakeem Jeffries did not vote to confirm Kushner as ambassador to France. lapucelle 16 min ago #125
I know that's their strategy but I don't agree with it. yardwork 6 hrs ago #33
If timid was the right strategy, he would never have gotten a Tadpole Raisin 6 hrs ago #43
i think this is milquetoast. Hieronymus Phact 6 hrs ago #46
Yeah, right choie 5 hrs ago #61
True.. agingdem 5 hrs ago #67
Wishful thinking Cirsium 1 hr ago #101
So we are fighting Trump/Republicans with Quietness & Timidity? OK, Got it! Ars Longa 5 hrs ago #69
Agreed. RoseTrellis 4 hrs ago #80
Absurd Cirsium 1 hr ago #104
I get it, but... SpankMe 4 hrs ago #83
This is NOT a sound strategy. How about talking about compassion, empathy and pounding on the moral compass? n/t PatrickforB 3 hrs ago #84
I think you forgot the Alliepoo 2 hrs ago #93
That is the problem Cirsium 2 hrs ago #94
You answered your own question with Soul_of_Wit 2 hrs ago #96
The flip side of that line of thought is Dems need to peak in November, not now. bucolic_frolic 2 hrs ago #100
Peak? Cirsium 1 hr ago #103
Yes, I'm sure that's what they are doing but as others here have pointed out, that safe strategy is not enough for our LymphocyteLover 1 hr ago #113
Because that strategy was SO successful in 2024 . . . markpkessinger 49 min ago #123
There's an old saying SocialDemocrat61 8 hrs ago #3
And, the fact that they are also shooting other people while they are shooting themselves in the foot is okay? OldBaldy1701E 6 hrs ago #24
So what is the solution? SocialDemocrat61 5 hrs ago #73
Obvious Cirsium 1 hr ago #108
Can you be more specific? SocialDemocrat61 59 min ago #120
If there are better spokespeople JBTaurus83 5 hrs ago #57
Two different skill sets SocialDemocrat61 5 hrs ago #75
Press the advantage Cirsium 1 hr ago #105
How? SocialDemocrat61 1 hr ago #119
I think... myohmy2 8 hrs ago #4
And the files.... Have to remember that Epstein was a big Democratic Party supporter and financial guy. LiberalArkie 7 hrs ago #19
Get another job, then. JBTaurus83 5 hrs ago #59
What makes you think those who aren't paying attention JI7 8 hrs ago #5
Nothing Ventured,...... Etc. ColoringFool 6 hrs ago #28
You're gonna get scolded for your lack of faith Orrex 8 hrs ago #7
Can you give us a recap of today's press conference and your thoughts on it? W_HAMILTON 1 hr ago #110
It called"just let him rave and rant" strategy. Ray Bruns 8 hrs ago #8
I think nine years of rope should be sufficient - werdna 7 hrs ago #17
He's in the office because someone's eggs were supposedly to expensive. (Which is bullshit). Ray Bruns 6 hrs ago #48
Yeah, No. More Like A Bungee Cord. ColoringFool 6 hrs ago #30
Yeah choie 5 hrs ago #63
They are keeping all of Bettie 8 hrs ago #9
Or maybe these guys just aren't that smart. Bluetus 2 hrs ago #90
I don't know what is up with it all Bettie 2 hrs ago #95
"Oh Bullwinkle, that strongly worded letter never works" gay texan 8 hrs ago #10
Fan mail Cirsium 1 hr ago #107
Something is very wrong with the Dem leadership right now. Baitball Blogger 8 hrs ago #11
Equal Opportunity Epstein Files? 🤔 🧐 🤷🏻‍♂️🤷‍♀️🤷 ColoringFool 6 hrs ago #31
Fuck speeches, gab13by13 7 hrs ago #12
With things this bad, this dangerous in our country democrank 7 hrs ago #13
DemDUer's with absolute opposite opinions- in the end I sure hope we all pull on the same rope. NoMoreRepugs 7 hrs ago #14
We will angrychair 5 hrs ago #64
No choice Cirsium 1 hr ago #112
Yes, every single day! n/t werdna 7 hrs ago #15
They are good back room leaders, not charismatic Johonny 7 hrs ago #16
Gavin. AOC. MIA: Obama, Big Bill, Gore, Dean, HRC..... ColoringFool 6 hrs ago #34
We will win - because victory will come to us in due time - if we pray hard and wait long enough. dalton99a 7 hrs ago #20
I've Been Waiting Since, Oh, 1963. ColoringFool 6 hrs ago #36
Jeffries says God is still on the Throne! JBTaurus83 5 hrs ago #60
Well, God did outlast Hitler and He will outlast Trump. dalton99a 5 hrs ago #62
Fair point JBTaurus83 5 hrs ago #66
Cory Booker Gingermolly 6 hrs ago #21
I think they are waiting. Autumn 6 hrs ago #22
in a time when we are surrounded by madness... Javaman 6 hrs ago #25
Ah, the magic fighting spirit press conference that Americans huddled 'round the TV like in the '60s betsuni 6 hrs ago #26
Well, There WAS That "I Have A Dream" Speech. Plus,... ColoringFool 6 hrs ago #37
Waiting for the "rope" portion of the 'rope-a-dope' program? 🤷‍♀️ littlemissmartypants 6 hrs ago #27
IMO Abstractartist 6 hrs ago #29
I agree. BUT 4bonhoffer 6 hrs ago #32
Then Our Guys Need To Actually CHALLENGE THE MEDIA, DARE THEM TO ... ColoringFool 6 hrs ago #39
Schumer and Jeffries are pussies maliaSmith 6 hrs ago #35
Wrong word. Easterncedar 6 hrs ago #54
LAME "LEADERS" Clouds Passing 6 hrs ago #38
Just what we need. murielm99 6 hrs ago #40
There is a legitimate disagreement Cirsium 1 hr ago #114
I don't much care for murielm99 56 min ago #121
Absolutely LittleGirl 6 hrs ago #41
I don't think seeing them wobble around is going to be very inspiring LR3 6 hrs ago #42
There are lots of Dems in both houses who would be much tougher than those two. ratchiweenie 6 hrs ago #45
Should be out there every DAMN DAY, especially Jefferies Joinfortmill 6 hrs ago #47
+1. Seriously. What the fuck are they doing? dalton99a 6 hrs ago #51
Think they will slowly ramp up as we get into Spring. Citizens attention span is as long as a hummingbirds wing flap n/t Cheezoholic 6 hrs ago #49
Good grief. 🙄🥱 QueerDuck 6 hrs ago #50
Pot meet kettle Cirsium 1 hr ago #115
Oh, really? Tell me more. QueerDuck 1 hr ago #116
K&R spanone 6 hrs ago #52
Timid gets us every other election when we should be Tadpole Raisin 6 hrs ago #53
Could not agree more karin_sj 6 hrs ago #55
I'm very proud of we the people JBTaurus83 5 hrs ago #56
Pelosi held regular conferences at least during Covid ALBliberal 5 hrs ago #58
Not a Cuomo fan, but I appreciated his daily pressers during Covid JonAndKatePlusABird 5 hrs ago #68
Same. ALBliberal 4 hrs ago #81
When your enemy is making a mistake, don't interrupt him. hay rick 5 hrs ago #65
Would you feel this same way justaprogressive 5 hrs ago #70
It looks to me like Sun Tzu agrees with me (and himself since I borrowed his point). hay rick 4 hrs ago #77
DURec leftstreet 5 hrs ago #74
So many topics to cover. Unambiguous topics! yellow dahlia 4 hrs ago #76
I think leadership and the consultant class... OneGrassRoot 4 hrs ago #78
Consultant advice so far seems to be silence and prayerful meditation. dalton99a 4 hrs ago #82
Morning rant. TALK IS CHEAP. Show me the action. usonian 4 hrs ago #79
It is sad Quanto Magnus 3 hrs ago #85
If we are to win the midterms Scubamatt 3 hrs ago #86
It's a losing strategy to be quiet and timid danieljsf 3 hrs ago #87
Au contraire , They want to talk about bipartisanship to solve the affordability crisis. flashman13 2 hrs ago #89
Ironic that as Jeffries is giving a press conference right now, no one here is talking about it. W_HAMILTON 2 hrs ago #91
"Maybe those that wanted a press conference so badly can start a live thread here now to discuss it?" LudwigPastorius 2 hrs ago #97
Hear, hear BaronChocula 1 hr ago #109
Two things can be true at once senseandsensibility 1 hr ago #102
Here creeksneakers2 1 hr ago #106
Probably keeping their powder dry. malthaussen 53 min ago #122
that's why we are not in power. trump would have been spouting crap and lies, but he samsingh 16 min ago #126

LymphocyteLover

(9,460 posts)
1. Whatever they ARE doing, it's not enough. It's ridiculous they aren't capitalizing on this moment of abject madness by
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 07:24 AM
8 hrs ago

the Republican POTUS

bucolic_frolic

(54,241 posts)
2. Schumer and Jeffries can't believe what good luck they're having
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 07:33 AM
8 hrs ago

If this holds til November, they're good to go. They don't want to do anything to upset the apple cart, ding the fundraising, nor undermine any of the extensive list of fine candidates they have recruited. They themselves don't want to become the problem. So they're going timid. Explain to us all how that is not a sound strategy. Viewed another way, Democrats don't need to take on political risk and blowback. They just need to trudge forward and let the mass of what they've banked pay off.

SO I find criticism of them ill-informed.

Paladin

(32,343 posts)
18. Yeah, because timidity has been such a triumph for Democrats, all these years.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 08:27 AM
7 hrs ago

At this point, I'd settle for a little public outrage from Democratic leadership. Is that just too much to ask for, as our country devolves into a Goddamned police state?

Response to Paladin (Reply #18)

bucolic_frolic

(54,241 posts)
88. Making themselves a target for MAGA and FauxNoise does nothing
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 12:59 PM
3 hrs ago

Jeffries in particular could become speaker any week or month as the GOP implodes and retires.

Making loud noises and alienating everyone is not sound strategy. Dems need to peak in November, not win a shouting contest in February.

They are executing sound strategy, and have some considerable basis for its effectiveness in polling and past performance.

How is making a lot of noise working for Trump? He keeps plummeting in the polls.

Well guess what? We can plummet to and help Trump if we act that way. It goes both ways.

The people are deciding. We'll be out front leading them on Election Day. For sure.

Cirsium

(3,447 posts)
98. Making themselves a target?
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:01 PM
2 hrs ago

All Democrats are "targets for MAGA and FauxNoise," no matter what any if us say or do. That is no excuse. Fear and weakness is not a winning strategy. It is what caused this nightmare to a large extent.

A "shouting contest?" Is that how you see this?

Alliepoo

(2,778 posts)
99. I don't think they're exercising sound strategy.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:04 PM
2 hrs ago

And I think they might be paying too much attention to pollsters. People are PISSED about Ice and the horrible things they’re doing, about the economy and healthcare and Greenland and Donvict and so much more. They want and NEED to see and hear action from the Dems snd all they’re getting is crickets. It’s not a good thing. If the pollsters are recommending this course of (what looks to the voting public as) inaction and impotence, they should probably be kicked to the curb. Now is the time for Dems to step up and take advantage. Folks want fire and fight and the Dems need to bring it now and keep it stoked till November.

Javaman

(65,231 posts)
23. Jeffries voted to approve jared kushners daddy as a diplomat
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:18 AM
6 hrs ago

why?

because jared's daddio help fund Jeffries campaign.

that's enough for me to oust him as leader.

LymphocyteLover

(9,460 posts)
111. I think you're confusing him with Se. Cory Booker.. people in the House don't vote to approve apointees.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:53 PM
1 hr ago

Bozvotros

(955 posts)
117. The Supreme Court's decision to allow unlimited campaign donations and dark money
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 03:04 PM
1 hr ago

has caused our whole electoral system to reek of corruption and legalized bribery. dominated by the wealthiest corporations and individuals. SCOTUS wanted it that way because they clearly wanted in on it too. This ruling encourages or nearly forces some candidates to accept donations and make compromises they would otherwise reject. But Jeffries taking money from the Kushners should have been a bridge too far for him. Don't let me get started on Schumer.

The next time our party holds power, we have to, impeach Thomas, Alito, and any other judge who we know has accepted money and gifts. If that can't be done, we must enlarge the court and install Democratic or progressive judges to balance the SC. Other reforms, including no lifetime terms, strict ethical rules with congressional oversight are badly needed and long overdue.

Real electoral reform would also require a return to the Fairness doctrine for public airwaves. Primary and election funding must be public financing or limited individual citizen contributions only. No more bullshit about a company being a person too. Penalties for election finance violations would need to include large fines and mandatory jail time for repeated or egregious acts. It is also necessary to eliminate stock trading for members and family of the House and Senate, and anyone working in or for the White House.

But I'm just kidding myself. None of that can or will happen when states can redraw their districts whenever they want and make laws to limit and restrict voting. What I'm saying is we have a shit ton of work to do, starting with winning the upcoming midterms.

lapucelle

(20,954 posts)
125. No, Hakeem Jeffries did not vote to confirm Kushner as ambassador to France.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 03:50 PM
16 min ago
Where did this piece of misinformation come from?

Let's review some basic civics and revisit the constitution. It is the US Senate that votes to confirm those whom the president nominates as ambassadors.

Article II, Section 2, Clause 2:

He shall have Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, to make Treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators present concur; and he shall nominate, and by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, shall appoint Ambassadors, other public Ministers and Consuls, Judges of the supreme Court, and all other Officers of the United States, whose Appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be established by Law: but the Congress may by Law vest the Appointment of such inferior Officers, as they think proper, in the President alone, in the Courts of Law, or in the Heads of Departments.

https://constitution.congress.gov/browse/essay/artII-S2-C2-3-4/ALDE_00013095/

====================

Hakeem Jeffries is a congressman, not a senator. He serves in the House, not the Senate.

Members of the House don't get to vote for or against ambassadorial nominations.


----------------------------------------------

Here is a link to the roll call confirmation vote to confirm Charles Kushner ambassador to France.

Roll Call Vote 119th Congress - 1st Session

Question: On the Nomination (Confirmation: Charles Kushner, of New York, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the French Republic and the Principality of Monaco)

https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1191/vote_119_1_00261.htm#position

=========================


Misinformation about Democrats should be corrected, lest it be repeated to the point that it morphs into disinformation.

Who benefits from misinformation and/or disinformation about our Party's congressional leaders?

Cui bono?

Not Democrats.





Tadpole Raisin

(1,976 posts)
43. If timid was the right strategy, he would never have gotten a
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:47 AM
6 hrs ago

second term. The average person voting Republican has the attention span and memory of a gnat. They forgot how bad it was under him and with him constantly telling people how great his administration was they kind of went along with it.

And the Democratic tendency to wait until after Labor Day (the official start of the election season) to about the talk about what great things Dems have done and how horrible Republicans have been almost guarantees a loss. By that time they are so far behind the 8 ball they barely make a dent until just before the election.

This is a 24/7/365 day effort. It doesn’t have to be in your face but it does require regular reminders to the populace in the moment.

The OP is right, sorry!

Hieronymus Phact

(728 posts)
46. i think this is milquetoast.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:51 AM
6 hrs ago

Risk is a required. People follow strength.
Most people don't pay attention to anything outside their own little daily bubble.
The more voices there are standing up and saying this is wacko, un-American shit going on, the more of a possibility that someone who's not paying much attention will hear it and say "yeah it seemed strange when i heard something like that last week, that's messed up".

Being in congress gives them a louder voice than average people, It's their duty to speak up and lead.

choie

(6,710 posts)
61. Yeah, right
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 10:13 AM
5 hrs ago

And we thought Kamala was going to win in 2024. No way should the Dems sit on their asses and do nothing, unless you want the same thing to happen in 2026.

agingdem

(8,776 posts)
67. True..
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 10:26 AM
5 hrs ago

Last edited Thu Jan 22, 2026, 01:17 PM - Edit history (1)

Woodrow Wilson once said “Never attempt to murder a man who is committing suicide”..

Schumer and Jeffries are savvy enough to know when to stay out of the way of a party (Republican), a movement (MAGA), and their psychotic dementia-addled leader are in the process of’ “committing suicide”..

Cirsium

(3,447 posts)
101. Wishful thinking
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:07 PM
1 hr ago

Fear and denial, masquerading as caution.

MAGA is not "committing suicide," they are committing murder. "“Never attempt to stop a man who is committing murder” would be a more accurate description of that strategy.

Ars Longa

(471 posts)
69. So we are fighting Trump/Republicans with Quietness & Timidity? OK, Got it!
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 10:37 AM
5 hrs ago

There should be zero wonder the Dems approval is at 29%!
And Trump is marauding thru this country like a mad, lawless T-Rex.



RoseTrellis

(121 posts)
80. Agreed.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 11:16 AM
4 hrs ago

Dem leadership is doing the exact proper thing- give the bastards enough rope to hang themselves.
When the enemy is self destructing- LET THEM!

I trust them to stay quiet until the repukes, emboldened by lack of resistance, inevitably go to far with their overreach.
THATS when we can lay all the cards on the table and say the emperor has no clothes!

Cirsium

(3,447 posts)
104. Absurd
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:23 PM
1 hr ago

The Republicans have had more than enough rope to hang themselves for decades.

The Republicans always go too far with their overreach. Yes, that can result in some wins for Democrats, but the Republicans keep working and keep gaining in strength and come roaring back with a vengeance.

"THATS when we can lay all the cards on the table?"

Why would we ever hide our cards at all?

"...and say the emperor has no clothes!"

Why not say that now? Actually, why say it ever?

SpankMe

(3,667 posts)
83. I get it, but...
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 12:06 PM
4 hrs ago

1. Although polls are showing Repubs losing support, there's no evidence or valid analysis so far showing that this will result in electoral gains for Dems in the upcoming election. We're assuming that gripes over Greenland, ICE and authoritarian insanity will mean a Dem landslide in November, but polls are snapshots and voters are fickle.

2. Rocking the boat a little won't sully Dems and throw independents into Republican arms. I think that highlighting the authoritarian behavior with frequent press conferences and public statements keeps these issues on the front burner and tells the public that we're watching.

PatrickforB

(15,365 posts)
84. This is NOT a sound strategy. How about talking about compassion, empathy and pounding on the moral compass? n/t
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 12:11 PM
3 hrs ago

Cirsium

(3,447 posts)
94. That is the problem
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 01:48 PM
2 hrs ago

They can't believe what good luck they're having?

That's the problem. The worse things get for us us, the better it is for them. Our misfortune is their good fortune.

That is true for a small army of people - politicians, consultants, pod casters, MSM pundits. Fascism is good for business.

What was it Carville recommended? Playing 'possum?

That approach is what brought us to where we are.

Soul_of_Wit

(15 posts)
96. You answered your own question with
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 01:50 PM
2 hrs ago

"If this holds til November". It won't. The tangerine toddler is in a second term because of timidity. If folks perceive a political party as doing nothing, then they won't vote for them. The lesson of "anyone but W" is that folks will give another term to W and reject the vague "anyone." That lesson is as old as DU.

bucolic_frolic

(54,241 posts)
100. The flip side of that line of thought is Dems need to peak in November, not now.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:04 PM
2 hrs ago

We're in this fix because Republicans won the war of income taxes. They exempted their rich donor class to a great degree which put responsibility for the federal budget further and further down the income scale until it divided the middle class base into those who pay for, and those who receive, the social safety net. Gen Z is even in an uproar over Social Security.

Cirsium

(3,447 posts)
103. Peak?
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:17 PM
1 hr ago

We need more than a "peak."

A massive campaign of lying is what "divided people into those who pay for, and those who receive, the social safety net," and failure by the Democrats to fight back strongly against that is why it succeeded. No, they were playing it safe, pussyfooting around with the Republicans, and waiting for Nixon Reagan Bush to self-destruct.

"Gen Z is even in an uproar over Social Security," to the extent that people are, because ignorant people are being deceived by malicious actors. Playing it safe is what allows that sort of crap to fly. Yet that is what you are advocating.

LymphocyteLover

(9,460 posts)
113. Yes, I'm sure that's what they are doing but as others here have pointed out, that safe strategy is not enough for our
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:55 PM
1 hr ago

current fascist times.

SocialDemocrat61

(6,971 posts)
3. There's an old saying
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 07:37 AM
8 hrs ago

Last edited Thu Jan 22, 2026, 11:14 AM - Edit history (1)

‘When your enemy is shooting themself in the foot, let them and don’t get in the way’. And frankly there are democrats who are better spokespersons than either of them.

OldBaldy1701E

(10,428 posts)
24. And, the fact that they are also shooting other people while they are shooting themselves in the foot is okay?
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:19 AM
6 hrs ago

I do not agree. They have already 'shot themselves in the foot' enough. If people cannot see how dangerous and insane he and his cronies are, then there is nothing we can do about them and they will just have to go down with their ship of choice.

So how many lives are worth the sticking to your adage and just waiting around until our broken system is used to try and fix our broken system?

10? 100? One percent of the population? (That's three million people, btw.)

Cirsium

(3,447 posts)
108. Obvious
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:30 PM
1 hr ago

Play it safe is not exactly a "constructive idea," in my opinion, but if we accept that it is, the obvious alternative "constructive idea" would be don't play is safe.

JBTaurus83

(924 posts)
57. If there are better spokespeople
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 10:09 AM
5 hrs ago

They should be the ones in charge. We have been hearing the “keep the powder dry” since Bush. That sure has worked out tremendously.

SocialDemocrat61

(6,971 posts)
75. Two different skill sets
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 11:00 AM
5 hrs ago

The job of minority leader in either house is not to be the top spokesperson. It's more of an organizational job. Too many confuse our system for parliamentary systems where the leader of the minority is the top spokesperson and who becomes Prime Minister if they win back the majority.

Cirsium

(3,447 posts)
105. Press the advantage
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:25 PM
1 hr ago

When your enemy is weak and faltering press the advantage.

Fixed it for you.

LiberalArkie

(19,385 posts)
19. And the files.... Have to remember that Epstein was a big Democratic Party supporter and financial guy.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 08:28 AM
7 hrs ago

JI7

(93,289 posts)
5. What makes you think those who aren't paying attention
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 07:44 AM
8 hrs ago

are suddenly going to pay attention to Schumer and Jefferies ?

I think Schumer needs to retire but these posts make no sense.

Orrex

(66,737 posts)
7. You're gonna get scolded for your lack of faith
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 07:46 AM
8 hrs ago

And Those strongly-worded letters don’t write themselves, you know

Ray Bruns

(6,034 posts)
48. He's in the office because someone's eggs were supposedly to expensive. (Which is bullshit).
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:55 AM
6 hrs ago

And he’s still in off because Trump keeps al the Republican’s spines in a closet in the White House.

Bettie

(19,347 posts)
9. They are keeping all of
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 07:53 AM
8 hrs ago

That “powder” dry. If bad things ever happen, they will be ready…but , apparently what is happening now is not enough to even be particularly upset about.

Bluetus

(2,370 posts)
90. Or maybe these guys just aren't that smart.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 01:19 PM
2 hrs ago

I mean, what evidence have we seen that tells us these guys are in the top 1% of leaders/fighters/strategists, or even the top 25%?

Bettie

(19,347 posts)
95. I don't know what is up with it all
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 01:49 PM
2 hrs ago

it could be that they aren't all that smart, it could be what their large donors are telling them to do...who knows?

I'm certainly not wealthy enough to understand why congresscritters do what they do...I don't have enough money to matter.

Cirsium

(3,447 posts)
107. Fan mail
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:28 PM
1 hr ago

Maybe they are getting fan mail from a flounder. Or maybe they are just floundering?

democrank

(12,239 posts)
13. With things this bad, this dangerous in our country
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 08:15 AM
7 hrs ago

EVERY member of Congress should speak up. It’s a matter of principles to me, not political calculations.

Imagine if there were grave problems in our family and someone suggested we just sit back and wait. Don’t rock the boat. Don’t make waves.

NoMoreRepugs

(11,835 posts)
14. DemDUer's with absolute opposite opinions- in the end I sure hope we all pull on the same rope.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 08:23 AM
7 hrs ago

angrychair

(11,776 posts)
64. We will
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 10:18 AM
5 hrs ago

Because where we must because we won't have any choice but I will use the primary season to advocate for an other Democrat than a Democrat can calling to abolish ICE.
There is no fixing this. There is no smaller budget. It's abolish or out the door. Just like I will advocate against ANY candidate that votes to approve this latest budget that funds ICE.
I am more than willing to shut down the government to abolish ICE
If you find ice you support them kicking down doors without a warrant and shooting innocent people in the face with no consequences.

There is no other interpretation or opinion.

Cirsium

(3,447 posts)
112. No choice
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:54 PM
1 hr ago

Of course everyone here will vote Democratic. There is no other option. The leadership depends upon that, they take us for granted.

The debate here is between those who think the rank and file should represent and fight for the interests of the leaders, and those who think the leaders should represent and fight for the interests of the rank and file.

"If we all get in lockstep behind the leaders, we win" is the thinking. But the opposite is true. When the leaders get behind the have-nots, then we win.

Of course a lot depends upon whom one sees as this "we" who will be doing the winning. When the wealthy, when the consultants, fund raisers, media moguls and talking heads, pod casters, pollsters, et al win, the rest of us lose. Unless one is waiting for that "trickle down" idea to finally take hold.

Johonny

(25,618 posts)
16. They are good back room leaders, not charismatic
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 08:24 AM
7 hrs ago

Leaders. In the age of TicToc clips, you need a charismatic leader that is good at 30 second sound bits. Democrats need to find and get those people out. They don't need to be house or senate leadership, but they sure should be your number 2. And they need to be our there constantly. Trump is a daily circus.

ColoringFool

(346 posts)
34. Gavin. AOC. MIA: Obama, Big Bill, Gore, Dean, HRC.....
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:28 AM
6 hrs ago

Too many stick to Tik-Tok or Bluesky.

dalton99a

(92,479 posts)
20. We will win - because victory will come to us in due time - if we pray hard and wait long enough.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:03 AM
7 hrs ago

Last edited Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:50 AM - Edit history (1)



Meanwhile, hold your fire until the stars are perfectly aligned



JBTaurus83

(924 posts)
60. Jeffries says God is still on the Throne!
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 10:11 AM
5 hrs ago

Take heart, thousands of peasants in concentration camps!

dalton99a

(92,479 posts)
62. Well, God did outlast Hitler and He will outlast Trump.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 10:15 AM
5 hrs ago

Our prayers will be answered in the order received. Eventually.



Autumn

(48,803 posts)
22. I think they are waiting.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:12 AM
6 hrs ago

Until someone does something. Or when god steps down off his throne.

Javaman

(65,231 posts)
25. in a time when we are surrounded by madness...
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:20 AM
6 hrs ago

cool heads are always appreciated, but absence is not.

one would think, as leaders of the dems they would have a few things to say to counter the orange asshole, but alas.

time for fresh outlooks and energy.

betsuni

(28,797 posts)
26. Ah, the magic fighting spirit press conference that Americans huddled 'round the TV like in the '60s
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:20 AM
6 hrs ago

will all see and believe and be inspired by and finally, finally, Trump and the GOP will be exposed and stopped.

ColoringFool

(346 posts)
37. Well, There WAS That "I Have A Dream" Speech. Plus,...
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:32 AM
6 hrs ago

There WERE the "Pentagon Papers" that a hero like Daniel Ellsberg could replicate today with the "Epstein Files."

But faint heart ne'er won democracy.

Abstractartist

(424 posts)
29. IMO
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:22 AM
6 hrs ago

In my opinion, when the democrats retake the house and maybe senate? Not sure on senate, but anyway, when this happens, the new majority should NOT elect Jefferies speaker and Schumer as minority leader. These two leaders have shown that they are NOT leaders when we need them to be NOW. Not when it’s convenient. AOC would make a phenomenal leader, and I’d like to see Mark Kelly or Amy Klobuchar as minority lead in the Senate. Time for change….

4bonhoffer

(151 posts)
32. I agree. BUT
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:26 AM
6 hrs ago

Democratic messaging has to get better, but remember, and I tend to forget this, the progressive caucus in the house hold press, conferences almost every day, and it is never covered by the mainstream media.
Republican press conferences almost always get covered.

ColoringFool

(346 posts)
39. Then Our Guys Need To Actually CHALLENGE THE MEDIA, DARE THEM TO ...
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:36 AM
6 hrs ago

Cover the Democrats! Say into the microphones, "Hey, networks! Televise THIS! What are you afraid of? Has Trump 'grabbed' you?"

maliaSmith

(159 posts)
35. Schumer and Jeffries are pussies
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:28 AM
6 hrs ago

Time to vote out these two and vote in leaders with fire in their blood. I'm disgusted with both of these men. JFC

Cirsium

(3,447 posts)
114. There is a legitimate disagreement
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 03:00 PM
1 hr ago

There is a legitimate disagreement being discussed here, and calling the opinions of those with whom you disagree "whining and bashing" is divisive.

murielm99

(32,739 posts)
121. I don't much care for
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 03:09 PM
56 min ago

Bernie Sanders and AOC. If I say one word against them, I get all sorts of pushback. I have had posts deleted because I criticized them. But turnabout is not fair play, I guess. I see too much groupthink here. When I see it, I am going to point it out.

LittleGirl

(8,960 posts)
41. Absolutely
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:44 AM
6 hrs ago

Where are they? How about former leaders? Where are they? I used to hear that Ds were feckless and I didn’t think that. Now? I’m so disappointed in anyone coming up and speaking out. I have to see Adam Mockler or Leigh The Politics Girl make great points instead. Come on! Our best voices are influencers? Sheesh. What have we done?

LR3

(138 posts)
42. I don't think seeing them wobble around is going to be very inspiring
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:46 AM
6 hrs ago

Milquetoast doesn't win a lot of elections.

Gallego has the right approach--call the insane MFer an insane MFer. All that our current leaders will be able to muster is bland admonishments, at best.

Joinfortmill

(20,246 posts)
47. Should be out there every DAMN DAY, especially Jefferies
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:53 AM
6 hrs ago

I love Nancy Pelosi, she was a rock star, but Jefferies? WTF, woman?

dalton99a

(92,479 posts)
51. +1. Seriously. What the fuck are they doing?
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:56 AM
6 hrs ago

It is The Party of Silence vs. The Party of Evil



Cheezoholic

(3,555 posts)
49. Think they will slowly ramp up as we get into Spring. Citizens attention span is as long as a hummingbirds wing flap n/t
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:55 AM
6 hrs ago

QueerDuck

(1,121 posts)
50. Good grief. 🙄🥱
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:56 AM
6 hrs ago
Demanding that our leadership have public temper tantrums helps nothing. If they're not paying attention to Trump, then they won't be paying attention to Democratic temper tantrums behind a lectern. Even if they did comply with these demands, it would change nothing.

Let them do their jobs and instead complain that the media isn't doing their job. Or, spread the word yourself rather than blaming everything on "lazy" Democrats or "do-nothing" Democrats or "fearful" Democrats.

I'm sure it feels good for some people to have convenient targets to blame for everything, but I assure you that it's not the Democrats and it's not Democratic leadership. Posts like that are divisive and counterproductive.

Cirsium

(3,447 posts)
115. Pot meet kettle
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 03:02 PM
1 hr ago

"I'm sure it feels good for some people to have convenient targets to blame for everything."

That is exactly what you are doing.

Tadpole Raisin

(1,976 posts)
53. Timid gets us every other election when we should be
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 09:58 AM
6 hrs ago

winning them hand over fist all the time. I think they should be out there more but I also don’t think they are capable of it. It is not in their political DNA.

As proof I’m reminded of Schumer standing at a podium not too long ago chanting “We will win, We will win!”

Please….

JBTaurus83

(924 posts)
56. I'm very proud of we the people
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 10:07 AM
5 hrs ago

And our responsive reps standing up. What I could say about these two and their supporters would get me banned I’m sure.

ALBliberal

(3,256 posts)
58. Pelosi held regular conferences at least during Covid
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 10:09 AM
5 hrs ago

As minority leader. Inexcusable for them to sit on their hands.

68. Not a Cuomo fan, but I appreciated his daily pressers during Covid
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 10:29 AM
5 hrs ago

And sure, it was a fair amount of self-aggrandizement, but I felt like it was a welcome counter to Trump’s bleach-injecting lunacy.

hay rick

(9,405 posts)
65. When your enemy is making a mistake, don't interrupt him.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 10:19 AM
5 hrs ago

Everything that Trump and his sycophants are currently doing is getting negative and shocked coverage in the media. Let the media, which has so often defaulted to complicity, be the messengers. A Schumer or Jeffries press conference would be an opportunity to shift narratives away from Minneapolis, ICE, Greenland, Canada, NATO, etc.

justaprogressive

(6,365 posts)
70. Would you feel this same way
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 10:38 AM
5 hrs ago

If YOU were in a concentration camp?

I think not!

I've got a better quote for you:

“Let your plans be dark and impenetrable as night, and when you move, fall like a thunderbolt.”
― Sun Tzu, The Art of War

hay rick

(9,405 posts)
77. It looks to me like Sun Tzu agrees with me (and himself since I borrowed his point).
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 11:10 AM
4 hrs ago

"Let your plans be dark and impenetrable" does not sound like an argument for holding a press conference.

On your hypothetical question about being in a concentration camp- I would not be looking for press conferences, I would be looking for the intervention of allied bombers and soldiers.

yellow dahlia

(4,870 posts)
76. So many topics to cover. Unambiguous topics!
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 11:06 AM
4 hrs ago

My observation is - they still think they can skulk to the side and wait for the R's to implode, so they can pick up the pieces in the midterms.

OneGrassRoot

(23,934 posts)
78. I think leadership and the consultant class...
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 11:13 AM
4 hrs ago

are making a HUGE mistake by assuming people turning away from Trump and the GOP means they will turn toward Democrats. More and more people are disgusted because they don’t see anyone fighting hard and consistently for them, so they may ditch voting altogether even more than they have been lately.

dalton99a

(92,479 posts)
82. Consultant advice so far seems to be silence and prayerful meditation.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 11:40 AM
4 hrs ago

In other words, wait for the tyrant to croak









usonian

(23,770 posts)
79. Morning rant. TALK IS CHEAP. Show me the action.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 11:15 AM
4 hrs ago

Not blaming Chuck, but if he treated Trump like he was the rerun of Adolph Hitler (which he is) he would have strapped on a dynamite vest (or ketchup vest) to prevent ACB's confirmation and the BallBusterBill that enabled all this crap.

He did!



Chuck?




OK. so he didn't have the leverage, but he could have brought up Epstein, the cause of every bit of destruction you see since Jan 2025.

Sighted Achilles heel, Ignored it.

Quanto Magnus

(1,307 posts)
85. It is sad
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 12:14 PM
3 hrs ago

that we have such weak leadership in the Dem party right now....

Quite frankly (IMO) that's part of why Trump has managed to get so far in his fascist takeover.....

Sternly worded letters or press conferences won't have any effect on the Nazis....

Scubamatt

(262 posts)
86. If we are to win the midterms
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 12:15 PM
3 hrs ago

We are going to to have to have a blue tsunami, given all the vote suppression/vote stealing the cons are putting in place as we type this. You do not energize the average person who does not marinate in politics to take time away from their regular lives to go vote, by being silent. If folks don't see what you stand for, their attitude is "why bother." You have to energize them and lead them. Sitting around doing nothing except blasting the rank and file with hundreds of texts and emails asking for contributions is a sure recipe for losing.

danieljsf

(13 posts)
87. It's a losing strategy to be quiet and timid
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 12:45 PM
3 hrs ago

Democrats are not exactly rallying voters to their side by hiding and letting the monsters rule the day. Yes, people are tiring of Trump but they also say that they have no faith in the Democratic party because it stands for nothing other than "We aren't Trump." Stand up for something and speak out against what is happening, for God's sake.

flashman13

(2,123 posts)
89. Au contraire , They want to talk about bipartisanship to solve the affordability crisis.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 01:10 PM
2 hrs ago

Insert thingy here.

Not just Schumer and Jefferies, but dozens of Democrats everyday hammering the MAGAts' miscreant deeds. They should start every press gaggle by reminding everyone that Trump is mad as a hatter.

W_HAMILTON

(10,146 posts)
91. Ironic that as Jeffries is giving a press conference right now, no one here is talking about it.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 01:31 PM
2 hrs ago

Maybe those that wanted a press conference so badly can start a live thread here now to discuss it?

PS - Is the fascist threat to our country over with now that Jeffries has held his first press conference since his last one a week or two ago?

LudwigPastorius

(14,288 posts)
97. "Maybe those that wanted a press conference so badly can start a live thread here now to discuss it?"
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 01:52 PM
2 hrs ago

No.

The criticism will now switch to, "Why don't they do something besides just talk!11!! We want action! We want FiGhTeRz!!!".

BaronChocula

(4,087 posts)
109. Hear, hear
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:42 PM
1 hr ago


I personally don't know how Jeffries and Schumer fill their days. I don't expect them to come out daily and assure me that they feel my feels. I defer to them what strategies work best for the long-run. For some reason I've been seeing expectations of Schumer that even Harry Reid couldn't achieve. And he was a master.

Just because you don't know what someone is doing doesn't mean they aren't doing anything.

senseandsensibility

(24,284 posts)
102. Two things can be true at once
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 02:11 PM
1 hr ago

Dems should have held a press conference that was targeted on the facts you describe YESTERDAY when the situation was unfolding in Davos. Today is too late. The press has moved on; they missed the moment. It is also true that there is no guarantee it will be covered, at least not as well as we would wish. Still. they have to try.

malthaussen

(18,447 posts)
122. Probably keeping their powder dry.
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 03:13 PM
53 min ago

Its what the Democrats do best.

Maybe if they switched to more modern firearms they wouldn't have that problem.

-- Mal

samsingh

(18,272 posts)
126. that's why we are not in power. trump would have been spouting crap and lies, but he
Thu Jan 22, 2026, 03:50 PM
16 min ago

would be having news conferences.

where are our leaders?

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