Buttigieg liveblogging the 2016 Indiana primary: words that resonate today.

[femmedem]

In May 2016, Buttigieg agreed to liveblog the Indiana primary--Ted Cruz's self-identified last stand against Trump--for Slate. Here are his closing words from the night:

The Republicans are now officially in general election mode. They are closing ranks as we speak. And they are closing ranks behind an authoritarian the likes of which modern American politics has not seen.

I like Bernie. In fact, I liked him long before it was cool. He’s moved the debate in important ways, and is pointing to real problems in our political system.

But each passing day Democrats are divided will represent an advantage for Trump. And the GOP, against their preferences, their instincts, and even their values, will adjust their machine to do whatever they can to get him in, and keep Hillary Clinton out, of power.

There is now, officially, a non-trivial chance that an authoritarian entertainer will become the next president of the United States. For those of us who want a better future, it’s time to unite.

I was torn between choosing that excerpt or another in this Slate article. I opted for this because of its prescience and its enduring importance, but I almost chose the other because of its intelligence, great story-telling and warmth. (It was live-blogging? I'm in awe.)

Anyway, if you like Pete at all, I think you'll enjoy this: https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2020/02/remembering-pete-buttigieg-slate-blogger.html

[CaliforniaPeggy]

1. Wow! Liveblogging at its best.

He writes the way he talks: thoughtfully, full complete sentences, intelligent beyond measure, AND off the cuff as well.

Amazing young man. We are so lucky to have him.