Yeah, I'm frustrated
You know what's at stake.
We must stop partisan gerrymandering, end voter suppression, and guarantee a free, fair, and secure election in 2022 and beyond. We have to make significant progress on tackling the climate crisis. And with the Omicron variant spreading fast, we must continue our efforts to battle COVID and ensure that all Americans can safely go to work and school.
Like you, I'm frustrated that the US Senate is paralyzed by inaction far, far too often. And yes, even as I work every day to make progress, it is frustrating when Democrats can't seem to find consensus.
But let's be absolutely clear about why we are where we are. Most importantly, it's because Mitch McConnell and the Republicans refuse to negotiate in good faith. We have a lot of fundamental differences, but surely we can find some common ground. But they won't even have the conversation, because they've decided that they will reap political rewards by obstructing almost everything – even policies they have historically supported.
And the reason they can do it is because the Senate filibuster rule has been twisted and abused. Today's McConnell Veto is an unprecedented assault on government of, by, and for the people and is crippling our country's ability to meet the challenges we face. It's time that we fix the Senate and ensure that important issues are discussed (at great length if need be), legislation is considered, amendments are offered, and an up-or-down vote is taken.
I've been making this case for a dozen years, and we're closer than ever. I'm going to keep working to fix the Senate and convince my colleagues that it's time to move forward in the weeks ahead.
But here's what I also know: 50 Democrats isn't enough. In 2022, we must advance our majority in the Senate. And to do that will require an epic organizing effort in every corner of our country.
Onward!
Jeff
