One of the stark differences between Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton has become obvious in recent weeks: the former is a statesman and servant of the American people, while the latter is the epitome of the “career politician.” This was clearly demonstrated on October 7th when Hillary finally came out against the Trans-Pacific Partnership on PBS Newshour:
As of today, I am not in favor of what I have learned about it…I’m worried about currency manipulation not being part of the agreement…I’m worried the pharmaceutical companies may have gotten more benefits – and patients and consumers fewer. I think there are still a lot of unanswered questions.
And yet, here’s just a few of the statements she’s made over the past few years in support of the “Free Trade” deal to which liberals and conservatives have united in opposition:
We’re hoping to really see this agreement finalized and then watch it take off. (July 10th, 2012)
[The] Trans-Pacific Partnership…binds our countries together, increases stability, and promotes security. (November 14th, 2012)
We need to keep upping our game both bilaterally and with partners across the region through agreements like the Trans-Pacific Partnership. (November 15th, 2012)
We think it’s imperative that we continue to build an economic relationship that covers the entire hemisphere for the future. (November 28th, 2012)
We think this holds out great economic opportunities to all participating nations. (January 18th, 2013)
That’s just a sample. You can read over thirty more at US Uncut – but we trust the point has been made.
Why the sudden change? The answer is patently obvious to our Ring of Fire readers and anyone else who has been paying attention at all to the Democratic primaries. In fact, we even predicted it months ago: the presence of Bernie Sanders in the race will force Hillary Clinton (and others) to adopt more Progressive positions on the issues. What nobody could have foreseen was how Sanders’s popularity and support would grow to the point that he could very well become the Democratic nominee.
Clinton has seen the handwriting on the wall. Her poll numbers and approval ratings continue to fall, while Sanders’ are on the rise. Sanders has been against the TPP from the beginning. Clinton’s sudden opposition to this disastrous trade deal has little to do with her convictions and everything to do with what she thinks will attract voter support.
Thom Hartmann and other prominent Progressives have frequently pointed out that when voters are offered a choice between a real Republican and a “Blue Dog” Democrat trying to pass as “Republican Lite,” they’ll choose the real thing every time. Clinton is about to learn that the same applies to her: right now, she’s attempting to present herself as a Progressive, while Sanders is a Progressive.
Thank you, Ms. Clinton – for once again showing the electorate why Sanders is the better choice.
