Cardin for Senate

When I vote, I usually have strong opinions to vote for one candidate or another, and I'm usually clear on why. The race for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senator from Maryland is different, because I have strong opinions about why I should vote for each candidate. In the end, I think I will vote for Ben Cardin, but I don't think Democrats would go wrong voting for either candidate.

In Kweisi Mfume's case, I think he would be a strong voice in the Senate for progressive causes, and the Senate would benefit from having a Senator of his, as Mfume put it, "ilk." Barack Obama may be a senator for the ages, but there's no reason why there should only be one African-American senator, or even only two should Harold Ford, Jr. win the seat in Tennessee. The former NAACP chairman, Mfume would be an articulate voice representing urban blacks in a way others cannot - because he grew up on the mean streets. The importance of that should not be underestimated.

Cardin, though grew up in Baltimore, too. He knows the needs of the city, and he understands the suburban and rural residents in his disparate district that covers parts of three counties. In the House, Cardin had earned the respect of his colleagues. Though he hasn't been the most forceful advocate, he has made an impression for his seriousness and dedication in mastering difficult policy areas. He will bring measured professionalism and great expertise to the position. In a Senate that will be closely split, regardless of which party ends up in control, Cardin's civility may prove more useful than Mfume's stridence and declared passion.

Each candidate would bring different strengths and challenges as the Democratic nominee. If Mfume is the nominee, the Republican, Michael Steele, will raise questions about his character -- and alleged disrespectful treatment of women. With Mfume, though, Steele cannot appeal to blacks based on racial solidarity, splitting the traditional Democratic vote. Ultimately, I cannot support Mfume on that basis. Many blacks have already expressed support for Cardin. I hope that would carry over into the general election.

Cardin will likely appeal to more independents, perhaps even more Republicans, who will distrust Mfume's record as a zealous proponent of traditional liberal causes. For all that, Cardin can be counted on to make the right vote, when it counts. He cannot be easily pinned with a label. He did not go along with the Congressional majority that authorized the President to start a war that would put the United States on the wrong side of international law and international opinion. Yet, Cardin has shown hinmself to be a rational voice in an era of fiscal insanity. He has been highly critical of the huge deficits that the Republican-controlled government has created.

Perhaps, finally, I could choose to support Cardin, in part, because he's a nice, smart Jewish guy from Baltimore. There are probably worse reasons to support a candidate, but it's not enough for me. I choose to support Ben Cardin for United States Senator from Maryland because he will be a fine representative for the people of Maryland. I believe he can win what may prove to be a close race, and I believe he will bring thoughtfulness and and the ability to reach out across the aisle to craft sensible policies in a Senate that could use someone like that.

•  Well said.

  I know people who know him and served with him when he was in Annapolis and they tell me that he's a real leader and an upstanding guy.

  We have an embarassment of riches in Maryland this year.  I wish I could clone some of these candidates and send them throughout the nation.

  by suzq on Mon Sep 11, 2006 at 09:07:54 PM PDT

•  I'm sort of confused

  "Cardin will likely appeal to more independents, perhaps even more Republicans, who will distrust Mfume's record as a zealous proponent of traditional liberal causes."

  Mfume and Cardin don't actually disagree on issues. So basically what you're saying here is that Cardin was a proponent of traditional liberal causes; he just wasn't zealous?

  Isn't that exactly the thinking that gave us Kerry instead of Dean? Haven't we learned that candidates win when they stand for things and not when they grasp for some non-existant political middle.

  I don't really have anything against Cardin and I'll happily vote for him in November but he's just the typical insider politician. Cardin's civility will be a handicap in a political climate that makes compromise impossible. With this Republican Congress and President compromise means capitulation. These Republicans aren't trying to get things done. They're trying to empower a radical base by passing bigoted legislation and to put Democrats in precarious political positions by bringing up "national security" legislation that infringes on civil liberties.

  A hyperpolarized political climate calls for passion and courage. Mfume can be a Russ Feingold. Cardin will vote right but won't be able to hold the line.

  by js noble on Mon Sep 11, 2006 at 09:11:15 PM PDT

  •  not necessarily...

    Sarbanes has a spine...but he isn't a firebrand. Cardin may well hold the line...with heels dug in.

    by kredwyn on Mon Sep 11, 2006 at 09:18:35 PM PDT

  •  Mfume is no Feingold

    In the House, he was very much an insider.

    by RandyMI on Mon Sep 11, 2006 at 09:20:34 PM PDT

  •  Compromise isn't impossible

    If the Democrats do take back the Congress, they will have a voice and input they have lacked for years. That dynamic will impel the Republicans towards reasonable compromises, if the Democrats are open to it. Of course, it's possible the Democrats would seek only to crate their own issues, to force vetoes, or gridlock. I would rather see the Democrats try to participate in government, instead of playing that game.

    I was suggesting that Mfume's stridency, his background, his name, his position with the NAACP, and, unfortunately, his color, will make him at least slightly less acceptable to independents and Republicans than Cardin might be. In a year in which many people outside the Party, because of their disenchantment with the GOP, are open to turning to the Democrats, that could be an important difference.

    I don't believe that Cardin is in some non-existent middle. I believe that middle exists, but I'd say Cardin is quite a few steps to the left of it. As you say, there isn't much difference between Mfume and Cardin on the issues -- except, I'd add that Cardin offers thought-out positions on the issues --actual programmatic answers. Mfume responds with vague sound-bites. In contrast to your remark vis a vis Kerry and Dean, if anything, I'm a lot clearer about what Cardin stands for than I am about Mfume.

    Thank you for your comment though. I think, in having to respond to it, my feelings have crystallized somewhat. I'm that much more certain of my vote.

    by FischFry on Mon Sep 11, 2006 at 10:12:32 PM PDT

•  I won't be surprised if Mfume wins

  Republicans have administrative control over the voting process in Maryland, and Maryland uses Diebold machines. Republicans must be thinking that Mfume would be an easier target for Steele.

  Good night and good luck!

  by Joshua Lyman on Mon Sep 11, 2006 at 09:24:38 PM PDT

  •  Actually,

    Republicans do not have administrative control over the voting process in Maryland. Linda Lamone is a Dem, appointed (I believe) by Glendenning. And in the last two years, the Democratic legislature has voted her ever greater powers.

    And she doesn't think the Diebold machines are computers. Stated so in legislative hearings.

    The Democrats gave us the Diebold machines in Maryland; the Democrats (specifically, State Senator Paula Colodny Hollinger) blocked attempts to require verifiable ballots in the last two (at least) legislative sessions. Ehrlick at least gave voice service to the idea of a paper ballot, and having lobbied in Annapolis on the issue, I can tell you that the Republicans want a verifiable, recountable ballot. (They're sure Glendenning stole Baltimore City 12 years ago.)

    We have the Dems to thank.

    by stitchmd on Tue Sep 12, 2006 at 05:48:49 AM PDT

    •  Thank you

      for setting me straight on this. I had assumed that Ehrlich was pushing the Diebold machines (although the legislature is dominated by Dems, doh!). I also assumed that the Sec. of State would be an Ehrlich appointee.

      I see who you like in the MD-03 race. I grew up in that district, in Columbia. I'm in San Diego now, so I don't really have a horse in this race anymore. Good luck to your guy!

      Cheers!

      by Joshua Lyman on Tue Sep 12, 2006 at 07:03:44 AM PDT

•  it isn't about race, it is about winning

  we have to keep that seat. cardin for senate!

  by politicaljunkie2008 on Mon Sep 11, 2006 at 10:02:15 PM PDT

•  I will not be voting for Ben Cardin tomorrow

  Why specifically?

  Due to his making common cause with the likes of John Hagee (televangelist and National Chairman, Christians United for Israel, and well worthy of a google search if you don't already know about him) Gov. Robert Ehrlich (R), and Sen. Sam Brownback (R) at the July 19th, 2006 "Solidarity With Israel Rally" and lobbying in DC.

  Specifically, see
  "Christian Zionists lobby for US attack on Iran", from Jewsonfirst.org.

  You may consider him a "smart Jewish guy", but one really has to wonder just how "smart" it is for him to get into bed with the likes of Hagee.

  Hagee's Christians United for Israel (CUFI)is associated with the likes of Rod Parsley and the Ken Blackwell campaign in Ohio, Jerry Falwell, Janet Parshall, Benny Hinn, George Morrison (board of directors of Promise Keepers) and Gary Bauer. (See Max Blumenthal's article " Birth Pangs of a New Christian Zionism". A primary aspect of CUFI's work has been support for Bush's focus on Iran. To quote from the "Jews on First" article cited above;

  Hagee maintains that confrontation with Iran is necessary to fulfill Gods plan for the future of the world.

  I would also seriously question your characterization of him;

  Cardin has shown himself to be a rational voice...

  If he chooses to associate with the likes of Hagee. Back in 1996, in Texas, Hagee really pissed off the African American community by publicizing a "slave sale" as a fundraiser. Hagee was later forced to apologize and changed the name of his event, but the damage was, well shall we simply say, already done.

  (note, I do not personally endorse the group linked in this, I merely use the link as a citation to tell the story.)

  by stormcoming on Mon Sep 11, 2006 at 10:49:43 PM PDT

  •  Common cause?

    I don't know where you found the link -- I don't know anything about the writer of  the piece either. But, you have really stretched a tortured sentence beyond even that sentence's bizzare connection.

    Here's what it says:

    "The next day, the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington, the National Jewish Democratic Council, the Republic Jewish Coalition, the American Jewish Committee and the Israel Project sponsored a rally with Hagee near the White House, according to the JTA. Sen. Sam Brownback (R-Kan.), Maryland Gov. Robert Ehrlich, Rep. Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Rep. Robert Wexler (D-Fla.), Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Calif.), and Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) spoke at the rally."

    So, all those groups sponsored a rally, and this CUIF and Hagee horned in on the action, along with who knows how many other 'sponsors' and speakers.  And all these other politicians also spoke. And somehow, Cardin is making common cause with the three guys you single out for mention. Why not say he's making common cause with Bob Wexler, or Debbie Wasserman Schultz? Because Dems like these two. But, I guess by your reasoning, we shouldn't.

    I'm not even clear whether this Hagee is a sponsor, or a speaker -- all I get is it was a rally "with" him. Heck, maybe he was just in the crowd. Do you take that seriously? Do you think these politicians demand to know who is being considered a  sponsor, or who else will speak? And that they will refuse to speak if they find someone on the list who might be objectionable, if they knew anything about him?

    Common cause? Are there any sane people on this site?

    by FischFry on Mon Sep 11, 2006 at 11:21:35 PM PDT

    •  Well fine, I wasn't in Washington that day

      to get the footage myself, and there are apparently no damn reporters left in this country, BUT, this Washington Post article says the following-

      Maryland Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. (R), U.S. Sen. Sam Brownback (R-Kan.), Israeli Ambassador Daniel Ayalon and the Rev. John C. Hagee were among those who roused multiple rounds of applause by saying Israel's attacks against the Shiite Muslim group Hezbollah were blows against those who have killed civilians from Bali to Bombay to Moscow.

      So assumedly Hagee was one of the speakers, it's hard to get applause from a crowd if you're not.

      The real question here is what are ANY of these people doing on anything with even a WHIFF of Hagee connected to it? Oh, yeah right, silly me, Hagee is a massive fundraiser for Israel- never mind his Christian apocolyptic reasons why.

      by stormcoming on Mon Sep 11, 2006 at 11:58:03 PM PDT

      •  Still working on finding you a citation

        this link will take you to Democracynow.org which has an audio up of Hagee speaking they describe thuly-

        ...first, we hear from Christians United for Israel. Their inaugural event was held last month in Washington, DC. More than 3,000 people were in attendance to hear speeches from Israeli and American dignitaries.

        ...

        The group's founder, Texas television evangelist John Hagee, also spoke.

        • John Hagee, speaking at a Christians United for Israel summit in July 2006. [Click for mp3 of full address].

        As to whether this was the exact same podium shared by Ben Cardin or not I cannot determine. I would assume this audio is from Hagee's CUFI dinner, not the Freedom Plaza event that were both part of the "summit", both are mentioned in the Washington Post link.

        Per the post article, Cardin spoke at at least one event connected to this summit, however.

        As for Hagee's role in the 'summit' the Washington Post article had this to say-

        Although Jewish community groups called for the rally, one of the most active advocates for Israel was Hagee, televangelist and pastor of the 18,000-member Cornerstone Church in San Antonio. His recently formed Christians United for Israel held an inaugural dinner Tuesday night

        by stormcoming on Tue Sep 12, 2006 at 12:28:53 AM PDT

        •  Will a page from one of the rally co-sponsors,

          Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, do as a citation?

          solidarity rally announcement that says both John Hagee and Ben Cardin were confirmed speakers for the Freedom Plaza event.

          The local Jewish community will show its unity in support of its brothers and sisters in Israel with a rally that will include Jewish leaders, local elected officials and others. Confirmed speakers include: the Honorable Daniel Ayalon, Israel Ambassador to the United States, U.S. Sen. Sam Brownback (R-Kan.), U.S. Congressman Ben Cardin (D-Md), U.S. Congressman Robert Wexler (D-Fla), and Rev. John Hagee, National Chairman, Christians United for Israel.

          by stormcoming on Tue Sep 12, 2006 at 12:42:51 AM PDT

          •  And finally confirmation that they both spoke

            from after the event had finnshed from another organizational co-sponsor of the event,

            the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington

            go to the homepage, in the upper left hand corner click "DC Rally: America Stands with Israel". You'll be taken to a page that contains this-

            Speakers at the rally included His Excellency Daniel Ayalon - Ambassador of Israel, Senator Sam Brownback (R-KS), Congressman Ben Cardin (D-MD), Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA), Congressman Robert Wexler (D-FL), Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Governor Robert Ehrlich, Reverend John Hagee, Rabbi Stuart Weinblatt and Rabbi Levi Shemtov. Irene Kaplan, President and Dr. Misha Galperin, Vice President & CEO represented the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. Susan Weinberg, President and Ron Halber, Executive Director represented the JCRC.

            That's about all I have time for tonight, hope you don't mind me not sticking around to answer further.

            by stormcoming on Tue Sep 12, 2006 at 12:50:32 AM PDT

•  Agree with you about Cardin

  I worked with him for years, since he was just a member of the MD House Ways & Means Committee, when he was Chair, when he was Speaker, and when he was a member of Congress. I can't say enough good things about him. He will not let us down. He is a man of conviction. His biggest strength is his ability to get things done. He takes care of the details, and he works tirelessly when he wants something. He's a policy wonk and is very knowledgeable and smart. Don't worry about his spine - he is very tough. And he doesn't do things for just for political reasons. He'll make us proud - I promise you.

  I don't personally know Mfume, but I certainly think he'd be a great senator. However, he does have some baggage, which I think the Republicans could use to great advantage.

  by natchezms on Tue Sep 12, 2006 at 10:19:49 PM PDT