While I am as happy and relieved as anyone with the Democrats’ tsunami in yesterday’s midterm elections, my first concern is about what comes next. The urge to seek revenge for years of MAGA carnage is understandable, but Democrats and fellow travelers should suck it up and take the high ground. They need to project a sober, moderate image as they take charge and, above all, they should work to pass serious legislation and shore up the prerogatives of congressional government. Otherwise they will end up like the dog catching the car.
For example, the Democratic majority should pass ethics reform to correct constitutional and procedural guidelines that the Trump administration was able to exploit. Trump’s presidency has dramatically identified the soft underbelly of governmental standards. Stock trading by the president and members of Congress should be prohibited as should obvious conflicts of interest between the president, members of his cabinet and others in high leadership positions. This is just a start, but it would show the American people that the Democrats are serious about governing and not interested in continuing the polarized politics of the last several years. In the short run, it would greatly enhance the Democrat’s chance of continuing success at the ballot box; in the long run it would benefit all Americans.
For now, Democrats should govern softly and carry a big stick. There is plenty of time to bring justice for the American people.