Vox

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Fear & Hiding in California

Posted on | September 10, 2012 | No Comments

A bazillionty years ago, when I lived in Northern California, Dianne Feinstein was one of the state’s senators. Yes, she has held the office that long.

Though I disagreed with her politics, she was not really a disagreeable politician. I voted for her opponent when I had the chance, but was able to console myself with the knowledge that Feinstein was more pragmatist than hard-core Leftist. Back then, at least, she was willing & able to put people first, not always toeing the left-side of the party line. Unlike, say, Barbara Boxer, another CA senator. Or Nancy Pelosi.

However, the years have taken their toll on Feinstein. After holding a lifetime of government positions, starting almost immediately upon her graduation from Stanford, she seems to feel she owns her Senate seat. So much so, she won’t even deign to recognize a challenger.

In a tone-deaf “This seat is taken” move, Feinstein is refusing to debate her opponent, Elizabeth Emken, a move even the L.A. Times notes is troubling:

But the risk for any long-serving official is the perception that she is taking her public trust for granted. Nothing screams “entrenched incumbent” more than a refusal to debate an opponent.

I understand the risk a debate poses to candidates. However, for someone with the experience of Feinstein, she should consider a debate as a sure-fire way to show her challenger’s weakness. By refusing a debate, the assumption can (and will) be made that Feinstein is worried it will be her own weaknesses that are revealed. In fact, so frightened is she by the debates – Feinstein won’t even entertain questions about them.

It has been more than a decade since Feinstein last faced an opponent in a debate format. Her constituents deserve better, especially at a time when her state is bankrupt and suffering.

So, Senator Feinstein, come out, come out, wherever you are – and show us that you can actually articulate the positions you hold.

(Bonus in the video, Feinstein condescendingly patting the reporter’s shoulder as she walks out of the interview)

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Category: politics

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