We know that rescuing China’s ZTE a few days after that government approved a daughter’s seven new trademarks, as well as a $500 million loan for the same family’s Indonesian hotel project, is patently unethical.

So, “WHERE ARE THE DEMOCRATS?” The only Senator who made a statement worth reporting Tuesday morning, apparently, was Marco Rubio who said that the ZTE deal could “hurt U.S. national security.” Of course, it’s embarrassingly flip-floppy after all those grand statements about punishing China for trade abuses and intellectual property theft during the campaign. But, what about the emoluments clause, which is already the basis of three major lawsuits against our fearless leader? Can’t we make it five?

How about grabbing some air time Democrats, especially with an election around the corner? Almost exactly two years ago Democratic Senators staged an all-night sit in for gun control. It got lots of press. Where are they now? Where’s the outrage? Where’s the commitment? In fact, where’s the all-night sit in for gun control, round two? Clearly, Democrats just aren’t all that into winning.

What do they even stand for? One year ago Nancy Pelosi was asked, “What do you tell Democrats who want a new direction?” Her answer: “I don’t think people want a new direction. Our values unify us.” Are you kidding? The old direction lost them the House, the Senate, the Presidency, and countless state seats. And it was FAR less popular than Bernie’s new direction, comprised of clearly articulated Progressive policies.

More Pelosi: “Supporting America’s working families … That’s one everyone is in agreement with … We are united in terms of the security of our country … Strong in how we protect our economy … Protecting Medicare, Social Security, good paying jobs for America’s workers … issues that unify us.” (Sounds exactly like Paul Ryan right after the election). 

That’s it? Maintain the status quo and espouse platitudes? (Actually many policies under Clinton and Obama hurt working families – see Not Much Left of the “Left”: A Fairy Tale for 2018). Dems, you’re going to have to try much harder to win back people who are truly hurting. Try showing up to the party with something more than a banner reading: “We’re not him.”

Nine months ago the Dems unveiled their new visionary platform, a “Better Deal.” Chuck Schumer actually admitted that formerly Democrats had, “failed to communicate our values to show that we were on the side of working people, not special interests.” (It’s really not that difficult to look like you stand for something, if you want to). I wrote it before and I’ll repeat it here: The Dems can’t craft a coherent message because they can’t please the people AND their donors simultaneously.”

A “Better Deal” clearly harks back to FDR’s New Deal which included economic recovery and reform, as well as relief for the poor. No one had a problem figuring out who FDR was working for. But today’s Democrats never even mention his name.

Anyone still wondering why?