General Discussion

I agree with much you have to say in OP. Facts are important. It’s important to recognize accomplishments. I don’t think we really know what Schumer’s strategy is yet, but it’s certainly up for debate. I don’t see how he could have saved the subsidies, but also am not entirely convinced the shutdown strategy was. I certainly don’t see the deal as a win. I think your voice is an important one on this board, but take issue with the rhetorical content of your post.
You could have made your points without directly attacking others as they could have when criticizing those defending Schumer. You talk of derisive responses yet relegate those critical of Schumer or the institutional democrats as having opinions not on the same level, i.e. ones so low and diverted from reality that their opinion should be kept to themselves. What is it if it isn’t cheerleading when any criticism of your favored democrats is considered diverting from the reality that we should just shut up and let the grownups drive the car?
I mainly have a hard time with the last two paragraphs where you seem to go out of your way to try to convince others that we should substitute our judgment for those of our party leaders. Protest is not political action? Of course it is. Thumbs up or thumbs down isn’t? What do you think votes or public opinion are. I grow so tired of salient points devolving into cheap rhetorical devices designed either to convert or anger. I’m not on the same level nor do I have the same accomplishments as Schumer or Thune, but that doesn’t mean I have to defer to either of their judgments on all things political or support their leadership positions. The great thing about opinions about divisive issues on this forum is that the ensuing debate is an opportunity for a better understanding of the issues. We aren’t nobodies nor are we silly or ridiculous for having opinions even if not fully informed. I’m also not sure if your rhetoric changed any opinions as much as it hurt or angered your real or imagined opponents. You’re not responsible for how I process facts or under any compulsion to care about my views of your post, but then I’m at a loss as why it exists.