Helpful Perspective On WFP Switch To Warren Endorsement
This discussion thread was locked by Donkees (a host of the Sanders 2020 group).
Off the top, credit where credit is due. The Warren camp had a strategy to secure the endorsement of the Working Families Party. If the Sanders campaign had a similar strategy, I was unaware. Senator Warren deserves congratulations for this early victory.
As this relates to Sanders, to our team, I say (and explain in a moment), "Buck up!" As it relates to Warren, I am convinced beyond any dissuasion that this will prove a symbolic (but by no means Pyrrhic) victory.
How can I be so steadfast in my convictions? All we need do is examine the impact of the WFP endorsement of Bernie in 2016. It should have moved the needle, especially in New York, but had only a marginal impact.
The WFP is a major player in local, state and congressional elections. The 2018 cycle is proof positive. However, 2016 showed us that the extensive efforts from WFP to gin up support for Bernie mostly flamed out.
Final conclusion: this won't be the watershed moment some may fear. In fact, I already consider it forgotten. Interested in further proof? I was so convinced of its relative inimportance that I refused to renew my WFP dues so that I could vote in the endorsement process.
When it comes to nominating a presidential candidate, the DNC doesn't want to hear what the WFP has to say. After the muted impact of the 2016 WFP endorsement of Bernie, neither do I.
If I worked for the Sanders campaign, my official response would be, "Next".
I will continue to follow and support WFP's efforts in other elections but not the presidential race.