I may or may not get to vote in 2028.

[MineralMan]

Depends on my health. As some of you know, I had a scary trip to the hospital a couple of weeks ago.

So. I'm going to say something blunt right now. If we, as Democrats, do what we did in 2016 and 2024, we will not get another chance.

DONT FUCK THIS ONE UP! LEARN FROM OUR PAST MISTAKES. WE WILL NOT SURVIVE ANOTHER LOSS!

And if you just shrug your shoulders at my post, it will be your fault

[cachukis]

1. Stay on it.

[sheshe2]

2. Agree and thank you.

Sending healing thoughts your way, MM. We need you in this fight.

[hlthe2b]

3. Can't agree with you more. This is our last (real) chance!

And may you restore your health and join all of us to vote in person or at the ballot box (to return that mailed ballot--hopefully still present for states that allow it).

Regardless, to your improved and restored health and to the determined fight ahead!

[MineralMan]

4. Thanks!

[Moostache]

5. Two things immediately came to mind...

First - I hope you are doing as well as possible and make it to 2032 election and beyond. This place will be lessened tremendously when your voice and perspective cross over and move on.

Secondly - you are goddamn right AND I am goddamn terrified that the messaging from the party leadership is adequate to this task. I am terrified that the best outcome won't be enough and the chaos of the C.H.U.D-in-chief will lead us to utter ruin and devastation that will take generations to recover from (if ever).

All good thoughts and wishes to you though MM, in the end its people that matter and you're one of the ones we need going forward if only to provide wisdom, perspective and patience to those of us who might be more inclined to despair or reactionary movement.

[MineralMan]

12. We all need to be leaders

among those we know. Each us us needs to convince one or more people who might not vote to go to the pools and vote for every Democrat they see on their ballot. Get one and you double the power of your vote. Get two and you triple it.

It's so simple. But we don't do it often enough. Not enough of us do it.

That has been my message here for every election, and I do it myself.

[TheProle]

6. "If we, as Democrats, do what we did in 2016 and 2024, we will not get another chance."

Can you provide more detail? I can't tell if this is commentary on:

Women nominees
Neglecting rural/working class voters
Centrism

What do we need to avoid doing?

[KS Toronado]

9. We need to avoid LOSING ELECTIONS

[AZProgressive]

10. He probably means non-voters or third party voters

There is a lot of scapegoating whenever Democrats lose elections and often the left flank is blamed for the problems of Democrats. It is interesting Obama-Trump voters are never blamed for 2016 but they are the ones that swung the election in Trump's favor.

[MineralMan]

13. See my reply just above yours.

[TheProle]

21. Thanks

[waterwatcher123]

7. Apply for an absentee ballot - we just did on the Secretary of State's web page.

I am not sure when the counties will mail out the ballots. But, MN has a no excuse absentee ballot policy. So, you could get one relatively soon from your county.

By-the-way, everyone is wishing you the best for a long and prosperous future!

[ahlnord]

8. wishing you well

I have always appreciated your commentary, especially as a fellow Minnesotan. Selfishly, I hope that your health does not bar you from continuing to contribute until long after the election and the inauguration of a new Congress. I am 77 and I am fond of saying that I just want to live long enough to know how this turns out! By that, I mean: do we or do we not successfully keep this Republic? Hang in there and focus most of all on your health. I don't know if you have family with/near you, but if you need anything (home-cooked food, a ride to somewhere, good conversation) let me know. I think we are both in the Metro.(not sure how personal info can be exchanged, though). You are much appreciated!

[MineralMan]

17. Thank you.

I have a lovely wife who worries about me. Lots of friends, too. I have recovered quickly from what happened, and have made some lifestyle changes.

But life after 80 is subject to surprises. So...

My primary care doctor just shook his head a little the other day when I saw him. I have already weaned myself off supplemental oxygen, carefully and effectively. I'm monitoring myself well, too.

[WiVoter]

11. Agreed

[MustLoveBeagles]

14. You're right

This IS our last chance. No do overs. I hope you're here to cast that ballet in 28 and years to come. Please take care of yourself.

[MineralMan]

18. Will do.

[SSJVegeta]

15. I've been reading your posts since 2004.

You are incredible.

Knowing you voted in this midterm would mean a lot to me. But I promise you I am not taking this election for granted.

[littlemissmartypants]

16. Keep the faith, MM. We love you. ❤️

[MineralMan]

20. Aww....

[calimary]

19. Not giving up! Not now, Not then, NOT EVER!!!

[Bristlecone]

22. I completely agree. And I'll be looking forward to your post after you vote

In 2028.