‘Progressives’ Including Ralph Nader Seek ‘Slate’ To Primary Obama

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So much for President Obama’s unchallenged primary run. In a letter released today, prominent “progressives” including former presidential candidate Ralph Nader announced they are seeking a slate of candidates to challenge the incumbent for the Democratic nomination in next year’s primaries.

‘Without debates by challengers inside the Democratic Party’s presidential primaries, the liberal/majoritarian agenda will be muted and ignored,’ the letter read. ‘The one-man Democratic primaries will be dull, repetitive, and draining of both voter enthusiasm and real bright lines between the two parties that excite voters.’

The letter was endorsed by 45 ‘distinguished leaders’ and included Princeton professor Cornel West, who has been highly critical of President Obama as of late. ‘His administration has tilted too much toward Wall Street,’ said West. ‘We need policies that empower Main Street.’

Perhaps the president’s deficit plan, which was released earlier today, will calm matters. Conservatives have been up in arms over the plan; with many of this right-leaning critics calling it ‘class warfare.’

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this entry suggested Mr. Nader was announcing his intention to primary President Obama on his own. TPM regrets the error.

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