Pressley v. Capuano

Michael Capuano is a completely acceptable progressive legislator who votes the right way on most issues. But that’s not a lifetime ticket to reelection, nor should it be. Ayanna Pressley ate his lunch last night because of the people of that blue Massachusetts district wanted a lefty fighter, someone who would represent their anger and fury at what has happened to the nation. Capuano also embraced some blue lives matter ridiculousness toward the end and tried to make it an issue in the campaign, demonstrating that he was increasingly out of touch with his district. But the broader point is this–moving districts to the left, even those already on the left, is a good thing. Electing fighters is a good thing. Electing more women is a goo thing. Electing people of color is a good thing. Democracy is a good thing. I don’t care if someone is an acceptable legislator. If people want a new voice, then that’s a good thing. In other Massachusetts districts, voters chose the incumbent over progressive challengers who are also women of color. That’s fine too if that’s what the voters want, although I would have voted differently. But this is a good day for democracy and Pressley’s win should be celebrated by those who want an active fight for a better tomorrow.