Now would be appropriate. Read Bob Herbert's op-ed about Republicans having spent "the last 40 years insulting, disenfranchising and otherwise stomping on the interests of black Americans." Read about J.C. Watts, former Oklahoma Republican Representative, describing the insult to black-Americans by Republican presidential candidates refusing to show for a debate about minority issues. The same rebuff Herbert refers to as a "slap" to black voters nationally.
Last week they managed to prevent Washington D.C. residents from having representation in Congress. "Enough is enough" writes Herbert:
A majority in Congress favored the move, and the House had already approved it. But the Republican minority in the Senate -- with the enthusiastic support of President Bush -- rose up on Tuesday and said: "No way, baby."
At least 57 senators favored the bill, a solid majority. But the Republicans prevented a key motion on the measure from receiving the 60 votes necessary to move it forward in the Senate. The bill died.
As I just asked, and now clearly repeat, what is keeping the Democrats from shaping at least THIS debate, responding responsibly to at least this constituency, recognizing these affronts as prejudice, and making the Republicans prove, despite clear evidence to the contrary, it isn't so?