Julian Castro seems extremely competent and not flashy, perhaps more like a cabinet member, which he was, than a president. Or perhaps he just needs a lively VP like Gritty.  Read more

On abortion rights: Appoint good judges. Get rid of Hyde amendment. Codify Roe v. Wade in Congress.  Read more

“We’re gonna include our trans community when it comes to reproductive justice.” - Castro Read more

There is no catchy postcard slogan solution for affordable housing, it doesn’t exist!!!!! The boringness of Castro’s answer reflects this reality.  Read more

Activist asks Castro about increasing housing costs and lack of affordable housing. Advocates “housing choice vouchers” for low income people. Prohibit landlords from discriminating against people with vouchers. Increase housing supply. Strengthen fair housing enforcement.  Read more

Julian Castro seems like a solid, sober guy who lacks a certain level of flair. Could benefit from an interesting hat or walking stick or novelty tie.  Read more

Castro says “I like the idea of a Green New Deal.” I am unclear if this particular phrasing is of any import.  Read more

Castro is asked about hedge funds etc destroying jobs and oppressing workers. He says: no more too big to fail for Wall Street. Build on Dodd-Frank. Blah.  Read more

Another activist has come on stage with a baby. “Do you want to go hold that baby?” asks the moderator. “I’m not going to be a typical politician,” Castro says, declining to go hold the baby.  Read more

Guns: background checks. Limit magazine capacity. Close loopholes. No guns for domestic violence people. Assault weapons ban.  Read more

Castro says we should break apart ICE. Read more

Julian Castro is here now. He is the stylistic opposite of Sherrod Brown. Not rumpled at all.  Read more

Gillibrand says that as president she will “guarantee” Medicare for all and a single payer healthcare system. Read more

An activist asks Gillibrand about the urgency of climate change. She says it is “an issue I’m willing to lose everything over.” Hm. She says pass the Green New Deal.  Read more

Take immigration out of DHS and put it under DOJ, Gillibrand says.  Read more

Gillibrand says “as president I will not fund a for-profit prison system” and opposes family detention of immigrants.  Read more

Two community activists came on stage with their baby daughter to ask Gillibrand a question on child detention. Gillibrand immediately took the baby.  Read more

“Legalize, decriminalize, deschedule marijuana,” Gillibrand says. And ensure that black communities have access to the legal weed business.  Read more

Many people around me snickered audibly and made sarcastic remarks when Gillibrand dropped the “I have a black staff member” bit. I am simply here to report facts. Read more

Gillibrand is discussing white privilege. She asked to stand for this answer. Now she is on the verge of tears as she discusses how white privilege exists. “As a white woman who has certainly experienced enormous amounts of white privilege, I travel with a black staff member. And I see how she is treated… Read more