But that said, it is a losing proposition. Liberals can't get elected (nationally) calling themselves liberal.

Simply put, liberalism is not popular. Let's pretend the left wanted a movement like the conservatives of the last 10 or so years. Can you imagine a national radio show host getting on the air for 3 hours a day trying to convince people the government can spend your money better than you can?

Or how about getting on the air when millions of small business people are listening and trying to convince them the answer to their problems is more regulation and paperwork? Yeah- That'll sell.

I hope the liberals follow Reich's advice. I hope they proudly proclaim their beliefs. They will be relegated to the ashcan of electoral history in 2 cycles.

...

You just described George W. Bush. Do you realize that?

IOW, a fiscal liberal can be elected as long as he in the right party; only a social liberal cannot.

Bush RAISED taxes? (or argued that we should?)

If you want to complain he has overspent that is one thing but the topic is "selling" liberalism which is a sale nobody can close.

But to speak to your point, a "fiscal liberal" is unelectable. Can you list the number of Presidents elected on the promise to raise taxes?

Here's a hint... It is a REAL short list.

---