From eight years ago – yes, eight. I suspect there may be more posts like this one over the next few months as the campaign gets (even more) heated.
You might be a teacher if – you find yourself correcting grammar, even in direct quotes.
“That work cannot be done if we do not have a Democratic president in the White House!”
-Sen. Hillary Clinton, quoted on Huffington Post.
This is a double negative. The statement would be much stronger in a positive sense. How about:
“That work can only be done if we have a Democratic president in the White House!”
Now the statement still has a passive voice in it: “…can only be done…” which will be stronger in active form. Consider: “With a Democratic president in the White House, we will meet these goals!” -or- “We will only accomplish that work with a Democratic president in the White House!” -or- “A Democratic president will accomplish these goals!”
Senator Clinton, you’re one of the strongest women I know. Please work with your writers and keep your statements strong and clear, to make sure the media picks up the best and most important statements made by you. I mean, the best and most important statements that you make!