Reasons for Running for Office

Things that make me say hmmm.... (0.00 / 0)

"when people challenge incumbents in primaries who haven't done anything to deserve removal from office"

I understand your frustration when a good Democrat is challeneged, but you have to be able to see the whole picture. That means our party is healthy (if only in that area). That's a good thing, the incumbent has to keep running, keep producing fresh ideas, and stay in touch with his/her constituency, and the people are given a choice, a healthy election cycle is good for you and I, good for people.

"What's particularly annoying about this, is that incumbent Republicans go unchallenged at the same time."

This really is frustrating, especially from your point of view. You live in a healthy Democratic area (I'm assuming), but in the areas your talking about in the above quote, the party needs some work. Quality candidates have to be recruited and trained, fundraising efforts have to doubled and tripled, county and precint offices have to be filled and then trained also, volunteers have to be rounded up and the public has to be made aware of what Democrats stand for. This is why doing your part (ie voting in the party primary, talking to friends and neighbors, and attending SD and County Convetions, and even voting for Party Chair if you have the chance) is so important. I hate to go back and beat this subject to death, but the State Chair can effect real change or allow more unopposed Republicans.

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by: matthew_lt @ Tue Mar 21, 2006 at 05:28:19 AM UTC

General Election (0.00 / 0)

To be a little more specific, I'm mainly referring to areas where it's about even between Democrats and Republicans and that it just wastes during the primary that could be better spent on the general.  In these areas, I don't think an incumbent necessarily needs to be challenged from within the party to stay fresh.  They can accomplish that with tough general elections.

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by: SADem @ Tue Mar 21, 2006 at 06:18:03 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Want a Joke Reason to Run for Office? (3.00 / 1)

Check out Richard Friedman's website.

Now, a very great man once said that some people rob you with a fountain pen.

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by: Phillip Martin, Progress Texas @ Tue Mar 21, 2006 at 06:14:49 AM UTC

Name? (0.00 / 0)

That's the first I've actually thought about this. What is going to be on the ballot? Kinky or Richard? Do you think that may play a role come election day on how many votes he gets?

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by: matthew_lt @ Tue Mar 21, 2006 at 06:19:15 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Richard (0.00 / 0)

Is going to be on the ballot. I'm pretty sure about that.

Now, a very great man once said that some people rob you with a fountain pen.

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by: Phillip Martin, Progress Texas @ Tue Mar 21, 2006 at 13:07:42 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

How about so they can (0.00 / 0)

only work 97 days a year?  I saw that report out yesterday and I am thinking, "How is that LEGAL?"

If I only showed up for my job for 97 days, I am pretty sure I wouldn't have one any more.

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by: David T. Harris @ Wed Mar 22, 2006 at 20:03:26 PM UTC