| We were excited about the senatorial district convention beforehand. It turned out to be rather unorganized. Worse, as the day wore on, we began to feel that many of the longtime active Democrats who were running the convention were not particularly enthusiastic about new blood. They seemed cliquish. We saw an organization that was content with the status quo. It was not an environment that fostered new participants and new ideas.
Our experience at the state convention reinforced this impression. We enjoyed the social events, and John Edwards delivered an inspirational speech, but we felt like outsiders when it came to the real convention business. Maybe these feelings were not well-founded, but I know there were other delegates who felt the same way.
I recall hearing that approximately 80% of the delegates to the ’04 state convention were first time delegates. I wonder how many of them left Houston with a similar impression. I wonder how many will feel inspired to campaign for Democratic candidates in 2006.
I realize that the party veterans possess valuable experience. There are many people, however, who have not been active Democrats in the past but who are so fed up with the GOP that they want to do something in addition to voting. I fear that many party veterans are, whether intentionally or unwittingly, discounting the energy and talents that these people could contribute.
I’m in the camp that believes Democrats shouldn’t just focus on “winnable” races, but should make every effort to field candidates in as many races as possible. Even if our candidates lose, they are setting the stage for future elections. We shouldn’t make it easy for the GOP. Make them explain their positions; hold them accountable for their policies. The debate we begin during this campaign season won’t end on November 7. This is a marathon, not a sprint.
My father has been a reliable Democratic voter in the past. He is actually considering voting for Kinky. Democratic candidates can no longer take his vote for granted. I suspect there are other voters like my father, voters who are not happy with how the GOP has been governing, but who no longer see the Democratic Party as a viable alternative. This is one result of contentment and acceptance of the status quo.
Here in Tarrant County there has been a bit of Democratic infighting. We had a fairly heated race for county chairman. I believe that the issues I’ve touched on in this post were at the heart of the controversy.
There is nothing wrong with healthy debate among ourselves about party leadership, strategy, etc. But we must stay mindful of our shared principles and goals, and of the need to utilize everybody who desires to help our effort--party veterans and new blood.
On Saturday, I will once again attend my senatorial district convention. I hope that when I return home Saturday evening, I’m more optimistic that our party will make a strong and unified showing this election year and in the future. |
