I sent this note to Russ Feingold today

[lwcon]

Dear Senator Feingold,

I'm a lifelong Democrat who is cheered by this week's election.

It is a great relief to see a counterbalance to a presidency gone awry.

But, given the fragile balance in the Senate, I'm concerned to see a party far less cohesive than the Republicans, who cynically (but usually successfully) place power over policy.

I write to you to encourage you to claim your rightful role as conscience and voice of the Democratic Party.

I come from a state (MA) with two fine Senators, but over the past year, while I've closely watched the national scene and written a snarky little blog, there are two politicians who continue to inspire me: you and Al Gore. I'm part of a growing group of Democrats who dream of you two sharing the 2008 ticket.

In the meantime, though, I can't see who else but you can be the passionate and pragmatic heart of the new Senate.

Perhaps the insider politics are all set, and there is no opportunity for you to claim such a leadership role. But the party and nation would be much the better if you could and would.

I'm reminded of George Harrison's intro to a live performance by the already world-famous Beatles: "This song is called 'Yesterday,' and so for Paul McCartney of Liverpool, opportunity knocks!"

___

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