Reply #71: although actions speak louder than words, [View All]

[Fiendish Thingy]

I think Dean should be using his leadership NOW to get the Dems who are in office NOW to take vocal stands on issues and articulate the vision and values of the Democratic Party NOW.

As far as preparing to retake Congress in 2006, Dean's 50 state strategy is fine, but before that, America, and swing voters in particular, need to know what the Dems stand FOR. Being against things like war is OK too, but the Dems have to offer a clearly articulated alternative vision to the GOP. I know we're just a few months out of a grueling election, but I think he's putting the cart before the horse (or donkey, as it were ;-) ).

At this stage of the game, in early 2005, it seems to me the Dems should be developing their version of "A Contract with America"; Dean should be whipping the Reps and senators into line and consistently on message about the major issues, including:

• Exit strategy in Iraq
• Preventing unecessary wars
• Treating our Military and Veterans right
• Electoral integrity
• The Healthcare crisis
• How to fix SS without destroying it
• Better use of Homeland Security funds, without the pork ("Ports not Pork" should be the slogan...)
• Middle Class economics (minimum wage, health care- again- , and bankruptcy)

If articulated clearly and consistently, the Dem vision on these 7-8issues will repair years of neglect and ambiguity, and possibly provide some cover for GOP attacks on hot button issues i.e. gay marriage, abortion, "culture of life" etc.
The GOP is beginning to fragment around DeLay, Schaivo, filibuster, etc.

If Dean can't get his troops in line and on message now, in a non-election year, how can he hope to take back congress in 2006?

Yes, actions speak louder than words, but sometimes words must come first, then action must follow.

Having said that, I wish him the best, and think he's the best man for the job- if anyone can transform the party, Dean can.