Reply #16: TX: Collins: "Chain, chain, chain …" The Texas Primary [View All]

[EFerrari]

Collins: "Chain, chain, chain …" The Texas Primary
Saturday, 19 January 2008, 11:27 pm
Opinion: Michael Collins
"Scoop" Independent News
Washington, D.C.

Forced Loyalty Oath Locks Out Kucinich



Dennis Kucinich may not win the Democratic nomination for president, but he's leaving a pro-democracy legacy across the country. To begin with, this candidate actually discusses critical issues demonstrating his respect for voters. With regard to the voters' right to know, he just asked for the first recount in memory for a presidential primary simply because it makes perfect sense. The New Hampshire results need a serious second look.

Kucinich struck another blow for democracy by challenging the restrictive loyalty oath required by the Texas Democratic Party to get on the primary ballot. He actually reads the contracts he signs. When presented with the loyalty oath required to run as a Democrat in the Texas primary, Kucinich prudently edited the document to reflect the requirements of free citizens living in a democracy:

"I, ______________ of __________________, __________ County/Parish, _____________, being a candidate for the Office of President of the United States, swear that I will support and defend the constitution and laws of the United States. I further swear that I will fully support the Democratic nominee for President whoever that shall be."

Rules of the Texas Democratic Party

Kucinich filed the marked up loyalty oath on Dec. 28 but wasn't informed that it was "defective" until Jan. 2, 2008. His campaign received verbal notice that he wouldn't be placed on the ballot unless he signed a clean copy of the oath. The new loyalty oath had to be faxed that day or no deal, according to the campaign. Rather than compromise, Kucinich said no. (Video at 3:59)

http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/HL0801/S00152.htm