One of the terms often used on Daily Kos and other sites is "echo chamber". It is certainly an appropriate term, as many of our posts are essentially exercises in preaching to the choir. Some of our better diarists do get linked on other political websites, but we still often end up reinforcing or expanding beliefs we already hold.
However, the vast majority of Americans don't read this - or any - political website. So, our carefully crafted arguments, biting ad hominem wit, and soaring rhetoric don't reach that vast majority. This would not be a problem - except that a vote from those masses counts just as much as a Kossack's.
So, as we turn our sights to the general election, those Democrats and Obamacans among us should be asking this question: "What can I do to help Barack Obama win in November?"
Well, I have a suggestion. It requires some personal courage, a healthy dollop of active listening, and the willingness to detach yourself from the Internet long enough to exercise the courage and listening skills. It's not the easiest thing to do - but if we all do it to some degree, I truly believe we can provide Obama critical electoral help that all the recommended diaries in the world can't give him.
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