We are getting closer to the 2006 elections now. Less than a year from now, we will be looking at a Democratic majority. All we need to do is present a reasonable alternative. Which means, as we've been saying for months after the 2004 elections: a candidate in every race. Every district.
The Democrats have been testing lines lately. It seems like they've gotten their act together, and not a moment too soon. At last check, we've got three seperate investigations in each branch of the Republican Leadership, with a fourth possibly underway. Democrats have an opportunity here to make this a referrendum on the Bush presidency. They have an opportunity to make it a referrendum on Republican rule.
They have an opportunity to make this a lasting majority.
There are three major tactics that I hope every campaign uses in the next year.
Stick to the issues: Don't let Republicans distract you with nonsense issues. That's how they won last time. Focus on what matters.
Social Security
Corruption
The War In Iraq
Out Of Control Spending
Health Care
You keep the message to that, and you win. (Obviously there are other issues that matter, these are just the major ones, and the ones that focus on what is really wrong with this administration, and what we can do better).
Don't ignore baseless attacks: We've seen how it destroyed the campaigns of people like Max Cleland. If they try to "swift-boat" you, get the truth out there. Be truthtellers. That really ties into everything. Voters respect principles. And if we're going to be looking at changing the culture of corruption in Washington, we need to be honest with the voters.
Tie everything to George W. Bush, Tom DeLay, Dick Cheney, or Bill Frist.
* * * * * * *
I spent a lot of time over the past month trying to figure out if my support could possibly go to someone who hasn't seen the light yet on Iraq. Those of you who have read my limited diaries may recall a defense of pragmatism, and a little bit of outrage at Democratic leaders every once in a while.
I come from a state where the Democratic Senator Ben Nelson is xloser to a Republican than anyone this side of Joe Lieberman. Where the gubernatorial race is over before it began because the Republican primary challenger to incumbent Dave Heineman just happens to be Tom Osborne. Where we still can't win a Congressional race in the one-time Democratic stronghold of Omaha.
But still, I'm optimistic. We can and will win the revolution of thoughts and minds because, as long as we make the debate about the issues, people will agree with us. People are fed up with the corruption and criminal activities of this administration. All we need to do now - is make sure that every district, every county, every state, is involved. Let's make sure that every race has a Democrat. Make sure everyone who can - votes. We can make this a lasting majority, not just minimal gains. We can have overwhelming support if we simply express our ideas.