It's no secret that the great majority of dKos readers and commentators are ardently and passionately liberal in their views. Indeed, dKos exists as a site where fellow liberals can exchange ideas knowing that they share a commonality of political interests. This does not mean that we all march in lockstep on every issue or that respectful dissenting views cannot be heard (provided that the writer of the dissenting views is committed to a basic liberal outlook).
As anyone knows who has posted on dKos, you must be prepared to receive some harsh criticism when you press opinions that the majority do not share. In most cases, if you argue your opinions with facts and with courtesy, you will receive fact-based reasoned arguments back in response. If you lose your temper, however, and answer criticisms with personal insults and abusive language, you can expect to receive that and worse back from those who disagree with you.
As an admittedly somewhat more moderate (I know how some hate that word) dKos participant, I wanted to share my thoughts on certain political positions that my fellow moderates should think carefully about before posting, unless they are prepared to suffer the slings and arrows (and sometimes troll ratings) of our more liberal dKos friends. Ultimately, though, if you find yourself consistently on the wrong side of the debate, you may want to reconsider whether dKos is the proper forum for you.
- Iraq - Without question, this is the number one issue that raises temperatures and angry feelings. The overwhelming consensus is that the Iraq war is an unjustified, illegal, immoral and unmitigated disaster, ranking equal to or worse than the follies of Vietnam. If you take a different view, then be forewarned - you will most definitely hear from your dKos friends and what you hear won't be sweet or soothing.
- Bush - The only thing positive that can be said about Bush is that he is a tough and, so far at least, successful political operator. Other than that, he may not be the devil incarnate but he is as close a facsimile as we can find today. Bush = Hitler analogies are generally frowned upon but, other than that, there is nothing good that can be said about this man. If you want to write something positive about him or you have a favorable opinion of him, then dKos is most definitely not the site for you.
- Bill and Hillary Clinton - DKossers have a love-hate relationship with the Clintons. While there is definite admiration for their political skills (particularly Bill's), there is a marked disdain for their "third way/DLC" political strategies and tactics. Hillary may sit atop most Democratic polls for 2008, but you wouldn't know it here. Tread carefully, very carefully, if you want to post a favorable comment about either of the Clintons.
- Howard Dean - While you won't find a lot of hero worship on dKos of too many living American politicians, Dean is the closest we come here. Since the time he first rallied the liberal base two years ago with his strong denunciation of the Iraq war, he has become the most inspirational figure in the Democratic Party today. If you wish to say something negative about Dean, be prepared for the brickbats that will follow.
- Democratic Party - Kossacks have very definite mixed thoughts on the Democratic Party and its leadership. While many recognize the party's position as the only realistic engine for liberal progress, there is general contempt for many of its leaders, with a special vengeance directed at those Democrats who favor compromise and deal-making over standing strong on principles. Joe Lieberman probably holds a special place in dKos hell for his occasional support of Bush (particularly on Iraq), but the animus extends to such "moderate" or "compromising" Democrats as Evan Bayh, Harry Reid, Nancy Pelosi, Hillary Clinton, John Kerry (at times), and even newcomer Ken Salazar (for his support of the Gonzales nomination). If you're considering writing a favorable word for the compromising branch of the party - especially the despised Joe Lieberman, be doubly and triply forewarned. As with anyone who is viewed as a traitor or backstabber, the anger directed against these so-called DINO Democrats will make your eyes water.
With that, have fun. Dkos is a place to exercise your political thinking & writing muscles, get a sense of the current political mood of the left, and exchange ideas with people who share your view of the world. And don't take the criticism too personally.
Peace!