There is a contested Democratic primary in IL-06 between (among others) Christine Cegelis, who nearly beat 30 year GOP veteran Henry Hyde in 2004 and Tammy Duckworth, who was imported into the district as a candidate by Rahm Emmanuel of the DCCC. Hyde is retiring, so this is an open seat in play with a good possibility of a Democratic win.
Today someone received an email (in full below the fold) signed by Pelosi and Emmanuel which states in part: "Tammy Duckworth is one of our top priorities for 2006.".
This kind of bossism is a clear violation of the intent and purpose of direct primary elections innovated by Progressives over 100 years ago. Direct primaries were conceived to reduce or eliminate the influence of party bosses and big donors. Duckworth, whatever her merits, is the handpicked favorite of both.
Someone needs to give Nancy and Rahm a lesson in history and democratic politics. I'm beginning to understand why the GOP calls us the "Democrat" party, because we're becoming less democratic every day.
The email:
Thank you for joining us in Friday's conversation on the 2006 political landscape. House Democrats have the agenda and the commitment to lead America in a new direction, and your support will help lead us to victory.
Tammy Duckworth is one of our top priorities for 2006. Our road to victory starts with this open seat in the Chicago suburbs. Tammy's courage and intelligence will serve our country well in Congress. You can read more of Tammy's incredible story at www.duckworthforcongress.com
We have pledged to raise $100,000 for the Duckworth campaign in the next seven days, and we need your help to reach that goal.
Please contribute as much as you can to Tammy's campaign today. You can print the attached credit card form and fax it directly back to our office at 202-741-7372, or mail a contribution to:
Friends of Tammy Duckworth
430 S. Capitol St. SE, 2nd Floor
Washington, DC 20003
You may contribute up to $4,200 per individual or $8,400 per couple, but anything you can give will be greatly appreciated.
Join us in supporting this exceptional candidate. Onward to a great Democratic victory!
Best,
Nancy and Rahm