I just posted this as a comment, and thought it might do as a diary.
I'm addressing this to those on Daily Kos who, like myself, are further to the left ideologically than the Democratic party (not too difficult), to the degree where we won't fight on its behalf.
I've heard the arguments (hell, I've made the arguments) that the Democratic Party is essentially a big business party, and only grudgingly goes along with the more moderate demands of its grassroots constituency, etc., etc. I'm with you.
But I'm asking you to fight for the Democratic Party this election year.
My argument is basic, and the party faithful likely won't care for it, but they are not my concern.
I just joined the Michigan Justice Caucus (Michigan Democratic Party's progressive caucus), working to take back the Michigan state legislature, along with organizing and voter mobilization in key districts for the House.
Now, if I had to be classified politically, I guess I would be considered a libertarian socialist (lower left hand corner on the Political Compass). If it helps, I'm also a card carrying member of the Industrial Workers of the World. Yes, we are still a blast, even 100 years on. That should grant me enough credibility with my Dem=Rep comrades.
Still I'm a dues-paying, card-carrying-Democrat, even though in name only (hopefully more admirable than the Joe Lieberman variety). Some anarchist, huh? So why am I doing this? What the hell's the point?
Well, the fact remains that the political movements that I believe are essential to democracy - citizen-based organizing, union organizing, and grassroots movements for social and economic justice - all achieve greater success under Democratic governments than under Republican governments. The historical data on that is very clear (see Piven and Cloward's Regulating the Poor and Poor People's Movements).
Do I trust the leaders of the Democratic Party to do the right thing? No. But when working people in this country gain more and more political strength, our society becomes more and more democratic. It's my responsibility to work for change, and I should target my work where it is most likely to effect the greatest change. Even Noam Chomsky stated before the 2004 presidential election that those of us on the left should vote for Kerry - if you don't know already, Chomsky's small-d-democratic and anarchist credentials are pretty goddamned solid. Why? Because a Kerry victory would likely improve, even marginally, the lives of millions of people, and we therefore had a responsiblity to complete that simple task.
That was enough for me then, and it's enough for me now. But it's no longer enough for us to only vote. So please - get your asses to your local party headquarters, contact the Justice Caucus, or find a candidate to work/volunteer for. It's already May 3, and most races are already underway.
Swallow your ideological pride and get to work. It's valuable experience anyway, and will make you a better organizer when it comes to organizing your community or workplace.
When the Democrats win in the fall, it won't be the end of the struggle. But it is a crucial and necessary beginning, and in case you hadn't noticed, working families could use all the help they can get.
Thanks for your time.
In Solidarity,
Matthew