I've got to diary fast...My son will be demanding my attention soon. But I thought this idea had merit when it strayed across my consciousness today. I was thinking to myself about the need for a wedge issue that would help out Dem chances in al sorts of purple states.
It hit me while I was watching my beloved Eagles get creamed: "progressivize" the faith based initiative. Make sure that it is open to any and all private organizations and charities, make sure that it is well regulated (so as prevent unwanted proselytizing on the taxpayer;s dime).
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But more than anything else make it
so generous that the right cannot support it. Job retraining programs, welfare-to-work programs, meals-on-wheels, subsidized child care, etc. If Democrats latch onto this concept with a vengeance, it has the potential to drive a wedge between the less radical elements of the religious community and the Bushies, as we know the Bushies will always choose business interests over social concerns.
I know there will be many concerns about possible overlap between the use of public funds and religious concerns. We'll just have to make sure it's well regulated. I believe we can construct a well regulated system of private charities funded partly by public money. I also know this will require some mental rewiring for a good many of us. But it's such a powerful tactic it might be worth the rewiring.
Feedback, wanted. Constructive feedback wanted more than "no never" feedback. Thanks.