Probably more than many of you realize.
A recent diary spoke to some of the frustration felt by many here due to the failure of many in Congress to actually lead. I share much of that frustration. However, that being said, do not underestimate what is being accomplished here.
Change is happening, not overnight, but it is happening.diary
I haven't been a member here all that long, as attested by my high number. However, I have had a long-term relationship picking and choosing involvement in political causes.
Many of the members here would call me old-school. The very thing that some of you are fighting against and find wrong with politics. I work to get people together, organize fundraisers, host gatherings, connect issue advocates with representatives or candidates, etc., etc.
I had no specific need for DKos to fill regarding political involvement, I was already involved. My first visit here was out of curiosity. Who were these outrageous militant liberals I had seen referenced in a few articles. Were they really that "out there".
What this relatively moderate Independent found was a diverse group of individuals who truly cared about their country and its future. Lots of different approaches, lots of difference in opinion, but the goal of working towards a better government was, and is, universal.
You have changed my approach to supporting candidates and my priorities in selecting them. Its no longer enough that they spout the basics, I ask for and demand substance. Meteor Blades has heightened my interest in environmental issues, which I had previously given virtually no priority to. Elise has inspired me to continue to work to involve more voices in the process and eugene has made me determined to not STFU.
I now donate on a regular basis to worthy candidates outside of my region and encourage others to do so also. These are donations that would not occur if not for the information provided on DKos.
Recently I was asked by a candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives to arrange a meeting with influential individuals in my area. My first response was that he should also consider meeting with bloggers in my state so that they might also have a give and take session. A year ago that would not have even been a consideration.
Change is happening, positive change, but it takes time. It happens through your influence upon individuals like myself. It happens through the slow, painful and exciting process of finding worthy candidates and supporting them through both old-school and new-school methods to replace those who will not lead.
Through personal experience I know that Mr. Moulitsas and DKos are shown much respect by many of our candidates. The fact that he comes "home" to DKos as a blogger does not diminish all of the work he does away from the computer to work for a progressive voice. Candidates and their staff would not be reaching out to Mr. Moulitsas or DKos if they did not respect the diversity and power of action that he and it represents.
So, while at times you may feel that "we are the sweepings" the reality is that you are part of something gaining in influence as you gain in experience.
..and a gift of thanks during this holiday season for expanding my view.