You know, I'm not even a member of this goofy Democratic party. I'm still a card carrying member of the Pacific Green Party (they don't really issue cards, it's just a figure of speech). But I will always happily wear the label of Howard Dean Democrat. I sweated, bled, and came as close as I come to crying for that man and his message. I will always believe in universal health care, fiscal discipline, and telling the American people the goddamn truth whether they like it or not. I will always support candidates who can raise money in small donations over candidates who tap rich friends and special interests.
I've deeply loathed Sen. John Kerry for some time now. When he said "Howard Dean's opposition to the war was wrong" I felt personally insulted. The only other time I've felt as personally attacked by a politician was when George W. Bush referred to millions of people the world over marching in protest of his bullshit war a "focus group." But, by the simple, cynical fact that John Kerry is a Democrat who seems adept at winning elections, I'm going to forgive him. I'm not going to go volunteer for John Kerry. I won't give him any of my money. But I will vote for him in November, and I will convince everyone I know to do the same. I'm not going to bash him anymore. I'm not going to make fun of him. Or his wife. I will channel all my personal animus toward John Kerry and redirect toward the man who truly deserves to be the object of all my scorn and ridicule: Dennis Kucinich.