Democrats have not been historically known as a "Christian" party. Maybe it is the abortion issue that has sparked this, but more recently, it is the issue of homosexuality and how far people are willing to legislate its acceptance. Many Christian people will vote simply on these two issues, despite a spectacular résumé of the candidate, or past governing experience, or an awesome Senate record, or anything like that. I believe that these people will vote Democratic, and they can be persuaded to do so, but it will take an effective campaign by the candidates to persuade the people of their ethics and values.
Dean's civil unions bill has started what I believe to be the greatest controversy for the Democratic party today. Polls may show that a majority of Americans are 'comfortable' with civil unions, but based on my experiences (and this may be a geographical problem, too) I don't believe this to be so. The question is, how do we as Democrats get the votes of those who are uncomfortable with the idea of gay people and gay marriage, adoption, etc without going against what we all know is right (equal rights for them)? I've spent a lot of time thinking about this and I think there are several things the candidates need to do, especially
Dean, since he is most closely connected with this issue.
Situation: A Conservative Christian Suburban Church
I am most familiar with this situation, having grown up in it. Most of these people will vote Republican simply because of the abortion issue. Others vote based on the 'faith' of the candidate. In 2000 Bush pegged himself as the more "Christian" of the two, and in doing so, won votes of Christians less conservative than he, simply based on a parallel of religion.
Specific issues within this situation:
-"family values" (translated by GOP to be DOMA)
-abortion
-national security
If we target this community on these issues, and prove that we as a party are stronger and more competent in these areas, then will can probably earn 20-25% of the Christian vote that voted for Bush in 2000.
My parents fall into this category. They have historically never been affiliated with either party, citing disgust at both in past elections. They are deeply spiritual but also very intelligent, and willing to reason instead of voting on blind faith correlations. As my father has said, these people in office who call themselves Christians make the rest of us look bad. He knows that economic policy and fiscal responsibility is just as much a 'family value' as preserving marriage (which he has no opinion on).
These votes gettable. If the Democrats actively pursue them, and advertise the need for social justice and how their policies will implement this, and how Bush's haven't, then we will take some of their votes.
On the issue of national security, if we emphasize the need for global responsibility and community with other nations in the world, without backing down from threats, then we have the vote. Emphasize Bush's failings in the war on terror (no osama, no saddam, etc). Point out how we are not safer now. Explain how the Dems can make this country safer.
When it comes to abortion, there is no getting around it. The most conservative Christians will never, ever vote for a pro-choice candidate. However, there are people who will put aside this issue if there are more important ones at hand, as there certainly are in this election.
Most importantly, there is the issue of civil unions. The vast majority of people have bought the GOP meme that this is 'gay marriage.' My solution to this problem is as follows:
- Rename all state marriages to 'unions.' Require people who want to get married to get a 'union' license instead of a marriage license. This effectively makes marriage a religious option instead of a state requirement.
- Make state unions available for homosexual couples, with the same rights as state unions for heterosexual couples.
- Enact a giant PR campaign to separate religious marriage (left alone as a sacrament) and state unions (legality only).
If the candidates do not do this, they will lose votes. Period. Especially Dean. I'm from the south suburbs of Chicago and recently had a conversation with someone I used to go to church with. It went like this:
Him: So, you can vote now, eh?
Me: Sure can! I'm actually working for Howard Dean's campaign for President.
Him: Who's that?
Me: The Democratic frontrunner, former Gov. of Vermont.
Him: Oh, right, that faggot hippie guy.
I was shocked. I then explained his policies, and the guy didn't have such an unfavorable opinion after that.
Some of these votes may be out of reach (anyone, in my opinion, who uses the word 'faggot' isn't going to vote Dem no matter what) but there are votes out there to get in this demographic, and we should certainly try.