If, like me, you happen to live in a virtually non-contested Democratic congressional district, now is the time to act.
As Kos points out on the main page, Rep. Emmanuel's ennumeration of the issues Democrats are fighting for completely ignores the number 1 issue concerning Americans. While I can almost understand the desire to play it safe in tough contests, there are many CDs in this country that are safely Democratic. Many of them are represented by Congress-Critters who are nearly complete unknowns.
We need to write them, now, and tell them to make Iraq an issue. We need to make them see that Rep. Emmanuel is missing the boat, and get them in front of the cameras. The more Democrats in Congress who are speaking out, the more comfortable those in less safe districts will be in speaking out against the war.
Below, find the letter I sent Rep. John Tierney, MA-6, earlier today.
Rep. Tierney-
I know that Iraq has gotten lost in the shuffle, what with the Gulf Coast hurricanes and the legal battles of the Majority Leader, but I feel that you are in a very important position on the issue.
You voted against authorization to use force in Iraq in 2002. Not only does that represent the interests of your district, but it now represents the overwhelming majority opinion in the country.
You are in a very safe district. You will be reelected in 2006, and I will be happy to vote for you. However, much like myself, you are quiet and competent, doing the job you were elected for without making a name for yourself. This must change.
You must get out in front on Iraq, since none of your colleagues will. You neet to talk to Rep. Emmanuel and convince him to make the massive error of the Iraq War a campaign issue.
You can help lead the Democrats to victory in 2006 simply by using your safety to shield you. Get in front of cameras and say that we need to get our soldliers home, let them know that there is an end to what is now endless war.
You need to do more than give a press release. You need to be visible.
This is the only way to win in 2006, but more than that, it's the only way that we can ever get our boys and girls home.
Thank you.