Hope for Democrats

It isn't difficult to stumble over the many examples of Democrats from the loony left who've had near-psychotic reactions to the defeat of their candidate. (Some examples are highlighted here.) A few of them have even talked about seceeding from the red-states. I think they aren't serious but sometimes it's hard to tell.

On the other hand, there are some Democrats who are taking a good hard look at this election and learning from it. Bruce Reed from the DLC is one of those Democrats,

For the first time in memory, Republicans are now the majority party from the top of the ballot to the bottom. The South, which helped elect every Democratic president in history, hasn't given us a single electoral vote in the 21st century. Bush won majorities not just of white men and evangelicals, but of white women, married people, couples with children, people over 30, voters who make above $50,000, high school and college graduates, and regular churchgoers. How can a blue party become a red-white-and-blue party once again? [Source]

Bruce then goes on to offer four major ways they can become the majority party.

1. Expand the Map - He refers to 23 uncontested red states where they need to be competitive.
   
2. Crack The Cultural Code - He cites Democrats' unwillingness to discuss moral issues and then goes on to point out that moral issues encompass more than just social activism. He cites patriotism, personal responsibility, opportunity, and a clear sense of right and wrong.
   
3. Make Ideas Matter - He essentially argues that they should spend more time crafting their ideas than worrying about image.
   
4. Surprise People - He encourages the party to come up with some ideas that are compelling to the skeptics.
   

I have to admit these ideas are a little vague and are still in need of substance, but if the Democratic Party keeps going in this direction then Republicans may have something to fear when the next election rolls around. In the meantime, Republicans can hope that the Michael Moore's, the George Soros' and other wacky celebrity types will continue to spout outlandish statements. It's their best chance for continuing the gains made in this election.

Personally, I would welcome a revived moderate Democratic Party. I hate walking into the election booth and feeling like the fate of the free world will be decided by the decisions made that day. I'd rather feel that there are some differences of opinion but regardless of who wins, things will ultimately turn out okay. If this means more real competition between the parties, then so be it.

Posted by jdmays at November 9, 2004 09:59 PM | TrackBack