an idea for a new forum: Talking Points

[cybildisobedience]

Ever since I started visiting DU, I've been impressed by how insightful, clever and well-informed many DUers seem to be -- which often stands in stark contrast to many of the people "leading" the Democratic party. We all stood by and watched as they allowed Bush to run amok - -and the media to annoint him king -- with nary a peep. And when they did speak up, it was invariably lame, off the point, and geared to the Republican's narrow interpretation of an issue.
Ex., instead of questioning the intelligence leading up to the way, the big debate was just how resolute and decisive Bush was.
So, since there seems to be a wealth of talent and interest and passion here, what does anyone think of a proposed new forum that allows DUers to weigh in on issues with suggestions for how to counter smear tactics or accusations, or how to "unframe" a narrow debate, etc.
All of this would be done with the hope that the people running Democratic campaigns all over the country can come here for insights, commentary, resources, etc. that they would never have the chance to stumble upon otherwise. It's one-stop shopping.
Right now, I can name four or five issues that we could begin brainstorming on:
- How do fend off charges of Dems being unpatriotic?
- How could Kerry deal with the Fonda issue? (nominee or not, it already IS an issue)
- What are the key talking points regarding the AWOL issue, the economy, the loss of jobs, the concentration of the media, and on and on.

Thoughts? Suggestions?

[sangh0]

1. I like it

One of the things that's always bothered me about DU is watching a valuable thread, loaded with info, links and arguments, fade into obscurity

[theorist]

2. The problem with this idea.

This may not be a serious concern, but anyone can read these forums. What if really clever tactics come up in these conversations and the freepers take them and counter our efforts? It would be even more flattering if the Ailes crew started checking a forum like that out to test their new blatant lies.

I think it's a good idea, though.

As for the topics:

--we can safely ignore/fend off the unpatriotic label if at the same time we remind the American people that just because Bush is the only president to preside over a "War on Terror" does not mean that he is the best one for the job. "We can do better for America!"

--Kerry should come out and repeat the assertion he made back in 1992 when he defended Clinton's draft dodging. It would be taking the higher ground, and would still allow the hatchet men of the DLC to continue the AWOL onslaught whilst letting Kerry appear separated from the "ultra-partisans". This would be an extremely good tactic if he is willing to eventually "reel in" these hatchet men to show that he really intends to "change the tone in Washington". It would be beautiful!

--the economy speaks for itself at the moment. If jobs start to rise, the American people (not Bush) must be praised for their patience in dealing "with these hard times". Regardless of whether or not it gets worse, keep saying "We can do better for America!" (see above)

--Media conglomeration is trickier. Look at what happened to Dean and Kucinich. If Kerry wants to change the state of the media, he'll have to wait until he's in office, propose a plan, and see if the American people go with it.

[ret5hd]

3. Excellent idea...

i have been discussing with others the need for us to develop tactics to reframe debates. I should have thought of this myself.

I am behind it 100%.

[cybildisobedience]

4. any ideas for a next step?

Do we appeal to DU moderators or what?

[Moderator]

5. Locking.

This should be posted in ATA forum.