Should we have a SHADOW PRESIDENT?

[liberalpragmatist]

In parliamentary systems, the opposition leader serves as almost a "Shadow Prime Minister" - they are THE leader of the party, appoint a shadow cabinet and create an alternate leadership which can be sworn into office immediately following an election.

Now, clearly, we're a presidential system, not a parliamentary system, so the analogy isn't perfect. It's unlikely we could put together a whole shadow cabinet.

Nevertheless, I am of the impression that in the American system, the opposition party (in this case, us) is hurt by the fact that there is no clear party leader for four years while the party is out of power until the presidential campaign.

Perhaps we should change that? Should the Democrats designate a "shadow President" to serve as official Democratic leader and opposition spokesperson for the next four years? When the primaries for the next presidential election roll around, they'll be replaced by the nominee (unless, of course, the nominee is the "Shadow President").

The chances of us doing this are remote. Nevertheless, I think it'd be a good idea. If we did designate a "Shadow President," John Kerry has more then earned it, given that he won the votes of 55,000,000 Americans. Of course, it could be someone else. Hell, it could even be Bill Clinton, and it would keep the nomination in '08 open, given that Bill couldn't run again. There are lots of people who could be the candidate.

Who would pick the Shadow President? I'm open to suggestions. Perhaps the DNC, together with Congress and the state parties could pick someone. Maybe this could be a temporary appointment until party caucuses picked a leader.

Any thoughts?

[liberal N proud]

1. For the last 4 years I have used President Bartlett on West Wing

Clinton made the comment last week that Martin Sheen was the only president he had.
I couldnt agree more then and still feel that way.
When they cancle West Wing because Martin Sheen did not support shub, I will by the CD's and keep watching reruns.
Bartlett for President.

[tedoll78]

2. I like the idea..

of creating an "alternative government scenario" for Americans to see.

In this scenario, we'd elect leaders of the alternative government, they'd appoint aides/advisors/cabinet members/etc. Then, whenever a decision would come-up, we'd release a statement on what we'd do if we were in power. A clear vision.

For example.. If Bush chooses to go down Path A, we could demonstrate why Path A is wrong and why our path - Path B - is right. We could also use the opportunity to "follow the money." Namely, we could point to the GOP donors who gave money, how much they gave, and how much they would stand to gain if Path A is taken.

[liberalpragmatist]

7. Exactly

Be a true opposition party. Make it clear to Americans what the alternative to Bushism is.

[truthpusher]

3. Bitchin idea!

[liberalpragmatist]

4. kicking this

:kick:

[InvisibleTouch]

5. I like it!

Sadly, I don't see any of our current leaders stepping that far out of the status-quo.... :/

[mandyky]

6. I already have one

His name is Howard Dean and the Democracy for America movement.