Where is the common ground?

[Stinky The Clown]

If we're to have any chance for electoral successes in 06 and 08, we must find common ground with those from whom we seek votes.

And I'm not talking just about common ground with moderates and independents. I'm talking about common ground in our own party.

And common ground with Greens and Naderites.

Where's the common ground we need to find in order to pitch a politically ecumenical tent?

Here on our side, we have division over several issues. We also have solidarity on some.

As ***examples*** only (not fodder for debate in **this** thread):

We have divisions over gun laws.

We have solidarity on women's rights.

Women's rights, therefore, are on that common ground. And looking over the horizon, I suspect that's a broad common ground. I suspect that everyone in the far left sees common ground there. I similarly suspect it is common ground with independents and moderate republicans.

The definition of common ground is a view held by you that can be shared with those of other political bent. Not modified to make that person happy, but truly shared with them.

I suspect stem cell research is common ground.

I honestly suspect civil rights is also common ground.

But I also see civil rights as an issue that has been rhetorically hijacked by our opponents to the point that our real, core views are unknown or so distorted that this is common ground no one will believe we can share with anyone.

So, using those as examples and modified examples, what are some other common ground issues you can see?

[firefox]

1. Election reform n/t

[txaslftist]

2. Appointment of qualified department heads instead of cronies?

I'm just saying...