What type of Democrats are at DU?

[guidod]

I've only entered about 250 Posts here at DU. I find myself worried at which direction the Democartic Party is heading. Some are very stubborn in their views and seem to me to be as radical for the left as Bush is radical to the right. Others will listen and respond to what I have to say but are not swayed very often. There are liberals who will listen and respond and are willing to change their minds. Then there are the ones that sit on the midde of the fence and are open to voting Republican a few times.

I guess this all started for me after Ed Schultz talked against what John Murtha had to say about joining the military. Also, about the negative treatment wit Howard Dean. When I take a good look at myself I find that I'm willing to lake past these events and keep listening to Ed's program. But I also love to listen to Mike Maloy and his ranting and screaming. You can either vote and move on or vote and leave your explintionastion. I feel that all are liberals but just on different levels.

[mike_c]

1. proud leftist here....

Greener than thou, it would appear. :evilgrin:

[sasha031]

2. the right is wrong about everything

[guidod]

14. I agree for the most part but,

do you believe in a checks and ballance system? If you do it seems that republicans would have to have control of something.

[sasha031]

16. not anymore

I believe the right will always and only fight for absolute power. The Eisenhower repub is dead, even he use to be called a communist. The right in this country will do nothing but try to undermine the truth.

[guidod]

24. I don't th ink the Eisenhower repub is dead.

I think some are there but are afraid to go up against these Majority pukes that are dominating now.

[sasha031]

27. there is Chaffee and Snow and others, they are good

these past few yrs has just given me such a sour taste for the whole system, that it has become difficult for me to be objective, I don't even try anymore,
if enough of the moderate repubs aligned themselves with the Dem's, maybe we wouldn't be if this position.

[guidod]

32. I agree that it is tough

to be objective. I think attitude has a lot to do with putting your ideals forward. I don't think Clinton was that good of President, except on budget issues, but his personalitly and inclusiveness brought a lot of people together and calmed most peoples nerves.

[...of J.Temperance]

34. I'm a moderate-to-conservative Democrat

DU has Democrats from all sections of the party, I think that by and large we all get along...but some should attempt to get along a bit better.

But that's where I am, moderate-to-conservative Democrat.

[Common Sense Party]

142. Thank God. I was beginning to think I was alone here.

I'm pretty new, but I haven't seen too many middle-of-the-party, JFK-type Democrats. I'm basically Independent, and right now disgusted with both parties.

[sasha031]

36. they never stopped trying to undermine him from day one

the country was polarized because the right wing from day one were against him. there was a right wing conspiracy to take over then, well they succeeded and now look at where we are.

[guidod]

50. Do you honetly think

that we are going to change things by closing our ears to radio hosts that might differ from your beliefs now and then. Being mean and narrow minded, like Bush, will get us nowhere. It's very important for our Country that we win in 2006 and 2008, but it will never happen if we keep our blinders on.

[catmother]

59. i agree. they tried everything they could to bring him down. nt

[Douglas Carpenter]

83. Senate voting records of Chafee, Snowe, Clinton and McCain

There is no question that Chafee and Snowe followed by Collins have the most liberal voting records of any Republicans in the Senate -- but still significantly to the right of ANY Democrat in the Senate

on interest group ratings:

This is courtesy of project vote smart - link:

http://www.vote-smart.org/index.htm
_____________________

2004 Senator Chafee supported the interests of the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation 33 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Snowe supported the interests of the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation 33 percent in 2004.

Senator Clinton supported the interests of the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation 67 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation 0 percent in 2004.
_________________________________

2004 Senator Chafee supported the interests of the Peace Action 13 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Snowe supported the interests of the Peace Action 13 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Clinton supported the interests of the Peace Action 75 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the Peace Action 13 percent in 2004.
____________________________________________________

2004 Senator Chafee supported the interests of the National Abortion Reproductive Rights Action League 100 percent in 2004

2004 Senator Snowe supported the interests of the National Abortion Reproductive Rights Action League 100 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Clinton supported the interests of the National Abortion Reproductive Rights Action League 100 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the National Abortion Reproductive Rights Action League 0 percent in 2004.
__________________

2003-2004 Senator Chafee supported the interests of the American Civil Liberties Union 67 percent in 2003-2004.

2003-2004 Senator Snowe supported the interests of the American Civil Liberties Union 56 percent in 2003-2004.

2003-2004 Senator Clinton supported the interests of the American Civil Liberties Union 78 percent in 2003-200

2003-2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the American Civil Liberties Union 22 percent in 2003-2004.
_____________________________

2004 Senator Chafee supported the interests of the Americans for Democratic Action 55 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Snowe supported the interests of the Americans for Democratic Action 65 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Clinton supported the interests of the Americans for Democratic Action 95 percent in 2004

2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the Americans for Democratic Action 35 percent in 2004.
__________________________

2004 Senator Chafee supported the interests of the AFL-CIO 58 percent in 2004

2004 Senator Snowe supported the interests of the AFL-CIO 67 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Clinton supported the interests of the AFL-CIO 100 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the AFL-CIO 33 percent in 2004.
_________________________

2004 Senator Chafee supported the interests of the United Auto Workers 36 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Snowe supported the interests of the United Auto Workers 45 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Clinton supported the interests of the United Auto Workers 110 percent in 2004

2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the United Auto Workers 9 percent in 2004.
__________________________

2003-2004 Senator Chafee supported the interests of the National Education Association 60 percent in 2003-2004

2003-2004 Senator Snowe supported the interests of the National Education Association 60 percent in 2003-2004.

2003-2004 Senator Clinton supported the interests of the National Education Association 85 percent in 2003-2004.

2003-2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the National Education Association 35 percent in 2003-2004.
______________________

2003-2004 Senator Chafee supported the interests of the Human Rights Campaign 88 percent in 2003-2004

2003-2004 Senator Snowe supported the interests of the Human Rights Campaign 50 percent in 2003-2004.

2003-2004 Senator Clinton supported the interests of the Human Rights Campaign 88 percent in 2003-2004

2003-2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the Human Rights Campaign 25 percent in 2003-2004.
_____________________________________

2003-2004 Senator Chafee supported the interests of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights 43 percent in 2003-2004.

2003-2004 Senator Snowe supported the interests of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights 36 percent in 2003-2004.

2003-2004 Senator Clinton supported the interests of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights 100 percent in 2003-2004

2003-2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights 14 percent in 2003-2004.
_____________________________

2004 Senator Chafee supported the interests of the Arab American Institute 100 percent in 2004

2004 Senator Snowe supported the interests of the Arab American Institute 33 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Clinton supported the interests of the Arab American Institute 25 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the Arab American Institute 0 percent in 2004.
____________________________

2004 Senator Chafee supported the interests of the Christian Coalition 50 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Snowe supported the interests of the Christian Coalition 50 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Clinton supported the interests of the Christian Coalition 0 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the Christian Coalition 83 percent in 2004.
_____________________________

2004 Senator Chafee supported the interests of the American Conservative Union 40 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Snowe supported the interests of the American Conservative Union 60 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator Clinton supported the interests of the American Conservative Union 0 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the American Conservative Union 72 percent in 2004.

[More Than A Feeling]

62. We'll cross that bridge when we get to it.

let's worry about getting the Democrats in control of something first.

[AZBlue]

78. I agree with you certainly about those in power now.

But that's a dangerous statement coming from either side. We are a two-party government - hopefully someday we'll be a three or four party system - and without discussion and working together, we'll never get anywhere to make change and make things better.

[guidod]

120. Well said AZBlue

[Maggie_May]

3. I believe I guess just from old school

for the people governed by the people. We have turn to governed by big interest.

[guidod]

33. If we are patient and

not extremely radical in the other direction it will all change. I think this Country is stong enough to survive the beating it's taking right now. We all have to believe this.

[More Than A Feeling]

64. What is it you think is "extremely radical"? n/t

[guidod]

71. Rhetoric and party lines

[William769]

4. To few options to choose from.

DU is very Diverse.

[guidod]

12. I thought so too..

But the ones I talked to seemed not willing to look to the right.

[SushiFan]

15. I wish I could say that William769

But I can't. I also am a new poster here at DU and find what this thread's author complains about to be very true.

The average DU member maybe thinks of his/her self as radical. But they aren't. I have discussed IMPEACHMENT of the Texas Satan Spawn many times here, only to be met by pessimism and defeatism.

I thought when I joined that I would find many others sharing my view of ACTIVISM, which is also the view of SHEEHAN, CONYERS, FEINGOLD, and many other notable Dems.

What I found instead was complacency and a willingness to bring others down rather than accept new ideas for tired old blood. Little willingness to act besides cursing the GOP, which I feel is too little too late.

I guess I'll stop there before I get thrown off the DB.

[William769]

31. I consider my self leaning left on alot of issues

But a couple I am far to the right. It's hard for me to even come close to these choices.

[guidod]

35. Nice post SushiFan

You've explained my thoughts better than I could. I find that a lot of DUers are taking it to the radical opposite of Bush.

I rarely hear the word inclusive used. It seems like many people want to curse the republicans instead of actively trying to make a change. I'm not saying that of all at the DU, but many.

DI would rather listen to ideas instead of complaints.

But for now it's my birthday and I'm off to open presents. Keep th e faith.

[AZBlue]

79. To you and guidod:

Unfortunately you're right. It can be very frustrating on this site. I'm a moderate Dem on the average - very left on some issues, slightly right on others, middle of the road on the rest. I take each issue on its own and don't accept rhetoric from anyone - I'll do my own research, questioning, reading and decision-making, thank you. I'm also open-minded, which I think is a hallmark of most Democrats. I'm open to new ideas and information and am not scared to admit when I'm wrong or change my mind.

Can't say that about all here at DU. When I first got on this site I thought for sure I'd leave within a week. There is a lot of name-calling and attacking each other instead of discussion, exchange of ideas and conversation. Debate, even when heated, is great. Immature personal attacks is not.

Obviously I stuck around though. Despite my initial shock at all the mudslinging, I've found some very rational and sane posters here and it's still a great site for finding information. The two General Discussion forums have the threads that tend to be more heated - for facts and activism, try your state forums and the others.

Plus, I hope that if those of us who are open to discussion stick around, we'll gain in numbers and maybe convert some of those with closed minds and ears. I never want to see everyone on DU think alike - how awful would that be! I'd just like to see a little more civility! I'm sure we can do that.

Oh, I forgot to say: Welcome to DU!

[William769]

116. Very well written post

There are several people here that feel that way. :)

[American liberal]

138. yeah, that's it!

That's why I didn't like the term "radical." too loaded. I'd MUCH rather consider myself an activist for positive change. Thanks, sushifan! You nailed it, IMO! :yourock:

[eve_was_framed]

112. Ditto William769

[KoKo]

5. Your poll really is asking two different questions. Throwing in support

or non-support for Ed Schultz counters what your OP asked.

One either has to answer a question about support for Ed Schultz or where they stand politically. It's not the same. :shrug:

[guidod]

8. You're right.

I probably shouldn't have put his name in there but he's the one that got me going on this. I also should have put in "who wants checks and ballances in their government". The people that choose that would have to agree with some republicans, I guess.

[neoblues]

13. That's probably it.

The options didn't offer a choice with which I felt a match; seems to require familiarity with or postion on Shultz.

[KoKo]

38. I'm a Lefty Dem but still think Schultz is important contrast to Limbaugh.

Shultz can reach Limbaugh listerners who are sick of his propaganda but don't have anywhere to turn. He's the "average guy" Dem...the one who is kind of clueless but is trying to learn. That's what his deal is and I can't get too crazy over it. Better to learn than to remain ignorant like the hard core Limbaugh/O'Reilly/Fox folks are.

[guidod]

53. Well said KoKo01

Our party needs a large far reaching voice.

[NCarolinawoman]

57. Agree. I'm a lefty with a pragmatic streak.

Schultz has lots of Repubs and formerly clueless Dems calling in and practically apologizing for voting for Bush.

I disagree with Ed on Mertha, but when he does this kind of criticism it gives him more credibility with the former sheeple when he slams Bush. He slams Bush hard almost every day. I also remember him telling the union members in Ohio how STUPID they were for voting for Bush. He couldn't believe it. He is speaking to the people described in WHAT'S THE MATTER WITH KANSAS. They relate to him. Ultimately, I see him helping Democrats a lot.

Oh, he also has a lot of Dems on his show who are demonized by Limbaugh, Hannity, etc. The ex-Limbaugh people learn that these people make a lot of sense and are not ogres after all.

[guidod]

74. I've been a member of 3 different

Unions over a 41 year period. I have 2 different retirements and helthcare for my wife and I for the rest of our lives. He supports unions more than anybody I've heard on radio. He also does everything he can to support veterans.

[eve_was_framed]

113. good call.

[Chalco]

6. What does Ed Shultz have to do with this?

Secondly, I don't like him.

[guidod]

11. His name seems to be a hot

issue right now, and I think that he sits right in the middle. I guess I was tying to see how far left DUers would go from his type of thinking.

[bunny planet]

7. I was going to try and listen to Ed Shultz because I was glad he was on

Armed Forces Radio. Haven't listened to him at all before because I prefer Randi who is on at the same time in my part of the country. I was very unhappy to hear he had spoken out against Murtha.

This poll has way too few choices for the question. There is a lot more to determine than whether or not you listen to Ed Shultz or not.
I consider myself a liberal Democrat, would never vote for a Republican under any circumstances though, so I guess that's Yellow Dawg liberal Democrat. The only Dem I wouldn't vote for is Lieberman. I'd have to hold my nose to vote for Biden too.

[guidod]

18. Where I live they're

on the same station so I listen to both. But I do listen to Thom Hartmann on the computer instead of Franken.

[imouttahere]

9. As long as BushCo and his ilk are in charge....

I will be radical left. You see, in other developed, western countries, they don't even have debates about intelligent design and a woman's right to abortion, or even whether they need more mass transit, it's just done (or not done) because it is what's best for society. This is why my user name is imouttahere. I don't see Amerikans ridding themselves of this destructive conservatism any time soon.

[guidod]

29. Then tell me imouttahere

would you be just as concerned if a extreme leftist, as Bush is extreme right, took over this country or do you believe in checks and ballances?

[imouttahere]

75. When have we ever had an extreme leftist.......

even come close to power in the U.S.? If you think RFK was an extreme leftist, for example, then this country is officially hopeless, if it isn't already. This country is just to center-right to ever elect an extreme leftist.

[guidod]

77. You're absolutely right

we never have had an exteme leftist. I know that RFK wasn't. You brought back a lot of memories when you mention RFK. I was in High School when John was show and the Navy when Bobby was shot. Two really dark days in our Country's history.

[American liberal]

139. if I may jump in here...

What do you mean by checks and balances? Republicans checking the Democrats and vice versa? IMO, that's silly. the framers set up this govt. so that no ONE branch would have all the power. THAT's the kind of checks and balances I can get behind, which is why I believe it is IMPERATIVE that Ilito (sp) does not make it to the bench. I had the honor of listening to my senator's (Dick Durbin D-IL) opening remarks today, comments about how the Supreme Court is the ultimate check against power gone corrupt--on EITHER side of the aisle. We as a nation cannot afford to have the final branch swing to the right. It will give carte blanche for the fascists to do whatever they want. Time to start the pendulum swinging the other way. That's how I see checks and balances working --the way the framers set it up.

Peace,
AL

PS Happy Birthday, guidod. Hope you had a great day! :party:

[Glorfindel]

10. Proud radical leftist here...by the way, who IS Ed Schultz?

And why should I care?

[mike_c]

17. I was going to ask the same question-- I've NEVER listened to...

...Ed Shultz-- not once-- and have no clue why he should be the defining element in determining how "leftist" one's political views are.

[guidod]

23. Ed Schultz is a centrist Democrat that

has been getting a lot of flack lately from DUers because of his remarks about Murthas statement of not joining the military. He also has angered people with his remarks about Howard Dean. He thinks Dean is hiding and Murtha is hurting enlistment into the military.

[radio4progressives]

86. Schultz is not a Centrist - He's Right of Center... (at best) that's not

the problem with Schultz. I listen to other talk show radio people who are right of center - i might get annoyed with somethings - but Schultz takes things to a very different level all together.

Going out of his way to demonizing Howard Dean with bull shit Right Wing propaganda, spending an entire WEEK deamonizing Murtha witha more bullshite right wing propaganda.

excuse me there's nothing "centrist" about that.

something quite apart from Left, Right or Center is going on.

and that's why he's getting the level of ire from the progressives.

And when he calls himself a Progressive, i want to reach my hand into the radio and strangle his neck - if he want's to call himself a Neo- Liberal, that's fine. That would be very accurate.

But he's no progressive by anyone's definition.

[guidod]

101. You've said it over and over...

You've mentioned 2 things about Schultz that you, and I agree, don't like. I'll mention 3 things that I like about him...Unions, Veterans rights and healthcare for every citizen...now you come up with a couple of more. Since we've been talking about Schultz all you've been able to bring to the table are Murtha and Dean. I have never said that he's a liberal.

[American liberal]

140. this Schultz guy is on AAR? n/t

[guidod]

146. Yes he is...

I live in Burbank and he comes on at noon and ends at 3:00, then Randi comes on.

[Southsideirish]

19. I'd rather be left than in the puke middle of the road.

At least I stand for something I believe in with passion.

[...of J.Temperance]

37. Hey I'm in the middle of the road and I STAND for something n/t

[IndianaGreen]

45. Dead armadillos!

"there's nothing in the middle of the road but yellow stripes and dead armadillos"

-- Jim Hightower

:P

[...of J.Temperance]

49. LOL!! Yes, I just like that Jim Hightower quote so much :)

:)

[AZBlue]

80. Me too! (n/t)

[...of J.Temperance]

136. Good :) n/t

[Lone_Wolf_Moderate]

20. Center-Left moderate.

Many of my closest friends are Republicans. I always like to at least listen and ponder the other side, provided they're reasonable. I disagree with the right on a lot of things (they're wrong on a lot of issues), but I respect thoughtful conservative views. I even posess views that many here might find conservative.

[guidod]

25. I think you're right on.

I feel that if we are true leftists we have to keep an open mind. If we go way to the left and close our minds we would be as power hungry as those that are in there now.

[deutsey]

128. Yes, I'm on the left and I find DU to be closer to center than I am

I'm not a far lefty, either, and reject ideology of any stripe. I just believe in the traditional principles and goals of the left.

[SONUVABUSH]

21. I sit on the fence...

and when I have to go I take a dump on the republican side. I have moderate views but Bush is driving me farther to the left.

[Moderate Donkey]

22. All of the above, obviously

[guidod]

26. It's nice to see someone

who is inclusive to all. I hope that most liberals feel this way. Good answer and thank you.

[Moderate Donkey]

28. it's tough, though.

[guidod]

30. I agree!

[kliljedahl]

39. If the Dems are actually going to be an opposition party

the have to move to the left, back to what they used to be. There is no opposition in conciliation, & that's what we have now.

Read this article by Ed Hightower and tell me he's wrong: http://www.alternet.org/columnists/story/29788/

A few quotes:

First of all, they are them. Congressional Democrats are mired in the same swamp of corporate money that has sucked up the Republican party, and Democrats have shown (with some notable and encouraging exceptions) that they cannot be trusted to vote for the people's interest over corporate power. This is why voter esteem for Democrats has not risen as the GOP's numbers have fallen.

"Everyone" is not an answer. As we've learned from recent experience, a party can't be "for" working families if it doesn't have the guts to declare war on the corporate thieves who're stealing the middle-class possibilities of those families. It can't be "for" the poor if it constantly caves in to the wishes of the bankers, Wal-Marters, developers and others who keep running over the poor. It can't be for small farmers if it lacks the stomach to con front the middleman giants that are squeezing the life out of those farm families. A party has to choose sides.

My wish is for a Democratic party that chooses to reconnect with its populist roots, recognizing that its only real reason for existence is to be the unabashed, unequivocal, unrelenting representative of its core populist constituency, including America's working stiffs, the middle class (this means the 60% of the country who have incomes of less than $55,000 a year), the poor (a fast-growing constituency, unfortunately), small farmers and local business, old folks and children, grunts and veterans, and proponents of clean air and water.







Keith’s Barbeque Central

[wyldwolf]

40. I disagree

If the Dems are actually going to be an opposition party the have to move to the left, back to what they used to be.

The Democratic party only moved to the left for a brief point in their history. Otherwise, they've always been a moderate party consisting of conservatives and liberals - the combination of which has made them moderate.

Further, the bulk of the party wants it to be more moderate and the greater part of the electorate are moderates.

[IndianaGreen]

41. Your theories have been proven wrong at the ballot box

Are we a party of opposition or one of coalition? If we are one of coalition, then let's nominate Joe Lieberman in 2008 for he embodies the "bent over" coalition that some of you preach over here. If we are a party of opposition, then let's start opposing the rightwing and their twisted religious ideology that justifies wars of aggression, torture of prisoners, spying on citizens at home, and a gulag of concentration camps.

[wyldwolf]

42. how so?

[kliljedahl]

43. Did you read the Hightower article?

Or is this one of your typical DLC inspired kneejerk reactions? The party doesn't want corporatist shills, which is what we have now.



Keith’s Barbeque Central

[wyldwolf]

46. yes

and, no, my reaction was based on party history and current polling data.

[guidod]

47. I think that you are misunderstanding

what I'm trying to get across in this poll. I think that all progressives agree that these are our core values:


65 percent say the government should guarantee health insurance for everyone -- even if it means raising taxes.
86 percent favor raising the minimum wage (including 79 percent of selfdescribed "social conservatives").
60 percent favor repealing either all of Bush's tax cuts or at least those cuts that went to the rich.
66 percent would reduce the deficit not by cutting domestic spending but by reducing Pentagon spending or raising taxes.
77 percent believe the country should do "whatever it takes" to protect the environment.
87 percent think big oil corporations are gouging consumers, and 80 percent (including 76 percent of Republicans) would support a windfall profits tax on the oil giants if the revenues went for more research on alternative fuels.
69 percent agree that corporate offshoring of jobs is bad for the U.S. economy (78 percent of "disaffected" voters think this), and only 22% believe offshoring is good because "it keeps costs down."
69 percent believe America is on the wrong track, with only 26 percent saying it's headed in the right direction


If we are to achieve these goals we have to be more accepting and more patient. I only used Ed Schultz to show a lot of liberals at DU why attacking the beliefs of one radio host will get us nowhere. We, as a party, have to use less anger and more understanding. If we expect everyone to walk in lockstep with us we can't be as verbally rude and mean as the Bushkens are.

[Douglas Carpenter]

94. some more polling info: a super-majority of Americans are liberal in all b

Borrowed from:
LynnTheDem

______________________

a super-majority of Americans are liberal in all but name

http://www.thenation.com/doc/20051107/alterman


Public opinion polls show that the majority of Americans embrace liberal rather than conservative positions...
http://www.poppolitics.com/articles/2002-04-16-liberal.shtml


The vast majority of Americans are looking for more social support, not less...
http://www.prospect.org/print/V12/7/borosage-r.html

http://people.umass.edu/mmorgan/commstudy.html

-----------------------

And here is some party history:


Franklin D. Roosevelt
“The Economic Bill of Rights”
Excerpt from 11 January 1944 message to Congress on the State of the Union – link:
http://worldpolicy.org/globalrights/econrights/fdr-econbill.html

“We cannot be content, no matter how high the general standard of living may be, if some fraction of our people—whether it be one-third or one-fifth or one-tenth—is ill-fed, ill-clothed, ill-housed, and insecure.
This Republic had its beginning, and grew to its present strength, under the protection of certain inalienable political rights—among them the right of free speech, free press, free worship, trial by jury, freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures. They were our rights to life and liberty.
As our nation has grown in size and stature, however—as our industrial economy expanded—these political rights proved inadequate to assure us equality in the pursuit of happiness.
We have come to a clear realization of the fact that true individual freedom cannot exist without economic security and independence. “Necessitous men are not free men.” People who are hungry and out of a job are the stuff of which dictatorships are made.
In our day these economic truths have become accepted as self-evident. We have accepted, so to speak, a second Bill of Rights under which a new basis of security and prosperity can be established for all—regardless of station, race, or creed.
Among these are:
The right to a useful and remunerative job in the industries or shops or farms or mines of the nation;
The right to earn enough to provide adequate food and clothing and recreation;
The right of every farmer to raise and sell his products at a return which will give him and his family a decent living;
The right of every businessman, large and small, to trade in an atmosphere of freedom from unfair competition and domination by monopolies at home or abroad;
The right of every family to a decent home;
The right to adequate medical care and the opportunity to achieve and enjoy good health;
The right to adequate protection from the economic fears of old age, sickness, accident, and unemployment;
The right to a good education.
All of these rights spell security. And after this war is won we must be prepared to move forward, in the implementation of these rights, to new goals of human happiness and well-being.
America’s own rightful place in the world depends in large part upon how fully these and similar rights have been carried into practice for our citizens.”

source: The Public Papers & Addresses of Franklin D. Roosevelt (Samuel Rosenman, ed.), Vol XIII (NY: Harper, 1950), 40-42

[guidod]

121. I like to read your posts

more than any other. Thank you

[Douglas Carpenter]

135. awe shucks, really?

:blush:

[nickshepDEM]

44. You can find me on all sides of the political spectrum...

But overall Id say Im center-left.

Some of my conservative positions include: gun rights, affirmative action (Id prefer socio-economic based AA), abortion (borderline pro-life or anti-choice, which ever you prefer), faith based charities.

Im pretty liberal on most other issues: gay marriage, death penalty (too flawed), taxation (reward work not wealth), trade (fair trade, not 'free' trade), no to vouchers, yes to supporting public education, pro-organized labor, etc...

[guidod]

52. Thank you. The democratic

party has to bigger and more understanding if we are to overcome the funk we find ourselves in now.

[OffWithTheirHeads]

48. Sort of like a thousand monkeys on a typewriter

Even Pat Buchanan makes sense occasionally...If you forget about the fact that he thinks global warming is caused by the Aids quilt.

[radio4progressives]

51. This poll is flawed - so i didn't take your poll

i self identify as a progressive, but your poll doesn't even begin to offer the appropriate discription of where DU members fall as to the issues that we deem as important. Don't mean to be overly harsh, but i think it's important to point out that you cannot possibly come away with even a rough portrayal of how progressive or conservative du members are by this poll.

Maybe more accurate conclusions would be drawn if by reading and engaging a little more actively.

[guidod]

55. I beg your pardon?

It's an easy question. Are you looking to the left with blinders on, or are you more inclusive. OVERALL

You don't have to tke the poll. By not taking it you're, lets see............making my point.

[guidod]

54. Let me respond to my own poll

This party is in sad shape if it refuses to look beyond itself. 49% says that they will not look in any other direction than radical left. I thought we might have grown larger than this because of the radical right. We have to do better than this if we expect to win in 2006.

I would like someone to respond to this in lieu of opening a new thread.

[salvorhardin]

58. Define your terms

What do you mean by 'radical left'? What are the defining principles of 'radical left' as you see them? Why do you use the term 'radical left' when it is so often used by the right wing to demonize even progressive moderates such as Hillary Clinton?

[guidod]

66. I use the term radical left because

I feel that it is a lot like the radical right, mean spirited, angry and demonizing. Let's take Hillary then. I like Hillary a lot, wouldn't vote for but I like her. Many people don't, I respect that, and I hear a lot of words that describe her in a mean spirited way.

Let's talk about Ed Schultz. He's a democrat, centrist but a democrat, and the words used about him yesterday were many of the same words that are used by the repukes when describing a liberal.

I feel our party is big enough to handle anyone, but the verbal abuse is not necessary. Just say "I Don't Like Him" and let it go.

We need all the people we can get.

[radio4progressives]

85. There's the Flaw Right there - Radical Left is not how you defined it.

First, understand that "Radical" means "Root".

When Progressvies use the term, or perhaps I should say, the Self Idenified Radical Left - defines themselves as people who seek justice and equality on socio-economic and political issues. Which all issues are tied to.

Two Words: Social Justice and Equality for All.

Period, end of story.

Right Wingers think that the establishment of social justice and equality for all Americans is dangerous and threatening to the ruling class and power elite. And so Right Wingers have been working and funding tirelessly for decades to make sure that there isn't Social Justice and Equality for All, using every tactic they can think of, and they've been fairly successful.

But the so called "Radical Left" are not rolling over and giving up. They're fighting back and they've been fighting back.

The problem that the so called "Radical Left" has in this struggle, is the blinders that some who call themselves "Liberal" actually agree with the Right Wingers who think that there should NOT be social justice and equality for All Americans. Social Justice and Equality should be given only to Certain Americans and so they work against these principles by demonizing the Radical Left with perjoratives and other nonsensical charachterizations - with phony justifications.

[guidod]

89. Thank you for bringing clarity

to my words. You used all of those words to explain my one simple thought. I suddenly feel very tired, I think I'll go to bed.

[American liberal]

141. no kidding

Now I'm REALLY glad I didn't answer your poll if that's your description of "radical left," guidod (sp). If you think the so-called radical left needs to be more inclusive, you have to practice what you preach. You did not offer a choice I felt comfortable identifying with. As for the radical left being the Left's version of the "radical right," I think you need to educate yourself a bit more. Your view, IMO, is a bit simplistic and myopic. radio4progressives is on the right track.

Peace,
AL

[radio4progressives]

88. There you go again, using the term "radical left"

Che Guavera was a radical leftist.

do you see anyone resemembling Che around these neck of the woods?

No you don't, because they get assasinated by our wonderful CIA.

they don't exist for long around here because our Government kills them off.

so no worries, and please stop with this "radical left in the party" line..

it's a canard..

[guidod]

90. I think I'm having a nightmare!

[Moochy]

126. "Radical" is a pejorative frame, your poll is flawed

You choose your frames, you live with the consequences, and the criticism.

RADICAL is a very pejorative frame, you radical pro-DLC centrist. :) :sarcasm:

I do however appreciate your honest replies to everyone's critiques.
Framing is just as important here as it is for "public policy" messaging by politicians.

To get the most out of a discussion, we all should be to careful to frame the discussion without hostility and prejudice; "Radical Left" certainly bears alot of negativity, but despite that I voted radical left as well, to stick a finger in the eye of the right wing framing.

[guidod]

129. Thank you Moochy

I see we have the same senators. I think Boxer is among the top five in the Country, just an opinion. By posting the poll I've learned a lot about myself and the true meaning of "radical". I'm a lot more radical than I thought and happy that I am. I like being a part of DU because of people like you and all the others. I'm approaching 60 and willing to admit that I have a lot to learn about myself. I hope when I die I still will be learning about myself.

Sarcasm is good, don't get me wrong, it's just that when it's done with anger I get turned off.

[Moochy]

130. It's a funny word Radical

It's been turned around and has positives and negatives depending on one's one idealized self-image, and one's perceived peer group.

IE. Radical is probably seen as negative to many, but among greens, and 3rd party types, radical is often turned around and worn as a badge of honor. That is, I think the reason why so many voted for it.

The great thing about DU is the poll results don't matter it's the discussion that comes from it!

Cheers!

[salvorhardin]

56. Other

Really couldn't give a flying fig what Ed Schultz says or thinks. It's irrelevant to my politics, other than supporting his right to say it (if anyone will carry his show).

[guidod]

65. I'm only using him

as an example. It's a very simple poll, and it was intended to be. I'm trying to get an answer to my own thoughts. One of those thoughts being, why do we all think with blinders on. I'm just trying to accept more people into the party that I love so much.

[thatsrightimirish]

60. Well

I'm hard to define. I'm moderate on abortion and gun rights. But I'm very liberal on labor, social security, health care, foreign policy, death penalty etc. I'll say I'm not moderate but not totally afraid of the other side. However, its hard to support republicans because their politics are so dirty. So, I don't. I would rather vote for a Democrat any day of the week no matter how I feel with Abortion or Guns.

[Nutmegger]

61. I'm to the LEFT!

I don't agree with conservative ideology at all! I am universal healthcare, pro-choice, corporate responsibility, anti-capital punishment, pro-unions / labor, strong social programs, stringent taxation on the wealthy instead of tax cuts...if that's "radical" then so be it.

Frankly, the country could use a little radical left after this era of the reactionary right!

[guidod]

68. I agree,

but is it possible, voting wise, to go that far left after being that far right? Would it be possible to get the centrists, which we would need, to take that radical of a turn?

[Nutmegger]

127. It would probably have to be a transition

We probably couldn't go "radical" in a year and getting everybody in the same boat would be difficult but I think we could pull it off.

[eve_was_framed]

114. yep! That's exactly where I'm at.

[Maine-ah]

63. wow, I knew there were some "radical" leftists here

but, not that many as according to your poll. I tend to see more of the center-left, as opposed to the radical-left.

-or- maybe I'm just a radical leftist and never knew it. :shrug:

[guidod]

67. It's not much of a poll but,

I was surprised as well. I have decided to call myself an inclusive leftist (t-shirt?).

[LeFleur1]

73. Far Left of What?

Anyone who is far left of the Bush administration is a moderate Democrat.

I could never be in the group, whatever it is, that does not believe in a woman's right to privacy, a woman's right to make decisions for herself rather than allowing Frist, DeLay and Bush to make intimate decisions about her life.
That is just a crock.

Nor would I support anyone who believed that when they are President they have the right to disregard or set aside the Constitutional rights of the people for any reason.

I do not believe I would ever support a President (or any other officer of the Congress) who has the audacity to send our sons and daughters to a war of choice.

I believe it is up to us, the citizens, to demand a clean up of the corruption that is going on in government today.
I believe in the rights of the worker to be protected while on the job and to earn a fair wage for a day's work.
I believe prescription drug prices should be capped because the run away greed we see in the industry proves those in charge will not control themselves. They put others at risk for profit.
I believe health care should be affordable for everyone.
I believe no one in America should be priced out of a college education and that all education should receive a huge portion of US tax money.
I believe it is the job of government to make citizens lives better, not commit funds for the welfare of corporations who profess to be capitalists. Either they are government funded or they are capitalists.

If that makes me a left wing zealot, so be it.

[guidod]

76. I agree with everything

you say. I'm just questioning the my way or the highway attitude some liberals are beginning to take.

[catmother]

69. well i would say i'm pretty far to the left. i'm pro-choice, pro gay

rights, anti-death penalty. i want universal health care. i'd like to see everyone in the country making a decent living, but when it comes to crime i swing to the right. especially violent crime, murder, rape, child molestation, i say lock them up and throw away the key. no tv, no weights, etc. but on the other hand i can justify some crime i.e., new orleans -- people looting the stores for food and maybe some dry clothing, but not TVs and VCRs. but i'm also a realist and i know this county will not elect someone that's too far to the left. so i am open to moderate democrats who can get elected. once we take back the white house and congress -- then we can forge ahead with more leftist ideas. i also support gunowners rights with background checks, but i'm against the sale of assault weapons.

and i don't know who ed shultz is -- i don't listen to talk radio. i watch MSNBC and CNN and even some FAUX news but when i'm driving in my car i don't want to hear voices -- i listen to either classical music or classic rock.

[AZBlue]

81. Huh....I thought that was moderate. LOL.

Maybe I'm more left than I think...LOL! I agree with you on everything except death penalty and even there I'm not exactly for it (I won't go into more detail because I don't want this to turn into a DP discussion - there are other threads for that). I guess it just depends on your definition of it (left, moderate, etc) - I figured I was moderate because I don't support the idea of eliminating the Republican party or lobbying in general (just the corruption that's grown within each) and other ideas like that. I guess it's hard to define the labels - it's all very subjective.

[catmother]

104. i didn't even know that eliminating the republican party was

possible, but even if it were i don't think i would want that and i agree with you on the lobbying. maybe i'm not as far to the left as i think. i do find many people at DU are extreme left -- they won't even consider voting for a moderate and would never, ever cross over. i have voted for republicans on a local level a few times.

when i first starting posting at DU back 10/05 someone put a message in my inbox saying that they had read one of my posts and thought i might be interested in ------- well they gave me a website that was extremely liberal. after looking through it i knew i didn't belong there.

[madfloridian]

70. Pretty much moderate, just can't stand Big Eddie.

But I think you figured that out. There is nothing wrong with my just plain not liking him. It is ok. I like Malloy, I disgree with things. I like Randi, but I don't always agree.

I don't like Big Ed. No one should call themselves that.

[guidod]

72. Yes madfloridian

I figured that out yesterday. I like Maloy because he grates on my wifes mind, she's a republican. I like Ed when he's done his homework, I like Randi because she does her homnework. My favorite is Hartmann.

I would never say Big Ed, I hate it as well.

[radio4progressives]

87. Thom Hartmann is my Favorite Too... So what was this really about?

if you prefer listening to Thom Hartmann rather than to Al Franken, then you're a hell of lot better informed and you have got to have progressive sensabilities, at the very minimum.

Which means, you should know what a genuine Leftist is - and you should at the minimum, have a good sense what the fuss is all about regarding recent postings on Schultz.

So I have to ask, what the hell is this really all about?

[guidod]

91. This is worse than a nightmare LOL

lighten up

[guidod]

117. Now, it's the next morning and I'm awake...

Thom Hartmann is my favorite talk show host. Like I said on a post a few minues ago, the divisiveness in this country is really getting to me. I'm 58 years old and I have never seen so much hostility in this Country, and I think that it's going to get a lot worse. The arrogance on the right is profoundly ugly, I just see some of it spilling over to our side.

If Ed Schultz can sit in the middle and go left or right, more power to him. I think he serves a purpose for us by bringing some righties, who surely have a lot to learn, over to our side. We need all the votes we can get if we ever expect to get our liberal ideas back into the main stream of the government. Like Schultz says, politics begin on a local level and then blossoms out from there.

[PassingFair]

82. I don't think that "Big Eddie" is very bright.

He should read more and fish less. That said, he has the evening drive-time slot here in Michigan, so I'll continue listening to him. Last week, I had to shut him off though. Implying that Murtha was a drunk was OVER THE TOP.

He is often uninformed (even by MY political "hobbyist" standards) and has HUGE gaps in his knowledge base. I realize that his strength is NOT preaching to the choir, but his ability (?) to bring new peeps into the fold, or to at least get them questioning the R/W propaganda.

He's getting used/paid by the pro-war faction of our own party, and that pisses me off.

[marlakay]

84. Liberal with a few conservative bents

I am mostly left especially where the environment is concerned as that is a big issue with me. I am more in the middle with abortion. I think we should have a choice but not after the first few months. Once its fully formed I personally think its wrong say after 4 months. If you don't know by then you have a problem. I think the war is totally wrong and I think Ed is totally wrong in what he said but I will still listen to him because you have to look at the larger picture and he says a lot of right on things. I think some people on this board are so quick to judgement they throw away the baby with the bathwater. If we want a democratic congress later this year we are GOING TO HAVE TO GET ALONG AS DEMOCRATS!!!

Right now the deck of cards is falling for the republicans and IF we can get OUR act together we have a chance at beating them. But NOT if we tear apart our fellow democrats who are daily fighting on our side because of ONE issue we don't like.

I haven't been writing as much on this blog since after Kerry lost because alot of people waste too much time in the blame game. We need to get things done not talk about what is wrong. I moved to a conservative area this last fall and what I have been doing instead of complaining about fellow dems is talking to the republicans in my area. Getting to know them and what their concerns are and watching them be open to change as their side is falling apart within.

If all of you spend your time tearing down the possible people who have the nerve to go for election its no wonder we lose. I have my favorites too but will support anyone who gets us away from the crazy people running our country. Think about it. Team work...thats what WE need!!!

[Rainscents]

92. I use to call myself Dem in the middle... Not no more!

Bush had me going to far left!!!

[guidod]

106. Bush has made the center seem like

the far left. I'm to the left as well, I just don't want to be too rigid.

[Douglas Carpenter]

93. well I don't know if I like the characterization of radical left..but

I do believe that their are fundamentals in how society operates that must be changed radically if the world is to survive and be free.

But to move in the correct direction does require compromises.

Pragmatic radical left...I guess that sums it up for me.

Our Canadian and European friends would probably call it a left-wing social-democrat.

But as far as Ed Schulz goes, he's not my cup of tea and he says some things I don't like--but I think he is reaching a lot of people who are not going to be listening to FM Alternative radio -- and most of what he says is good.

[guidod]

105. Very well said

and I agree. Thank you

[LWolf]

95. Who the hell is Ed Shultz?

Never mind, I'm not really interested. I'm the kind of Democrat who puts issues before party. The whole purpose of the party, imo, is to move the issues forward. It's not the success of the party, or of individuals within the party power structure, that I'm interested in. It's in successfully moving issues forward.

Issues that include social and economic justice, civil liberties, enviromental and fiscal health, health care, PEACE, and more.

[robbedvoter]

109. hear, hear - how did THAT get to be the test of openness beats me

I don't get your darling what's his name in NYC, and I manage to live a full life regardless.
Good luck to you (OP) in getting a wider perspective on things...

[depakid]

96. What a joke- now you know why cheap media polls

are patently unreliable and at best manipulate people into the conclusions that the corporations who hire them want to hear.

Big thumbs down-:thumbsdown:

[newportdadde]

97. I've looked in the other direction and I don't like the view much.

But I will still look there, my two closest friends are both Republican/Libertarians. I very rarely talk politics with them both get their info from bogus emails and only tune into politics every 4 years.

I'm an economic populist, economics is my big issue, I hate supply side economics. I believe in fiscal responsibility but neither party is very good with that now and more importantly I believe in crushing any kind of kick back garbage and 'ow XXX million is missing.. oops' I hate that. If I was elected to office I'd crack that egg open and make that my platform.

I do listen I just find that pretty much any point of debate on the side of the right boils down to personal greed and money. How can we screw someone so we have more? I don't like that message but I do see it, not because I believe in it but I guess because on some level I want to understand it and I hope I find more then I always seem to uncover - simple greed.

[rman]

98. why do you think it's called Democratic UNDERGROUND?

[guidod]

102. I understand that but

that doesn't mean we can't have an open discussion about the right without deamoninzing and name calling. I also understand the passion, but that doesn't mean that we have to have a shoot to kill attitude.

[rman]

107. Most discussions on DU about the RW are open -

which isn't the same thing as liking the RW.

In that respect we do in fact "look in another direction" - but you choose not to include the option "Radical left and does look in another direction" in your poll.

Sure there's some name calling, but what do you expect with 80,000 DU-ers?

[guidod]

110. You said it very well...

I love my Country so that means that I love my Government. I guess that I'm just getting tired of seeing it being drug through the mud. The Government has separated from the people and feels like someones ripping my skin off.

[rman]

99. According to this poll, one cannot be far-left without also appearing

to be rigid, as in "refusing to look in another direction".

But it seems most people who took the poll were not influenced by that obvious RW bias.

[guidod]

103. That's what the poll was for

If we don't have checks and ballances in our government, as we don't right now, it will never be equal rights for all. When the left takes over, and we will, I don't want to see another run away system. We have to be able to bend or I think we'll break.

[rman]

108. What does "equal rights for all" have to do with "looking another way"

If those two are the same to you, then why did you not include in your poll the option of "far-left and in favor of equal rights for all"?

The fact that you did not include such an options seems to indicate that you start from the premise that the far-left is opposed to equal rights for all. Of course that premise is a fallacy.

[guidod]

111. Not at all

I want equal rights for all. I guess I'm just tired of all of the divisiveness and hostility on both sides. I'm 58 years old and been a democrat all of my voting life but I've never seen anything like this.

[rman]

115. Do you think the "radical left" does want "equal rights for all"?

[guidod]

119. I absolutely 100% do

I think that's one thing that ALL lefties want. And a government that will nourish and help it's citizenry.

[catmother]

118. i'm 64 and have been a democrat all my life. but after a few

months on the DU i can see how divided we are. i've seen people call for a revolution. i don't know how old some of these people are. are they hippies left over from the 60s or are they young kids who read about the 60s and want things to be that way. remember the SDS and the Weathermen?

[guidod]

124. I remember some of the SDS in the 60's

and I know they were left of the liberals and very radical. The 60's had me in the Navy for part of it and chasing my current wife in the rest of it.

[Acryliccalico]

100. Proud to be VERY left. :).........n/t

[MadisonProgressive]

122. If a radical

is someone that reveres the Constitution, expects honesty in word and legality in actions, then I'm a radical. If a radical wants everyone in this country to have a roof over their heads, food to eat, healthcare, and a chance to get a decent paying job, then I'm a radical.

I would just call it being a good American.

[guidod]

125. If that's what a radical is

then I'm one too. I will take your definitions of radicalism and let everybody know that my idea of the word has been corrected. What I'm talking about is not the word radical. What I need is a word to describe divisive anger that is appearing in both parties that describe people in the middle as being people they don't need. Help!

[TheBaldyMan]

123. I am FORN and lefty as you can get (anarcho-syndicalist)

this means communists think I am too left wing.

[dpbrown]

131. This is BS. The focus should be on splitting the right

Every time a Democrat comes along spouting out about how we should cave in to some right-wing idea, we are losing the chance to carve a constituency out of the conservative base.

There are conservatives who could be peeled off from voting Republican over:

1. The illegal invasion of Iraq.
2. Universal Health Care.
3. Ending the Death Penalty.
4. Transparency in Government.
5. Challenging political corruption.
6. Making sure the US is not a Torture Nation.

When so-called "centrists" start coming to me with strategies related to aggressively attacking the imaginary "solid voting bloc" on the right, then I am going to start to think that they want to build a strong Democratic constituency instead of just trying to get me to buy into failed right-winger policies of hate, fear, class warfare, and confusion.

[guidod]

132. I'm as much a liberal as you...

Thank you for posting, you just answered my question about anger in the left.

[dpbrown]

143. Your trite dismissal of progressive direction belies your statement

Neither I, nor many other progressives, are angry.

Our eyes are open, however. That means we see the destruction being wrought by the fundamentalist nutballs, and the wolves in sheep's clothing masquerading as supposed leftists.

It's unfortunate that those for whom "eyes closed" is a coping method continue to discount those for whom "eyes open" is the only way to work for a sustainable future for our children.

[guidod]

145. I hope you are not insinuating that I

am one of those wolves in sheeps clothing. I accept your statement that most progressives are not acting in anger. The original thought that was in my mind before I started that poll was why were some DUers viciously attacking a talk radio host because they disagreed with him on several issues. I disagreed with the host as well but I couldn't figure out why there was so much verbal abuse directed at him. An open discussion was valid because of the statements made by the host but, when I posted my thoughts about the many times this host defended many of leftists views I was verbally attcked. I enjoy an open discussion as much as anyone but when it starts going in that direction it reminds me of the dark side, the right. The poll was meant to bring out the vicious DUers, and it did. I also had some wonderful discussions with open minded DUers as yourself.

I like the Apple symbol on your post, it's the same apple I see while I'm using my computer. I also visited your profile and was very impressed with your homepage and all the pictures from the Democratic Convention. It looked like a moment in life that you'll never forget.

[MODemocrat]

133. I'm a true lefty, and have never switched sides

Who and what is Ed Shultz? I've never listened to him, and certainly wouldn't after the way he's purportedly talking against my hero, John Murtha. It's disgraceful the way our veterans of war are being treated these days. All three of my brothers served in the military, and it really saddens
me to hear any veteran put down. I think we now call it "Swift Boating". :spank: :cry: :cry:

[guidod]

134. I agree that it was wrong

for Schultz to say the negative things about Murtha the way he did. I honestly think he misunderstood what Murtha was talking about. I'm a veteran and I understood where Murtha was coming from when he spoke of not joining the military right now. Schultz wasn't in the military so his perspective could not be the same as Murthas. Knowing this, Schultz should have kept his mouth shut. Normally, Schultz is a large proponent for veterans rights and pay. So I will give him the benefit of the doubt th is time.

[MODemocrat]

147. I thought Schultz was for veterans rights

so maybe he doesn't completely understand Murtha's comment. I'll let him by on this one, but, for Heaven's sake, I'd ask him please not go after Murtha. That man has served hiscountry so well, and deserves the utmost respect from all of us.

:hi: :patriot:

[guidod]

149. I agree with you 100%...

I have heard him over and over again defending the rights of veterans. I've heard him slam Bushdick many times because of the way he treats veterans. I agree with you when you say he doesn't understand what Murtha was saying. Schultz wasn't in the military so there's no way he could be perceptive to Murthas point of view. He should have kept his mouth shut and I also think that Murtha is the greatest.

[MODemocrat]

153. Thanks for your support guidod

Sometimes, I get a little carried away when someone on our own side belittles or bashes the other.
Just wish Ed had tried to understand Murtha's feelings. :thumbsup:

[American liberal]

137. didn't vote. don't like the choices

first of all, who's Ed Schultz?

2nd, why do I only get to choose "radical left"? I suppose I could become pretty radical if provoked enough (getting pretty close), but I mostly consider myself progressive, forward-thinking, liberal, lefty, but radical? I don't know...

[guidod]

151. Who's forcing you do vote "radical left"?

Does the one in yellow fit you better? I don't mind looking across the aisle to see what I can see. That doesn't mean that I would vote for any of them or that I'm not a liberal. I've been a liberal all of my life, but I refuse to put on blinders.

[American liberal]

154. none of the other categories fit either

I had never even heard of Ed Schultz before this poll.

[guidod]

155. Nobody is holding your feet to the

fire to vote, if you don't find yourself in the poll maybe you're somewhere in between. I'm in Burbank near Los Angeles and Ed Schultz is on Air America at noon and goes off at 3:00. He's not for everyone because he's close to the middle. I'm a liberal far on the left in my thinking but I like to open up conversation with everybody in the party, it's a huge party. I even like to talk to righties, the more I learn the better.

[formernaderite]

144. The direction the democratic party is heading?

Why? Did we win when we were heading in your direction? Oh, you must mean when Clinton won with less than 50%, because another repub split the repub vote. Of course we didn't lose more seats because Clinton lurched us to the right, and the public could no longer see a true difference between the two parties.

[onenote]

148. I think DU has all kinds of Democrats

including a number of folks who think that anyone who disagrees with them (from either side of the spectrum) isn't really a "Democrat"!

onenote

[guidod]

150. I agree, I'm seeing more and more of them

every day. I'm hearing from some DUers that are full of anger and hate, which will get us no where. There's not many but their out thee.

[liberalitch]

152. Look here

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x2360644