Project Logic Ga

9.  Political slates: anachronisms or useful tools?

In the time of new media and 24-hour news channels, we don’t need political parties telling us to vote for a block of candidates.  While that dated process is easier (and unfortunately very effective) for the party, sharp voters can decide which candidates to support based on the candidate’s history, opinions and vibe.  South Carolina U.S. Senate candidate Alvin Greene is a classic example of what happens when we don’t study candidates.  If we aren’t careful, our community might completely back a slate of candidates while the other crew sweeps into power.   

10. Should we examine candidates with relativity in mind?

The dictionary defines relativity as a state of dependence in which the existence or significance of one entity is solely dependent upon that of another.  In politics, I consider candidates’ position and posture relative to their congressional districts or state.  The Congressional Black Caucus learned over time that southern CBC members from rural areas are more moderate than the rest of the caucus because their areas are more moderate.   

With relativity in mind, the Black Blue Dogs do a remarkable job of balancing conservative provincial interests with traditional Democrat views.  If those members are the targets of the far right’s fury, the conservative movement should be ashamed because they are attacking the Democrats who have worked with them constructively in the past. 

Congressional candidates in swing districts should be bridge-builders who are diplomatic.  When we look at GOP challengers to Blue Dogs Democrats, the first question is “would this person ignore votes who supported the other side.”  The next question is “ would be this person have a positive affect on other Republicans.”