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November 15, 2005
Democratic Party opposes democracy
In the Nov. 1-8 issue of The Pulse, an article suggested that the DFL is gerrymandering in Minneapolis. They stand accused of redistricting in a way that stifles third parties. The DFL re-drew the wards in such a way, the article states, that three Green Party city council candidates were up against powerful incumbents or removed from their electoral base.
Sadly, this is just one more instance upholding a recent tradition on the part of the Democratic party, a tradition in which Democrats oppose independent voices that are vital to a flourishing democracy. Last year’s presidential election provided an all-too-clear account of what the Democratic party thinks of democracy. The way they banded behind Kerry with their “Anyone But Bush” mantra ironically aped the Republican Party line, in which anyone opposing Bush was seen as unpatriotic and should be silenced. In the same way, anyone on the left daring to criticize Kerry was harshly denounced, and every attempt was made to silence critics.
This was most evident in Ralph Nader’s plight. Nader was lambasted in the media and among liberal circles, accused repeatedly of being egocentric or becoming “out of touch.” This was said, even though those making the accusations obviously hadn’t bothered to familiarize themselves with his campaign or they would’ve seen the falseness of their accusations.
If that were the extent of Democratic manipulation, it could perhaps be forgiven as temporary overzealousness. However, they did not stop there. In around twenty states, Democrats went so far as to sue for the purpose of keeping Nader off the ballot. It is highly ironic that a party whose very name is suggestive of democracy was so intent on barring someone’s name from a ballot in a supposedly democratic election.
Sadly, the gerrymandering charge shows that the local DFL is continuing their undemocratic actions. Two of the Green Party candidates for Minneapolis City Council, both incumbents, narrowly lost in very contested races. They had much support in their previous wards and would undoubtedly have won without the redistricting. Fortunately, the third Green candidate, Cam Gordon, won his ward despite the obstacles, demonstrating that it’s possible to break through the DFL stranglehold on ballot politics.
However, there remains much to be done to break free of two-party tyranny both locally and nationally.
Posted by msveum at November 15, 2005 12:03 PM
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