This morning I received yet another bid for donations from the local Democratic party. So far, it’s averaging about 2 calls a week. Apparently, since I attended the first and second Democratic caucus here in Washington, they’ve now decided I’m a loyal Democratic who will want to join in with them on “the party agenda.”
I explained to this sincere young worker (as I have explained to every one that has called so far) that I’m not a Democrat. I’m an independent. Just because I’m supporting Barack Obama this time around does not automatically mean that I’m going to buy into an entire platform. Some of them have seemed bewildered by this.
It bothers me immensely that the parties are much more interested in sustaining themselves than they are in discovering the will of the people.
For those who don’t live in Washington, you might find it enlightening to know that both parties are now, once again, taking the will of the people to court. First, it was to make sure that everybody registered for a particular party. Washington then passed a top-2 rule that said the top two vote-getters, no matter party they’re from, will be on the ballot.
So once again the parties, in a case of total self-interest, are taking it to court.
Never mind that people might actually WANT to vote for individuals, rather than a platform. No, no, no – the “parties” in all of their righteous goodness must preserve themselves no matter what. Even if the will of the people get over-ridden.
I’m not seeing much democracy in our democratic process lately.
Maybe I’ll move to Canada.
