Reply #66: An interesting philosophical and historic question

[Armstead]

Although we obviously disagree, you raise some worthwhile points for discussion.

My belief is that people really do want the kind of change that is only brought by liberal principles. Can you imagine today what would happen if Medicare or Social Security were proposed as new programs?

There would be a massive hue and cry from the conservative side about how those programs are socialism and communistic, and they will do everything to prevent them.

And instead of fighting to create and push through those programs, the Democrats would concede instantly and agree that it is unrealistic, blah,blah, etc.

But look at the hue and cry that arose when GW announced plans to somewhat privatize Social Security. It was very obvious that the public did not want to lose this program.....And can you imagine what would happen to any effort to kill Medicare off?

And, in several so-called "red states" that went for Bush, those same voters simultaneously voted to increase their states' minimum wage.

I also know many people, such as my brother, who are very moderate, pro-business in general, who have become absolutely disgusted with the present values and abuses of Corporate America and believe we've gone way too far in the wrong direction.

My point is that people do not necessarily support the right-wing corporatist agenda, but we have been browbeaten over the years to think that positive change and reforms are not possible or "realistic" anymore.

And, to address your point, it would not be a matter of Democratic politicians "telling people what they want." Rather it would simply be supporting things that people really do want, and making worthy goals seem possible again.