I don't understand single issue Democrats

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We justifiably criticize repubs for their lack of empathy -- for being unfeeling and unresponsive towards the needs and concerns of those who aren't just like them, for being so self-centered and selfish that they can't support stem cell research until they have a family member get sick or can't support gay rights until they learn that they have a gay son or daughter. We properly mock fundies for establishing litmus tests based on a single issue, such as abortion or gay marriage.

Yet, I see a not insignificant number of posts from DUers adopting a single issue stance, particularly with respect to the war...Democrats who are declaring that they will vote Green, or not vote, in any election where the Democrat does not demand an immediate withdrawal from Iraq (or who supported the IWR, regardless of their current position).

I don't get it. I have opposed this war from the outset. I'm horrified that every day Americans and Iraqis die for a senseless lie. But it is not the only thing I care about. I also care about the millions of Americans who have slipped into poverty due to this administration's policies. I care about the millions of my fellow citizens who are denied basic civil rights and equal treatment because of their race, gender or sexual orientation. I care about those who are made to feel unwelcome because of their religious beliefs or lack of religious beliefs. I care about the future generations who may not have clean air and water and be able to enjoy this country's natural resources because of the environmental policies of the republican party.

I oppose the war. But I will not allow my opposition to the war to so color my judgment that I lose sight of the bigger picture. I believe that the Democratic party is more responsive to my concerns and is more likely to pursue policies that I support (including keeping us out of future military misadventures) than the Republicans. So I will never vote for a Republican and I will never vote Green.

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