A lot of talk has been floating around regarding the third party route for the movement in 2010. A poll we launched a few months back had almost 5,000 votes, and suggested that a whopping 50% believe the Republican Party is the proper vessel for us this year.
Many have disagreed, however, making for some interesting debate happening within the comments here at TaxDayTeaParty.com.
To make matters more interesting, Tea Party Patriots, probably the largest issue advocacy arm of the tea party movement, released the following statement this morning.
There is much talk of the formation of a third political party based on the tea party movement. In Florida, a Democratic operative with absolutely no connection to the tea party movement has filed papers to form a third party called the Florida Tea Party. He has issued legal threats against local tea parties demanding that they cease using the name “Florida Tea Party.”
Tea Party Patriots is issuing this statement in order to make it clear that we are not associated with this, or any attempts to form a third party. Additionally, we believe that such efforts are unproductive and unwise at this time. The history of third party movements in this country is one of division and defeat. We believe that it is instead time for all Americans to rise up and demand appropriate reform within their own parties. The mechanisms exist for citizens to participate in their parties, and to drive their parties in the right direction.
The Tea Party Patriots encourage all citizens to get involved in the party process, and to reshape their parties into something in which they may once again believe. This country does not belong to any one party, nor does it belong to the career politicians. This country belongs to the citizens. As Benjamin Franklin once said, “We have given you a republic madam, if you can keep it.” The founders knew that it would be our sacred obligation as citizens to get involved, and to work hard to hold on to this great nation. We have much work to do, and future generations will look back in judgment. We hope you will join us in preserving the republic.
Is this another sign that more groups and organizations are starting to take an aggressive stance against the third party option?
@Duane, factually speaking, the movement has people who have assumed leadership positions, so the argument that we don’t need leaders is moot. The argument is more along the lines of “who best to lead” and as has been demonstrated, the current flock of unknowns and wannabees is not sufficient to get us a seat at the table.
You may be right with your inference on the ‘leadership’ of other political parties, but that’s not a strong enough justification for us to have none at all.
The challenge is simply that we must have leaders who are better than that of the status quo, and as I mentioned earlier, having your average Tom, Dick and Harry to be the self-appointed leaders like we have with Steve and Eric, for example, isn’t going to cut it. Read my earlier comments and you’ll understand why.
It would be nice to be able to rely on the Republicans, but obviously we can’t. They’re broken too many promises. You have to go after them with leverage, ie: a policy ultimatum for how the party operates, and the same for how it governs.
This should help explain what we have today: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGL8CiUtXF0
The problem isn’t a lack of more political parties, the problem is awareness and credibility with the current ones outside of the two-party system.
None of the current parties that exist outside of the Republican/Democrat stranglehold are much different than the two in terms of how they operate, which is half-ass/flying by the seat of your pants. They don’t even resemble a suped-up PR machine. They’re just fundraising (sales) organizations who help fund races. There’s no real moral leadership or a steady hand to help guide the party.
The problem we have is that the American people are afraid to think outside of that 2-party “box” and that’s where this becomes a complex PR/Marketing challenge, requiring a much more sophisticated approach that requires more than an SEO guy like Eric or an IT Sales guy like Steve to be involved and dictating to people what to think and do. So far what this is starting to look like is Animal Farm. “Join us because everyone else is bad.” Very amateur and hypocritical.
There seems to be confusion as to whether 3rd parties could work in our current system. The greatest problem we have had of late is an obsession with the office of President. You don’t start a third party with this office, you start a third party with House Representatives and Senators, exactly the opportunity November 2010 allows.
Forming such a party and defining it with a platform that is neither far left or far right would allow for disenfranchised Republicans, Democrats as well as Independents to vote for a common candidate. Just having a dozen such Reps, and two Senators would give a substantial voice to many issues currently ignored. In a more balanced House and Senate as we are likely to see, such a small party would have a lot of strength as its votes would be necessary to elect leadership and move forward legislation.
By having principled individuals not a part of the old political machines one can hope they could resist the temptations of being bought out like we so often witness.
But moving forward with such a strategy would not mean that many can not work to reform the Republican Party, and hopefully the Democratic Party as well. Neither are likely to go away anytime soon and every person who fights against the self serving power hungry wing of each party can help to improve our existing government.
There is room in our country and our government for one or more additional parties, not just at the radical extremes or in the Presidential race, but in the middle where there is a huge segment of the population who are simply not represented by anyone who shares their conviction for certain principals.
Clearly the Republican factions will fight hard against this idea as they see 2010 as a time for power to swing back their way, so they can have their time at the trough, and to push America from the far left rapidly to the far right.
I think there are a huge number of people within the Tea Party Movement who do not ally with either extreme, but find common ground in basic principles that a large group in the middle can agree on.
So there is clearly room for a 3rd party at the congressional level, and probably a 4th or 5th. The only thing of which I am sure is that it really should not be called a “Tea Party”. The Tea Party should be reserved for the protest movement, which should continue much as it is to challenge all political parties in areas where they have become bloated, fat, corrupt, indifferent, or ignorant.
It is time for the many to diverge. Some to go work within the Republican or Democrat Parties to correct what is clearly wrong by becoming active participants in the process.
But it is also time for a few to step aside and clearly define a platform for a new party, with a distinct new name, and a focused and defined objective. Then instead of a few trying to lead all the angry crowds at the tea party, hopefully a wise few can create a following of many who have the passion, and the determination to do something remarkable and of substance.
And all of these people can remain united under the banner of the Tea Party Protests, a watchdog to keep all in check.
50% ALSO SAID YES TO A 3RD. PARTY!
WE ARE TIRED OF THE TWO PARTY BI-PARTISAN CRAP AND NEED A CHANG NOW!!!
I SURE HOPE THIS IS NOT A FRONT FOR THE REPUBLICANS!!!!! IF SO I AM OUT!!!AND SO ARE MANY OTHERS!!!
There have been discussions on this site, bogs, print, and TV that express concern for the lack of leadership within the TEA Party movement. I’m not convinced that the movement needs a strong leadership. All current political parties have leadership. How’s that working out for them? Strong leaders would seem to make corruption of our core views much easier. Reactionary positions based on the latest poll or trial balloon hasn’t worked for Washington and it won’t work for us.
Both the Democrat and Republican parties have betrayed us with outright corruption and totally ignored The Constitution. Many of us are working toward a more representative government that will protect the freedom and liberties that our founding fathers recognized so clearly.
After considering the possibilities of a third party movement, I’ve eventually concluded that our greatest strength is in working within our existing political parties. We are the only successful force for ending corruption and restoring The Constitution. A year ago, the Democrats seemed invincible in their pursuit of moving us toward tyranny. Though many are still on that track, the momentum for their cause has evaporated. With many members of Congress retiring, there is new opportunity to redirect the Democrats. The Republicans must clean out the crooks who we know still control much of the Party. Michael Steele seems to be the right man for that job if he can complete it. If the Tea Party Movement will act as a rallying point and provide information about the bad actors in Congress, it will be very effective as the catalyst for change that we need. We are unique for being a movement created by members of both Democrats and Republicans. Our strength is our ability to work together in a common movement to regain control of our country instead of allowing our country to control us
Mark Levin is a great ally to the cause, but I don’t think he understands strategy too well. I hope he’ll continue his radio program, but I think some of his angst clouds his thinking. The threat of a third party forming may very likely be the only thing to get the GOP to change.
Elaine in Kirkwood, MO says:
January 8, 2010 at 3:45 pm
Absolutely vote Republican, (wish they would drop the GOP thing) Mark Levin is adamant that a vote for a 3rd party or Libertarian would be a sure vote for the Dems.
I would like to suggest two websites for your consideration to add to links. One is http://www.sodahead.com (a blog site) and to Mark Levin’s website http://www.marklevinshow.com just a thought, I enjoy both very much.
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Maybe Republicans need to vote Tea Party. Instant Run-off Voting would make it a moot point.
People are losing patience. Every minute the Tea Party manifesto reaches more people:
1. Taxpayer approval of spending
2. Instant Run-off voting
3. $100K seed money for new candidates
4. Not being forced to pay for GM cars!
Please pass it on to everyone you know.
Absolutely vote Republican, (wish they would drop the GOP thing) Mark Levin is adamant that a vote for a 3rd party or Libertarian would be a sure vote for the Dems.
I would like to suggest two websites for your consideration to add to links. One is http://www.sodahead.com (a blog site) and to Mark Levin’s website http://www.marklevinshow.com just a thought, I enjoy both very much.
Ok, let’s just end all of this back and forth if you guys can put your money where your mouth is: put together an unbranded national survey of the entire tea party movement. Find out what issues resonate with them the most, including that short list of items that you’re now promoting as “their cause” along with a survey on who best to lead at the local, state, regional and national level. And be sure to indicate to them that you can’t be leaderless because you guys have already assumed that position.
I’ll quit whacking away at you your credibility if you put this into action.
Promise.
Publius says:
January 8, 2010 at 2:38 pm
Our country was founded as a representational Republic.
————-
Everyone and their brother knows Congress is corrupt.
Steve says:
January 8, 2010 at 2:27 pm
Spiking, I believe that it is probably time to stop beating a dead horse and just leave Publius to his/her own little world. Marketing has nothing to do with leading, nor knowledge, as Michael Badnariks says…it must be OBVIOUS.
Good Day.
————–
At some point it may be better to ignore him/her.
Meanwhile, Publius is displaying the power of the Tea Party manifesto:
1. Taxpayer approval of spending
2. Instant Run-off voting
3. $100K seed money for new candidates
4. Not being forced to pay for GM cars!
Silence implies approval. Especially from someone as talkative as Publius!
Eric and Steve–not being forced to pay for GM cars is obvious; taxpayer approval of spending, instant Run-off voting, etc.,–not sure. The problem you face is not only with buy-in, but implementation.
Our country was founded as a representational Republic. What you’re suggesting goes well beyond that scope, and I would be very skeptical of what the results would look like.
Furthermore, have you even bothered to conduct an unbiased survey of the movement to find out which issues are most prevalent to THEM, and if these specific ideas are what resonate with them?
What about an unbranded survey that asks them if there is a person who they feel is most suited to lead the movement at the local, state, regional, or national level, rather than having you guys try to put something together yourself to promote your own involvement? I know you guys don’t want leaders or don’t think we need them, yet you’ve taken on a leadership role yourselves, so which is it? You can’t have it both ways.
Spiking, I believe that it is probably time to stop beating a dead horse and just leave Publius to his/her own little world. Marketing has nothing to do with leading, nor knowledge, as Michael Badnariks says…it must be OBVIOUS.
Good Day.
Publius says:
January 8, 2010 at 1:49 pm
Spiking and Steve, you two ought to get together and make love. -LOL. You both think alike.
Then again, maybe you’re both the same person or work in the same office.
——–
Is that your idea of a constructive comment?
Here they are, Publius, any time that you would like to have an adult conversation.
1. Taxpayer approval of spending
2. Instant Run-off voting
3. $100K seed money for new candidates
4. Not being forced to pay for GM cars!
Spiking and Steve, you two ought to get together and make love. -LOL. You both think alike.
Then again, maybe you’re both the same person or work in the same office.
Publius says:
January 8, 2010 at 12:06 pm
@Steve, you obviously have no background in the realm of dealing with the public, and are obviously untrained in the realm of public relations or marketing. Why they would even want you on here [or any place else] to do their talking for them simply reflects a collective incompetence.
I would also add, in case it hasn’t dawned on you or the others who think they are being leaders of the movement–being in charge of something is not synonymous with effective leadership, nor does it reflect rational self-interest.
What Washington said may be true, but the “leaders” of the current movement have yet to prove that they actually have the moral and ethical fiber to lead.
——–
The Tea Party is a public relations juggernaut.
We’re here, discussing policy out in the open.
Are you going to find that in the Democratic or Republican party?
@Steve, you obviously have no background in the realm of dealing with the public, and are obviously untrained in the realm of public relations or marketing. Why they would even want you on here [or any place else] to do their talking for them simply reflects a collective incompetence.
I would also add, in case it hasn’t dawned on you or the others who think they are being leaders of the movement–being in charge of something is not synonymous with effective leadership, nor does it reflect rational self-interest.
What Washington said may be true, but the “leaders” of the current movement have yet to prove that they actually have the moral and ethical fiber to lead.
What more needs to be said than this from one of our greatest founders, George Washington on parties,”The alternate domination of one faction over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge, natural to party dissension, which in different ages and countries has perpetrated the most horrid enormities, is itself a frightful despotism. But this leads at length to a more formal and permanent despotism. The disorders and miseries which result gradually incline the minds of men to seek security and repose in the absolute power of an individual; and sooner or later the chief of some prevailing faction, more able or more fortunate than his competitors, turns this disposition to the purposes of his own elevation, on the ruins of public liberty.”
Douglas N in California says:
January 7, 2010 at 8:53 am
Why is an “either-or” choice a good thing? My opinion is that having but Rep or Dem parties as a choice is perhaps the root cause for the rot in Washington DC and state capitols. The issue should be free choice.
Herding all dissidents into the old, creaky and corrupt Republican Party is not going to be a solution, because there is too much history there that voters will bring to mind and reject. The brand has lost its appeal. Leave it! Dissident voters from all across the spectrum will respond to a new political brand.
I have never voted according to party, and although I am a lifelong Republican, I have on occasion voted for non-Reps when I concluded that the other choice was a more honest person. Character, for me, is primary. My ideal candidate is one who cannot be bought off by $300 million bribes, or even one who goes golfing during a vote with a member who intends to vote the other way, instead of standing on principle. Vote traders will never get my vote!
The hard left has dominated Democrat politics for the past two years, and as a result of their forcing socialism through Congress, they are facing a monster negative reaction for the coming 2010 and 2012 elections. We have got election gold awaiting us, but we have to stand for the gold standard first to attract the dissident voters.
Another reason not to “be Republican” is that the GOP is locked into revenge and payback, which both parties indulge in, which is a terrible waste of time and taxpayer money. Gotcha politics is a loser. So let’s leave them to their negativity and move to higher ground. Idealistic, but the only way to go.
I have to wonder if we are wasting precious time on this issue. I wish we had the courage to blaze a new trail.
———–
Douglas,
The American people will decide what direction the country goes in.
We are in negotiations with Democrats and Republicans. Over what I call the Tea Party manifesto.
1. Taxpayer approval of spending
2. Instant Run-off voting
3. $100K seed money for new candidates
4. Not being forced to pay for GM cars!
I understand that a lot of people grow tired of waiting on Democrats and Republicans.
The only step they can take is to declare their candidacy for the House of Representatives. Or begin to pool money for someone who will.
Are you prepared to take one of these steps? Or do you have a better idea?
I am a life long Conservative Republican who is certainly not pleased with everything done (or not done) by my party during decade 1 of the 2000’s.
However, a third party is not the answer for many reasons already stated. What I would suggest is the following:
1. If you are a good conservative or constitutionalist, for heaven’s sake don’t run as a Demoncrat! Have you seen what they did with Liebermann and his wife? Nobody is strong enough to resist their pressure; they are tyrants and they would just as well see you and you family in a dumpster than have you vote in opposition to what they want.
2. Go for any open Republican seat.
3. Vet each Republican incumbent and decide whether you should battle him/her in the primary, especially if the incumbent is a RINO.
4. If it doesn’t look good in the primary against a RINO incumbent, run as an independent but let people know you are Republican minded, Conservative, and against everything Demoncrats and RINO Republicans represent.
5. Support every true, honest, active, conservative Republican incumbent you can within your State or outside.
P.S. Demoncrat is NOT misspelled.
Publius, I have no intent on being arrogant, and I apologize if it seems that way. One of the down falls about electronic communication is that we lose the human element which is what we have used for millenia. I mean no disrespect but each person here is supplying there input and I prefer to respond directly so there is no confusin on whom I am conversing with. Vote for the best Constitutional candidate (if there are any really left)regardless of party affiliation. Utilize the precinct strategy if you find a worthy candidate. But most importantly learn how to vet the candidates by understanding the Constitution yourself. If your not running for office then you are the employer and you better know your business.
No Steve, I don’t respond to that sort of arrogance and presumptuousness. I think you’re highly conflicted, ineffective, and useless. I don’t respond to losers.
Folks,
It is as simple as this…if you are not willing to do things for right rather than wrong ie; vote for the lesser of two evils we will continue down the same path just at different speeds. Please see F.A. Hayeks Why I am not a conservative here http://www.lewrockwell.com/orig6/hayek1.html
Publius, it is not by Erics decision that I am writing here, however maybe he still believes in the first amendment and maybe he still believes in healthy debate. I have no need to divulge my “qualifications” any more than I need to ask of yours, they are irrelevant, let the facts speak for themselves. I have noticed that you have not actually responded to the substance of what I am saying, please try to do so in the future. I was unaware that this was the turn the Repubs around movement. It should be about the best candidate regardless of party affiliation if any. It’s not difficult folks, we just tend to make it so. Study the Constitution and the principles held within. I am a life long registered Republican because of the way the “system” is set up.
To Steve:
I am trying to be realistic here, you don’t think a third party will split the vote between the Republicans and the the Tea Party? End results Obama and his socialistic cronnies get elected again. By the way I am a Republican who beleives in your cause!!
Hey Eric,
Why do you associate with morons like Steve? He must have some really great qualifications to be flinging mud like that. Talk about ego. Let me guess, is he a web developer, or something less?
And what should make anyone feel compelled to help you when you have yet to show that you are capable of being more ethical and transparent? I’m starting to get the sense that this more about satisfying your own desires rather than what is evolving within the movement. Prove me wrong?
I for one would never feel compelled to offer any suggestions with people like that around. I can’t imagine how any of your activities would result in much with a bunch of unqualified people at the helm.
Please enlighten us on how this will be different.
there’s a familiar thread with Steve’s comments that leads me to believe that he along with a few others are not capable of being more ethical than the republicans or ‘walking the walk.’
Steve reminds me of what it’s like to work with someone with no substantive experience, who can’t think outside of his little world that is full of all sorts of delusions; a good reason why not to share information or be collaborative–the right information in the wrong hands is just asking for problems.
Steve, you sound like a liberal plant.
To Backgammon; It IS Ron Paul Republicans and Independants who started the “Tea Parties”, it is these people who were standing in front of post offices and IRS buildings on April 15 before 2009 that are the foundation of the “Tea Parties”.
To Dan Galluza; I too have been involved in “party” politics and have learned what George Washington has said. Also, I agree with all you said except two party, two party, two party, wrong it is the right candidate, right candidate, right candidate. I have found that most (not all) “Constitutionalists” have left either party because neither party understands or even cares about this document.
To Ursula; Like I said in a previous post, why stay in a movement if you do not understand it or stand for its principles, the Republican movement is waiting for you.
It is not the GOP’s that are a threat to this movement, look what all these liberals are doing to our country! Obama and his liberal left wingers are the reason why the country is where it is today. They are the reason the Tea Parties came together!
Why is an “either-or” choice a good thing? My opinion is that having but Rep or Dem parties as a choice is perhaps the root cause for the rot in Washington DC and state capitols. The issue should be free choice.
Herding all dissidents into the old, creaky and corrupt Republican Party is not going to be a solution, because there is too much history there that voters will bring to mind and reject. The brand has lost its appeal. Leave it! Dissident voters from all across the spectrum will respond to a new political brand.
I have never voted according to party, and although I am a lifelong Republican, I have on occasion voted for non-Reps when I concluded that the other choice was a more honest person. Character, for me, is primary. My ideal candidate is one who cannot be bought off by $300 million bribes, or even one who goes golfing during a vote with a member who intends to vote the other way, instead of standing on principle. Vote traders will never get my vote!
The hard left has dominated Democrat politics for the past two years, and as a result of their forcing socialism through Congress, they are facing a monster negative reaction for the coming 2010 and 2012 elections. We have got election gold awaiting us, but we have to stand for the gold standard first to attract the dissident voters.
Another reason not to “be Republican” is that the GOP is locked into revenge and payback, which both parties indulge in, which is a terrible waste of time and taxpayer money. Gotcha politics is a loser. So let’s leave them to their negativity and move to higher ground. Idealistic, but the only way to go.
I have to wonder if we are wasting precious time on this issue. I wish we had the courage to blaze a new trail.
I would hate to see all the hard work done creating Tea Parties go to waste due to statements such as made to Michael Steel. We do not want Republicans? I have been working for over a year in what I thought was an effort to hold Washington’s feet to the fire. Republicans & Democrats. Small Government, fiscally responsible and adhere to the Constitution. Making sweeping comments to alieniate either party is not productive. A third party can not survive yet. Maybe someday but not in 2010. This is a great movement, but to young to be The player. Ron Paul, the Green’s, etc have been around for years and failed.
Fellow Patriots: Having been on the Republican central committee and also an advsior to a Congressman in Maryland, my humble experience has a couple of conclusions for whatever they are worth. First, all politics is local and many elections were won by less than a thousand votes. Here in Maryland we have a re-run of Harris vs Democrat Congressman who won by 500 votes last time. There are many, many people who don’t vote at all. We should seek out those people and get them to pledge to vote, even assist them to the polls. It would make a difference and the difference is just the losing margin. Second, third parties never win. Thats how we got Clinton two times and I see it coming again for this president. Take over the republican party by approaching en masse the repubs in office and making them publicly promise to do specific things. Pledge to donate against them if they don’t. Don’t forget,all politics is local and don’t depend upon media who hid our Washington gathering. Local, local, local and two party, two party, two party. Demand more and you’ll get it. The incumbents are afraid, go after them locally. thank you for your consideration. God Bless Our Country.
Dan
Jim Moore says:
January 6, 2010 at 11:23 pm
Every vote for a “third party” candidate or a write-in is a vote against our Enemy.
———
The “enemy” is those who oppose Taxpayer approval of spending.
The “enemy” is those who oppose Instant Run-off Voting.
The “enemy” is those who oppose $100K funding. That’s where $100K is made available to new candidates for office.
There are many Democrats and many Republicans who support us on one or more of these issues.
And I’m going to go even further. What is your position on these issues? What are you doing to make them reality? Or do you have better ideas to get more representation for the American people?
There are a number of “patriot” myths out there and this is one that has been around for a long time. However, there are a few important points made in this thread.
1. Publius said ” If they get the idea that this is just some disorganized, half-ass movement, they will be more inclined, as they have in the past, to brush it aside, or assume leadership, as Palin, Gingrich and others are starting to do; very disingenuously, I might add.” If you want the Republican movement join theirs and leave ours,I have been saying this for years, yes because the “Tea Party” did not “begin” Last April 15.
2. Idahoser said “Repeal the 17th Amendment, bring back America.” I would add the 14th and 16th. Also, remember this Supreme Court decision,
“The general rule is that an unconstitutional statute, though having the form and name of law, is in reality no law, but is wholly void, and ineffective for any purpose; since unconstitutionality dates from the time of it’s enactment, and not merely from the date of the decision so branding it… No one is bound to obey an unconstitutional law, and no courts are bound to enforce it.” — 16 Am Jur 2d, Sec 177 late 2d, Sec 256
3. Publius said “one of the only options that I see as viable is for the Tea Party Movement to come together in some fashion and create a list of demands, and present those demands along with a deadline for their resolution.” Please see the Articles of Freedom at http://www.cc2009.us/aof
4.NH said “This is typical of something a desperate liberal would do.
Spread the word — no third parties — and not to join this person’s effort!” This is typical of someone who gives no commitment to thought. Please do not resign yourselves to standing on a football field and yelling homerun…you’ll look foolish.
Let me also add, third parties will only lose if we the people let them lose.
Finally, let me give you something from George Washington on parties,”The alternate domination of one faction over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge, natural to party dissension, which in different ages and countries has perpetrated the most horrid enormities, is itself a frightful despotism. But this leads at length to a more formal and permanent despotism. The disorders and miseries which result gradually incline the minds of men to seek security and repose in the absolute power of an individual; and sooner or later the chief of some prevailing faction, more able or more fortunate than his competitors, turns this disposition to the purposes of his own elevation, on the ruins of public liberty.”
Greetings,
I voted for Ross Perot, not because I believed he could or would win, but because I saw no difference between Bush and Clinton and wanted a protest vote. That’s what a third party is, a protest vote.
I looked into running as an Independent and spoke leaders of both the Constitution Party and Conservative Party before realizing, along with JB Williams and Freedom Force, that taking back the GOP is the only way we will save this nation. Time is too short to play games. The danger facing our nation is greater than most, including many in the Tea Party movements, understand or care to admit.
I’m a working man with little time to attend rallies. I have this coming weekend off to finally attend one in OKC. I had a week off during Christmas to knock doors and get word out about my own candidacy.
Rather then “vetting” one particular candidate for each race, I hope you all will consider opening the floor and focus on leveling the playing field so more can participate and the voters can actually decide for themselves who they want to represent themselves in Congress.
Please check me out and if you like what you see and hear, please jump on my bandwagon and give whatever support you can.
This is my first time to your site. I was referred by JB Williams from Freedom Force. My website is http://www.jeffpritchardforcongress.com
I’m running for Congress and need all the help I can get. I’m not your typical candidate and the folks I have talked to are wanting someone like me, but I need assistance to compete with the “big guys”. Please help me if you so desire.
Thank you and God have mercy on our nation.
This country does not have a 2-party system, it has a one-party system with some of the members calling themselves Democrats and the other members calling themselves Republicans. The should be referred to as Demlicans or RepubliCrats, or something similar.
The goal of tea party groups should not be (at this time) the formation of a “third” party - it should be to unite to destroy the one party (Demlicans or RepubliCrats) that has been raping the country.
The Enemy of We, the People is the One party that now exists. Every vote for a “third party” candidate or a write-in is a vote against our Enemy. With enough such votes the One party that is our Enemy is ruined.
Another important goa; for the Tea Party movement is to require our Congresspersons spend their entire term physically within their districts. They do not need to hide in Washington where We, the People cannot get our hands on them when they commit crimes like the AIG “bailout(s)”. There is no reason at all why Congress must have Washington (like Versailles in 1789) to hide in.
Most people who argue politics get angry because they really do not have a handle on their subject, though a strong feeling. It is easier to gain confidence than you think. Just look at the roots to understand the whole tree. Answers or, better, questions, flow easily when the roots are clear. There are only two sides to a political argument. One side says community interests are more important than are individual interests, and the reverse is the other side, as cited on claysamerica.com. Look at this site and take the ten simple steps to have a clear and confidant vision from which all issues are easily grasped and discussed. Claysamerica.com
Michael Steele likes tea parties.
“As I like to tell people — long before there was this big push on tea parties — if I wasn’t doing this job, I’d be out there with the tea partiers,” Steele said during an interview with Fox News’s Neil Cavuto.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0110/31177.html
Well Michael, how do you feel about Taxpayer approval for spending?
How do you feel about Instant Run-off Voting?
I don’t mean to be cruel Michael, but we’re getting more support from Democrats than you on these issues.
When was the last time that you and Eric talked?
Publius says:
January 6, 2010 at 11:17 am
To speak to the content of your post, the only thing that this movement has right now in order to affect a real reform within the GOP is the “threat” of a third-party forming
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A third party has formed. Give us Taxpayer approval of spending, or we’ll find people who will.
It is the GOP that is a threat to this party. They may be petty, and try to knock it down.
We can work on getting Instant Run-off Voting in place.
This is typical of something a desperate liberal would do.
Spread the word — no third parties — and not to join this person’s effort!
The “Tea Party” has been co-opted by the Republicians. Soon all the power will be in the hands of the progressive Republicians.
It is true that we do not need a third party. We need the GOP to dissolve and the Tea Party to lead. We cannot have the GOP lead. They will use and destroy this movement. Then, they will be back to the same old dirty business of me first and the country last.
If the Tea Party allows themselves to be used by the GOP, count me out. I will support the effort or any candidate.
I suggest that another group organize and this group that supports the same old corrupted parties be stripped of power.
Lets do it. We can.
I hope there will come a day when the Tea Party Movement will hold an annual event where candidates will have to attend and explain what they stand for. Hopefully, this will be sooner than later. If we can organize marches at a moments notice we should be able to organize an event such as this.
This video helps you know Doug Guetzloe, the Orlando GOP consultant behind The whole fake Florida TEA Party.
http://titusvillepatriots.ning.com/video/tea-party-founders-problems
This is not a Dem takeover attempt; this is a GOP takeover attempt. Dem lawyer Fred O’Neal is sitting in for Guetzloe, a proven sleaze and blackmailer. He’s worked for him for nigh on a decade.
Even replacing Republicans is challenging, since it assumes that you have to work within their system, not yours, if I understand you correctly.
At this point in time, one of the only options that I see as viable is for the Tea Party Movement to come together in some fashion and create a list of demands, and present those demands along with a deadline for their resolution. You could conduct a nationwide poll to get a sense of where people are at, although I think most of us know how it would read.
The GOP would be foolish to ignore it, especially if it got nationwide press coverage.
It’s an empty threat and they already have no incentive to change. You are correct, they won’t change while they have the upper hand. Third party guarantees that WITHIN THEIR PARTY, they retain the power to decide. You have to flood THEIR party, overrule them IN THEIR OWN PARTY, and they will support YOU. That’s Reagan. That’s the only way, it is doomed to die after making any possible progress, as the party returns to it’s native form. But the alternatives don’t even accomplish that temporary improvement, and mostly they don’t even let the R party go left slower.
There is simply no win, there is only “lose slower”, or “lose faster”. We don’t get to rewrite natural law, which says no democracy can survive. And before you say “WE’RE NOT A DEMOCRACY”, we haven’t been a republic since membership became compulsory.
Repeal the 17th Amendment, bring back America.
I wasn’t referring to elected officials; Rather, I was speaking of “they” being the GOP “powers that be.”
Outside of that, I agree with you and hope to be able to drive some of this energy down that path.
Eric, there has to be a reason for them to come to the table. I’ve dealt with lawmakers for many, many years, have conducted numerous conference calls with them on pending legislation, spoken before sub-committees, and brought all stakeholders/ subject matter experts to the table, written legislative proposals, and have even sued state officials. I know how they think. It’s a very CYA attitude. They’re not movers and shakers.
They only move when they are forced to, unless you’re ready to grease their palms.
The threat of a third party forming is one such way, but of course is not the only way. If they get the idea that this is just some disorganized, half-ass movement, they will be more inclined, as they have in the past, to brush it aside, or assume leadership, as Palin, Gingrich and others are starting to do; very disingenuously, I might add.
And yes, I think that assumption is accurate, they are nervous right now and are showing some signs of changing, particularly with the formation of the Rep. Congressional Caucus. But you have to keep their feet to the fire.
Replacing the whole damn lot of them will take a monumental effort that is way bigger than you or I, and would require you to forego the assumption that you’ll be able to pull it off yourself with the current ad hoc approach. It requires you to take on a much higher level of commitment, as I’ve suggested earlier, and bring people into the fray to do the dirty work, who have influence with congressional republicans, among others. Why would they want to listen to you or me?
You’re right, “doing” is important. Just remember that a year of organizing to a point of critical mass with either influence one of two things: either those who are influencers among the movement will push things to the next level, or it will fizzle. There has to be a decision made, soon.
Choose wisely.
The dems. are in trouble with this administration and know it. Rush Limbaugh has already been squawking against a third party. Juan Williams is saying “yes” to a third party. Go figure. The Dems. picked the weak GOP candidate in 2008. Have we not learned that the dems. are masters at this and again are trying to set the agenda for 2010? They stop at nothing. The liberals have already been trying to confuse people in Florida by creating a ficticious “Florida Tea Party” Group of democrats. They know a political massacre is on the horizon for the next election. They are banking on the fact that if they don’t have in place this ridiculous take over of the economy then American Tax payer-the workerbees, will not yet be beholden to the most liberal leaning party in history.
“Give that up, and they have no incentive to change their stripes. ”
Your comment is based on the assumption that “they” will change. I do not believe this to be the case. And quite frankly, I don’t care if “they” change or not. I want to replace the whole damn lot of them.
Reading through your comments, I see a trend of a mindset that you seem to know what you’re doing and might should be coming to the table with ideas to help us.
And I don’t mean just through comments on blogs.
The tea party movement may not be doing things perfectly, but at least we’re “doing” something and not just talking.
“Anyone can organize rallies, protests and demonstrations. And it doesn’t require a high level of commitment. It’s a one-off challenge each time you do it that holds very little follow-up or accountability.”
Many of us do not claim to be anything other than organizers and activists.
I certainly do not.
Eric,
What is the #1 reason groups and initiatives fail to achieve their goals?
And the answer is simple, profound and quite disturbing, and I hope you’ll consider this very, very carefully.
The biggest concern when undertaking any initiative is your level of commitment.
Anyone can organize rallies, protests and demonstrations. And it doesn’t require a high level of commitment. It’s a one-off challenge each time you do it that holds very little follow-up or accountability.
Unless you demonstrate a loyal, sustained commitment there will be a sense of negligence to everything you do. And that includes finding people who have the skills to help you achieve your goals, rather than taking the current ad hoc approach that has been demonstrated to fail so many times before you.
To speak to the content of your post, the only thing that this movement has right now in order to affect a real reform within the GOP is the “threat” of a third-party forming. Give that up, and they have no incentive to change their stripes.
AVOIDING the big decisions like electing leaders, formalized planning, recruiting people with more skills that you (and using them to help create an effective ultimatum to the GOP on what they need to do to gain the support of the movement, and have it work), gives you a very low level of commitment. The people who are telling you that we don’t need no stinkin’ leaders do so because they can’t fathom the notion of taking on a high level of commitment. Don’t buy into that BS. If the movement does not have a leader, the MSM will appoint one for you, to the tune of Gingrich, Palin, or someone else who may or may not reflect well on all of the efforts that have taken place over the last year.
We have seen what effect Third Party Candidates have had. There is not time to redress this issue.
Please, let us continue to reshape or renew our parties into what it is we hold dear. We can no longer allow the Status Quo in geovernment, which dictates to us, what we shall have.