Election Primaries May Be Our Only Hope

I have been rather busy on this little blog the past few days--but only because I have some ideas and statements that have purculated during the time I was away.

One serious notion that I have grappled with is politics and how it relates to solving real human issues. And I'm afraid that what is currently in store for the forseeable future is more gridlock and less real problem solving. And that is not what we expect or deserve when we send folks to our state and federal legislatures.

On May 17th, the Washington Post released yet another poll that indicated Americans are fed up with the Republicans and in every category feel that the Democrats would do a better job...from immigration reform...to handling the Iraq war...to the economy...and I suppose to kissing little babies on the campaign trail. But-----it was not that long ago that Americans were fed up with the Democrats and their policies of inaction and corruption...not to mention adultry by our President.

It seems to me then that the problems has to do with those who are incumbants and have been in office too long more so than a particular party. Not only do they seem to be the source of our troubles due to their special interest lobby perks, but they also poison the minds and will of the junior members. Yes...soon after we send a fresh face to office, they too begin spewing forth with the same rhetoric as the old timers.

My solution. Well it mirrors one of the items mentioned in the above mentioned poll. 55% of Americans say they intend to shop around for a new face come this election cycle. I would go one step further. Throw them all out and start afresh. It seems whether you are liberal, conservative, or somewhere between that you too are not getting what you want and need...truthful and sincere representation.

So after careful consideration and counsel with Yodi this morning over bagels and sausage, we have determined that we will endorse only newcomers. And we will mail them the reason and expectations we have in lieu of our support. In other words put them on notice that if elected they will do our will not special interests or the will of the part oldtimers.

If you are a Republican, Democrat, Independent, or minority party member...now is the time to change focus. Instead of voting in the incumbant or by party line and then keeping your fingers crossed that they will truly represent your concerns, [until they stick the screws to you once again], why not start with an entire new crop. Plant a new state legislature and federal Congress. And make sure you nurture them through support and inspiration, [alot better than I did the new orchard].

We need to stay on top of our new crop so that it doesn't rot like the current one. Vote for "real" change. Throw all the current bums out...and primary time is how we do it. If an incumbant runs, [which is probably a given], then vote for who is running against them in the primary. If nobody is challenging them...then do what you can to enlist a capable volunteer. The point is we need a complete house cleaning. And the same can be said during the 2008 cycle...but let's first get through this one. Maybe then we will get what we deserve pay for...we certainly deserve better than we have.

My blessings and prayers to you all.