Several times in American history we have seen political parties die out and be replaced by a new voice. The original two parties were the Democrat-Republican Party, led by Thomas Jefferson and the Federalist Party, led by John Adams. The Democrat-Republicans dropped the “Republican” and are the direct ancestor of the modern Democratic Party. After Adams failure at reelection the Federalists began to fade.
The Whig party replaced the Federalists. They lasted until slavery became the dominant issue and they began to die because they refused to take a clear stand. The Republicans came along and pushed them aside because they were a loud voice against slavery and wanted to find a way to allow poor people to acquire land in the West.
It is beginning to look like it is time for a new party to emerge that will replace the waffling of the Republicans. I have a word of strategy for those who are interested: Don’t start at the top.
Most third parties today start off trying to run a candidate for president. All they end up doing is winning the election for the side they are most angry with. In the last election Libertarians tended to bleed support from Republican candidates, guaranteeing victories for the Democrats. Names of the past that have caused similar results include Ralph Nader and Ross Perot.
The success of the Republican party of 1860 was built on a strong, clear stand against the institution of slavery and years of winning elections on lower levels. If a third part wants to push aside the insipid Republican leadership they need the same combination.
First, the new party needs to have a clear message. The Republicans are trying to be Democrat lite instead of being the party of principle. Every time we have run a candidate who is moderate, we have lost. List the names: Ford, Bush I (second time), Dole, McCain, Romney. When we have run people that the public is convinced are conservative we have won: Reagan, Bush I (first time), Bush II. We need to be a clear choice not a slightly different variation.
Second, start at the local level. Elect mayors, city councils, and dog catchers. If there are not enough people in a local area to elect a member of the city council there will not be enough to elect a president. Then move to state offices. When you have a voice and a track record, go for the big one.
Third, until you have enough voice to go national, back the best candidate in the general election. Register as a party but vote for the one who might (as opposed to won’t) do the right thing.
Just some thoughts about changing the direction of the country.
homo unius libri
I think you're mostly right, but I'm not sure I agree on joining a party. It may depend on the state you're in. Here in West Virginia, if you don't affiliate with any organized party, you can choose to vote in ANY one party during the primary.
ReplyDeleteThe only reason to join is that unless there is an organized voice, no one will listen and assume you are a squeaky wheel. We may be squeaky wheels but I think there are a lot of us, we just don't work together.
ReplyDeleteI also don't like the open primary system. It leaves too much room for manipulation, but we need to go with the system we have.
Either way, I am much more likely to vote third party in a primary than in a general election.
Grace and peace.