Fellow Coordinators -
The primary elections are coming up soon, and there are some big decisions to be made.
As y'all know, there are different perspectives as to how Tea Parties should approach political parties and political campaigns.
Some say Tea Parties should align themselves more closely with a political party (generally, the Republican Party.)
Others believe that Tea Parties should remain independent and non-partisan.
Some are convinced that Tea Parties need to endorse specific political candidates and function essentially as political action committees (PACs,) so as to accumulate and deliver money and other resources to certain political candidates.
Others believe that Tea Parties should focus on efforts such as finding and recruiting limited-government citizens, conducting grassroots training, researching major issues and candidates, keeping the citizenry informed about their elected officials and conducting voter registration and get out the vote efforts.
For the time being, Dallas Tea Party is, and will continue to be, focused on recruitment, training, research, information and get out the vote efforts, but others may have a different perspective, and we look forward to your thoughts.
Please share your thoughts below in the comments. Thank you.
The Founders were about the opposition to nearly anything government. I believe this is the core of the Tea Parties today. We may disagree about what level of limited govenment we should have, but we all agree that in general the government needs to get out of our lives.
I do not believe anyone should support a candidate just because they may have an "R" behind their name. I may never contribute to the National Republican Party again after they spent over a million dollars supporting a liberal Republican candidate in New York. After spending all that money she then backed out of the race and supported the Democrat. And, the conservative lost.
Also, I think tea party people can belong to party of choice, however, all I have met are conservative.
Hope my comments will be of help.
Jim - Carrollton Tea Party
You follow principle and truth, no matter where it lay! You CANNOT do this by establishing link to a party (no matter how far conservative it presents itself as).
The only thing as far as endorsing goes could be the endorsing of the voting records of various candidates, and not the candidate themselves. And even that needs to be EXTREMELY scrutinized.
The Tea Party organizations need to be an independent organization that produces heavy information on the various choices of potential candidates, as well as a source of rigorous debate to bring to light the pro's and con's of each candidate. This will allow our country to have a source of information where they can find out about the voting records of candidates, their alignments to principles instead of party, and to give a chance to the "common citizen" candidates who don't have money or a camp
They (we) COULD say candidates X, Y and Z meet the criteria of the TP Platform.
Just like Newt's endorsement will be like a cinder-block tied around his neck.
I dont want to see that happen to the TP movement.
I am not sure what everyone here hopes to accomplish. Holding rallies is fun, but does not lead to legislative change. The change we need is at the ballot box.
FACT: The Tea Party took no position in Texas on the Constitutional Amendments. FACT: They ALL passed, and you can't tell me that was good for our movement. By attempting to provide information and educate without taking a position, we failed to effect yesterday's vote in Texas.
I guess I want to know what you expect to accomplish by not backing candidates?
Is the current goal of this group to merely educate people that will read an email?
This group keeps stomping their feat saying they won't support someone with an "R" by their name, but no one has the guts to say who they will support?
I do.
My cousin used to try that trick when we were little kids. If you didn't want to do what he wanted you to do (e.g., pee on an electric fence, put a dead bird on your head, etc.), he'd claim it was because you were 'just too chicken.'
The 'I've got more guts than you' tactic didn't work on us when we were five years old. What makes you think it'll work now?
People have honest disagreement on this issue. It has nothing to do with who 'has the guts' to follow your advice.
I guess the DTP has devolved into an educational group only. If that is the case, then that's all I will count on it for.
I wonder, how many here have even taken the time to make rallies?
No one is saying that you shouldn't stand up and fight for the candidates that YOU, Jim Bright, support.
All Tea Party members are encouraged to do the same.
What you're advocating is that we appoint a committee or whatever that will anoint certain candidates as 'Official Tea Party' candidates.
I am reading a bunch of arguments in opposition to that proposition.
I'm still waiting to read an argument IN FAVOR of it.
I believe you, but someone did delete them.
BTW - I appreciate your putting this blog up. It has been an eye opener for me. I know I sound shrill here, but I am fighting for my position on it. Clearly a losing battle with this group, so I will invest those resources elsewhere and utilize the DTP as an educational resource exclusively. At least now I know.
It's likely that your comment was too long and got truncated by the system.
Jim, we are just getting started. Why do you expect we (just average) people can move mountains over night? Most of us have only been involved since April. People have to be trained and educated before they can effectively train and educate others.
Once you endorse a candidate, you are married to him/her. NO ONE is worth taking down the movement for. So, by your logic the TP people in NY should have supported Scozzafava?? The TP movement is more valuable building manpower not verbal endorsments that can ultimately discredit our principles.
There are hundreds of other 'clubs' that folks can participate in if they want to support a candidate. But then, here we are today!
I know that you aren't suggesting we all become sheeple, but I think there is a place for all of the elements discussed here.
Contact Mel Moss in Arlington. sportbike100@yahoo.com He's busy building a large group in your area.
People read email, walk precints, hold block parites, have dinners, neighborhood meetings, happy hours, rally and grow the membership.
It doesn't get any better than that to get back to good ol' American values.
Getting to know your neighbors is where it starts and where it flourishes into the biggest angriest mob no politician wants to tango with.
Do not endorse specific candidates. Educate voters.
I think the Tea Party should concentrate on consolidating its message and core principles and then be prepared to support politicians from either party who advance those principles.
Right now, the system is broken. The Tea Party movement is a symptom of the problem and somehow it must evolve into a solution. That is the challenge.
You ARE being naive. Jim Bright pointed to the fact that in the absence of Tea Party activism on the Constitutional Amendments, they all passed. Eight percent of registered voters voted in this election. Historical data tells almost exactly who these people are. The Tea Party missed a golden opportunity to educate them and possibly change the result, at least on a few of the worst measures. It would have been a good first effort at electoral activism allowing the Tea Party to build an organization and work out the kinks in an election in which the outcome did not matter much. If that had happened, a Texas PAC would have had to have been formed. If you think the Tea Party can endorse in congressional races without forming a 527 (Federal PAC), then you asking for trouble.
Simply put, this is a political organization. To try to skirt around the law and avoid electoral behavior that avoids crossing lines is a prescription for failure, especially in congressional races.
It's funny to me that all these people dead set on the TP's saving the world are the same tired people that have been involved in politics for years. They don't understand. If you are naive, then so are hundreds of thousands of others. Keep the party moving folks.
Sometimes when I read these blogs I am reminded of Trotsky's description of the debates among the revolutionaries in The Russian Revolution.
As individuals, we should use the information gleaned by our TEA Party networks to support candidates as we see fit. But the TEA Party apparatus needs to be kept separate and above the fray. Yes, TEA Parties support a strict constructionist view of the Constitution, and should try to find, recruit, and train like-minded folks to successfully seek office. But endorsements should be done by individuals only!
That may be an indication that 'we got killed' isn't the consensus view of what happened yesterday.
I didn't strongly agree with several of the opposition positions taken by the TEA Party. The TBA and DMN endorsed all passing, that carries a lot of weight. The TP position I saw supported the passage of 7 of 11, so the TP position won 64% of the time. Killed?? Not at all!
"Tea Parties should focus on efforts such as finding and recruiting limited-government citizens, conducting grassroots training, researching major issues and candidates, keeping the citizenry informed about their elected officials and conducting voter registration and get out the vote efforts."
The Tea Party should become well-known as a fine source of non-biased info, particularly since the media have abandoned that role wholesale.
The world does not really need another PAC.
The Tea Parties aren't supporting anyone, except possibly Hoffman, who lost yesterday. that's my beef, no one here wants to support a candidate, only their principles.
What good are principles if you won't back a candidate who believes in them?
Principles guide the endorsements, but the endorsements are made by individuals, not the TEA Parties. To do so will lead to schisms within the TEA Parties.
Hoffman lost because he didn't have the GOP line too, with those party line votes, he would have won outright. He was a novice candidate, right on the issues generally, but not polished, with a halting style of delivery that didn't raise confidence. He can LEARN that before the General Election next year.
If your PAC hires Fred Thompson or Sarah Palin, as a spokesperson, I can see how an endorsement would carry some real weight with the voters.
An endorsement by you or me? Probably not the same.
by June Redford-Range
If you believe in the platform of a candidate/party, VOTE for them. Otherwise, you are selling yourself out... for what? The 'winner' of the 'lesser of two evils' to sell YOU out at a slightly slower pace than his opponent? What kind of logic is that?
Lastly, I saw an interesting write up from the Cato Institute that showed that a small percentage (less that 10%?) identified themselves as a libertarian in a scientific poll. However, when you asked if they were fiscally conservative and socially tolerant, 44% identified themselves as such. Obvious thing here, we (I'm a county LP chair) have to do more education.... even amongst the Tea Partiers. (Needless to say, I think that the Tea Party should endorse specific candidates - and not a party - and not just
My own view, which has been enumerated in the charter for The Memphis TEA Party is:
The Memphis TEA Party will organize protest rallies to energize and enlist the support of the community and create a vehicle for their voice to be heard in the public domain. The events will be of a non-partisan nature, however will be consistent with the Mission Statement of the organization.
We will work to educate, inform and motivate people to realize their duty as citizens and work towards the mission of this organization for the benefit or our state and nation.
Further, the Memphis TEA Party shall take actions to find, support, and elect responsible
but to have to listen and receive promotions of a candidate really turns me off. I made up my mind concerning the support of Hoffman on hopefully the facts....
I will make up my own mind concerning Medina-Perry and KB based on hearing them and research
but to have to listen and receive promotions of a candidate really turns me off. I made up my mind concerning the support of Hoffman on hopefully the facts....
I will make up my own mind concerning Medina-Perry and KB based on hearing them and research
I can't believe the RNC wasted almost a million dollars on a Liberal Democrat traitor. Voting for RINO candidates will bring us that much faster to State Socialism.
A few years back I would have been willing to bet real money that Henserling was going to be the next 'bright star'. I suspect the media isn't telling us the whole story here and I'd hate to see a gun-grabbing foreign made pickup truck candidate replace Pete who was getting to the right place most of the time.
YES.
If our competition includes the "sub-reptilian intellect" of Pelosi and a prez in office for 300 days, with coat tails as 'long as a naked midget', I think we have a "Perfect Storm" brewing!
Use ALL our combined time, intensity, PASSION, intellect, talent, research skills, energy, and 'boots on the ground' groups to find and vet
CANDIDATES WHO CARE about what THE AMERICAN PEOPLE WANT--rather than exhibiting THE CONTEMPT for them them that was shown by the white house this morning--and GET THEM ELECTED!!
I split my time between NV/TX so I am happy to keep you abreast of our friend Harry and how/when TX can offer support.
If everyone could share critical info about other state races then we can rally behind those that need support.
One thing I think that would help our effort in how we are viewed to outsiders is to pick a couple of "core" topics and drill them home. I hear alot, from others, about tea parties not having focus - "what exactly are we protesting". Presenting a unified front (to outsiders) at demonstrations I think would make us appear stronger. I know it's hard when there are SO many things to protest but when 30000 people have 20000 diffent signs we don't appear organized...note I'm quoting outsiders.
Is it effective? Being we've had several state and county office candidates come to our small group with hat in hand because we DO plan endorsements, you can tell me if it's effective. It's been interesting but we feel influential.
Why is everyone so afraid to say whom they would endorse and having an open discussion about it? Isn't that how we're going to vet the candidates?
Why are you insisting on alienating people? This is a Tea Party, what don't you get about that?
Last person standing gets to make the endorsement! ;-)
As far as endorsing candidates, I see both the pros and cons but I lean toward non-endorsement policy and remain aloof from any uncovered scandal or embarrassment that may arise, but ALSO to strengthen its ability to convincingly argue and lobby whoever gets elected towards our stated ideals.
I absolutely believe in finding and recruiting citizens to keep us informed, however I think those individuals need to be able to execute those responsibilities with excellence and not be just anyone who volunteers for the job.
We have chosen to provide information, organize, and hold educational events to help our members make a better informed decision in every election. I'm very confident most of our members will vote the same as I. I believe, as an organization, we are much better served having candidates endorse OUR principles instead of us endorsing candidates.
"...we are much better served having candidates endorse OUR principles instead of us endorsing candidates."
Agree with Eddie, well spoken, Phillip.
As Ryan from Houston said at "Stand Up For Texas" this September, we need to tell the politicians "You listen to US now!"
We, as individuals, should work within the party we fit best and influence it toward the direction it should go.
We, as individuals, should support the candidates we think best. This may mean some type of caucusing to narrow the choices. We won't always agree, but we should try to work together (as individuals).
We, as tea party groups, should work to train, educate, motivate, etc. everyone we can.
We, as tea party groups, should be non-partisan and independent.
I occasionally send info to my list about a certain candidate I personally support. But I'm not saying that the Greenville Tea Party endorses that candidate. I'm just letting folks know about someone they might want to check out. So everyone knows where I stand, but I'm sure there are people on the list who support the other candidates.
Non-partisa
Here is the rest: Non-partisan and independent doesn't mean you never choose. It just means that you are an independent thinker and don't put party before principles. That's the way I look at it anyway.
I like the way the 23rd district went down, the best candidate was endorsed.
But is bible thumping a priority or are we about horrible government spending? Is the tea party for or against the war? If I ran against the war, and for gay marriage, or at least for gay marriage or even all marriage to be none of governments business, would I be ..... conservative enough?
I hope it stahs non-partisan and may the best candidate win.
May that candidate be the one that stands for less government, and more freedom!
As seductive as your idea is, it flies in the face of the fundamental nature of the Tea Party movement. Read thru these posts. The average Tea Partier is fiercely individualist. Our counterparts on the Left are not. They are collectivists, members of the hive, imbued with groupthink: they are the Borg. Their Cube is MoveOn.org. We are the Federation. We will outsmart them.
MoveOn people readily accept a central organization as the best way to achieve a Socialist State.
We know a central organization will not accommodate the individualism that is at the core of our political philosophy.
There is another way to do this, I will explain in a different post.
Now, the prior successes of this group, and I am a late comer to the movement, stem from the following:
1 - This country has been run by less than 25% of the population, fringe on the left and right.
2 - The successes of this past year have come largely by the "shock and awe" of the masses and quite frankly,
neither party was prepared for/nor understand how to handle it.
3 - The 75% of this fiercely loyal citizenry, that is content to get up and conduct our daily routine, "the Lemmings",
have risen up and said enough.
4 - Had high powered individuals not gotten involved in NY23, the people of that district would have felt that the 2
party system had given them A & B to choose from, i.e. Politics as usual.
Throughout the history of the United States, the two party system has been invaded by a third party. We have such a moment
If our competition includes the "sub-reptilian intellect" of Pelosi and a prez in office for 300 days, with coat tails as 'long as a naked midget', I think we have a "Perfect Storm" brewing!
Use ALL our combined time, intensity, PASSION, intellect, talent, research and fund-raising skills, energy, and 'boots on the ground' troops to find and vet CONSERVATIVE CANDIDATES WHO CARE about what THE AMERICAN PEOPLE WANT--rather than exhibiting THE CONTEMPT for them that was shown by the white house this morning--and GET THEM ELECTED!!
What about drafting and adopting the CORE VALUES of the CONSERVATIVE Party--as suggested at the meeting with Newt last week?
Perhaps that is the oil to the sticky wicket of party affiliation.
We are having an impact just going along willy-nilly as 10,000 loosely affiliated groups. But what would the CATALYST be for all of us to UNITE??
This is NOT a rhetorical question. I would like to hear some possible answers.
A short answer: SARAH PALIN!
OK, I know that is not an answer, but in a different age a major political leader would be such a catalyst. Today, we have only talk show hosts who are not running for office. Barry Goldwater actually was such a catalyst. He gave voice to millions of Conservatives in a very Liberal age.
So, a real answer: There isn't one, at least for the near term. This movement is defined by its decentralized nature. An attempt at unity is a cat-herding project of monumental proportions. It's not worth trying.
That does not mean the movement won't crab towards unity after the 2010 elections as presidential candidates emerge. Palin may the attractant.
But the likely course is that the Pragmatists will actually join the Republican Party and, in many places, take control of its apparatus and thereby achieve a unity of sorts. But if that happens, Republican haters will leave the
However, we can pull together when we see a CROOK, LIAR, SOCIALIST (big gov candidate, like Dede in NY-23) trying to wiggle their way into the system.
We can ban together fighting against incumbents that voted for bigger gov &/or Obamacare in the form it is now.
But fear we would lose credibility by indorsing, other than each of us joining our preferred candidates sites & helping out.
When we do stand up against bad members of congress -- it would be good to have a public statement setting out our 'reason' & limitations or something a disclaimer.
One thing we're seeing & not happy with are those in office &/or candidates grabbing onto our shirt tails ... basically feeling as if they are USING US for their own protection. Anyone else seeing that?
Endorsing a candidate with LMSM labeling us as far-right wingers, althouth we know Tea Party Patriots aren't -- may do some harm to a candidate. Something to consider.
But most of all -- we certainly want Democrats & Independents to feel extremely comfortable being part of the Tea Party movement & would hate to see losing any of them because it went too partison.
:)
if NY23 had been the same conditions, in a conservative stronghold (notice i did not say republican stronghold), it would have been a totally different story.
we need to be the standard bearers and the watch dogs....not a PAC, not party hacks, but patriots, citizens and voters who are organized. candidates should align themselves with us, not the other way around.
(btw, its a lie that NY23 has been republican since the civil war...there have been 17 democrats in that seat including several in the 80s and 90s)
The more the Tea Party movement looks like an extension of the Republican party, the fewer people we will draw.
Real politics are based on fear and influence; I can't imagine any candidate reading all of this being concerned in the least about what this organization 'knows' about him or her.
Rest assured, an alternative is in the works for those who want to actually make a distinctive difference in the people that supposedly represent us. Stay tuned, folks.
There is nothing to fear from an organization that won't work to defeat you at the polls.
By taking on the GOP's EXACT stance on these social issues, you are turning people away in droves. This includes many people in my libertarian organization that I have to try to convince (and usually I don't win) to join up the the Tea Pary at certain events. I know of some people that have dropped out due to them not wanting to align with the TP (especially after Rick Perry showed up in Fort Worth!). But I think it's important that we try to ally with the TP where it makes sense.
Stick to fiscal issues PERIOD! Or lose millions of votes.
Also,
We can all individually endorse candidates. Look at the positive impact of the Tea Party activists on the NY-23 election. No endorsement was needed. Individuals can either donate directly to candidates or to PACs that will. The Tea Party activists add nothing to this value exchange by getting in the middle.
We should continue to stay the course. It is making a difference. Education and information is key. PACs have an agenda and aren't doing it. The political parties CERTAINLY are not doing it, as shown by the NY-23 Republican Congressional candidate. That was
What doesn't get it done is an unclear signal in terms of the actual votes that need to be cast.
The goal is GET OUT THE VOTE and get Conservatives in office by them endorsing us and our principles. It's really not that difficult.
Candidates and office holders are filling up our calendars. I think that is a clear sign that they DO care what we think.
Ever heard of this Acronym....
KISS = Keep It Simple Stupid
Tea Parties should remain independent and non-partisan
sorry I'm just shootin straight with ya!!
I do not believe anyone should support a candidate just because they may have an "R" behind their name. I have been an independent all my life and support the candidate rather than the "party". The problem today is that there is no difference in the "parties" as they both are progressive and ignore the conservative majority voters. Washington politicians have sold their souls to special interests and lobbyists, whoever bids the highest for their vote. Both parties are equally to blame for the current state of affairs and until the corruption is rooted out and the appropriate senators and congressmen are punished, the problem will persist. The tea party movement has been aimed at correcting the problems and by not aligning with a particular party
In my humble opinion, modern radical liberalism (many in the current Democratic leadership) and indecisive moderation (some within both Democratic and Republican ranks) has gotten our country in the mess that is now laid before us. Adherence to the Constitutional principles that our nation is mandated to follow - that is to say, governing according to existing constitutional law that limits the government's power over its citizens - is what the Tea Parties should be a reflection of. If there
independent, constitutionally based, free market
driven, action groups. We should continually stay educated on all types of proposed legislation that diminishes or deprives people of freedom. Promote those who champion our cause, and hold ALL politicians to a responsible
higher standard, regardless of their party affiliation. By setting these benchmarks and placing peoples general welfare and pursuit of happiness above excess governmental control and growth, we will validate our founding fathers wisdom, courage, and foresight for
generations yet to come.
----- Forwarded Message ----
From: Stephani Scruggs <912projectpensacola@gmail.com>
To: NorthCentralFlorida912Project-list@meetup.com
Sent: Mon, November 2, 2009 7:49:24 PM
Subject: [NorthCentralFlorida912Project] Important Notice for All 912ers From Your State Coordinator
Dear Florida 912ers,
There's been a bit of craziness and confusion in the groups lately, and I feel we need to get a few things worked out. First of all, let me say, this is completely normal. Studies show that any time a group is formed, whether it is a corporate work group or the church bake sale,
With the current system, should tea parties endorse candidate's? No. Tea Parties should push an agenda and set of beliefs. Anything else would be nothing more than a conservative Acorn.
My thought process: Politicians are very difficult to relate to. If you add in their Political Party and donors, then where is the room for voting solely by 'principle'? Look at what happened to Newt for example. The Tea Party doesn't answer to anybody. My favorite insults from media hosts is when they say the Tea Party has no leaders or message. That is the point. The Tea Party is not about electing candidates, it is about defending the freedoms fought for by the founders of this country.
My thought process: Politicians are very difficult to relate to. If you add in their Political Party and donors, then where is the room for voting solely by 'principle'? Look at what happened to Newt for example. The Tea Party doesn't answer to anybody. My favorite insults from media hosts is when they say the Tea Party has no leaders or message. That is the point. The Tea Party is not about electing candidates, it is about defending the freedoms fought for by the founders of this country.
New York 23 is an example of IMO what should be done Nation wide. Find the left of left candidates and support the most moderate or conservative, constitutional candidate available. If that means inserting a conservative then thats what should be done. K of DTP open my eyes to this idea.
We need information to make informed decisions at the ballot box. We need organization to join forces. I personally still have not seen a number for the ralley in DC which to me indicates a lack of organization and coordination.
I personally would like to see something more visible and effective by the Tea Party Movement. I believe most of us are against Big Government and for Freedom yet we do little to directly get involved. I write at least two emails / letters a day to several people in Congress and the Senate about various issues. If we don't stop the Health Care takeover and Cap and Tax the vote in 2010 will be little mo
Suggest that the candidates' platforms and voting history be presented side-by-side to tea party members for their own evaluation.
By the way, this writer found the Heritage Alliance's recent analysis and recommendations on the Constitutional Amendments to be the most informative and useful.
My favorite media slam is that The Tea Party has no leaders or focused message. Can a politician vote solely by 'principle' if you include their party affiliation, lobbyists and donors? That is what is liberating about our movement. We are accepted regardless of our views on many party platform issues. The Tea Party focuses on the Constitution and Taxes. We should support candidates that support lowering taxes and upholding the Constitution and tell everyone who will listen about those that do not!
For example, there is this going on right now:
http://www.auditthefed.com/government/take-action-to-save-audit-the-fed/
where they are trying to gut the Audit the Fed bill, and what is needed is not an endorsement but people to make phones ring.
No one should be able to take us for granted. Endorsing R candidate after R candidate will just make us look R. We could easily be tempted into endorsing the "lesser of two evils". People need to know that we won't vote for someone who does not support the constitution.
There may be a point in the future when we are better served by publicly and formally uniting behind a particular candidate. I'm not sure it's that time yet. I think it's obvious by the posts here that people are wary of it.
Maybe we shoud form as a 3rd party. And when the lib's, or RINO's run... we place a Tea Party Candidate in there. Again, What would be AWESOME is if we had Tea Party Candidates run as a Democrat. We could start changing the Face of the Democrat Party.
We should be able to endorse Hoffman over Owens specifically because of their views of healthcare or have Rick Perry give a speech at a rally if we choose to. The Tea Party is a national grassroots organization. I believe the chapters of this movement should stay completely independent of all outside associations. I would like to know what others think about this?
BUT... I do not think we should be Rep OR Dem. I think we should be Rep AND Dem AND Ind AND Libertarian.
No, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." It is not broken now and we are having a tremendous impact. I say full steam ahead!
No, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." It is not broken now and we are having a tremendous impact. I say full steam ahead!
Where we must be careful is in the area of supporting specific candidates. The problem is that we end up helping the left by pulling votes from candidates that are electable. This is what happened with Ross Perot.
Upstate NY was a disaster. Yes, we pushed out a RINO, but we also gave up another vote in the House. It is now just another talking point for people like Pelosi to say they control the country.
What we need is a leader for this country that has charisma, is young, and marketable to most everyone. Someone that is fiscally responsible, a true capitalist. So far no one has risen above to lead the Republican party back to power. We need a leader.
Set up a Google Doc or Google Survey to ask our mailing list what the Const / Founding Fathers questions should be.
I agree.
The lack of a cogent, pragmatic approach to influencing the political system will result in a cacophony of voices. We should be concise as well as vociferous. Targeted block voting tied with targeted funding will leverage the system in our favor. The system is based on how many votes you can deliver on any specific subject. To rail against the "system" is seditious and egregious. It is the founding fathers system that we need to protect, it is being ignored and abused simply because the apathy of the voting citizen has allowed it to be ignored. The Tea Party Rocks ! However, without specific goals, it is an unfocused power that is pushing in all directions to a small effect. A better strategy is to create a platform of support for targeted candidates to support with votes, cash and labor. Come to realize that short of an overthrow of the government you must participate in the existing system and have the desired effect by using the existing rules for our bene
Thanks for asking.
I am glad to see this discussion getting aired out. This is what we need - brainstorming.
1) I have been impressed with the Tea Party's arm's length approach to the political parties for this reason: our emphasis has to be on the realities of life, such as the wise use of money and the real affects of sound business and low taxation. We need to encourage people who have been heavily influenced by liberal policies to see the practical side.
2) However, we do need to elect the right people, and that is done through the parties. The Tea Party's arms length from the parties can emphasize right thinking while encouraging people to choose good candidates and ask tough questions.
Just as we did in NY 23, I think we need to keep HAMMERING the message to the RNC that if they put up liberal good ole boy network candidates, we will run a conservative against them.
Healthcare, A Congress that is addicted to spending and is totally out of touch with the voters. We have been through this before. In the early 90%u2019s, when Congress thumbed its nose at the voters and we elected conservatives to stop the spending. What we did get was welfare reform that simply put in a work requirement for welfare recipients or, they would lose their welfare checks, and that has saved billions of tax dollars. Sure there were several others things in contract with America that saved tax dollars but the bottom line is they went back to spending and we lost faith in the Conservatives. Now, I hear the cry to once again, elect Conservatives and bring spending under control. Not going to happen!
The problem with both Liberals and Conservatives is that they go to Washington and like it so much they want to stay and make a life-long career. What becomes important are the monies to get
I think the Tea Parties can fill the missing element in our political structure of watchdog. It is not necessary to endorse anyone, only to publish the truth. If Tea Party leadership has such low regard for the American people that you think you need to tell people what to think or how to vote, then we are lost anyway. Tell the truth and trust in the American people. If you are just going to become someone else who thinks we are herd animals who need to be controlled and harvested, then the Tea Parties lose all value.
Both parties have demonstrated that they are confortable with big government controlling our lives and wealth.
The Republican party had its chance to make smaller government, but could not resist the allure of being the national nannies or dispensers of largess (ours, not their earned income), or of using their political power to re-distribute our wealth to their cronies.
So
My vote is to stay the course we are on.
-- Andrew Piziali, 75002 area coordinator
people and not scare away people
who may not know of "the Home of the Free BECAUSE of the Brave"
The 18 to 25 crowd really needs to be educated on this! Keep the Tea Parties coming! They are a first step in Refounding America!
I think we need to grow candidates that fill our ideological point of view, but we also need to select the most conservative candidates and endorse them; because we cannot afford to wait until we have trained and elected new candidates four to six years down the pike. We need to endorse the best candidates available that are the closest to our views, who we can be sure will not be sucked into the party system once they are elected. We should be looking for as many Ronald Reagan types as we can possibly find.
grace2u
However, if the Tea Party wants to promote free markets and individual liberty, then non partisan is the route to take, and promote principles, not a party. This is the course I would suggest. Our "enemy" is not the Democrats. We know they stand for collectivism. Our enemy are the Republicans who preach free markets and individual liberty, while voting to expand government power, and abandon free market concepts. By promoting principles over party, we can send the Republicans a message that no longer will we vote for them simply because they are NOT Dems. If the Repubs loose the election, then so be it. Next election they will put forth a candidate with principles not politics.
We need an option. While we all are conservative, the term is being used by the liberal media like it is a disease. I think maybe "conservationists" sounds more friendly.
In either case, we must remain independent. I think we should do all of what was suggested, except line up with one party, like the Republicans. Many are weak and like George Bush who created the Obama craze due to his lack of being conservative, I will not vote party line. Fresh ideas, and new faces are needed in the House and Senate. term limits so they can not become corrupted with power too quickly. I wish all politicians could be drafted to serve, as many with lofty goals seek power.
1. Remain independent from parties.
2. Remain very partisan: conservative.
3. TP should be a tool to identify and promote conservative candidates, but not a funding tool for politicians.
4. TP should continue to rally for conservative causes and against liberal, socialist, anti-capitalist candidates, programs, etc.
4. TP should NOT become a PAC or similar.
I've always voted Republican, but...we will NEVER get the changes in the Republican Party that the American people want i.e. bringing the Republican Party BACK to US, unless WE stay INDEPENDENT!!!!!
I have no problem with a T.E.A. Party endorsing a particular candidate - all the more reason to NOT be aligned with ANY party so that we CAN endorse the RIGHT candidate!!! Look at the recent events in NY23 race for the perfect example!!!
By totally aligning with either party we are inviting TROLLS to infest our ranks to divide us thereby rending us less effective. I see that a lot on gun forums where supposedly 2nd Amendment supporting trolls challenge every political issue with misdirecting distractions. Watch out for the TROLLS, liberals are not above sending them into our meeting to stir dissent.
*Being kept informed about political developments. I really appreciated the "heads up" on Hoffman in New York.
I would appreciate continuing "heads up" -- particularly in elections where a Democrat is parading as a Republican.
I would like to receive profiles on the candidates of the Republican/Conservative party.
As for issues concerning endorsements, remaining non-partisan, etc., I will leave that up to the leaders of the Movement. JUST DON'T GO LIBERAL ON US!!!
The momentum is great for the Grass Roots Movement right now. We need to keep it up and into the 2010 elections.
Thanks to all of you for your hard work.
P.S. As for donations for particular candidates--as elections near, and I have singled those out that I want to support, at that time I would make donation(s).
Lots of folks have a bitter taste in their mouths from Republicans. I think we should stay out the party business and focus on individual candidates.
I think the practice of gathering like-minded citizens into chains for the dissemination of information, training, voter registration, researching issues and candidate histories and stances are the proper tasks for the TEA Parties.
If we become a PAC, we become tied to those Parties and lose our independence.
I USED TO BE a Republican, and left them because they abandoned Constitutional observation. The Dems are often even worse, but the benefit of the doubt must be given on an individual basis, regardless of Party.
Curtis W Miller
Should the tea party movement endorse candidates? If the candidate represents the values that the tea party movement espouses, why not endo
Should the tea party movement endorse candidates? If the candidate represents the values that the tea party movement espouses, why not endor
Parties...NO
The Tea Party movement needs to remain independent and non-partisan. I can see endorsing a limited number of specific candidates, potentially across party lines.
However, all that should fall out of the voice of the grass roots that the movement represents.
Melissa Smith
other hand if there were three candidates running for office we would have to deside on one to keep from spliting the vote.
One of the main problems with endorsing a candidate is that their actions are unpredictable. The other is that it may be difficult for a committee to determine upon which issues to focus on a candidate in order to recommend endorsement.
I will continue to endorse and support candidates as an individual. I encourage everyone else to do the same.
We should continue to different from 'politics as usual' and remain the source of education and training. We will have the greatest impact in this role. It will also decrease the likelihood of dissension within the Tea Party on exactly which candidate to support in any given race.
We are on the right track, and filling a large void in our culture. Let's not mov
support the Republican though in many cases that
would be okay. However we need to be very careful
not to put in a third party in any one race that would
split the vote and allow the liberal/less conservative
candidate to win.
I being a simpleton would like to see the following on election and candidates.
A. An election calendar of all local and state elections.
B. A list of all candidates including party affiliation.
C. An extensive list of grass root questions in row and or column format with check marks whether they support or not support these questions. I want these questions to include how they favour these issues i.e. "Do", "Do not", "Somewhat favour", "Strongly Favour", etc..
D. Have an overall bottom line score based on their answers.
E. Contact name, phone number, email, references, and comment section for each.
Closing thought: In my minds eye, I see this as sort of an Exodus. I have absolutely no doubt in the success of this movement. Are you prepared for the coming hardships?
The government is going to suck the coffers dry on their
Not yet!! Remember why the tea party was formed.... We are faced now with a govt. that is spending out of control on, in my opinion, open reparation issues.. Look who is benefitting.. look what projefcts are getting funded?
look where the money is going!
I think we should be WATCHFUL on exposing where this money is going.. how many jobs are being created... Someone is doing this alredy.. but I think this is a big part of why the tea party was created.. to watch spending/thus taxes..et. to pay for it..
This all goes hand and hand. Someone in the White House.. Congress,etc. is doling out millions and millions of our taxpayer money to SOMEONE.. somewhere..
The TEA PARTY should NOW be zeroing in on WHERE THE MONEY is being spent! because higher TAXES is a direct result of all this spending... and isn't that what the tea party is all about? having to pay higher taxses.. then WHA
As we saw in the NY23rd district election November 3rd, the conservative candidate almost pulled it out with the endorsement of the Tea Party and other nationally known personalities; Fred Thompson, Sarah Palin, Sean Hannity and others. If the actual Republican candidate had a shred of conscience she would have endorsed Mr. Hoffman. But that is a RINO for you.
With the power of the people behind it, the Tea Party should use that power for the good of the country. The party is getting national recognition, and it almost got its first candidate elected to office. Re
1) Like it or not this country is stuck on 2 political parties of which one, the Democrat, is too far from tea party ideology to be considered. The other, the Republican, is more malleable and at least general follows tea party ideology. So if we tea partiers are going to have any political success, it will reside on the Republican side.
2) If tea parties DON'T get involved with candidate selection to some degree, there is no assurance that any of the candidates will be acceptable. At a minimum, tea parties should vet any and all candidates as early in the election cycle as possible (to avoid the problems of NY23) and publically make the vetted information (ideology of the candidate) known.
I think you're correct in that the Tea Party needs to vet the candidates and compare their ideaologies to the Tea Parties, and make that publicly known. However, I think the Tea Party needs to create their list of fundamental ideologies so that the party can actually compare theirs with the candidates. I have seen mostly generalized statements, but nothing concrete. That's our starting point. Our 'Declaration of Political Values' if you would.
I also think that training, recruitment, and providing information is highly effective. Considering the bias in the media informing the public is of primary importance. I think that this organization has done an excellent job.
My job prevents me from getting more involved, so I really look forward from hearing from the Tea Party on all matters and when I voted the other day I used the material provided by you. (Thanks)
The election the other day proved to me that most Demo and Republicans do not want Conservatives elected. ( I think the Republican party could have asked her to endorse him and didn't) I was glad to see the others win.
I think there may be a few good people still left in the Senate and Congress ???? and I think that people like Sara Palin, Fred Thompson and a few others that really care about the country and I would appreciate all the help I could get in picking the right people to help run this country right and not down into the ground, where I think it is heading now.
Being aligned to a party has a bad connotation of 'big
government', 'power hungry', and 'professional politics' and no connection to "We the people".
Just some thoughts on this subject.
Dennis
(conservative)run too high a risk of being compromised after the honeymoon is over for the current redirection forced by the TEA PARTIES choices and voice. Until there is a visable sift from the moderate death call of the current. Too narrow a definition of purpose will also restrict the liberty of the people to speak their hearts and minds within the Tea Party movement framework. I would favor focusing efforts on recruitment of limited govenrment citizens, training, research and desemination of information for the citizentry and get out to vote efforts. Information freely given without endorsements
Amen, Brother! (And that from someone who was a GOP County Chair in the distant past).
The problem is, by not endorsing CANDIDATES- at the PRIMARY level- the Tea Party becomes essentially harmless to the party machinery in BOTH parties. And NO ONE I know wants to be exclusive to the GOP (sure suicide for any area out in rural areas of Texas).
Fortunately, the Tea Party movement is not as monolithic as some would have it; that's the beauty of a grassroots effort. There are other entities within the Tea Party family that will 'skin this cat' using the PAC-endorsement model; and they are starting to network. If that is they route you wish to go, find one of those entities and join in (most of us are members of multiple groups).
All I know is Monday evening I'll be in a group sitting across the table from a nervous long-time state politician, waiting for him to explain himself. And he knows 'speechifying' won't
Also, when we look out at these vast crowds at the tea parties and protests, they are not all Republicans. I would rather we stay non-partisan and have conservative Independents and conservative Democrats come to us as we bring conservatism to the fore.
Thank you Tea Party leadership for ALL you do!!!
I also think we should have a list of recommended conservative businesses. If I am in Addison and want to go out I will always go to Cape Buffalo because they held the tea party and I want to support conservative businesses. I think we should all support conservative business and not support liberal ones. They will h
However, we must stay non partisan. That's not an opinion, that's the law as it applies to my membership.
why not...
Make THEM want to endorse US!
(this should be our motto!)
We must unite and work together to ensure persons of the Republican Party are elected. By aligning along party lines, we can effectively be used more efficiently.
Obviously, the platform of the GOP is the clear fiduciary standard and supports financial stewardship, limited government, low taxes, and capitalism. Yet, many of the social and foreign policy issues greatly impact reactions and policies towards finance. All politics are local!
We can no more remain independent than that of our revolutionary forefathers. To say, we fight against irresponsible spending while casting a blind eye towards abortion seems to seeth with self interest. To allow, elected officials to use our t
We should support the best decisions who ever they happen to come from.
We also need to vet each candidate running for a public office. Questions and answers must be posted for all to read.
We should back those candidates that believe in limited government and the constitution, no matter what party they belong too.
@Jane: I agree to a point. Including the words "Moral" and "Ethical" are fairly subjective. For example, I think it's immoral and unethical to take a portion of fruits of my labor (at the threat of imprisonment) and give it the National Endowment for the Arts. And I LOVE the Arts!
However, some people think it's immoral not to!! Crazy, but true!
Note: I'm a Christ-follower, but I also think it's immoral to trample the rights of people who are doing certain things that are outside the scope of Christianity (provided they aren't infringing upon the equal rights of others).
Trust me. Infusing too much Christian zealousness into the GOP Platform is why Obama is in office.
If we get involved in party pol. we are just a part of the RNC or DNC and will lose our crediblity as a "Grass Roots" organization and will be infiltrated by party hacks.
I believe that Tea Parties should focus on efforts such as finding and recruiting limited-government citizens, conducting grassroots training, researching major issues and candidates, keeping the citizenry informed about their elected officials and conducting voter registration and get out the vote efforts.
"Republicans" who have given us the likes of Susan Collins, Olympia Snowe, Lincoln Chaffee, etc.), keeping the citizenry informed about the performance of their elected officials and conducting voter registration and get out the vote efforts.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
Ken Piel
I do not believe the Republican party should be a Big Tent organization. It should represent sober conservative thought. However, by including undecided voters as well as those affiliated with both parties, the Tea Parties can substantiate a more widespread opposition to the White House and Congress.
Because many Democrats and Independents are also experiencing discontent with the this administration, I feel that Tea Parties will lose their support if we advocate a specific politician from the Republican Party for office.
Promote conservative values. Point out what's wrong. State what can make it right. Stay on the high ground. Whoever wants to walk with us knows what we stand for and is welcome to join us if they so choose.
Thanks for all you are doing at this critical time in our nation's history. God, country above all!
www.HeritageAlliance.com rates all TX legislators on both fiscal and social conservative ratings.
Go to http://www.acuratings.org/ to see how all US Congressman and Sentators are rated by the American Conservative Union.
Tea Party does not need to reinvent the ratings wheel. Tea Party needs to help get out the vote and elect Conservatives in every Primary this March. Now is the time to volunteer to help defeat tax and spend Republicans.
I kind of see the Tea Party Patriots as the NEW FREEMASONS. We are the new keepers of the values and traditions of this country. It requires vigilance, education, and patience, for all these things take time.
Should we focus on Republican Party? Yes. Sounds ominous...but we should influence and infiltrate. In order for to be successful we must have people in the power structure. It is a simple as that. The Republican party is 'ready made' so to speak.
Having said that, we should remain independent too. Is that possible if we allign ourselves with the Republican Party? Honestly, I am not sure. I just don't want to be limited or taken advantaged of by the Republicans. If someone comes along from another party including Democrats that best represents our values then we should be free to support them.
Endorsements are a necessary evil.
specific candidates that think the the way we do. Also we need to recruit good limited goverment citizen, keep the people informed about our elected officals conducting voter registration and get out the vote efforts. Good officials need to be supported and one that do not listen to the citizens should be voted out.
We find, vet, endorse, & elect fiscal conservatives in one of the 2 parties. No 3rd parties. We need 1000 boots on the ground in each Congressional District by late spring to be ready for the primaries. View the 1st video on this site, then continue to view the rest or join & get active. http://icaucus.org
As part of the North Texas Tea Party, I have volunteered to help get out the Conservative vote in TX HD 66 to help defeat a 19 year incumbent Republican who voted to raise taxes over 54% of the time in the last TX legislative session.
We need more Tea Party volunteers to help us get out the vote.
Any volunteers?
If yes, go to www.StandWithWayne.com
The Republican Party of Texas platform supports all of the issues supported by the Dallas Tea Party.
If you really want limited government and fiscal responsibility, you really need to get involved and volunteer to help elect Conservative candidates in the Republican Primary for both House an
And I believe more often than not the right candidate will not have an R or D behind his/her name. The establishment won't put forward the right candidate, as seen in NY. The parties want to grow gov't and their own party. So often the right candidate will need Tea Parties to help expose them to the public, again like we saw in NY.
I would ask the question why were Tea Parties formed and what result was or has been achieved from the formation of Tea Parties.
If lower taxes, less goverment, more individual responsibility instead of using goverment as a means of subsistence, I would without question support whichever party supports those principals. With the current political circus that sits in Washington there are a large number of idiots that believe people will vote for them if they put food on their table and pay for their hospital bills. Enough of attempting neutrality, get out the NOBAMA signs. R Warner
Neither the Republicans nor the Democrats (nor any other Party) have an exclusive on good people or good ideas. Likewise, neither Conservatives nor Progressives have an exclusive on good ideas or what is right. We should be electing people
We should stay free from any commitments except to defend the Constitution, the Principles of our founding Fathers, and to protect the souvergnty... state as well as nation.
Let's keep our individual freedom, opinions as individual and just join together for the common cause for the common good, which is for the common individual.
Let's not involve ourselves into the position of other political organizations. Let's be free to just be the watchdogs to start barking when we sense danger.
One major problem with most voters is that they are too busy to read all the for and against arguments. Most people just want to know which side is the conservative side and want to be told how to vote on all 11.
To VET this person to our satisfaction.
We should have a HIRE and a FIRE list. To let the know where we stand with a person.
Although 'Grassroots' Republicans understand limited government and vote that way once our politicians get to D.C. they sometimes 'forget' so groups like the Tea Party Patriots can help them find their way 'home'. 'Never Forget' is a motto that should remind us that once a party spends worse than a drunken sailor we need to be wary of them and keep them truly accountable.
The big need we have is for good, conservative candidates that we can get on the primary ballot at all levels. Then we need to find the most effective way to build support for that candidate. That might be by giving money, but I think that we should simply exhort our members to give money directly to the candidate(s) involved. If we form a PAC, it would give us more clout, perhaps, but then we become pretty much like other groups, and we are then in danger of becoming less relevant.
The other big need is to educate the voting popula
When Joshua was confronted by the Angel of the Lord at Jerico, he asked, "Are you for us or for our enemies?" The angel answered, "Neither, but as commander of the army of the LORD I have now come."
No, we should not endorse candidates, as if we are joining their side. We are the people, the commander; we set the agenda. It is the job of the candidates to submit themselves to our rule and to the rule of the Constitution.
Certainly we cheered for Hoffman, because he stood for the Constitution. But endorse? Don't chain yourself to a person you cannot control.
NO ONE suggested endorsing a Party!
So it's time to put our (own people) in there- who actually HAVE conservative ideals. Not just the ones that are now (SAYING) they have those ideals. But the ones that live the walk and VOTE the talk- that really have those ideals.
If the Republicans get back in there- they will only continue to do- what the Democrats are doing now. Make BIGGER government. It seems that the (NEW) Republican party just wants to ride our wave and (use us) like the Democrats used the (poor & old) vote to get into office. And look at how bad they have screwed things up for us- since they have been in office? They are Ram-Roding every piece of (crappy) legislation they can come up with- down our throats! There has got to be a better way- than voting in an (slightly-different) enemy-one we know only (a bit) better than the ones in there now.
At least-- until someone (twists this into being something bad) just like the progressives did to the Liberal, Democratic & Republican parties. We have some time until that happens though.
At least-- until someone (twists this into being something bad) just like the progressives did to the Liberal, Democratic & Republican parties. At least we have some time until that happens though.
I no longer claim party affiliation and have joined the ranks of seeking out the candidate that most aligns with my political beliefs. That candidate must have PROOF that they are what they say they are...and that is, conservative. I don't care what name they go under - as long as they prove they are and will continue to be CONSERVATIVE and willing to shut our borders down and do what it takes to send the illegals (who are sucking us financially dry) HOME!
to tremble at power of our vote.
As for sponsoring a particular candidate, NO! What we should do is have a board similar to that of NumbersUSA. It could list the voting history and other pertinent information on each candidate and allow the Tea Party participant to read for themselves and vote based on FACTS, and not political spin.
I, for one, no longer claim the Republican title. I will vote for a person based on VERIFIABLE facts and history and voting history.
And for the record, since Texas Governor election is quickly approaching, perhaps someone could post the bad stances that both Hutchison and Perry have taken in years past; and list the news kids in town, Debra Medina and Larry Kilgore - to name a couple!
What if the candidate has no voting record? I am running for congress and have never ran for anything before. Where would I fit? Do you believe ANYONE in congress has ever done a good job? Do we have a balanced budget? Has anyone in Congress ever reduced spending? They have all failed because they are controlled by the parties. They may go to DC with good intentions but they are soon seduced by the dark side of the force. The only thing we can do is limit terms and do away with incubants any way we can.
We can grade individual candidates on how they match our policy list.
If a candidate does not have a public statement of opinion on something and/or will not answer our questions, count that as if they are against our recommended policy.
This way, we establish a fixed standard by which we can measure all candidates equally.
I do think our measure should be non-partisan and tied specifically to OUR agenda and not to the agenda of some other party/group
I am an independent conservative running for the house seat occupied by Kay Granger. I am a john q. public. I have no money, & no political experience. I am an intelligent no nonesense problem solver. How can I make my case to people like you? Without a medium like the TP you will never hear my name. An endorsement or a grade by the TP will reach everyone in the organization. Without endorsements you will keep the incumbents in office. Please don't think about leaving and don't throw the baby out with the bath water. Let's find a way to come together and take back our government.
I remember the satisfaction that I felt in Nov '94 at the Republican sweep, and the (dare I say
it) the "hope" that finally real freedom in the U.S. would take hold. I actually thought that the R's would start eliminating and defunding alphabet agencys, and move toward some kind of a more friendly taxing system.
My hope soon changed to worry...then to anger and disillusion. I actually remember a
conversation between myself and my newly elected Republican Congressman, Pete Sessions. At the
first town meeting that he hosted after his election, I stood up and asked him when the dismanteling of the Depts of Energy and Education would begin. He looked at me like I was a martian alien.
His direct words were "that's absurd...it's not going to happen" and asked where I got such a crazy notion. It was like I was nuts even though I had heard some new Congressmen like Steve Stockman, and I think even Newt say the same thing.
So it went...
Stay independent.
Stay active.
Stay on them.
Otherwise, we're bright enough to make choices about the candidates we prefer.
In addition, by remaining non-partisan, our members can help reshape BOTH major parties in the primaries next spring. Surely we can help elect more Blue Dogs in the Democratic Party as well as supporting fiscally conservative Republicans.
I basically agree. BUT I think we must first find common ground on secular issues. If the statists can keep conservatives arguing on the issues you mentioned, they will be able to dilute our vote. We must concentrate on the conservative issues that limit government first. Once we regain control, then we can concentrate on the moral issues. If we continue the way we're going, there won't be a bone to fight over.
We a group of average American citizens who believe in the ideology that defines America...life, liberty and the Pursuit of Happines, Limited Governnment of the the people, by the people, and for the people! I belive this should be the message of the Tea Parties.
Like ACORN?
1.Vette the candidate running for office
2.If the candidate has and endorses conservative thoughts and policies become a PAC for that person
3. Continue to train, recruite, register voters, do research and keep your members informed
4. Continue to have rally's with conservative speakers
...When you find a candidate that meets the conservative values you endorse it makes no difference whether he is a Rep or Dem...
...I would caution all Tea Party organizers and members this, forming a THIRD PARTY is not the way to take back the Presidency or the Capital. Ross Perot did this and sent Geo.H W Bush to the side lines permanently...In 2012 we cannot afford that...We must have a clean sweep because the newly elected will have to reverse many of the policies now being implemented...Bob Remey
Fair questions to consider. I wonder, what the political landscape would look like if the Tea Parties turned their attention to the Political Candidates that support the Tea Parties.
What if the Tea Parties could take a page from the concepts from other loosely organized groups. Publish the Candidates historical voting records. Publish the Bills they support and push. Publish the Bills they fail to support. Publish the responses to questions that are important to those involved in the Tea Parties. Publish the remarks of those that choose not to address the Tea Parties or disrespects that passion of the people.
That would be a new definition of Political Correctness.
I guess I'd like to see the Tea Party (with the help of researchers in the zip codes) rate the conservative candidates against our 5 principles and see which ones (maybe 2 or 3) that rise to the top as a best match. That way we are more focused and can actually make a difference, rather than just having a bunch of individuals support everyone and end up with the "same old politicians" when it's all said and done.
I hope we will remain independant as well. Today all I see are politicians wholly focused on their own re-election and political wheeling and dealing. By remaining independent, we prevent the media and pollsters from marginalizing our organization.
I also agree that endorsing a candidate is only going to lead to division. I'd like to see our efforts more focused on identifying the CORE beliefs that bring us together, communicating those beliefs broadly and promoting those candidates to the constituency that align to OUR shared beliefs. The members can then decide for themselves how well the candidates model the behaviours we seek!
Every political animal in the country can see opportunities to use the Tea Party movement to advance their own pet interests. Allowing that to happen would poison the well of enthusiasm for the Tea Party Movement.
I strongly believe that the Tea Party Movement should break down walls between the People and their government, and also between people and their neighbors.
----------------------------
by Rob Cronan 2009-11-05 23:08:10 Reply permalink
I suggest that instead of outright endorsement for any candidates, the TEA Parties should rate candidates for their adherence to the established TEA Party principles. Thus candidates can be rated by the TEA Party in terms of percentage adherence - a 100% percent rating means a candidate follows all of the TEA Party principles all of the time, and so on. Thus endorsements would not be specific, but would none-the-less be implied, at least to like-minded TEA Party patriots
Making individual endorsements and working on campaigns as individuals lets us have the best of both worlds. In the end, it's about making sure the candidates and elected officials NEVER take us for granted again. I think we found the way with tea party.
I, for myself, will endorse candidates and argue for them. I don't need the Tea Party, as an organization, to do that for me.
The endorsement is not as valuable to those outside the organization as it is to those inside the organization. An endorsement gets the candidate exposure to all the members in that organization. I am an independent running for the congressional seat occupied by Kay Granger. I cannot compete with her financially. I am a john doe. My only hope is to get my message out. An organization like this is my only chance to get to DC and try to make the people's voice heard.
What would be wrong with developing a concensus platform and informing the membership who best represents that platform? By not endorsing, we put the advantage back to the candidates with the most money, which are the ones backed by the parties.
Because those corrupt, special Interest, good old boy who had "addicion and was womanized" untill 3 months ago !! Christian, conservative by name only, who have been recieved suppport by State and local GOP, some elected officals and some christian organizarion who stolen other candidate votes, money ... for years could reelected and " I can prove it."
Statistically 7 out of every 10 voters are uninformed on the candidate and their positions on the issues. Statistically every state congressional and senatorial seat in Texas was won by the Candidate who spent the most money. If you want new blood in office you better be prepared to select candidates,endorse them, and donate to their campaigns.
We should focus on issues not political parties. Thier petty bickering diverts the nation away from the issues. Don't attach ourselves to them, let them attach themselves to us in the fight for freedom, individual rights, and limited government. If you live in Taxachusetts, please vote out Barney Frank and John Kerry!!
Endorsing Candidates: Each Tool is designed to do a different job. This requires a different tool ie a PAC. I believe the development of PAC's is the next logical step but while the values are the same the function is different and should complement to work of the Tea Parties. However, I believe the PAC's that develop should be based on principles not parties.
Let us always remember we are not out to change America - we are out to RESTORE her and we should not get sucked into the tug or war between the parties that got us in this mess. No party should be so comfortable that they could take our support for granted.
If you want the support of the people, you've got to make it EASY for the people.
"DTP believes this candidate is better than that candidate."
People are like sheep that want to be led. If TP leadership doesn't lead with endorsements/recommedations, the people will scatter.
and clarifying to many Americans
especially new and young Americans
that Democracy does not equal or mean Democtatic Party.
What are your thoughts on rating candidates on their adherence to the 5 principles? What about recruiting candidates? How are we going to get choice in the primaries if we don't find and recruit liberty-minded candidates?
However, to effect change that really matters, we need to be engaged in identifying good, conservative candidates throughout the system in all races, big and small. If we, as a group, identify them, and state our support of them early and often, I believe the Republican party cannot ignore us. It would require even the most casual observer of the political process to notice. If they want to win, they will want to join with us and give us the candidates that we find acceptable. If the Republicans want to win, they will need us! They do want to win
If a R or a D or an I fits the bill, they fit the bill. No party affiliation at this point.
Yours:
Drew
Any Dem who voted against the bill AFTER 218 votes were registered for it, needs to be voted out as well for their lack of principle. You can bet Chet Edwards was one of those.
The politicians are hoping and praying that the Tea Partiers choose to remain merely a protest organization and chooses not to endorse candidates. Then, just like every candidate professes to be the anti-establishment candidate, they will now profess to be the Tea Party candidate. The only way we can prevent RINOs from claiming our mantle is to put our support in writing and recruit candidates from the local level up who espouse limited government ideals and will follow the Constitution rather than just talk about it.
The Republican party does not desrve nor has it proven that it can listen to our strong voice. I am a registered repub. but as many now call myslef conservative. If there was a third party (realistically) that would be best but we all know it is near im-possibel to strt one. Ron Paul is the model (libertaterian working within the repub party) that works. Dems and libs must be crushed as they follow the Marxist in charge all to willingly.
No to specific candidate endorsement as well. That would open the possibility to getting duped by the poer hungry.
This movement is too strong, on the right path, and too valuable as is---lret the candidates court our votes.
Please keep up the great work. I am a loyslist to the tea party movement and am proud of it. I have attended two t
Step 2.HOW?
Step 3.Oh Yeah...whatever Candidates WE send to DC are going to be sucked into a Black-hole...can you hear the sucking sound now? FIX THE SYSTEM!
Step 4.HOW?
Step 5.What about the Executive AND THE JUDICIAL BRANCH---ANYBODY? The prez doesn't create jobs or CZARS and judges DO NOT make policy from the bench! OH crap...WE don't have a seat at the table of power...NOW WHAT?
Step 6.The Mainstream Media creates Conventional Wisdom for US and for THEM(remember the sucking sound)...FIX THE SYSTEM!
Step 7. HOW?
THE PROBLEM IS ABOUT AS BIG AS THE MILKY WAY...CANDIDATES ARE NOT THE SOLUTION - ONLY A SYMPTOM OF THE BIGGER PROBLEM!
WE THE PEOPLE NEED TO simply FOLLOW THE FOOTSTEPS OF OUR FORE-FATHERS step-by-step. WE DO NOT NEED TO RE-INVENT HISTORY! OR else WE are screwed...
If anyone has folks in zip 76040, please send me their emails or give them mine and we'll get together and go from there!
Thanks
Putting perspective aside, remaining a bi-partisan movement will also have an effect on issues being debated across the country right now. The more elected officials see this as a growing unilateral effort, the more power the movement will have to encourage responsible voting on their part. I think this was reflected in the changes that were made by Liberal Democrats this week to the Health Care Bill to placate moderate Democrats. The power is in numbers.
On supporting a part
Our role should be to inform as many people as possible about what it means to live in a FREE society and what is necessary to preserve that freedom. "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country."
into the radical left and we that are center right and independent would be supporting a diluted party. We may all not agree on every issue but there is currently a strong enough conservative center right majority that hopefully we can take back the congress in 2010. Even though there were 20 plus dems that voted this weekend aganist the HR bill they only held out to preserve that margin in their district to help keep the congressional majority for Pelosie. I hope the people in their districts don't fall for that trick and vote them out this time around. If we can stay on message and shift the
Understand this could be a third party person running as a libritarian or independant. This fact alone will help weed out the RINO's.
I think this practice can even move the Democtratic party a bit more to the center.
My biggest concern if we do not focus on supporting a specific candidate, in cases where there is a race between three candidates, we will enable a split in the conservative vote between the best two and causing the election of the liberal.
Please don't align with either party, than we jut become a part of the problem, not the solution.
We definitely need to find viable candidates. I fear that we will still have no true conservative to chose from at the primary level.
If a group is aligned with a candidate / party, it could be assumed that the group is accepting funds / favors in return for the endorsement / alignment.
If they are reading the article about primary election decisions, then this is where they are getting their information , and from those they interviewed who may or may not be associated. But to say tea partiers are turning on each other???
Tea partiers turn on each other
Kenneth P. Vogel Thu Nov 19, 11:41 pm ET
After emerging out of nowhere over the summer as a seemingly potent and growing political force, the tea party movement has become embroiled in internal feuding over philosophy, strategy and money and is at risk of losing its momentum.
The grass-roots activists driving the movement have become increasingly divided on such core questions as whether to focus their efforts on sh
Will you be an ELECTED OFFICIAL serving the people or an elected Politician serving the Party and lobbyist????
As A rep will you put pressure on the County Court to take charge of their County government and the Sheriff to be an Oath Keeper protecting the people from State and Federal intervention into the County without theiur request for help???
This message is for all and any person running for a public office.
independent! Find & recruit citizens. Endorse candidates, ONLY after the prinaries!
Yes we all have backbones which is not enough. There has to be an excess of courage, fortitude and over bearing persistence.
A young man (13 yrs. old I think) was the only one with the courage to run against the incumbent mayor.
Even though he failed to meet the age requirement, he won by such a large margin, they let him serve.
And he was one of the best city mayors to have served a city in Texas.
He may have followed my advice, for as Mayor of Missouri City, TX, my advise to all new Mayors was:
Read your City Ordinances, County Court Orders and if necessary the State Constitution to prove your ordinances are valid and lawful.
Make out your agenda for the Council Meetings ignoring lobbist wanting special treatment. If what they wanted to do in your City did not conform to the Ordinances or laws; YOU DO NOT PUT THEM ON THE AGENDA. Result-- dead in the
Few of us have joined the Tea Party movement just to stick our opinions in our pockets. I think we should definitely endorse candidates.
-Continue to gain momentum and secure as much positive media attention as possible.
-With that firm foundation and expanded credibility and influence begin to act as a PAC.
-During this time we focus on finding and recruiting grass-roots citizens. And focus on voter registration.
-Engage in a very strong Social Media strategy and embrace other forms interactive media.
Although aligning with a larger party has some initial appeal, we need to develop and maintain our own identity.
If our misguided government continues at current and past practices, people will be practically begging to join a viable alternative to the traditional messes that have been in power for so long.