Don’t think Republicans are the only ones gnashing their teeth about their party’s future. Democrats are also debating the meaning of the 2008 election and where they go from here to consolidate and expand their gains. (True, their debates are still under the heavy influence of Dom Perignon). One school of thought suggests it’s a time for incremental moves because this remains a center-right country. Don’t overreach; reward base constituencies with small gains; and continue to expand marginally in the future. Others take a more grandiose approach. They say 2008 signals the dawning of a new politics in America – one that could create a long-lasting Democratic majority a la Roosevelt in 1932. So who’s right? Find out this Friday at the National Press Club when the Progressive Policy Institute and the Democratic Strategist hold a forum titled “Rove or Roosevelt? Prospects for a Political Realignment”. Ed Kilgore at the Democratic Strategist writes this about the session:
I hope there’s a third alternative discussed–one that most ordinary Americans, less interested in creating “broad attachments” to either party, could support. How about finding solutions to affordable health care, improving schools and growing the economy? How about making sure Social Security and Medicare are still around 20 years from now and not bankrupt like Bear Stearns. Tell me why we’re doing all this again. Is it to help people and strengthen America? Or ensure a permanent Democratic majority in Washington?
