June 11, 2005

Democratic Schism

We are witnessing fissures in the Democratic Party. The cause of the tremors is the rhetoric of DNC chairman Howard Dean, M.D. D.C. Democrats have been backing away from Dr. Dean. Today, the DNC executive committee stood firmly behind their leader. One member said, "I hope Governor Dean will remember that he didn't get elected to be a wimp." Another said, "Howard Dean is going to be much more aggressive, much more outspoken and much more of a risk-taker outside the Beltway than any chairman has been. We knew that."

Howard Dean, M.D. plays well to a Democratic base that has become more radicalized by the firey, reckless talk of Dr. Dean, MoveOn.org, Kos, and others. Dr. Dean can continue to say all the ridiculous things he's said. He will not be replaced or asked to step down because rank-and-file Democrats like what he's saying. Democrats want Dean to "stand up" for them. If that means alienated independents and burning bridges with Republicans so be it.

While the Democrats are in a little internal strife this actually plays well for Sen. Clinton. Should she use the same triagulation tactics as her husband, she could position herself more in the middle and appear to be not as reckless as rank-and-file Democrats or "white, Christian" Repubicans.

"Democratic Leaders Back Dean, Don't Want 'Wimp'"