Here are my two big takeaways from last night’s big Republican win in Massachusetts.<\/p>\n
First, it’s a reminder to Democrats that this is a democracy. You don’t crown new US Senators, you elect them.<\/p>\n
We’ve seen the Democratic Party in New York state devolve into a kind of bickering and dysfunction that suggests they may feel untouchable. <\/p>\n
The message from Boston: What happens in Albany doesn’t stay in Albany. If you don’t create a meaningful message and a pragmatic platform, voters will find someone else to vote for.<\/p>\n
There is also a growing discomfort with the size of government and the overhang of debt, especially among independents. Healthcare is the flash point of that fear.<\/p>\n
If Democrats learn this lesson, refocusing their passion on jobs and economic security, the loss in Massachusetts might be worth the pain. <\/p>\n
The second big lesson here is for conservatives. There has been a lot of nonsense spluttered over the last year about various conspiracies and the loss of democracy. <\/p>\n
Republicans have even muttered about secession and batted around ridiculous talk about President Obama’s legitimacy. <\/p>\n
This election proves one thing, once and for all: In America, change happens at the ballot box. <\/p>\n
If you dislike Barack Obama, organize to defeat his party. Try to unseat him in 2012.<\/p>\n
But it’s time to stop suggesting that every time you lose, it reflects a secret plot against the ‘true America.’<\/p>\n
The bottom line? <\/p>\n
Yesterday was a huge victory for democracy, proof that voters don’t want one-party rule, even in a progressive bastion like Massachusetts, and proof that we prefer dynamic politicians over dynasties.<\/p>\n
If Democrats and Republicans pay heed, New York’s 2010 campaign year will be far more dynamic.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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