Kucinich supporters: Do you see yourselves as liberal purists?

[chimpy the poopthrower]

I think that is the prevailing view of Kucinich supporters, but I don't feel it describes me, so I wonder how true it is of Kucinich supporters in general. Here, specifically, are the questions I have for other Kucinich supporters:

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?

Here are my own answers:

1. I've never voted Green but might do so under the following circumstances
a. if I lived in a very left-leaning area and a local Green candidate actually had a decent shot at an office, and I felt the Green candidate was better than the Dem candidate, and the "splitting-the-vote" risk was minimal
b. if I lived in an area where my vote wouldn't really do anything to affect the Dem-Repub outcome but could be used to "send a message" to the Democratic Party
c. under the very most extreme circumstances where I felt that the Dem candidate was so unacceptable that a win would actually hurt the Democratic Party in the long run but where the Repub candidate was still worse

2. I like Bill Clinton. I think he genuinely cares about this country and the people in it. I also think he's brilliant. There are policies he enacted that I disagree with strongly (e.g. "3 Strikes" legislation), but I think he moved us in the right direction even if he ended up having to compromise a lot.

3. I don't favor ideology over electability. In fact, if anything, I might slightly favor electability, because I think it's better to change things slowly and steadily rather than having a lot of back-and-forth. I guess I'm more like the Tortoise than the Hare. :)

4. I would fully expect that if DK became President, he would have to make a lot of compromises. I'm not sure if his other supporters truly understand that, but I may be "misunderestimating" them. I'd like to find out: hence, this thread.

5. I don't 100% object to the death penalty on ethical grounds, only the inequitable manner in which it is carried out. So I guess I would say I have the same conclusion but a different reason (unless I am misstating DK's position). There are probably a lot of issues like trade where I might lean in the same direction but feel a little more flexible.

6. My biggest misgiving is that I wonder if he will be able to compromise when necessary. And if he does compromise, I wonder if his supporters will stick with him.

7. My main reason is not so much his ideology but his character -- his integrity and common sense. And also, I have to admit, as a way to send a message to the Party. And on a shallow note, I'd like to see an "underdog" make a splash.

8. Believe it or not, my next choice is probably Edwards, even though he may be the farthest from DK ideologically. I can't forgive him some of his votes, but I do think he is the most electable -- much more so than Kerry. Dean is my next choice. I think Dean is a good man who has been sabotaged beyond repair, but I hope he can recover. He's a moderate, but I always thought that was a point in his favor as far as electability goes. And I really like his wife. :)

[snoochie]

1. No

1. No
2. Better than a republican
3. What the hell is 'electability'? Exactly.
4. Satisfied that he starts negotiating from his side, not from the middle.
5. Yes
6. Yes
7. Best voices the values and ideas I agree with.
8. No second choice.

[RichM]

2. I'll take a swing at it.

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?
- Sure. I have, & will again.

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?
- Disappointment and disgust.

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?
- I veto this question. Don't like its 'either/or' framing.

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?
- I'd be thrilled beyond my wildest dreams.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?
- I think he's not so good on Israel/Palestine, but have confidence in his ability to grow & develop (as he did on abortion, for example).

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?
- Nope.

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?
- Evolved enlightened world view. He grasps the situation in its entirety, & is honest and brave enough to speak the truth. "No Strings!"

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?
- It will be a third-party candidate.

[rucky]

3. GREAT thread: here's mine

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?

Never in national elections. Plenty of great green candidates here in Portland, tho.

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?

mixed. don't hate him, but I'm beginning to see how some of his decisions have changed us for the worse - as a party & as a nation.

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?

I don't see any difference. When you're campaigning, you're selling ideas. If people believe them, you win. Getting through to them is the tough part, but that has more to do with money & insider support than real "electability".

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?

Actually I'm more worried about a president who would try to work with Delay's congress. Watch 5 minutes of c-span & you know their idea of comprise. Vetoes & Gridlock is the best we can hope for next term - no matter who's in.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?

Flag burning amendment. DK supports.

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?

metaphysical talk in his speeches. I personally LOVE it, but I think that's the one thing that solidifies the misconceptions about him. He can win people over on any issue, but America is too entrenched in Western thought to understand. Noble, but too ambitious.

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?

Consistancy. Integrity. He has given me no reason not to trust him. (Sorry about the double negative) That's what it comes down to.

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?

Dean brought me to the dance, but if he's out by Wednesday, it's gotta be Edwards.

[lcordero]

4. I'm not a liberal purist

1. Yes, I would vote Green or third party. It is not my job to give anybody a free ride after they have stabbed me in the back.

2. http://www.gp.org/press/pr_05_13_03.html

Greens note that the Clinton legacy laid the groundwork for some of the Bush Administration's worst excesses: the 1996 Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act; the 1996 Telecommunications Act, which concentrated the corporate ownership of media; training of civilian police forces in military tactics; mandatory sentencing and erosion of judicial discretion; Plan Colombia; bombing raids against several small nations; and establishment of U.S.-dominated international trade authorities with the power to veto environmental, labor, and human rights protections.

3. A person's ideology is what gets me to vote for them in the first place.

4. I think that Kucinich would be able to squeeze some concessions from the Republicans since their constituents are losing jobs because of free trade too.

5. Gun Control. I support gun rights to the point where I want to see a Vermont-like gun environment from coast to coast.

6. No. He seems to keep his word.

7. His pro-worker, anti-globalization, and anti-war platform.

8. My very next choice would be to vote for the Green candidate.

[einniv]

5. me.

Liberal purist? LOL
I have no idea what that means so I would have to say no. I think Kucinich's deatiled platforms are what is best for our country and our world.

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?
Never voted green. Have voted 3rd party and independent.

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?
A Moderate. Middle-of-the-road ploicies are ,of course, the natural result of his "triangulation" strategy. He is a solid member of the Business party with welcomed left leaning social and foreign policies.

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?
No. I would never vote on ideology, prefering specific proposals to "vapor-ware" ideologies.
Electability? Not sure what that is exactly. Has anyone defined that yet? It is a non-sense word IMO. What people who use it have no clue about (though many have us have tried again and again to point it out). Is that primary process is one in which you try to make sure issues important to you are in that party's platform. I mean, look at Dean . Kerry basically took his whole gig. It isn't about mindlessly lining up behind a "winner" or whatever lol. What sheepish kinda nonsense is that?

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?

What specific compromises? I really don't see how to answer that in general way.
Further, won't any president need to make compromises if that is that case (repub congress)? What is the point here? Is there one? :)

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?
His (former) stance on abortion.
But, to be honest I haven't read all of his positions. There are just too too many !!! http://www.kucinich.us/issues/
Take a look at some of them. Does anyone else have these many positions on capaigning and democracy issues alone?
Campaign Finance
Campaign Reform and IRV
Electronic Voting
Instant Runoff Voting
Media Reform
Open Debates

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?
Not really.

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?

Kucinich is running to serve the people of the country. They all say it, and some mean it to some extent, but Dennis means it all the way and has a record that backs it up.

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?
Dean or Kerry.

[IrateCitizen]

6. Not a "liberal purist" -- but a die-hard progressive populist

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?

Yes, I have. But I would not again except in local elections -- at least not until a third party would have a substantial base of support.

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?

I believe that there is not a principle that Bill Clinton would not have sold out in an effort to get Repubicans to like him. When I see him, the immediate thing that jumps to mind is wasted opportunity. With his charisma, there was the opportunity to really roll back the excesses of the Reagan/Bush years. But, instead, he embraced many of those excesses -- only with a friendlier face and lots of talk about "feeling your pain" while going on to explain why he couldn't do a damned thing for it. I also think that he might have actually caused the Democratic Party as a whole much more harm than good, in the short and long run, because it encouraged people to look at his popularity as a validation of a rightward drift in the Democratic Party, rather than seeing his popularity as being more a product of his personality.

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?

Bad question. I think that politicians do best when they unequivically stand for something, and tie their message into a greater vision.

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?

I'd feel fine -- because he recognizes that you can't compromise with the Tom DeLays of the world.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?

Yes. Flag burning amendment, immediate withdrawl from the WTO (rather than leading the only international trade body we have to become more democratic and accountable).

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?
None whatsoever. Based on his record of self-sacrifice, I feel that I can totally trust him to do what he believes to be right over what is politically expedient.

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?
See the answer to (6).

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?
Whoever wins the Democratic nomination, if it isn't Dennis.

[Lydia Leftcoast]

14. What Irate Citizen said

for the most part.

:-)

[Iverson]

7. just a middle class kind of guy

Of course, these days being pretty normal can also get you branded as a dangerous radical. For example, fundamental disagreement with preventive war is now a hallmark of the extreme and "unelectable" left.

Here's your roundup.

1. yes to both
2. talented, bright, well-read, sleazeball; the best moderate Republican president in history
3. "always," probably not; "usually" yes
4. pleased overall

5. sure
6. nothing deeply important
7. I miss having a reason to for a Democrat.
8. probably David Cobb

[Rainbowreflect]

8. Here's my feelings

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?
Yes, but no way I would this year

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?
He was too far to the right for me, but I believe he would have accomplished more without the right wing continual attacks

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than elect ability?
I think that in the primary you need to vote your heart and elect ability is not a question. If a candidate wins the primary they are the best to win the GE.

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?
Compromise is part of politics, but I don't think he would ever compromise on what he believed was truly right.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?
The flag burning issue is the only one I can think of.

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?
No!

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?
He has given me hope for the future of our country. He speaks the truth and does not change what he believes is right for anyone or anything. He views are closer to mine then any other candidate I have ever known. When I heard him speak in person his passion and compassion made me cry.

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?
The nominee!

[KathCO]

9. Mly answers

I do not comsider myself to be a liberal purist.

I have never voted Green and I would consider voting green now simply because of the state of the environment including drinking water, air, etc.

I was less informed and more self absorbed in the 90's so I believed all the propaganda that was put out about Clinton. Now I feel that he was a pretty good president as presidents go. No one is perfect.

Ideology is very important. I think electibility should really only be based on the sum of who everyone votes for. Kucinich has electibility unless people don't vote for him. However, the bush admin needs to be voted out because they are on a very bad path.

I know that if DK becomes president he would have to deal with the republican house and senate. I suspect that he would be very hard put to get anything done because of the shenanigans of the repubs in house and senate. At least they wouldn't have complete control though.

In general there are no DK issues that I strongly disagree with. Nor any strong misgivings.

The main reason I support DK is his knowledge of how the WTO and free trade agreements are wrong and he is the only one who seems to want to actively do something. Also, well, most of his platform I can support so he is just the best candidate for me.

I think I would support Edwards after DK.

[charlie]

10. Neither a purist nor as liberal as many around here

1. I did once. Cast my first presidential vote for the Libertarian candidate.

2. Holding pattern. That he's held as the gold standard for electoral success illustrates the New Democrat packaging of rearguard defense as strong offense.

3. Who knows? Everyone has their non-negotiables. If we're getting what you think is at least commensurate return for a trade, you're a "pragmatist." If not, you're an "ideological purist." Everyone's one or the other at times.

4. He will. But I expect he'll at least give a good fight and not settle for half a loaf after the Repubs have stolen the roast.

5. Flag amendment.

6. No.

7. Tired of platitudes and sloganeering instead of real information and issues, tired of abandonment of the "kitchen table" concerns of the broad electorate, tired of erosion of individual sovereignty, tired of everyone lying to me from both sides of the aisle...

8. Democratic nominee. Sigh.

[mgc1961]

11. Liberal purist? You're joking, right?

In short, here are my answers:

1. Yes. I've voted Republican, Democratic, Green, and Independent.

2. Voted for him the first time only. I would probably like him on a personal level. Mixed feelings on political level.

3. No comment on "electable." I don't consider myself an ideologue.

4. That's life. As Jagger sings, "You don't always get what you want, but if you try some time, you just might find, you get what you need." If DK vetos a measure and it's passed anyway he is bound to uphold the law.

5. Probably. I haven't read every word on his website. It doesn't really bother me not knowing "everything" though because I can't say that I know a single person with whom I'm always in agreement. No big deal.

6. No.

7. He has a grand vision of the world that I think transends party and ideological rhetoric. It includes people and the environment as principle elements instead of bothersome afterthoughts.

8. Tough choice. Dean favored slightly over Edwards because he's energized a lot of people. I really like the thought of ousting the current administration with a multitude of small, monetary donations. Power to the people!

[Nadienne]

12. Me

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?
Not so far.

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?
Well... Conservatives hated him with blind fury. I wonder if that hate caused blind idolization in some Democrats. My own opinion is subject to change without notice, pending new information...

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?
What's the point of ideology if you can't get elected? But then again, too much emphasis on electability gets us politicians that we are not really sure where they stand.

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?
If he compromises with thugs, I would be surprised. I think he would more likely use his influence to expose those who don't have the best interest of "We the People" at heart. But if he had to compromise, I know it would be a last resort. I guess it depends on what he compromises.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?
I can't think of any off-hand.

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?
No.

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?
The time is right for real progress. In my opinion, this is the best opportunity for it. Change takes courage. And if they can't have courage (especially now, when it is so needed), they won't get change. I trust Kucinich. He is the only one promising change.

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?
Aside from Kucinich, they are all the same (with the exception of Sharpton, and I think he is playing a different game). I'll vote for the Democrat, of course.

[cheezus]

13. eh, here we go

1 - I voted for Nader in 2000 because ND is a VERY VERY red state
2 - Bill Clinton was the best Republican president we ever had
3 - No. But electability without ideals is a waste. We can have both.
4 - That's the way politics works.
5 - Can't find any
6 - The life/choice flip flop. But he explained that pretty well
7 - DK is best on the issues and my vote was to show the Democratic party that we need to be different than the republicans
8 - Sen John Edwards, the other populist

[HFishbine]

15. Naw, I see myslef primarily as

a Dean supporter. With DK as my second choice.

[genius]

16. I'm a liberal realist. I vote my conscience in the PRIMARY

That's what primaries are for.

I've never considered voting Green though I love the statements that the Peace and Freedom candidates have put on the ballots. They can't win so I'm not into third parties. Because of the betrayal of our California Democratic leaders, it has been suggested that there be protest votes for certain offices to frighten the party. This would have to be carefully orchestrated and in such a way that our side does not lose any seats and a lot of people pick one office in each area to use for a huge protest vote. A compromise of this nature might get the Greens to vote for the big ticket and give the Democrats a way to protest the leadership without a lot of risk.

I think Bill Clinton is a genuinely good guy who sometimes had bad advise. I voted for him and would vote for him again. In 1992, I supported Gerry Brown in the primary.


I think that we have to vote our conscience in the primary so that we can have a time to feel good about ourselves. The general election is where we need to stick together to create electability for our candidates. We need to be realistic when it comes to the general election. Whoever the Democrats nominate for President is electable if we make him so.

DK's positions are right. He can get the Republicans to agree he's right. I do not believe he will compromise.

There is one issue no one is discussing where I have an issue with one of Kucinich's votes. Sometime I'd like to ask him about that. On all major issues, I agree with him 100%. Even those polls have me agreeing with him 100%.

I am voting for DK because he is the best man for the job.

My second choice (although I'm not planning to vote for him in the primary as I am voting for Dennis) is Edwards. My third choice is Kerry. I don't know what Dean stands for and so I don't know if I can trust him. I like Sharpton but he has no experience.

[ThirdWheelLegend]

17. My answers....

1. Voted for Nader in 2000, and I have voted for other third parties on a more local level. I would do it again if thats what my instincts told me to do.

2. Bill Clinton: Screwing you with a smile on his face? I liked the guy, most people did. But some heavy crap went down during his administration. NAFTA(big pile of shit), Anti-terrorism act(first step to a Patriot Act), Telecomm deregulation(contributing to why the media is an abomination), DMCA(what lets the RIAA sue 11 year olds), welfare 'reform'. I'll stop there. Just because someone doesn't send all dems to re-education camps or lie to take us to war does not make them a liberal bastion of joy. Overall opinion, charming as hell, great speaker, a lot of the world liked him, compromised or just plain went to the right way too much.

3. This cannot be an either or. They can be the same and should.

4. Compromising from the leftward positions of Dennis Kucinich will still result in positives. Unlike other candidates, when you compromise starting at the middle, where do you end up??? Way right.

5. I disagree with his stance on flag burning, luckily I am not a one-issue flag-burner LOL. On the other 99% of the issues he is almost a 100% match for me and the working people.

6. Not sure what you mean by that. I wish that the media did not manufacture consent and thus completely ignore the threat to their system of dominance. But am I to expect anything different?

7. Main reason? There are hundreds of reasons. I guess if you want a main reason it would be that he is the true voice of the people and represents what would make this country great and a true leader in this world instead of an imperialistic bully.

8. Sharpton is my next choice.

There ya go

[LWolf]

18. Here ya go:

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?

Yes

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?

Clinton is:

a)smart, talented
b)an opportunist
c)the most likeable rightwing democrat that has ever represented me
d)untrustworthy. I don't give a damn about his penis. I give a damn about dishonor, cheating, etc. I don't trust a man who cheats on his marriage not to cheat in other arenas.
e)miles better than George W. Bush

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?

Yes. Or, why bother to win the election? What have you really won?

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?

I'd expect it to happen. I don't think Dennis would struggle with moving the agenda in small steps. I don't expect him to perform miracles; just to keep the ultimate goal upfront where we can all see it.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?

flag burning
previous pro-life votes

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?

His personal safety should he become president.

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?

He speaks what I think and he works for where I want to go.

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?

I don't have one. They are good guys. Interesting. All better than Bush. None of them stands out for me.

[asthmaticeog]

29. I love your answer to #3

Very eloquently put. Bravo.

[LWolf]

37. Thank you. n/t

[GreenArrow]

19. no?

1) I voted for Nader 2000.

2) Bill Clinton. Sleazebag. The televangelistic hair was a dead giveaway. Though I was glad to see him defeat daddy Bush, I did not vote for him either time.

3) I'll look at ideology first and foremost; otherwise, what's really the point?

4) DK would do fine. I think that HE would prove to be a REAL uniter, not divider.

5) Disagree with DK on Afghanistan/Terror War and on flag desecration, just off the top of my head.

6) No other major concerns. As politicians go, he's a pearl.

7) Honesty, integrity, vision.

8)I have no other real choice after DK, and I hold no illusions that he'll win. The whole process is pretty much a dishonest joke, anyway. ABB is a possibility if the candidate has a realistic chance; otherwise, I'll go third party

[youngred]

20. Purist no, but I'm sick of having my views subjegated to the "majority"

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?
I have voted third party, but only in NY where there is cross-ticket voting

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?
He was a faux progressive, a talented politician, charming man, he had the misfortune to have a bloodthirsty congress after him, he had a lot of promises that he never made good on to the left and sold out to the third way.

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?
No, I think there always has to be a balance between the two. Ideology without electability accomplishes nothing. Electibility without ideology leaves you without purpost and sure to lose soon anyway.

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?
He would make compromises where he needs to and stand strong where he needs to too. I'm sure he would get more of his agenda accomplished than most think and would be a strong leader to fight and work with a Republican dominated congress.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?
I don't like his total absolutism against free trade, there is a good part to free trade, however it cannot continue along its current path where it hurts workers and allows companies to run their business parisitically.

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?
Nope.

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?
I am tired of the DLC third way controlling the direction of the party. I am tired of seeing compromise candidates lose because they're too afraid to present a clear alternative. I want someone in the WH who feels the way I do and sees the world in the same way I do. I want to send a message to the DNC that I'm ot going to take this anymore. I want Dennis!

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?
It was Clark til he dropped, but I will support whomever the Dem Nominee is. Kerry or Edwards preferably

[chimpy the poopthrower]

21. I guess I'm one of the few Kucinich supporters who actually likes Clinton.

Oh well. :shrug:

[ThirdWheelLegend]

22. Never said I didn't like him..

He is extremely likable. However the compromises he made and other legislation that was passed went over the center, sometimes far over the center. The right does not compromise, and we will never take this country back with a continuation of compromising to the right.

TWL

[genius]

28. I like Clinton too.

Like some of the other Democrats, he made mistakes. But he was a good guy.

[youngred]

38. I like him well enough

just think he was a dissapointment as the progressive he campaigned as.

[no name no slogan]

23. I'll give it a go...

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?
Yes. I voted for Nader in 1996 and 2000 (I'm in a "safe" state). I also voted for Green candidates for Governor, too, as the state party here is mostly useless right now.

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?
He was better than Shrub and Poppy, but not much. I guess that sums it up.

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?
WTF does that mean? If a candidate is right on the issues, then s/he's electable!


4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?
I honestly don't think he'd have to compromise that much, because he's have VERY long coattails. However, he wouldn't compromise until he absolutely had to.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?
I'm in favor of a one-state solution in Palestine, and DK favors a two-state solution. But at least his two-state solution will bring us peace in the near-term, which is most important right now.

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?
No, not really. He's a man of integrity, which is very hard to find in national politics. He's not afraid to speak up and speak out.

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?
Because he has the best program to turn this country around. Foreign policy, domestic policy, trade, healthcare, he's the best!

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?
There IS a choice? They all look pretty much the same from my vantage point.
:D

[lams712]

24. My two cents......

1. Yes, and will do so again under the right conditions (i.e., not damage the Democrat, etc.)

2. Dislike him. He and the DLC stooges are what nearly destroyed this party.

3. In a way, yes. Electability is useless if one is running just for the sake of securing power. One needs to have a unifying principle, and these principles are more important and can be more historically significant even if one loses the actual election. (Think McGovern in 1972 who lost big-time, but kept the Vietnam War issue alive and helped bring about an end or maybe a better example is Barry Goldwater in 1964, who lost big time but who has influenced every conservative Republican who came after him).

4. Compromise is a necessary evil, that's the way the system has been set up. However, I would hope he wouldn't be afraid to use the veto when necessary. The Republicans won't have a veto-proof majority.

5. Not really.

6. My misgivings about Kucinich has more to do with how I feel the corporate media will treat him, rather than anything inherently wrong with DK.

7. I vote for DK because I feel he is the only true progressive in the race, especially on economic issues.

8. Edwards. He is actually very progressive on economic issues.

[corporatewhore]

25. no id vote repub if they would get us out of naftaDK aint perfect canidate

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?
Yeah but hey i live in texas
2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?
not very high bombing of iraq nafta/wto welfare deformand a ton of other stuff
3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?
his ideology is what makes him electable (nobody likes their job going to nafta this could be defining issue and we could win over some cons
4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?
id be happy that he got to president
5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?
flag burning he chould cut the defense budget more alittle cautious of him giving iraq to the un (i love it that hes bringing hom troops but i think that un would be seen as a us puppet control maybe they could use a little self determination) I dont like it that he gave aid to israel i really hate that dont like his pro life record either
6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?
see above
7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?
Gettin Out of NAFT/WTOetc and universial health care Shutting down soa
8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?
with him to the end and again im in texas dont matteer what i do

[Darranar]

26. No, not really...

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?

Consider? Yes. Do? No.

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?

I think he was indicative of how far to the right our political center has drifted. Aside from the usual foreign policy mess, deregulation and welfare "reform" were and are foolish. That said, he was better than the alternative, and he was constantly under attack from the right-wing.

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?

I think both factors are pretty much equal. I support DK because his voice needs to be heard and instead is being diminished, and because I think there is not so much of a difference in electability between the candidates.

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?

I would be annoyed. Compromised programs are better than none whatsoever, though.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?

Flag-Burning Amendment and trying minors as adults. I also think that more needs to be done to enhance political freedom then his proposals, which are nevertheless a good start. Additionally, I'm to the left of him economically and socially.

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?

If he had a good chance at the nomination, I would be a little afraid that he'd be unable to beat Bush. His flip-flop on abortion bothers me as well.

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?

Answered somewhat in (3). In addition, I think his policies are the best ones out there.

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?

Al Sharpton.

[asthmaticeog]

27. answers

1) I have voted Green and will again - just not in the 2004 presidential election.

2) Love/hate. No, make that like/hate. It pissed me off to no end that he bookended his 8 years in office by spectacularly fucking the working class twice (NAFTA and MFT status for China). But his administration did bring some welcome improvements.

3) In the primaries, absolutely. Let's face it, "electability" sounds for all the world like a code word for "the party mainstream's annointed one will get the nomination, so fall in line, prole scum," so I think it's important for not-so-mainstream primary voters to vote for the candidate whose views are closest to theirs, so that their beliefs can be counted by the eventual nominee.

4) I lived in Cleveland during Dennis' term as Mayor, and he was AWFUL at compromising with City Council, though the council president at the time did a lot of the kind of political stonewalling his hypothetical administration should expect from Congress, too. I think DK can't help but be a very different person 25 years later, though, and compromised progressive ideals would be better for us right now than a demonstrably evil administration getting rubber-stamped all the time.

5) To my surprise, I have yet to find an issue on which I disagree with him. As for the matter of reproductive choice, I believe his change of heart to be sincere, and not a politically-motivated flip-flop.

On edit: Forgot about flag burning. WTF was with that shit?

6) My misgivings about DK are along the lines of the compromise issues discussed in #4 above, but those misgivings are mild.

7) My main reason for voting for Dennis is that I agree with him on more issues that I do with the other candidates.

8) Well, it WAS Clark (I'd have loved to have had a relatively dovish ex-general handling the mess in Iraq, not a bunch of think tank idealogues), now I'm leaning towards Edwards as my #2.

[Mairead]

30. I think the whole idea of 'political purist' is ugly and self-serving

And self-destructive as hell to buy into. Can anyone imagine taking seriously some jerk who sneers that you're a 'price purist' because you refuse to sell your pristine, lo-mileage 6-y.o. car for $100? Or a 'relationship purist' because you won't marry the syphilitic town drunk/wastrel? Or a 'job purist' because you won't work for 25c/hr?

Why are we willing to give even a second's attention to someone who sneeringly calls us 'political purists' because we want full value for our votes?



To answer your questions:

1. Yes.
2. The last DINO/Republican I'll ever vote for unless the parties flip again
3. As others have said: yes of course, otherwise what's the point?
4. At least he'd be compromising from our side, not theirs
5. Many! But he's the best we'll see in my lifetime, I'm sure.
6. No. He's totally fearless, the definition of integrity, and on our side.
7. See 6.
8. Sharpton comes (a recently more distant) second.

[BrewerJohn]

31. This seems like fun--I'll try

1. I considered voting Green for Pres in 2000, but ultimately voted for Gore. I have voted Green for some local and state offices.
2. Clinton was somewhat of a break from the hard Republican years of the '80s, but as it turned out, not enough of one for my taste. NAFTA, welfare "reform", media deregulation, etc. The best thing he did was to get the economy out of the Bush I recession.
3. "Electability" = compromise. I compromise because I have to, not because I like to.
4. As in (3), I know some of that would be inevitable. But knowing the person at the top had the right goals would make it worthwhile.
5. Flag burning amendment. Can't think of anything else.
6. No.
7. DK is the one whose positions lead me to believe that he understands things the same way I do. For example, on Iraq, he doesn't say "it was a mistake to go in there, but now that we're there we have to stay (for some reason)" but instead says that it was wrong to go there and it's wrong to stay; we should leave as soon as we can get the UN to take over the transition.
8. My second choice is Dean, who is the other remaining candidate who seems to stand for "no more politics as usual" even though his positions are seen as more centrist than others'.

[mountebank]

32. Not a purist. Sort of "idealistic" they tell me. My answers.

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?
Almost voted Nader in 2000, but didn't.

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?
Brilliant and disturbingly eloquent, but ultimately a disappointment.

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?
I hate the word "electability." Still haven't seen a good definition.

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?
I think he could manage it. I could too.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?
Hm - not sure I feel we need to make college tuition-free. Instead, I'd like to pour all the education money into elementary and secondary. I mean, ideally yeah: free college. But let's make public education as it stands really really good.

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?
Not really. At the risk of sounding elitist, he, like Bob Marley, tends to attract some supporters of suspect credibility. (I'm sure that applies to no one here!)

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?
He matches up with my convictions almost point for point.

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?
Howard Dean.

[hippywife]

33. Easy questions

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?

No. Can't because the backwards state I live in makes it near impossible to establish a third party to vote for. Would I consider it? I always consider all options.

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?

Sleazy jackass who is just as responsible for where we find ourselves these days. Can you say backlash? He is a weak man who couldn't keep his shit together until he left office. Not too happy with his political legacy either.

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?

As others have said, they go hand in hand. Why elect someone who has only rhetoric and no real idealogy?

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?

What? No one here is planning to kick ass in the congressional elections, too?

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?

Disagree on the flag burning amendment only but can understand why he feels the way he does. See my Common Dreams article for explanation:

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0604-05.htm

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?

Not a one.

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?

The public servant (won't call him politician) with the most integrity since Jimmy Carter. Difference is he also has the know how to do the job. He is it in for us and not for himself. He is intelligent and articulate and REAL!!! I trust him like I've never trusted any of these guys or likely will ever again. He has proven his vision is true and he has a track record of being right.

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?

Don't have one. Having to vote for the eventual nominee, unless it is DK, is not a choice.



P.S.

He knows that NAFTA is not negotiable. Only option is withdrawal. Anyone who says they are going to look at fixing or re-negotiating, is yanking your chain. Hey! we had trade agreements before NAFTA and the WTO, we can have them again.

He did not vote for increased penalties for juvenile offenders. He voted against the bill:

http://www.vote-smart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?vote_id=2368&can_id=BC032003

[Ardee]

34. My honest answers

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?

Have,will again.

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?

He married a very intelligent woman.

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?

Of course it is, what do we gain by electing a popular neodemocratic conservative? More damn Bush is what we get!

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?

Ill let you know when and if that happens, but ,unlike some others in this race, Dennis has stuck to his principles, explained his unpopular stances and is truly an honest man.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?

Of course there are, he isn't perfect just the best choice.

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?

silly question ,already covered by number 5.

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?

Because he is the ONLY democratic candidate who sounds like a democratic candidate.Dennis is the conscience of the democratic party pure and simple.

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?

I don't know, who you got? Probably Peter Camejo.

[DemBones DemBones]

35. Ideological purity doesn't win many elections

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?

Yes, but not at the risk of leaving the Bush Restoration in power.

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?

Greatly talented and greatly flawed.

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?

"If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything."

But unless you get into office, you can't act on your ideals.

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?

Knowing he's a believer, not just a lip-syncher, I trust Dennis to do his best.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?

No, I support him because I agree with him.

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?

No.

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?

His truly progressive platform, backed up by his progressive performance record.

(And that Elfin Magic!) :7

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?

Dennis is my first and only choice. If DK is not the Democratic nominee, I still plan to vote for our nominee. Ending the Bush Restoration is essential to us all.

[cyclezealot]

36. Kucinich has real solutions, not politically crafted sell outs .

1-Have not, but don't think it wrong if Party nominee is a hack.
2-Clinton. Did put the country on a stronger financial footing.Nafta he imposed set the country on a decade of industrial decline..His job growth did not include manufacturing. But at least his Administration did not say loosing our industrial base is a good thing.
3-As Studs Terkel says..Kucinich is not some pie eyed liberal fanatic. Studs even wants us to stop calling ourselves liberals. Labeling only confuses issues. His solutions are hard nosed solutions going against the grain of refusing to rattle economic powers that control this country.
Those powers being the same ones that pull Bush's strings and are selling out the country.Free traders who profit from their selling out American jobs and enjoying the fruits of sweatshops.
That is the only aspect of his so called non-electability. He is too honest.He is too much of a straight shooter. His programs are not radical at all. They are the most workable. Just not designed to attract pigs to the trough.
4. You read Congressional background publications such as The Hill, while Republicans will not publically admit it; Kucinich has their respect. Dennis does not grandstand or saber rattle unnecessarily. He works at co-operation, without partisan zeal. He treats Republican members with the same respect as he does Kerry or Liebermann. He talks issues and since he is truly a man of peace knows how to control the partisan rhetoric.He wins any debate by showing comprehenisve grasp of issues.....A President Kucinich. Never would co-operation be a stronger commandment. And Republicans would not have a chance because Kucinich's ability of persuasion at the presidential bully pulpit would blow them away.
5-Considering what Gov. Ryan has found out in Illinois, I think Kucinich will come out on the winning side of this issue once he has a chance to explain his views.
6-As to trade or healthcare, his sticking to his principals is what attracts us to him. No surrender when it comes to the needs of the American people. His truth telling is the reason we are sticking with him all the way to Boston. There would be no other reason to carry on the campaign. Kerry's wins effect us not, since issues are our cause.
7-Ditto. Sterling to the core.No waffling there. He would rather loose than be a sell out to crucial issues, like Cleveland Muni.
8-I don't have a next choice...Edwards. He is a Kucinich copy cat.takes his ideas, but does not have the guts to fully explain the details behind his plagarisms.

[Lydia Leftcoast]

39. I've had a chance to think about this question more

and I have to say that DK appeals to me not ONLY because he has the ideals and the vision, which he certainly has, but also the practical political smarts to suggest workable solutions and to cooperate with other politicians to get things done.

I believe that we need to demand better ideas and practices from our politicians, or else they will just carry on with business as usual.

[Loonman]

40. Ans

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party? No and no.

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton? Fine president.

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?Somewhat

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?That would be fine.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich? None so far.

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?No

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?Issues

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK? None, will vote for party nominee/candidfate in Nov.

[diamondsoul]

41. Ok what the heck-

1. Have you ever or would you ever consider voting Green or other third-party?

Yes and Yes. I voted Libertarian in a few local elections because of issue positions.

2. What are your views on Bill Clinton?

Bad question- I hated the little sleaze-ball! I'd still have him back over Bush any day of the week.*sigh* 3 Strikes, NAFTA, Welfare reform, DADT after vowing to fight for gays in the military, this list is huge of reasons I despised him.

3. Do you think ideology is always more important than electability?

Yes because if ideology is the focus it will eventually be the determining factor in electability which is how things should logically work.

4. How would you feel if DK became President but had to work with a Republican-dominated Congress, and ended up having to make a lot of compromises in order to get things done?

Peachy keen because he won't compromise without fighting for the things that are most important.

5. Are there any issues or areas where you disagree with Kucinich?

Gun control. I've had a few people explain to me the constitutional implications of gun control laws and my views on the subject have been inexorably altered because of the very valid arguments they've handed me.

6. Are there any other misgivings you have about DK?

Nope, and if there were I doubt I'd discuss them on this board. It's an honor thing, and dissing my own candidate wouldn't be particularly loyal or honorable in my own opinion.

7. What is the main reason you have for voting for DK?

There are two. Public service record and platform. The two combined speak to his determination to be the catalyst for real and profound change in this country which is what I believe is necessary in the wake of the Bush administration.

8. Who is your next choice candidate after DK?

Of those still in the running, I'd have to say I'm torn between Al Sharpton and Howard Dean. Neither are anywhere near the caliber of Kucinich, however either would inspire more of a sense of trust in me than Kerry or Edwards these days.

Other than them, if this was the GE, Ralph Nader.