Isn't the Natrional Democratic Party a constituent of every elected Democrat?

[CT_Progressive]

I know that political parties are not supposed to make policy in government, that's the job of duly elected officials.

But clearly, the Democratic Party is the single biggest constituent of every elected Democrat in Congress. If not truly a constituent, at the very least it could be considered a very large lobby. So, that said, why is Howard Dean/the national party so quiet on so many of these issues? And why doesn't the party have influence over the elected Democrats?

Sometimes, I get the feeling that the Party and the Elected Dems are isolated from each other. No communication, no sharing of ideas, no coordination of efforts. Whenever we hear from either group, its always one or the other. I rarely see them put up a united front, or send out a joint message. It seems to me that Howard Dean has decided that the Party will work on purely fundraising, while staying almost completely clear of whats going on in Congress.

What are your thoughts ?

Should the Democratic Party be influencing our elected representatives on the issues, or do you feel that the Party itself does not count as a constituent/lobby that should be able to exert influence over Congress?

[bullimiami]

1. good question. you would think they should be working together on everything.

[blondeatlast]

2. Maybe I'm mistaken, but I thought that was why we had a platform.

Still, I've wondered about the same thing.

What is the purpose of the committee, anyway?