An alternate idea to a non-season of 2012 Democratic primaries.

[Old and In the Way]

I think it's a forgone conclusion that Barack isn't going to face any serious opposition in 2012. But that also means Republicans will have much of the run-up to the 2012 GE all to themselves. While this might present a lot of memorable moments of monumental stupidity and a general pandering to the very worst of American ideals, it surely won't help Obama or Democrats get their ideas for a better America heard for the next 12 months or so.

Instead of, or in addition to, any primaries that may occur (and you can bet the the media won't be paying a lot of attention to the later), here's something that might provide a strong counterbalance to the Republican message and allow the Democrats and Independents to actually participate in shaping the Democratic message in 2012.

I'm proposing that there should be a dozen regional debates with leading Democratic policy wonks - elected officials and perhaps notable, respected issue bloggers of all stripes - both established and up-and-coming - who can articulate potential solutions on the key issues that we want to see the national Democratic Party recognize as important to the constituents that make up this Party. I'm not sure of the mechanics to select the people chosen for these debates, but I'm pretty sure the topics ought to include, in no particular order:

(1) a single payer healthcare system
(2) financial regulation
(3) alternative/renewable energy and how this could jumpstart a job's program and economic recovery,
(4) voting rights/safeguarding our election process
(5) immigration
(6) marijuana legalization
(7) climate change
(8) budget priorities
(9) social security
(10) tax policy
(11) infrastructure investment
(12) ME policy

Maybe devote a single debate to each of these issues. As the Republicans try to outdumb each other in their anti-science/anti-education/anti-government crusade while avoiding any semblance of a cohernet and rational strategy to deal with this country's pressing issues, Democrats ought to be having thoughful debates, perhaps broadcast over the internet, where Democrats and Independents can both watch and provide feedback as to which speakers promote the policy solutions we want to see implemented. Make it free to registered Democrats as of the 2010 election. Make Indies/Republican trolls pay for the privilege of participating. I can't think it would cost a lot to put these type of debates on - maybe 1 per month in 12 different regions in the US. The feedback should certainly help Democrats understand the priorities of the people. It would create buzz and provide local organizing opportunities through debate meet-ups/parties where the ideas can be discussed and amplified.

We don't want 7 clowns on stage vying for the America's Top Hypocrite. We want intelligent people exploring ideas and offering solutions that we can support and make central themes in our next election cycle. Rather than put Obama front and center during the next 12 months, we can make ourselves the center of attention and force the Republicans to make this an election of issues rather than sound-bites.

[jwirr]

1. I like that idea as long as our progressives have some of the seats

at the table. It is true that without a primary the media will ignore us. Maybe Rachel or KO could moderate them.

[Old and In the Way]

2. Absolutely agree....the DNC could poll Democrats on their choices

to debate each issue - a combination of names and write-in opportunities that could be used to develop the list of debaters for each topic. Let the Party rank-and-file choose the names by online ballot, maybe. Something like this should have been started 6 months ago...a shame we don't have something in place already...