dwr0109 Wrote:

aTxTIGER Wrote:most americans dont have a party that really represents them. a plurality of americans are center-right economically, but center-left socially. there is not a party that represents that demographic.

third parties dont last long in our republic, however, major parties have been replaced throughout history. i believe that time is coming again. the only question is which party will resist change the least and be destroyed by the critical mass of opinion.

I might have to disagree with that. I think more Americans are center-right socially, and center-left economically...at least working-class Americans. I think if the dems' wen't back to a blue-collar, populist approach, and ditched the left-wing wackos, they could take over the security/soccer mom/NASCAR dad vote.

i say center right economically because most americans believe in low taxes and moderate to little government in their economic lives. socially, most americans are "hear no evil, see no evil". if it doesnt adversely affect their lives or the lives of their family, then so be it.

i agree with you that the dems need a more populist strategy. however, a populist in the 1920-60s and a present day populist are two different animals. to be effective today, populism needs to target the middle class and their(our) sense of enbourgeoisment. basically, low personal income tax, moderate regualtion of corporatations, and effective protection for small investors.