We don't need to be "The Resistance." We need to be "The Election Winners And Power Holders."

[LBM20]

Protests generally don't work. It is a lot of wasted energy. Trump and Republicans don't give a shit about protests. Put the energy into winning elections, wielding power, and holding power. That is what matters. The Dem Party became a useless ineffective messageless MESS. It lost every branch and level of government. Thankfully, it did much better this past election cycle and in many special elections around the country at other times, most recently in Alabama.

But just being against Trump is nowhere near enough. That is important, but not enough. The party needs a strong, clear, Middle Class American Dream jobs message that resonates with voters. Healthcare is the other big issue of the day. And of course the right kind of tax reform, one that helps the middle and working classes, not just the rich.

So, work to organize for the next elections and echo a strong clear compelling economic message. Pressure the party structure at all levels to have a MESSAGE that actually works. And help to defeat the GOP in 2018.

Protests are mostly a waste of time and energy. Just saw that yet again with the tax bill. Winning elections is what matters. THAT is the best way to "protest." Want to stage a march? March to the ballot box and bring ten people with you.

[delisen]

1. We had a message in 2016. You did not heed it.

[CrispyQ]

2. Protests have their place.

They can fan the enthusiasm of those who are not generally politically active & that in turn can get those people to the polls. But it doesn't take the place of calling & writing your reps on a weekly basis, something I've tried to hammer into my non-political friends heads, to no avail.

[bettyellen]

3. I heard the clear message last year, where were you?

[marybourg]

4. The Women's March was very effective in attracting

attention to tRump's misogyny, to fanning the spark of political awakening, to encourage new candidates to run for office in 2018, and to form new working alliances.

Some of us actually remember - and honor - the civil rights and Vietnam protests of the 60's and 70's. So, with all due respect to your thesis and possible motives, I think it's hooey!

[FreepFryer]

5. If you call the Democratic Party a useless ineffective messageless MESS...

...you might just be part of the problem.