Reply #109: It's certainly part of the base....

[aaronbees]

and fairly representative of the longtime, committed push for real Democracy in this country. But I don't think it generally encapsulates the Dem mainstream or perhaps a better word for it is the "medium point" on the spectrum of Democrats in the country. I believe that spectrum has tilted right for a while now, at least in terms of the party leadership; Howard Dean is helping to realign it, I believe, back to values the people, rather than pollsters and insiders, want to see active in government. I think DU is generally more progressive than the "average" Democrat, but that's not a bad thing. Tactically speaking, though, I think it's important to remember. I'm generally to the left of most Dems (at least I think so) but pragmatic in ways when it comes to trying to get things done. This is an inclusive party, and I wouldn't have it any other way.