Why Isn't Howard Acting Like a Democrat

Many people today are asking why Howard Dean, current DNC chair, is not doing anything to win in November. They want to know where the plan is and what it is? These critics even include many former Deaniacs (from his 2004 bid for the presidency and subsequent Democracy for America members). The mood seems to have changed from, "Give 'em hell Harry!" to, "What the hell are you doing Harry?" The problem with the current negativity is threefold. One, Dean is being criticized for not doing things that are beyond his control. Two, the efforts that are underway are obvious for those who wan t to see them. Three, there seems to still be some kind of irrational backlash against Dean from those who supported other candidates during the 2004 campaign.

First, some things that people seem to expect Howard to be involved in he just plain can't do. For instance, the DNC has been taking flack from the grass roots progressive movement for not backing Ned Lamont in his bid against Joe Lieberman in Connecticut. Problem is, the DNC doesn't take sides in primary fights. How can anyone ask Dean to choose one Democrat over another without alienating Democratic voters somewhere, even if it's ole' "Bush-Likes-To-Kiss-Me-Joe?" Dean himself has said this is so. Others want him to single out and support specific candidates who need help with their bids against Republicans. I'm sure he is trying, however, this year is experiencing a huge progressive uprising and there are new progressive candidates all over the board. Can anyone blame him for not being able to reach them all?

Secondly, people are claiming that he isn't doing anything because they've seen no new strategy from the DNC for 2006. Are they blind? What do they think the 50 state stratgey is? Of course, many are naysaying the 50 state strategy saying it won't be effective and will take away from other more important races. If this is so there is no evidence of it. I believe this is just the establishment, angry over Dean's more grass roots oriented approach and shunning of corporate donations. It is rumored that many establishment Dems have been operating behind the seens trying to create a new party apparatus. Considering the way the DLC, DSCC and DCCC have been acting lately, I believe this to be true. But for those who just won't stop crying for something on which to teethe, check out Tom McMahon's challenge to Ari Berman's bashing from The Nation.

Lastly, when people attempt to counter the negativity concerning Dean, they are often met with accusations of being cultists and other nonsensical responses. These people seem to have some lingering resentment from the 2004 election and all that can be said to them is, "Get over it."