I have been thinking a lot recently about the value (or, more accurately, the problems) of a Bush, Clinton, Bush, Clinton bipolar disorder and its implications for our country.

Here in Kansas we have been trying to stabilize our far-right Republican depressive disorder by way of moderate Republicans converting to the Democratic party and then actually winning elections in Kansas. I think there might be a focus group business which could survive and thrive in Kansas which addresses how does one rid one's self of far right Republicans.

Economic support is now being accepted. Thank you. (Joke: of course)

Don't ask me why. But, a year and a few months ago my wife and I moved (after Katrina) to Colorado Springs. After living in California (bay area and sacramento)and Mississippi, it has been a culture shock. Mississippi was a "Bible belt" Republican state. But, it was mild compared to here.

I have never seen the country so divided. And, I am honestly worried about the future of the US. I hear news from other countries in other languages that we never hear here. If someone questions government policy, they are a traitor. The "Right Wingers" I know have never had the joy of trying to survive on a minimum wage job with requirements close to slave labor. The immigrants I know (LEGAL ONES)are bashed when they work with the public (especially the older customers. And, the illegals I meet and speak to either work for slave wages under the table or use bogus SSN (Who knows where THAT money goes). They do not have a pleasant life. Some send most of their wages to Mexico and live 10 to 12 people in a home to economize. Why does the government do nothing? The only thing I can come up with is that those making huge profits want them here.

Liberals are bashed on AM radio (there seems to be a huge market for talk radio right wing political preachers). I really dont believe flying 2 flags (one on each side of your car) and putting ribbons on the back is going to help the situation.

What really disturbs me is the lack of open mindedness. The fact that we DO have 2 partys is a blessing. It helps to keep some sort of balance. (Though I personally believe some "cheating" has gone on). Am I just another "nutcase"? I dont think so. But, what do you think?

Heh. About time.

My pedigree: served champagne to Rosalyn Carter when I was 16, then got drunk with Bruce Babbit on red jug wine that same night.

Grew up watching Mainland Chinese propaganda films... they were a lot of fun.

Served on the board of California PeaceAction (now PeaceAction West) for five years. A fine organization, very pragmatic, works within the system to bring about change:

http://www.peaceactionwest.org/

Favorite quote from a friend (who is Scottish): "I'm a far right winger here, which makes me about a Democrat to you..."

YOU are someone I'd love to meet one day!

Moving to Colorado Springs was a big mistake..They burn witches down there don't they?

I think there might be a focus group business
which could survive and thrive in Kansas which
addresses how does one rid one's self of far right
Republicans.

"Rid oneself" sounds so harsh. How about
encouraging new blood instead?

There is always the prospect of moving people-who-vote/think-differently into voting
districts that could use diluting. (A variation on
gerrymandering?) I thought about this as a solution
for Idaho. Settling parts of Idaho with the green,
outdoorsy, culturally-diverse, impact-aware
college students I've had the pleasure to meet
out here would tip the scales as the old guard passes.

What groups could you draw to your area? Think of
ways to use the wide open spaces. The SW is
having luck with "Astronomy Villages." These
housing developments are placed in areas with little
light pollution and the structures tend to be more efficient/sustainable.

With telecommuting still on the rise, those
exhausted with city life may chose to move to rural
areas. The homestead movement didn't die in the 70's.

Keep brainstorming.

...just finding this board makes me need to go hug a tree!!!!

Hi all my tree-hugging, liberal minded, peacenik friends to be!