FL-07: Justice Democrats endangering Democratic freshman in 50-50 seat.

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24. it's an example, pointing out that real people have real differences

...and this isn't what it's being portrayed as here.

It would be a more legitimate argument against the challengers if you did talk issues. Instead you present this partisan dichotomy where only the incumbent is supposedly inviolable and the challengers all subversive.

It's ridiculous and just dirt-dumb politics.

These supporters of these challengers comprise many folks who just may well have sat out the general election, save these appeals to issues which affect their lives and livelihoods. Reducing those interests and concerns into a DU grudge match against AOC is absurd and incredibly self-defeating to the goals that critics THEMSELVES cite as reasons to oppose her efforts.

The energy that AOC and these progressive challengers are generating in our primary are INCREASING interest in Democratic races, increasing the numbers of potential Democratic voters. It is the challenge and opportunity for incumbents, as it's been for decades of Democratic primaries, to either rail against Democratic opponents, or try and draw them into your own campaign.

Primary challenges help our party grow, both in new supporters for the general when the voting is done, and the advancement (hopefully) of the issues which propelled these challenges into being. They are an opportunity for incumbents to improve and respond to opposition within Democratic ranks with understanding and empathy.

I can see that some DU strategists believe railing against these Democratic candidates and their supporters is good strategy. I think it's divisive and counterproductive. Better to work toward the ultimate end where our forces unify behind the eventual nominee. Better that than spend time advocating against what is essentially the heart of our democracy, against the opportunity for people who disagree to contest alongside those in power for the chance to represent their district or state.

Remember, energy and enthusiasm can propel a candidate into office by expanding our voter base. Closing ranks with such zeal can alienate those potential Democratic voters. Most pols understand that. Does DU? Do they care?