Whose Democratic Party Is It?

[MineralMan]

29. We make zero difference in Presidential elections.

We make an enormous difference in congressional races and state legislative races. I don't even pay attention to presidential campaigns until after the national convention.

I'll tell you this: it is legislative races that make the difference in how our government functions. Right now, the Republicans control Congress. Every congressional seat is determined by a local election, and Senate races are statewide elections. You can have an influence in those races at the local level.

The Presidential election is another thing entirely, and is a huge money event. My only influence on it is my vote in the primary. My influence in other races, however, is much greater. The presidency isn't the main thing. Congress and state legislatures are. If the only race you care about is the one for President, you're on the wrong track. Who are the state legislators in your districts. Who is your congressional representative. You can affect those by participating in the local Democratic organization.

There's more to politics than the President. Much more.