Photo courtesy of here.

The recent letter from Tim Burke, Chair of the Hamilton County Democratic Party, illustrates the problem with Christopher Smitherman—particularly for the power of the Hamilton County Democrats in Cincinnati.  By announcing that he is running with the endorsement of the Southwest Ohio Green Party, Smitherman has blown open the exposure for alternative and progressive politics in the area.  Now, African Americans feeling like Democrats take them for granted have a choice other than Republicans.  So what might happen if Cincinnati’s black community gets hip to the Green Party?

The local Green Party has its share of power hungry politicking—what political party doesn’t?—but it is nothing compared to the complicated craziness of an “established” party like the Republicans or the Democrats.  This is a significant point, because it means that a relatively small number of dedicated activists could easily get involved in the local Green Party in a manner not possible with the Democrats.

And whether Smitherman wins or loses a council seat is less relevant than the point of what his candidacy can bring to the life of alternative politics in Cincinnati.  No wonder Burke is sending out emails.  He’s worried that his party’s progressive wing might jump ship to get involved with something more exciting!

As the so-called Charter Party has totally lost its credibility with recent acts of obfuscation and misdirection, actually discouraging new people from even becoming simple dues paying members, the region needs something to fill the void left by Charter’s incompetence.  What if the Green Party can fill the gap?

This will be a great year to watch, and to participate in Cincinnati politics!

• Share This Article!
Listen to this article

del.icio.us

Furl It

Anonymous comments are allowed, but you can log in above to stamp your name and to avoid typing the anti-spam code.