What is with this Progressives vs. the world mantra we are beginning to see?  I made an effort to be pointed in the PDooM post because I simply do not understand the animosity between what I consider like minded folks.  Matt asked if I would have the same reaction to others  factions, such as the New Democratic Network or DLC.  My answer is two parts -  1) who the hell is the NDN and 2) Yes.

For whatever reason, if you disagree with 'progressives' or any of the many 'grassroots' movements, you are suddenly a party insider, a part of the establishment, more interested in the party than the person.  That's crap.   Further, there is an implication you are a member of the other party (relentless republican-lite references), which isn't entirely mean spirited becuase there are good people on both sides.  Moderate (D or R) is not a dirty word. 

Lets talk about Jeff for a minute. I rarely follow the goings on in the internal operation of the democratic party, either statewide or nationally.  Entirely to much money is spent at the party level, and should be funneled to local central committees and candidates.  I am pro-choice.   I like coal and have no problem mining or burning it.  Coal bed methane needs to be explored and opened up in eastern Montana.  Alternative energy sources are fine too.   A state wide sale tax is a good idea.  The government should leave our guns alone.  Montanan's should be able to pull along side the river, pull out a fly rod, and fish if they want to.  Accessibility to higher education for a Montanan is part of our constitution, and should be treated as such.  The business equipment tax should be abolished.  I like Joe Lieberman.  I like Hillary.  I like Rudy.  I really like Bill Richardson.  I blog.  I think it would be a mistake to pull out of Iraq to quickly, as there is still much to do.   I can go on, but I won't. 

I consider myself a democrat.   I can look at both sides of an issue, make a choice, and feel comfortable with my decision.  I do not need to be in 100%, lock step with another becuase they think I should.  I saw the movie, no pod next to my bed.