With apologies to the one whose delightful screen name “One Pissed Off Liberal” I have usurped, I am tired and disgusted at the entreaties for money that come literally by the hundreds every week. As a one time political science (at least in my day an oxymoron) major and lawyer, I do not lack an appreciation of what is and for a considerable period has been at stake in our elections. And as I’ve said repeatedly, I am openly and unapologetically a liberal, that is in the inimitable words of a notable philosopher king, a “fucking retard.” Although not a Democrat, if I’m to vote or lend support, invariably it must be to candidates of that Party. Nevertheless, I resent the increasingly accusatory claims that I owe, am not involved, am irresponsible, am sitting quiescently as my country’s neo fascists seek further to exert their will, ad nauseam. Finally I have begun in utter futility to respond.
“Senator,
On what basis do you assume that we have not "step[ped] up" already? Here is my reply to a member of Congress following her recent telephone call to me:
‘As I told you on the phone the other day, we're liberals not Democrats and support individual deserving candidates. However, we are not without limitations as you can imagine. We have supported 36 candidates directly and six GOTV organizations directly. At this point we just do not feel that we can give any more to campaigns.
We're pulling for you and wish you the very best.’
I am fed up with the guilt tripping e-mails and the assumptions that we have sat on the sidelines. I also refuse to support a political party even when I may be somewhat in agreement on balance. Moreover, several of the candidates we have supported have represented teeth grinding compromises already; to support a party would result in major dental reconstruction. Finally, since you reference female candidates, be assured that we have supported most of them in this and prior years as your own records will demonstrate.
Sincerely yours,”
“Is there no respite?!”—from a Jack Lemon comedy.
Unfortunately there seldom is an opportunity to note that “my” contributions are on behalf of my wife and myself, but the “I” need be understood to refer to the both of us as she has an undivided one half interest in the funds in addition to being in agreement with their dispersal. With that qualification, I appreciate the opportunity for relieving myself of this angst.