Our local Democratic Party is organized and effective after working for almost a decade to re-organize and win elections in our Republican county. In 2004, our local candidates even beat intrenched local Republican officeholders to gain a majority on our local Board of Commissioners. We are doing very well with active canvasses, almost $20,000 banked for the upcoming election, standing room only meetings, and a strong Democratic presence through community service.
Just yesterday, we found out that our local radio station has contracted with a hard-core Republican activist to present an hour-long weekly radio talk show, "The Right Thing," the purpose of which is to present the "conservative vision regarding local, state and national politics. All through the eyes of a corrupt, highly-partisan, and meaner-than-hell Republican. There is no charge to the Republicans for this programming.
When we called this morning and asked whether we would be allowed a similar show and/or other type of opportunity to present our competing
"vision," we were told no. When we asked why the owner had not considered a type of head-to-head program (with one Republican and one Democrat) for balance, we were told, "We thought that would appear too contrived."
This means our local Republicans who haven't got another boat in the water around here in terms of organization or activity are now to be given FREE advertising for their candidates! In order for our candidates or our party to get their messages out, we have to PAY.
I realize the radio station doesn't have to offer "equal time." In fact, we were told so in no uncertain terms when we inquired. (We pleaded a sense of justice and fair play, but that got us nowhere.)
Other than the samo samo bitching and moaning through letters and emails, etc., do any of you have any ideas for something a bit more creative as an answer to this? Something different to really put the heat on this radio station?