What a difference a week makes. Last Monday, we were talking about how to beat the Republicans. Now, we're debating whether American conservatism is dead. Wow.
For me, one of the most interesting aspects of Congresswoman Solis's remarks was her reminder that in order to win, progressives need to bring more people of color into our coalitions. I wrote last week about my fear that if the Democratic Party embraces economic nationalism, that might serve to alienate the amazing coalition that took the streets of Los Angeles, San Francisco, Santa Barbara - and even places like Columbus, Ohio - on May 1, 2006.
Like you, I've been thinking a lot about what last Tuesday means for progressive politics in California and in America. I've got a lot of thoughts that don't make much sense right now, because I'm still trying to wrap my head around the new scene. Thankfully, we've got people like Representative Hilda Solis and people like you who have commented on our web discussion. Thanks again to everyone who participated in our amazing teleconference, where we talked about the 2006 election, the 2008 election, and everything in between. If you haven't listened to the wisdom offered from Representative Solis, and analysts like Chris Bowers and Frank Russo, then go check it out here, join our Future of California action group here, and leave your thoughts in our blog discussion going on here.
Fortunately, progressives are more forward thinking. Representative Solis won't let us forget the May 1 coalition. And today, it's Republican leader Ken Melhman who is most concerned about losing Latinos and other people of color. Here's what Melhman told the Washington Post:
"I am concerned about where we stand with Hispanic voters," Mehlman said. "The day we become just the party of the wall, not only won't we secure the borders, but we will substantially limit the growth of the party."
He's right - and this holds true for the Democratic Party as well as the Republican Party. The issues that brought those millions of people to the streets on May 1 will continue to be a central issue moving forward - particularly here in California. Progressives need to build a unified front on these issues, one that includes those progressive activists that demonstrated so powerfully earlier this year.