How to be a progressive in a conservative world

Frontiersman Editorial Board

A group of people who identify themselves as political progressives met in the Valley this weekend to analyze the success of the Republican Party in Alaska, and to discuss strategies to increase support for progressive candidates in the future.

Much of the discussion centered upon a need for progressives to deliver a message that resonates with Valley voters. One speaker, Tom Begich, told the group not to sell out their values for the sake of winning elections, but to determine which of their values and priorities were shared by their constituents, and to focus their message upon those values. He emphasized the importance of research, and he pointed to some voter trends that candidates should be aware of if they hope to win -- or even compete. When Begich spoke of message, he returned often to the word "resonates." He urged progressive candidates to find a message that resonates with voters.

While it would be naive to say polls, trends and research are not important, in the end, it is ultimately the message, and how it is delivered that captures or discourages voters. The Republican messages in the last round of elections were simple and timely. Republicans have long understood that, at a time when voter turnout is usually low, the people who are most likely to go to the polls are those who have something to lose. The Republican message appeals to those voters -- "You want to keep more of your own money in your pocket, and that's what we're here to do." While reduced taxes, and a "smaller" government usually also mean reduced services and benefits, the Republicans are able to focus on the personal benefits of tax breaks, and that plays well to the average voter. As the election neared, the Republicans shifted gears. They banded together and presented a non-issues-related message -- "Vote for the Republican team, so we can get something done." It was a simple, and effective strategy that built momentum at the most critical time. That strategy works even better when there is low voter turnout.

Rather than simply focus upon the parts of their message that resonate with regular voters, progressive candidates might be better served to show some pride in their more basic message again -- people come first, and we get more good things done by working together. The success of progressive candidates will come when those candidates inspire and energize the voters who tend to stay home. When progressives reclaim the validity of their values, voters will respond. It's a good message when spoken with a loud voice.