Response to a fellow Green

My friend and fellow Green James O'Keefe recently posted a letter from Jeremy Cannon, explaining why he was voting green in this election. This is a passionate and well written letter. My response is as follows:

I have a couple of issues with this letter, well written and earnestly offered as it is.

First, as one of many people who volunteered for Ralph Nader in 2000 and worked as a staffer on the campaigns of 3 Greens running for state office,I understand how Jeremy feels. I agree that Democrats, even liberal ones, fall far short of our ideals.

However, I have to say that any similarities between McCain and Obama are superficial at best. I've heard this refrain before. It was wrong in 2000, and it's wrong now. If you think there is no difference between McCain and Obama, the Democrats and Republicans, you're simply not seeing the world as it is. Democrats are not as progressive as Greens, but they are very different from republicans.

As for your comment:
"I, no longer, have to wonder what will happen to the poor family that can't afford healthcare, the working mom that just can't make enough money, the gay couple ready to tie the knot, the brother in Iraq, the children who need to learn, the conversations I have in private, the planet I love to live on, the money I spend, the people I vote for, and the unchecked corporate fat cats that have squandered our future for their own gain."

I assure you, if you truly care about these issues, and I believe you do, John McCain's presence in the White House will be disastrous, far more than an Obama presidency. You DO have to worry about these issues. Voting Green doesn't give you a free pass. Until we Greens can build upon our successes at the local and to a lesser extent state level, we won't be able to be effective players on the National scene. Voting for someone who can't win may seem like a principled act, I know from experience that it certainly feels that way. But, in an election that is this important,that will likely be decided by razor thin margins and be marred by voting irregularities , every vote can make a difference.

Jeremy, I share your passion for Green politics and values.I understand how you feel. Many Greens I know are deeply conflicted about this election. I urge you to consider your choices carefully. I hope on November 5th we can talk about these issues without a Republican victory hanging over our heads.

Posted by: Tennis Lilly