Can Democrats Learn From 1976?

I was in the first grade in 1976. It was the national Bicentennial, and it was a big deal. My husband, then 11, redecorated his room in red, white and blue in his enthusiasm. I can still remember the words to a half-time song “Two Hundred Years and Just a Baby.” From the spirit of the day, I learned that being American was about being independent in thought and deed while respecting the needs of others. Independence is a theme that still tugs at my heartstrings.

Independence as a value has largely disappeared from the national dialogue. This is unfortunate, because many independence lovers are “values” voters. Since the Reagan years they have steadily voted against their own interests for the sake of principle. These aren’t undecided voters. These are people who want to made decisions for themselves. They don’t like being told what to think. The way to attract voters who value independence is not by behaving like Republicans.

In order to attract these voters, Democrats should consider thinking more about independence as a political value. Rather than censuring colleagues that break step because of personal conviction or promises to constituents, we should look more to how Democrats can foster a party ethos and mythology of independence rather than of battling titans. If we start from a common ground maybe our message and legislative product will be more cohesive.

Now if you don’t mind, I’m going to go check out some red shag carpet.