Alan Grayson: "We Need Democrats With Guts"

by: Adam Bink

Fri Oct 02, 2009 at 00:00

If you haven't had a chance to read Chris' great post this afternoon on teachable moments for other Dems from this episode with Rep. Alan Grayson, go ahead and take a look. One of the most salient points that stands out to me is that too many Dems in Congress don't know that there are all of us out here on the 'tubes ready to back someone who stands up like Alan Grayson did. As a result, there are many who don't speak their mind and challenge the Republicans' rhetoric and policy... or if they do, they quickly walk it back with an apology.

Tonight with Ed Schultz (who is VERY fired up and applauding), Grayson stated that point in another way. Take a look:

"We need Democrats with guts." It's not just hot air- Grayson is a living, breathing example of what happens when you have guts. He has an extra $100,000+ over the last 24 hours with which to continue doing battle in Congress, and that means something to other members. Blue America's "Carrots AND Sticks" action, which raised over $400,000 in just days for House members who stood firm on the public option, is another example. It's one of the best ways those of us out here can communicate that we support those who support us.

If you haven't already, throw in a few bucks to the Alan Grayson. It's one solid way of helping his colleagues get some guts and follow his lead.

Adam Bink :: Alan Grayson: "We Need Democrats With Guts"

Tags: health care reform, Democratic Party, Congress, Alan Grayson, (All Tags)

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Alan Grayson: "We Need Democrats With Guts" | 5 comments

I love Ed when he's just being himself (0.00 / 0)

but I can't help but worry about the man's blood pressure. I'm only 39, and I can feel mine go up just watching the guy. Maybe it's because he totally vents what everyone feels...

by: glacierpeaks @ Thu Oct 01, 2009 at 23:20:19 PM CDT

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Venting is good. (0.00 / 0)

Would you prefer he bottle everything up and only release it when not doing so would prove dangerous? Nah, a good healthy dose of outrage at every injustice is excellent for soul and body.

by: Michael Kwiatkowski @ Fri Oct 02, 2009 at 07:39:25 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

I really have to tip my hat to Schultz (4.00 / 6)

As much as I get frustrated with him because he's relatively new to the "lefty" side and therefore not as informed or enlightened on the issues as I'd like him to be, I have to give him credit for the progress he's made. He's a far better liberal voice now than he was when I first heard him in 2004 (on XM radio). And as far as advocating for genuine health care reform, he's been just about the best, strongest voice out there. He (justifiably) slams the insurance industry without apology, and has used both his radio and TV shows as a platform for single payer advocates.

So with reservations duly noted, I give credit where credit is due:
Bravo, Ed! And thanks for standing up for Dems who stand up for us and don't wilt under rethuglican and corporate media pressure!

by: Oaktown Girl @ Fri Oct 02, 2009 at 01:47:34 AM CDT

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Ed loves his '30 Rock' perch (0.00 / 0)

Last summer when he began the TV show, he shared his skyrocketing health insurance bills and I think he resolved to do everything he could to make change happen. He's going to hold Obama to his word and he's thrilled beyond words to bring on an effective elected representative like Rep Grayson. His staff did some checking into Grayson's background, but it seems that they are not aware the YouTube clips of Grayson's piercing questions of Federal Reserve officials. So I sent one to them yesterday!

Ed had Michael Moore on this week (first time). Mutually admiring each other's work, Ed replayed Michael's resolve to hold Dems accountable for their votes - and to find good primary candidates for those who don't support a robust public option.

by: Books Alive @ Fri Oct 02, 2009 at 07:40:21 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

I've been looking for an Alan Grayson for decades. (4.00 / 1)

A lot of Democrats, including rank and file, just oppose "populism" in principle. But that's what we need.

But the third part of this is--and this is what I really have always admired about the right wing: they are organized, they are dedicated, they are up at the crack of dawn fighting their fight. And on our side, I don't really see that kind of commitment.

by: John Emerson @ Fri Oct 02, 2009 at 11:30:49 AM CDT

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Alan Grayson: "We Need Democrats With Guts" | 5 comments