To the Editor:
In the February 6th issue of The Dartmouth, Brian Reilly announced his departure from the Young Democrats, and argued that the group has become too practical, too interested in advancing Democrats of any stripe, rather than keeping the liberal flame that burns so deeply in Reilly's heart. I fear, however, that it is his criticism, rather than our "agency," that is "misplaced."
Before I continue, I think it necessary to say that I come from the same political background, that of the New York City liberal, that Reilly says is the cause of his decision to leave the organization. He and I both admit that our form of liberalism is no longer vogue in the country, however, it is his answer to "continue from the margin," while I think it essential to actually affect elections. I think that it is important to work for those candidates who come closest to our beliefs, rather than to embark on hopeless crusades, or, as Mr. Reilly is fond of, whine about the fall of liberalism. A difference in our approaches can be seen in New Hampshire's most recent Gubernatorial race: Jeanne Shaheen, the Democratic nominee, was, and is, a moderate by anyone's definition. Reilly chose to sit on the sidelines because of this, while I, along with the rest of the organization, pushed for her eventual victory. Why would I do this when I disagree with her positions on many important issues? The answer is simple. She will be a good Governor, if not an ideal one. Moreover, the alternative, a man who advocated teaching creationism in public schools, was far worse, and he very well could have been elected if many people just like me decided not to work towards Shaheen's election. "Heaven helps not the men who will not act." (Sophicles)
However, Reilly can and should do what his heart tells him to do and I do not begrudge him for doing so, yet, I think it problematic that many of we liberals have abandoned serious political action for the sake of keeping to some absurd standard of ideological purity. This pretension is both rampant and foolish, especially if such people are genuine in their desire to actually make a difference in the world, as opposed to sounding good in arguments over cups of latte.
So, to Reilly and all like-minded individuals I offer a simple question: is it more important to stand by your liberal orthodoxy or to have a positive effect on people's lives? I encourage all of those of you for whom the answer to this question is obviously the latter to become involved with the Young Democrats, as we will continue to work towards this goal.
