(Again) When I was Chair, my #1 idea was to have more informal gatherings of Democrats around the County. I believe that when you are in a neighbors house for a small and private party, you are more likely to discuss the thing that matter to you. If you know you’re neighbor is a good Democrat, you’ll be more likely to come out of the political closet and also get involved.

But that’s the problem, no one cares like we do. I’m still baffled by people who don’t vote or even know who their elected officials are. How do you make them care? I have no idea. We can’t force them, we can’t buy them, and we can’t constantly bombard them with our information.

I started a little thing called the Backyard BBQ’s. Each legislative district was allotted $100 to host an event (it didn’t have to be a BBQ or in a backyard). The whole idea was to invite members of the community (not just Democrats), delegates and candidates to a small, informal gathering of ideas. Out of 30 Leg Districts, only 10 took the County Party up on this offer.

I also planned movie nights and pizza get togethers–random events for anyone and everyone. Also, as you’ll recall, it was my idea to have a 4th of July event which I gave to YDU to officially host. Yeah, these do work, but getting to people care and actually vote after the party is the tough part.

This idea was eventually the start of my downfall. Because certain candidates didn’t feel I was doing enough for them (because the “Backyard BBQ’s” they attended were not well attended and even though they were Congressional candidates and I was not allowed to help under Federal law), I became a scapegoat for their loss and everything was done in their power to ensure I did not become Chair again.

One thing I learned is that when a candidate wins, it was all their doing. But when they lose, they blame the party.

Shit, why am I still involved in this party again?

However, I did develop a very thick skin and strong opinions because of all this. Obviously.

Oh, and I’m awesome. :D

Good stuff, man!