Hey #ALP, here’s a REAL progressive political party | The Punch #Auspol

Posted on September 20, 2012 by Darin Sullivan in Earth

Hey Labor, here’s a REAL progressive political party | Article | The Punch.

The Democratic National Convention in North Carolina this month could teach Labor what a progressive political party actually looks like.

The Democratic Party boogie down to Barack Obama in North Carolina earlier this month… Picture: AFP

On key progressive causes – such as rights for same-sex couples, skewing taxes towards those that can afford it, and fair treatment of refugees – Labor doesn’t have a proud track record.

Hell, they don’t even have a consistent one.

With division over gay rights, a backdown on the mining tax, and a position on refugees which is best described as rocking back an forth in the corner with a bloodied nose – it’s hard to be clear what progressive values Labor actually stands for.

After being in North Carolina for three days of passionate speeches, standing ovations and tearful delegates, I am in no doubt what the Democratic Party stands for.

Officially the DNC is an opportunity for elected delegates from all 50 states to vote on changes to the party platform and nominate a presidential candidate. In reality, being a guest or delegate is just an excuse for a week-long party full of networking, fundraising and gift bags.

If nothing else, the DNC proves it’s entirely possible to live for five days on finger food, champagne, and gin and tonic.

The events in the convention hall itself are tightly stage-managed, even the result of each vote is pre-written into the teleprompter (which can make it a little embarrassing when things go awry). For the Democratic National Committee which runs the show, the DNC is a chance to rally the troops, control the message, and define what the party stands for.

In 2012 the Democratic Party is not backing down – not on gay rights, not on immigration reform, and not on higher taxes for millionaires. This is a party with values and a message which they’re not afraid to advocate. Leaked planning notes show a concerted effort to find people who could speak powerfully and convincingly about policies which affect them personally.