Something new in the political atmosphere

IRAQ

The war in Iraq seems to be what worries Americans the most. Most recent opinion polls show that we think the country is going in the wrong direction. And we don't trust those who lead us to change for the better.

Quoting a recent USA Today article,

Only 42% in the new poll said they approve of Bush's handling of foreign policy and terrorism, his lowest rating yet in an area that has long been his strongest issue.
The war in Iraq is at the core of the public's unrest, polling found. In an AP-Ipsos poll in early October, almost six in 10 disapproved of the way Bush was doing his job, and Iraq was a dominant factor. When those who disapproved of Bush were asked in an open-ended question the top reason, they most frequently mentioned the war far ahead of the second issue, the economy.
"To use an unfortunate metaphor, Iraq is a roadside bomb in American politics," said Rich Bond, a former national Republican chairman.

Despite this knowledge, I am beginning to feel more hopeful for the future. That is a new feeling for me, and might seem counterintuitive. I credit this feeling to last Tuesday's election results, and to what Democratic leaders and elected officials have been saying and doing in recent weeks.

What should we as thoughtful citizens do to help increase the momentum for change? (the links are my own examples)

• Stay informed, even though the issues are varied and complex. If you haven't already, try C-SPAN.
• Add progressive online magazines to your "favorites list."
• Break the rules: talk about politics in polite company. Hone your arguments beyond mere ranting. Wonkette is a great example of good gossip.
• Do not skimp on your support for U.S. servicemen and women, because they are making huge sacrifices on our behalf.
• Even if you live in a flaming "red" state, pledge to write your senators, and your Representative at least one letter each in your own words.
• Write a letter to the editor of your local paper.
• Communicate with your local TV station managers about their coverage of the war.
• Make sure you are registered to vote in the next election.
• Comment regularly in the blogs that propose useful solutions to the dilemma of the Iraq war.