The Democratic Umbrella

When we look at national elections, we can often see the divergent ideas included in the Democratic Party. As politics move left of center, personal reasons stem from intellectual philosophy, freedom from certain governmental constraints, economic issues for families, or a sense that we have necessities in life that the government must help us all meet.

In little Northern New York, we are sometimes lulled into the false belief that, "everyone is the same as me." We need to be more insightful about, and respectful of, our differences. As a group, the St. Lawrence County Democratic Party, all of those elected and non-elected members, seem to be pulling in different directions. We all try to focus on our own personal vision instead of working together to accomplish as much as we possibly can.

It really comes down to impatience. As more towns in St. Lawrence County elect Democratic leadership and the Board of Legislators has a Democratic majority, Democrats now have the responsibility of leadership rather than the burden of criticizing as part of the minority. Unfortunately, some of us have not made the transition and still continue to criticize rather than lead. With the divergent opinions all existing under a large umbrella, many Democrats find it easier to criticize people from their own party than change, be patient, take a leadership role, and wait to be heard.