Nader Redux

Okay, Kristin Prevallet's poetry kicks genuine ass. And I'm enjoying her new blog, Letters from Citizen Kay. But, damn god it, here we go again with the Nader thing. Kay has no problem with Republicans "mocking idealistic liberals" who want Nader on the ballot, and she proves it by joining in. But supporting Nader's campaign is not idealistic. In fact, it implies an understanding of the reality of political reform. Namely, that it will not happen without one of the two parties reluctantly greasing the wheel of change. The best way to bring a party, okay the Democrats, into that position is through a prolonged, systematized disorganization of the senses. Failing that, the only way to push the Dems to the point where they incrementally pass legislation that dismantles the two-party power structure is through a constant, threatening pressure. What is being threatened? Political victory. The very thing that Kay mocks the Republicans for focusing on because it treats politics as a "game to win." Who's idealistic?* Besides, winner-take-all elections guarantee a politics where gamesmanship is foregrounded. Third-party power is the means to better representation, to true representation period.
What's even more idealistic is Kay's "this day is not now" argument, which looks to some idyllic future where a progressive third party can run a strong campaign and not draw votes from the Dems. I'll admit arguments that say "This is not the way," but let's have no more "This is not the time" nonsense: it's just a cop out. Progressive-minded Dems and independents need to stand strongly behind Ralph Nader, speak out in favor of Ralph Nader, write to John Kerry and tell him you will be voting for Ralph Nader and against the racist, classist, homophobic, patriarchal system which winner-take-all elections perpetuate. Then, in November, vote for Kerry and send Dubya packing.

* Actually, Kay seems to be aware of her flip-flop into role of idealist—"Oh Republicans, where are your ideals"—but gum it all, I'm trying to make a quick point here.