Chairman Dean
Doctor Howard Dean came to a special meet-up of Democrats Abroad Australia last night for an impromptu address to the faithful. It was a terrific turn-out, easily surpassing the election night (morning, here) watch in November.

Dr. Dean was, as expected, an excellent speaker, and we’re all grateful to him for taking time on his vacation to speak with us and to the organizers for their hard work in setting it all up and making it work so well (and to Bar Broadway for hosting the event).

The passion and commitment Dr. Dean brings to his role as Chairman of the DNC is evident, and if he is as effective a leader as I hope, the Democrats will find themselves better able to contend with the Republicans – especially the far-right element that has come to dominate that party – than we have previously. Dean’s grass roots mobilization skills and plans will give us something to rely on other than the powerful charisma of a Bill Clinton. Clinton’s sincerity was perhaps his greatest strength, which is fine for a one-off, but more broadly unsustainable, leaving Congress and the state and local offices vulnerable. Dean’s plans to take on every election at every level offer to spread that strength around and give the American people the opportunity to see a better choice for themselves and their children than they’re being offered at present, and before long they’ll make that choice.

Too many Americans now live without the aspirations of previous generations, forced out by the greed, the selfishness of others from even the most basic economic circumstances that would otherwise allow them to own their own home, help their children through university, retire securely. Republicans are cutting away health care just when it’s becoming more and more difficult to afford, instead of making it possible for everyone to see a doctor when they need one. Too many Americans now have to work harder longer than ever before and still can’t make ends meet, can’t be home to raise their children, and this has to change. The Republicans aren’t doing the job, because they’re too focussed on cronyism, cutting taxes for their friends at the expense of the middle class and the poor. The party of fiscal responsibility is the party of fear now, but we know about that, especially as Democrats we know: it’s the only thing we really have to fear at all.

Watching Dr. Dean last night was like witnessing Jesus in the temple whipping the money-changers. I came out more energized than I’ve been in weeks.