ELECTION DAY 2014---DEMOCRATS MUST OFFER POLICIES THAT OFFER HOPE IN HARD TIMES

I once was reflexively critical of people who don't vote, or people who vote against what others define as thier interests.

I've moved away from that view in recent years.

When your base repeatedly does not show up at the polls and when the Democratic Party is defeated to its lowest levels since the Great Depression, then it is time for some self-reflection.

I get the role of racism in all this and the Citizens United money is indeed a threat to democracy.

But clearly there is a fundamental problem for Democrats based on the 2010 & 2014 elections just as 2008 & 2012 remain a problem for Repulblicans.

There is no point in anger. It is done. It serves nothing to label people as stupid or lazy.

The work of freedom is---within the two party system and also through non-traditional channels---is up to each of us.

The only solution for the Democratic Party is offering real policies that address the fact that life in contemporary America is often very difficult no matter how hard you work each day.