I've been pondering the whole situation with the violence unfolding at the health care "town halls". My initial reaction was, of course, "let them try that crap with me, and they'll see what's really up!". Even pondered going on road trips to WA and MT to "show support".  But after watching the videos from that Florida debacle, I got a vivid image of myself toe-to-toe with an 80 year old, and the most overwhelming feeling was ... embarrassment. It made me realize that maybe we're looking at this situation all wrong.

There is a premise that somehow we've got to "win" at the town halls.  But why? The whole town-hall thing really gained popularity as a sham conducted by George Bush to wrap himself in the illusion of popular support. The reason they worked is because they were stage managed, not because it's a good format to discuss things. Now, I know there's more to it than that but at this point, it's pretty much the truth.

It seems there is little, if anything, to lose by refusing this fight all together. If the goal is to present the health care proposals as serious plans by people who care and want to address the policy seriously - what is to be gained by engaging in a juvenile fight with a bunch of teabaggers? What does the policy fight lose by ceding this battlefield? Now that their forces and resources are committed to this tactic, it could be time to use guile and do an end-run around their dumb-asses. Leave them looking batshit-crazy for the teevees, and find a better way to maintain contact with the legislators.

Instead, I propose a campaign of quietly visiting the local field offices of representatives. Most of the time, these offices are not very busy at all and there is often a staffer who can actually spend some time talking. Articulate that you don't want to have to worry about being targeted by a crazed Glenn Beck fan to let the representative know your dedication to real reform. Ask the staffer for help. In the current environment, I think that would leave a bigger impression than trying to make "our" side seem bigger than "their" side for the cameras by joining the crazies in the mud.

Another thought about how to amplify a quiet personal visit is the use of a mini-petition. In other words, get the support of like minded neighbors who may not be able to go themselves - or articulate the issues as well. If progressives could quietly deliver signatures, five or ten at a time, in person, with respect, wouldn't that send a much more effective message than having fisticuffs with an angry geriatric who spends way too much time watching TV?

I don't know exactly what the petition should say .... maybe something simple like "We put our support behind the democratic plan and the progressive caucus, including a strong public option. Please don't play politics with our health." And just ten signature lines or something - with local addresses (and probably an "ok to contact with more info Yes/No check box").

So that's my idea for how to deal with the recess.  My rep is Walt Minnick ... and he's a total ass-clown who's already committed to obstructing. But that's the approach I'm going to take to try and get my opinion noted. I don't see why I need to fight with anger against a mob - when the new dynamic let's me ask for personal attention based on legitimate desire to avoid violent crazies.

I just don't think this round is going to be won by going toe-to-toe at town halls. Let them go crazy-town by themselves and be totally discredited, yet again.