Linda and I set up a booth at the Redneck Festival in Weissport yesterday and today. This is the fourth year for the festival. At the first festival, in September 2008, we ran a booth entitled “Rednecks for Obama.” That was the week McCain picked Palin for his running mate, and we did very well--we registered over 20 Democrats and had orders for yard signs from five counties.
We now set up as the “Yaller Dog Democrats.” The phrase comes from an old Missouri expression that says” “I’d rather vote for an old yaller dog than for a goddam Republican.”
Incidentally, the term “redneck” was used as a label for small farmers, often sharecroppers, whose necks were red from working in the fields all summer. Historically, most were Democrats.
Anyway, in two days our volunteers registered two Democrats, two independents, and one Republican. I think the Republican booth did much better--bigger space, more volunteers, more literature, and more enthusiasm. Perhaps this is not true of all Democrats, but right now some of us are feeling discouraged.
By the way, the back of my neck is red, and that doesn’t come from any tanning salon. I’m legit.
My thoughts are that we always seem to be anti-incumbent, As you recall everyone was anti Bush, etc. Now the Democrats are in and they are the Anti party. This seems to be what happens in cycles.
ReplyDeleteAs to the Booth. Lately the Rep. Booth seems to be more attractive. You need to Have large colored posters. A theme is good. Emphasize a point that will attract people to the Demo. cause.
Such as: Protect Social Security, Medicare, Environment, Health care for all.
Just a couple ideas.
George