Straw polls can be quite for as far as entertainment value goes at this point in the 08 campaign, mainly because the 08 campaign doesn't really exist yet out side of our minds, pundits, and those who might want to run. That being said, a few weeks ago I proposed an idea of a series of straw polls to determine favorite candidates in various idealogical sections of the democratic party and then a final one to have the previous winners duke it out for your support.
The problem being of course was that I made the diary in the AM when most kosmopolitans are sleeping (well, except for us obsessive ones who are always up to 3 am reading dkos). So here is a second attempt at a soliciation for names of candidates and categories for candidates to compete in.
Here are the working categories that I'm leaning towards using as the basic subgroupings. Each one will eventually get its own straw poll. And feel free to put forward your own categories if a candidate doesn't fit in any of these:
True Moderate - I'd say Harry Reeid would fit here (correct me if I'm wrong of course). He might have some social conservative things about him, but the thing that would make him a True Moderate is his reliance of offsetting the extermists on the right instead of moving for a personal agenda. True Moderate means, moderation, not extermism.
Centrists - Those that might hang out in the area defined as the political center but rely more on compromise and cooperation with the right. Lieberman probably fits here.
Progressive - Moving forward for a better tomorrow in a pragmatic and well thought out fashion are the halmarks of our progressive group. Often seen as belonging to other groups but these candidates are less absolutist to their own idealogies as they find themselves willing to compromise in order to get the best possible result.
Far Left - Candidates that want to have a chance and thus don't become out right Greens or Socialists. Kucinich comes to mind on this one. Might be hard to fill this one up in reality. Want to help?
Labor - Strong ties to labor unions and a fanatical devotion to them describe these candidates.
Socially Conservative - A candidate that would both subscribe to leftist economic policy as well as be more in line socially with the right.
Libertarian - No government, no taxes, no fat chicks... whoops, channeling a quote from Murphy Brown there... But any way, less government, no government interference in anything types.
So, I throw it to the floor, who should go where? Also, I would like candidates in addition to those on kos' straw poll. The more the merrier. And if possible, along with giving their category, please describe these potential candidates as well. The more you tell me about them, the better I can make this dealie work. And by all means, throw out names of candidates you would never support. I need to fill up the centrist and socially conservative groupings right? And don't worry if a candidate has not gotten any press or no one knows who they are. There are a lot of democrats out there, and you guys know a lot more politicans than I do.
So, what are you waiting for? Give me lists!