Reply #29: I disagree with your premise.... [View All]

... that it's 1) exploitive, and 2) that it shows lack of leadership.

Anyone who has had to roll out any kind of policy knows that you need "buy in" from the people affected. Dean needs buy-in from his campaign supporters in order to make this decision. Of course his presentation was slanted toward the direction that he is leaning (as would anyone making a 'presentation') but it's important that we understand his case for making this decision and this is a good way of presenting it. Also, rather than "exploitation" it involves people. Even if you don't believe our opinion really matters and he will do what he wants anyway (I don't believe that by the way butI do belive the vote will go the way he wants), making us vote on the matter helps us reaffirm our commitment. It also helps him to see the level of commitment--in terms of the number of responses and which responses they are. If he gets even 50-50 could tell him a lot (about potential fundraising, about losing supporters over this etc).

And contrary to your conclusion, I believe this shows exactly the kind of leadership qualities needed by an executive to move opinion in the desired direction (you know like a President with Congress). Three months ago, if he had asked the same question, I suspect the response would have been different. He's made his case, he's timed it right to get the response he wants. Leadership.

Mike