Grayson would consider support for Progressive in primary against a corporate Dem. in a winnable race

Alan Grayson, former Democratic representative from Florida, appeared before an impromptu group of progressives at Netroots Nation 2011 Saturday afternoon. After presenting fascinating data on the deterioration of the middle class, he took questions and comments from the group.

Asked if he would support a progressive candidate against a corporate-style Dem in "selected districts," Mr. Grayson said that yes, he would consider publicly backing a progressive primary challenger.

This, he admits, runs counter to his earlier position, but as he says, "I've changed my views" in that regard. He cited the example of Tea Party Republicans who have successfully "disciplined" (his word) members of their own party who have strayed from Tea Party values. He now feels that progressives can learn from that example.

This is good news for those who believe, as I do, that the best way to work with the Democratic party is to scare those who run counter to progressive, and frankly, Democratic, values.

This is also good news for those of us who believe in building a strong progressive coalition that isn't necessarily the same as the Democratic coalition. (Click the link above for more.)

Good news all round. Thank you, Mr. Grayson.

GP