We’ve talked about it before, so consider this a reminder and another invitation to join Tennessee For Bernie Sanders and other interested groups and individuals to send a message to the Democratic National Committee. Its chair, US Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), is the keynote speaker at tonight’s Tennessee Democratic Party Jackson Day Dinner. It’s a great event, we hope the attendees have a great time. But Wasserman Schultz needs to know that the six debates scheduled for the Democratic presidential candidates is not enough. We will rally peacefully, with the blessing of the Metro Nashville Police Department, to let her know that many people want and need more debates.
This comes from an email from Tennessee For Bernie Sanders’ Tim Sonderman:
I am writing to inform you of a rally occurring this Friday October 23rd from approximately 6:30–9 pm outside of the Jackson Day Dinner at OZ Arts Nashville. This rally is being hosted by a grassroots group of Democrats and Independents associated with the #AllowDebate movement. The goal of this rally is to convince Democratic National Committee Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz to allow Democratic Presidential Candidates to participate in more debates before the Democratic Primaries occur across the country.
The #AllowDebate participants in Nashville want to make very clear that we are NOT rallying against the National or Tennessee Democratic Party. We are NOT trying to disrupt the Jackson Day dinner. The only reason we will be outside of the Jackson Day Dinner is that DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz is attending and we are trying to get our message across to her.
Here are a few of the reasons we believe there should be more debates:
– Debates enable candidates to bring their message and viewpoints to the general public.
– More debates will allow the strongest candidate to emerge from the Democratic Party.
– More debates will give candidates more opportunities to improve their platform and will help them prepare for the general debates.
– More debates will allow voters from early primary states to see more than 4 debates before they must choose a candidate. More debates will allow voters in Tennessee to see more than 5 debates before they must choose a candidate.
– More debates will allow for more comprehensive discussions on major issues, especially racial injustice and the environment.
– More debates will allow Democratic candidates to respond to the absurd ideas and fallacies espoused by Republican candidates.
– More debates will enable the Democrats to frame the issues as the general election approaches.
It is imperative that the Democratic National Committee lift the exclusivity clause for Democratic candidates. If the debate schedule remains unchanged, the Democratic Party will lose momentum, votes, and possibly the White House.
The #AllowDebates movement has millions of supporters and over 250,000 of these supporters have signed petitions. These voices must be heard.
OZ Arts is located at 6172 Cockrill Bend Cir., 37209. You can RSVP via the Tennessee for Bernie Sanders Facebook page. Or just show up; we’ll be glad to see you. Bring a flashlight and wear reflective clothing, if you can. Be ready for hugs. Parking will be available at PDM 6124 Cockrill Bend Cir.
