Even as it continues to urbanize and become increasingly diverse, it’s doubtful that anyone familiar with American politics considers Texas to be a harbinger of Progressivism. Thanks to many factors like voter suppression and mis-education, the Lone Star state is expected to once again skew Conservative for the upcoming election.
Though the constraints of America’s often challenging two-party system would want voters to think otherwise, the terms “Progressive” and “Conservative” do not belong to exclusively to Democrats or Republicans. In fact 2016’s two major party candidates are causing many American voters to look outside of the traditional “big tent” status quo.
This week, a major player in a Progressive politics is taking over Houston, as Mihir Zaveri of the Houston Chronicle reports…
The odds seem long for the Green Party of the United States. In a presidential election, it never has won more than 2.7 percent of the popular vote.
Right now, its presumptive candidate is slated to be on the ballot in only two dozen states.
Still, members say the November election could provide a unique opportunity for the progressive party, now in its fourth decade, to capture voters who will not vote for Democrat Hillary Clinton or Republican Donald Trump.
That will be one of the central themes as the Green Party kicks off its three-day national convention Thursday at the University of Houston, where delegates are expected for the second straight election cycle to nominate Jill Stein, a Lexington, Mass., physician, author and environmental advocate, for president.
“I think we’re trying to take advantage of something this year,” said party spokesman Scott McLarty. “That is the widespread realization by a lot of people, among non-voters, among independents, and, interestingly this year, among a lot of Democrats and Republicans, that the two-party status quo is failing us.”
It’s been something of a ‘Powerhouse’ Political year for the University of Houston, whom not only welcomes the Green Party this week, but also played host to a Republican Debate earlier this year.
Spoiler Alert: at this point it is unlikely that Dr. Jill Stein, or her running mate Ajamu Baraka will win this years election. At present, they have reached the General Election ballot in 24 states and the District of Columbia. But that situation in the Presidential race doesn’t discount the real successes that its membership has garnered elsewhere. The party currently has 134 elected officials serving in 15 states, including Arkansas, Mississippi, and yes, Texas.
Per the schedule of events, convention activities begin today August 4th, with the highlights of Keynote speaker Dr. Cornel West, the roll call of states, and the official Presidential Candidate nomination and acceptance all slated for August 6th. There’s even a special welcome for Bernie Sanders supporters.
Will the Green Party’s mission be advanced by their time in Houston? At this point it is uncertain. But Texas Leftist plans to find out. Look for more Green Party Convention coverage right here.
