9-16-2026 10:18am

Letter to the Editor - It's time to move beyond the yard signs

I’ve seen your yard signs, bumper stickers, and flags. I’ve heard your stories and watched how you’ve voted. It seems many of you want to change how this country is run.

I agree wholeheartedly.

But signs, stickers, flags, stories, and opinions are helpful. They aren't enough.

Nixon's political operation successfully appealed to working-class voters by portraying Vietnam War protesters as unpatriotic. Many working-class families were bearing the human cost of the war while more privileged Americans found ways to avoid military service.

WHEN INFORMATION ISN'T ENOUGH

Some voters don't have the time, resources, or inclination to research every candidate and every issue. They understandably rely on party affiliation, campaign advertising, personalities, or a single issue when making decisions.

That makes voters vulnerable to political messaging designed to provoke rather than inform.

Money buys the flags, banners, hats, stickers, buttons, billboards, radio spots, television ads, and increasingly sophisticated digital networks that shape what voters see and hear. That is true on the left and the right.

You don't have to like that reality. But you do have to understand that money is a powerful part of how modern politics is played.

Since the Supreme Court's 2010 Citizens United decision, independent political spending has played an increasingly prominent role in American elections. Wealthy individuals, corporations, unions, and outside organizations can spend enormous sums to influence the political conversation, although direct contributions to candidates remain subject to legal limits.

Whatever your political affiliation, it is hard to argue that money doesn't matter.

Of course, political spending isn't inherently sinister. People have a right to support candidates and causes they believe in, and organizations have a right to participate in public debate. The problem arises when the sheer volume of money allows a small number of wealthy donors and organizations to dominate that debate.

The only way to counter that influence is to participate.

Vote. Volunteer. Attend meetings. Talk to your neighbors. Research candidates. Support organizations you trust. And, if you can afford it, contribute to candidates and causes that reflect your values. One option is ActBlue — Elevate Your Fundraising

If you can afford it, giving up a latte, a pint, or a fast-food meal once a week can add up to meaningful political support over a year.

Complaining about politics is easy. Changing politics requires participation.

It's time to move beyond the yard signs.

Get involved.

Yours in ACTIVE opposition,
Your Neighbor