Database of Politicians

[numba1quiter]

I haven't fully fleshed out this idea but I decided to throw it out here and see what people think.

I'm thinking that we really need to have a database of politicians who have spoken out (in ignorance) against e-cigs, so that the information is easily accessible when they are running for re-election.

For example, Richard Blumenthal has been making some pretty inflamatory remarks (Blumenthal Urges Ban on Electronic Cigarette Flavors, Online Sales - US News and World Report). Of course he's saying these things based on purely political motives - to sound "tough on smoking". But when he runs for re-election, I think that people who have quit smoking thanks to e-cigs and who live in Connecticut should be reminded of his statements. E-cig users need to speak out with their votes, but this is nearly impossible if the information is not readily available.

It is really our job to make this information simple to find and available. I'm thinking that this database needs a centralized resource (and not a 90 page thread that you have to search through for example).

Any thoughts?

 

[DC2]

I think it is a good idea, but making it happen is where it starts getting tricky.

 

[stevegmu]

Just print off a list of Democrats.

 

[DC2]

Just print off a list of Democrats.

Well, yes, except that you'd have to add at least one or two Republicans from Utah.
But other than that, yes.

 

[pamdis]

I think supporting those legislators who are supportive/neutral is just as helpful (and may be more) as slamming those who aren't. We should contact ALL candidates before voting to find out their positions as well as contacting your current officials. Find out their positions, tell them yours.

If an official is supportive, tell them thanks, you will work to re-elect them.
If an official has no position, educate them and tell them your vote depends on which side they decide on.

We are pretty good at directing our outrage at those who oppose us, but we need to also share our passion with those who don't. I have seen some weak supportive statements from politicians, and they also need to know how important the issue is to us and the effect their level of fighting for us will have on our votes for them too.

Sometimes I worry that we only target those who make us angry, and leave everyone else alone. It feels like it's us (vapors) against the anti-politicians. When the votes are taken, it's the anti-politicians vs the pro-politicians. Let's stir up the pro/neutral politicians just as vigorously!

 

[Vocalek]

I agree. So if you live in Virginia, this November support current attorney general Ken Cuccinelli in his bid for governor. He is the very first government official to tell a public health department, "No, e-cigarettes are not included in the state smoking ban."

 

[Petrodus]

Just print off a list of Democrats.