How To Get The Real Tea Party News

By Coleen Torres


There is a political movement seen so differently by commentators - depending on their political affiliation - that it's hard to go by just what you hear. To get the real Tea Party News, you need a computer or at least access to one. Dedicated websites are the most complete and reliable sources of information. Still, these need to be read with discernment as well.

Rallying citizens who favor a free market system, less Federal interference in state and local politics, and a balanced budget approach to public life, the Tea Party is a loosely organized conglomerate of local groups dedicated to opposing some of the more progressive aspects of the Federal agenda. Although many members hold conservative views on social issues as well, the movement is based on impacting mostly public issues.

The origin of the movement is obscure. Some people credit Ron Paul's presidential campaign with bringing like-minded citizens together. Others say bloggers who urged people to 'send a tea bag to Congress' (a reference to the 1773 Boston Tea Party protest over unfair taxation) really started the ball rolling. Paul's campaign was in 2007; the start of the TP itself is considered to be 2009.

A lot of controversy over this 'grassroots' move comes from those who oppose either the agenda or the 'third party' aspect of the TP. Progressives and liberals try to dismiss the movement as 'not truly grassroots', racist, anarchistic, or worse. The Republican 'establishment' - dedicated to supporting long-time representatives in the House and the Senate - say the movement threatens the solidarity of Republicans and thereby lessens the chance of successful opposition to the Democrats.

It's vital that voters get the real picture, rather than relying on mainstream headlines or blog accounts. There are easily-accessed, dedicated websites online, such as TPNN, the TP News Network. You can sign up for emails, find recaps of recent coverage, and see the calendar of events for the year. You can also find out about TP groups near you.

The TP is in the national headlines often, as when endorsing candidates for public office. Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz are examples of unknowns who were elected with TP support and who have stayed in the limelight by sticking to or departing from their conservative values. The IRS targeting of TP-affiliated, non-profit groups and the consequent investigation also keeps the group in the headlines.

Knowing the absolute truth may be impossible in this political climate, but it is still important to be as informed as possible. Using the internet to follow candidates, read alternative news coverage, and see what the mainstream fails to report can help form opinions that can shape voting and influence the national direction. It's no time to be lazy; action is required of all citizens at this critical time.

If you have a computer, go online and find major websites for the latest on TP activities. If you don't have one, go to the public library and use the machines there to keep abreast of current events.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment