Silicon Valley Kossack’s Day of Action with the Mike Honda campaign 10/11

A recent email was sent out by Howard Dean and Democracy for America (DFA), the subject line proclaimed, “The Dean Dozen: Taking the fight to the GOP”. Being part of the San Francisco bay area, the GOP is not a big threat here, and the only race of interest in the area is in District 17, between two Democrats. As a good progressive, I read former Vermont Governor Dean’s emails looking for down-ballot progressives to support, but wait, why is Mike Honda (CA-17) one of the Dean Dozen? He’s not running against a GOP candidate.

I've known Rep. Mike Honda for years. He has been a tireless fighter for his constituents in California's 17th District and has worked hard for our progressive values, from fiercely supporting LGBT rights and women's reproductive rights to introducing legislation in Congress to expand Social Security benefits. We need more Democrats like him in Congress -- the kind of progressive leaders who will stand up for the 99%, unlike his corporate-backed challenger.

We can win these races -- but only if we mobilize our voters. Republicans think Democrats will stay home this year. DFA is going to go all out to make sure progressives not only vote, but help get out the vote in crucial races all across America.

Howard Dean, DFA

It's easy to understand Gov. Dean's confusion, challenger Ro Khanna does seem to keep odd company for a Democrat. Would a Democrat be “happy” to have the support of the Tea Party Express …or “honored” to be called “right-of-center on tech and business” by the San Jose Chamber of Commerce? Does a true progressive proclaim the mayor who’s pension reform demoralized public workers and decimated the San Jose Police force, possibly creating a public safety issue, "an American hero"? Maybe Gov. Dean is right, this is taking the fight to the GOP.

After shopping other districts first, patent lawyer Khanna has decided to challenge long-time local progressive representative, Mike Honda. Let’s follow Howard Dean’s lead and join the Honda campaign reminding Democratic voters which candidate is the real Democrat. Let’s send the right-of-center carpetbagger packing.