The next grassroots movement?

Grover Norquist has been called one of the most powerful men in the country. He is the one who provided massive financial help to Republicans seeking election if they only pledged not to seek tax increases.

That pledge locked many Republicans into a rigid, unshakable position.

They would not give up on their pledge. Their opponents, in return, stuck to equally rigid positions.

The result has been the gridlock that has paralyzed Washington D.C. and has brought us to the “fiscal cliff.”

Both political parties have declared they are speaking for the American people when they refuse to soften their views.

As it turns out, the vast majority of Americans want the two parties to come together to solve the nation’s problems. The average citizen sees less harm in compromise than in continued confrontation.

Apparently, the politicians have started to hear their constituents.

Now, some Republicans are forsaking their pledge, saying a more balanced approach is good for the country. Many Democrats, too, are easing their demands.

Still, as of Wednesday, talks between the parties have reportedly stalled.

Even so, some politicians are listening to the people. Both sides will continue their posturing and their demonizing of the other side. That is nothing new, but they are starting to hear other voices.

What citizens need to do is make those voices louder and demand compromise and accommodation of both theories of government.

At this point, only the combined power of regular citizens from all across the political divide can exert the power to break the gridlock.

It could be next powerful grassroots movement!

Call it “Occupy Reason.”

And, the nationwide, unrelenting chant of “Be Reasonable” would strike fear in every politician.

Gordon Forgey

Publisher