A Note on Tone and GWR’s Optimism (No kidding!)

American writer Mark Twain held a famously low opinion of our government. He once wrote:

“Reader, suppose you were an idiot. And suppose you were a member of Congress. But I repeat myself.”

He also went further than that:

“It could probably be shown by facts and figures that there is no distinctly native criminal class except Congress.”

Although GeorgeWasRight won’t dwell on specific politicians or parties, it will at times use humor to highlight particular issues. The site has been created for a broad audience, from the well-informed to those who would like to expand their political knowledge. Visitors should find the content understandable and pleasant, even with respect to issues where the debate is complex and often overheated. GWR reads more as conversational than professorial, and it should be pretty easy to follow.

Given the hot mess into which our political system has devolved, optimism about its future may seem misplaced. But I think an upbeat assessment is justified, and as you surf your way through the content on GWR, I hope you’ll reach the same conclusion.

Much of my optimism is based largely on two fairly recent changes that have not been given the consideration I feel they deserve, given their potential to literally upend our political system. We’ll go over in this in detail on GeorgeWasRight, but here’s a sneak preview. Instead of shaking down large contributors to be politically competitive, candidates can now raise funds through numerous small online contributions. This newfound ability also eliminates the need to win a nomination from one of the two major parties. Combined with the increasing trend of voters—particularly younger people—not affiliating with a party, the political atmosphere today is much different than it’s been in the past, both more likely and better primed for change.

So let’s get the country back on track, and maybe have a little fun while doing it.