The Coffee Party.
Their mission statement: The Coffee Party Movement gives voice to Americans who want to see cooperation in government. We recognize that the federal government is not the enemy of the people, but the expression of our collective will, and that we must participate in the democratic process in order to address the challenges that we face as Americans. As voters and grassroots volunteers, we will support leaders who work toward positive solutions, and hold accountable those who obstruct them.
That'll tick the Tea Party people off. Are people really ready to hear good things about government or are we hard wired to always think it is bad?
Apparently this has been organized primarily through Facebook. Social networking sites are having a fascinating impact on politics. They fascilitate rapid organization. Its up in the air whether they have legs though.
The "coffee" label in interesting. The term "tea party" has the obvious connection to the American revolution against the British, but the concept of individual freedom and the formation of early political groups happened in coffee houses. Ale Houses and taverns too, so I'm holding out for the Beer Party.
For more info:
- NYT Story.
- Facebook page.
