2009-2010A THIRD PARTY POLITICAL AUTHORITY

T.E.A Party

POPULISM?

A “Populist movement” is one that arises spontaneously from a class that feels disenfranchised within the American democracy.

The Populist Party is the example which all other movements like this are compared to.

What is the TEA Party?

Nationwide protest amongst conservative republicans (largely), independents, and conservative democrats.

Platform

Evokes Revolutionary War imagery to emphasize:

Opposition to the policies of President Obama

Specifically opposed to “Big Government”

Increasing levels of taxation

Health care reform that involves nationalization

Soaring debt and deficitTrade gap and trade policy

Populists: 1892 TEA Party: 2009-

In favor of banking and currency reform.

In favor of abolition of the Gold Standard.

In favor of the regulation of railroads.

Direct election of Senators Graduated Income tax Failed to capture urban voters, a

rural movement. Several successful electoral

campaigns at the state level and a significant role at the presidential level

Opposed to taxation. Opposed to big

government. Opposed to over regulation. Use of twitter, blogging,

and social networking to build movement.

Appeals largely to conservative factions.

Electoral success…? Future outcome TBA.

Populists v. TEA Party?

http://bagnewsnotes.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341cc90353ef01156ec0f6cd970c-pi

Occupy Wall Street

Originated from a magazine (right) ad

Protest movement looking at the dramatic imbalance of wealth in the US.

“We are the 99%”47% movement

A New “Populist” Movement