Heath Shuler Campaign at the Southeastern Energy and Environmental Expo

In addition to sweaty hours over this keyboard of ultimate power, I've been getting out to work towards a Democratic majority in November. While blogging is great fun and an excellent way to spread the word, it doesn't bring in the voters the way that face to face politics does. Helping to staff the Heath Shuler booth at this weekend's Southeastern Energy and Environmental Expo was a great way spend time with progressive voters.

I was there for only three hours, but the variety of views I heard from folks was enlightening. From the tough-on-immigration libertarians to the long-necked northern bluebloods, this crowd again demonstrated what a big tent the Democratic party works to maintain. Most of the people who stopped wanted to learn more about Shuler's environment and energy policy ideas, though a great number were simply seeking assurance that their growing political pragmatism will move the district towards the change they'd like to see. I enjoyed relaying Heath's vision of a "research triangle" for alternative energies here in western North Carolina, and most everyone was buoyed to see the the League of Conservation Voters endorsement.

The issue that unified all of the people I talked to was a unanimous contempt for Congressman Charles Taylor, who did not have a presence at S.E.E. Expo. Some talked about his corporate ties. Others discussed his slumlording. Even more rolled their eyes about CAFTA. All were given hope by news of Shuler's lead in four polls.

Over at Scrutiny Hooligans you'll find more photos of the event, including a group opposing transporting nuclear fuel on NC-11 interstate highways, Blue Ridge Biofuels, the North Carolina Green Party, cruelty-free clothing, and some of the "greener" vehicles on display (Shuler bought a used electric vehicle when he attended the expo on Saturday).