Principle and Pragmatism: Navigating Political Waters

By Matthew Hayward

In the intricate dance of political strategy, the story of Michele Caldier's 26th legislative campaign in 2014 serves as a compelling case study. Tasked with the formidable challenge of unseating a Democratic incumbent who had held the seat for 14 years, Caldier's campaign was a testament to the power of strategic pragmatism in action. Despite criticisms of her moderate stance, Caldier's consistent support for Republican leadership in the House underscores a nuanced understanding of political realities. An ideologue supporting a moderate is a strategic choice, prioritizing the advancement of broader political goals over strict ideological alignment.

This narrative is not merely about the outcomes of a single campaign but illuminates the broader implications of strategic voting in swing districts. My experience managing Caldier's campaign highlights the delicate balance between principle and pragmatism, a balance that is necessary in having success in the quest for political influence. While the Republicans subsequently lost the Senate and the other House seat in the 26th LD, Caldier's stance on leadership votes represents a strategic effort to maintain a foothold in the legislative process, an effort that underscores the importance of leadership in shaping the political landscape.

Morton Blackwell's wisdom, that we owe it to ourselves to learn to be more effective at advancing our principles, resonates deeply within this context. It's a reminder that the pursuit of political goals is not just about the passion of our convictions but also about the effectiveness of our strategies. Blackwell's teachings encourage us to view political engagement not just as a battlefield of ideologies but as a chess game of strategic moves and countermoves, where the effectiveness of our actions is measured by our ability to advance our principles within the framework of the political realities we face.

This approach to political engagement, characterized by a blend of ideological commitment and strategic pragmatism, offers a pathway to navigate the complexities of the political landscape. It challenges us to think critically about our choices, to weigh the implications of our actions, and to embrace the pragmatic decisions that can lead to the advancement of our principles. In the end, the journey of political engagement is as much about the strategies we employ as it is about the principles we hold dear.

Always remember, no matter what you choose, your most valuable and limited resource is time. There are a million causes and issues, and to effect change in any given one, there are infinite strategies and tactics. Choose wisely if you wish to exert your time and energy in a way that hopes to effect change. Sadly, most people exert themselves in ways that have little to no influence, their well-intended time, energies, and fortunes squandered.

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