Hey, for the occasional reader, or anyone wishing to catch my latest rant, I am actually now doing live gigs.

Funny story. I was looking for an alternative place to place my vote this year, as no way am I giving any of the major parties (Coalition, Labor or the Greens) my vote this time around. So, my buddy the Chairman asked just after the election was called, “Whatever happened to the Democrats?” Well, it turns out they are still around and have been continuing to develop policy since they last held a federal seat in 2008, and it turns out its still spot on.

So, I start to check them out, have some discussions with the guy who heads the tram up over here in WA, then go along to a meeting, and after committing some money, and trying to talk a good option into being the second Senate candidate for a couple hours, I end up being a candidate for the Senate to help the team strategically this election. Because it also turns out that there are one hell of a a lot of people like me this election, and we need a credible alternative. We can and should catch a good part of the protest vote this election.

But, let’s be honest. I have a better chance of coming in most spirited newcomer in the Melbourne Cup this November. But as I always say, if you’re gonna be a bear, be a grizzly. So, in support of the Australian Democrats and with their endorsement nationally, I am campaigning this election for a Senate seat as our second candidate. I have been working the pavement every weekend, talking to prospective constituents about their concerns, and trying to convince them that sound economic policy need not be cruel, and sustainability means more jobs all the time in addition to making sure your kids can breathe, swim and eat without an EVA suit in a hundred years.

Observations from campaigning include:

• You will get ZERO editorial coverage as a minor party in Australia unless you pay for advertising, or you are the butt of a joke. Fair enough, I ain’t complaining, just saying from personal experience.
• The wind is not your friend.
• It isn’t that bad, talking to people you meet on the street, even if they are crazy. See, I’m not the most personable guy (no really). And, I don’t like to hassle people who are just going about their business; so when out in public, I typically mind my own business. I’m wallpaper. It’s a skill. But having to carry out what is basically direct advertising means you want to talk to anyone who wants to talk to you, and sometimes those people have problems you can’t solve, or just want to have a rant, or have views you don’t share (and sometimes are even offensive). But, you know, free speech is a two-way street, and it has been a lot more pleasant than it has been a chore engaging with people during a campaign.
• It’s expensive and I could use some help.

For the record, here’s the issues I’m focusing on, although the party has comprehensive policy across the board.

Aust Dem Flyer 1
Aust Dem Flyer 2

Aust Dem Flyer 4

Aust Dem Flyer 5