American Morning
Watch out Tea Party, 'Coffee Party' gaining steam
(CNN) – We've heard a lot about the Tea Party movement recently. It's been spreading like wildfire with tens of thousands turning out for rallies and protests. Now, there is a new political movement also gaining some steam. It is called the Coffee Party USA.
While the two share similar names and a frustration with gridlock in Washington, the similarities may end there. The founder of the Coffee Party USA, Annabel Park, spoke with John Roberts and Kiran Chetry on CNN’s “American Morning” on Wednesday. Below is an edited transcript of the interview.
John Roberts: The question many people might have right off the bat is the Tea Party has got some historical context to it, so why the name the Coffee Party, and why the need?
Annabel Park: First of all, I love coffee. Although at times I definitely like tea as well. But there is actually a historical reference as well. During the American Revolution, after they dumped tea into the harbor, they actually declared coffee the national drink. That was the solution to the problem. So I associate coffee not only with solutions, but also with people working, working hard. Because we need to wake up and work hard to get our government to represent us.
Kiran Chetry: What are some of the principles? What do you guys stand for? What do you want to see change in Washington?
Park: Well, we basically, just like in the American Revolution, are looking for real representation. We don't feel represented by our government right now and we don't really feel represented well by the media either. So it's kind of a simple call to action for people to wake up and take control over their future and demand representation. And it requires people standing up and speaking up. That's what we're encouraging people to do by getting together and start the conversation going.
Roberts: We should point out that all of this started on your Facebook page, which now has 64,000 fans. It's just been around for a few weeks as well. We also noticed, too, there's a little survey on there. 61% of people who have responded to the survey say that health care is their number one issue. Is this a political movement that could be built around health care as an issue?
Park: Well, I think what's happening is people are responding to what happened in the past year with the health care debate. Because it was something that is obviously very important to many Americans, and it was reflected in the 2008 election. And since we feel like [the] health care debate showed not only that we are very divided country, but there's something really wrong with our political process. We kind of got to see the innards of the political process and realize there's something very broken. I think that's what we're responding to. Not only the negativity that we see in the rhetoric and the discussions, but the fact that it's just something very wrong with kind of the system, the entire political system. So we want that change. We want that addressed, because it doesn't matter what issue it is, we can't make progress if we can't even talk to one another. We want to really focus on the political culture.
Chetry: The Tea Party movement really, in some ways, has been a challenge to Republicans to move more toward fiscal conservative ideals. Are you aligned with a party? I mean, as we know, passing health care reform has been a huge goal of liberal Democrats for decades. Are you aligned with the Democrats, trying to get them to move more to the left when it comes to health care?
Park: No. I wouldn't say we're aligned with the Democrats or Republicans or any party. In fact, think most of us feel that kind of that two-party system is an incredibly outdated system. It encourages people to think of politics as a kind of game, like a football game, in which there are two sides, and it's a zero sum situation. If one person wins, the other person loses. That's really not a healthy way to conduct collective decision making. That's not a democracy. Democracy should start with the sense that we're a community, we share common goals and values, and that there's such a thing as a common good that we're all working towards. And the two-party system really doesn't encourage that way of thinking about it. It is about winning and losing, and we're really tired of it.
About this Show
Welcome to the American Morning blog where you can get daily news updates from American Morning's reporters and producers. Join us for "the most news in the morning," weekdays from 6-9 a.m. ET, only on CNN.
On Twitter
This is what i've been waiting for,.Let's do this..
I guess the important thing to remember is that we all voted for Obama as our God-ruler. The thought that he could be wrong or that we should ever have another election is an act of heresy. He is our God-ruler for eternity.
So...are they another form of the Tea party movement? Are they for or against health care reform, and the Public Option?
If they are FOR those things, I want in!!!!
I think this is a great movement! Passion in politics is one thing – but we've gone past that. Our politics now are divisive, full of hatred, smears, and scare-mongering.
We need to debate the big issues of our time as rational, intelligent adults – and remain honest, and respectful of our fellow human beings.
I have proudly signed on as a member of the Coffee Party!
I love the Tea Party Nuts saying that this is a bunch of liars, cause the leaders are Obama activists. The Tea Party leadership is Republican Professional Political Operatives working out of a Republican Office. Wow, guess that makes their movement astro-turf too.
Very refreshing and way over due. Thank you.
WOW, at first I thought the coffee party was just to poke fun at the tea party movement. She really has a good point. hmm, we all should think about this archaic (sp?) way of how our govt works. I hope this group really takes a stronger form in the media (positive light aspect).
I agree with mark. This woman's movement clearly sounds more socialistic than a movement that says big government is not what our founding fathers wanted. We all care about our community and wanting what is best but it's not up to government to do that. This person should move to Canada or England.
Enthusiastic –
Drink that Kool-Aid. Conservative principles are what made this country what it is today. Tea Party, Coffee Party – Just like the Republicans and Democrats- lot of "hot air" and no action. They will work on Civil Discourse", Healthcare and other things and one day we will wake up and another country will have taken control of the US. Let them try "civil discourse" then. We have a roadmap and a bible of how the US became the greatest nation in the world – now we have a bunch of lily livered politicians that want to line their pockets and drive their agenda down the throats of Americans. If the Constitution and the Bill of Rights served us so well for so long, why will they not abide by it? These educated idiots we have in this country should turn to working and do less to interfere in the lives of hard working Americans. Social programs never made any country great. Start giving a "hand up" and not a "hand out". When people continue to get somehing for nothing, they have no incentive to work. We are a spoiled, selfish society and the government bureaucrats will continue to "spoon feed" people as long as they vote for them so they can pass laws (whether theay have the Constitutional right or not). This allows them to continue to "steal" from the American citizens for their personal purposes. The Mafia, by comparison, was a class organization.
Major, USAF; sure there will be wing nuts in the tea party movement, and sooner then later the left wing nuts will show themselves as well, there is extremes on both sides of the political line.
I guess the thing you have to ask yourself as an officer in the military is whether you believe in the Constitution and what it stands for, or if you think we would better off with a large central gov't.
I was once in the service myself, I still believe in that oath I once took to defend and uphold the constitution from all enemies foreign and domestic; it's sounds like you need to decide if you believe in that oath you took or not.
It sounds like a much more level headed approach to the problem then the non-sensical tea party babble. It seems the goal is to actually pursue results, answers...rather then a retarded tirade of false accusations and nonsensical whining.
I'm sorry,but this young lady is seeking Utopia – it doesn't exist. She also needs to realize that we are not a "democracy" – were not set up as one – We are a Democratic Republic. Our founding fathers were a lot smarter than the people we have in office today. The Major USAF that refers to the Tea Party as "Right Wing Nuts" doesn't know what he is talking about. He would have probably said the same thing to the colonists that pulled off the Boston Tea Party. We are supposed to be a government "of, by and for the people. If The Coffee Party has its way – we will be a Government that is in power with no option or choice – I think they have a name for that type of government and it isnt Democratic. Young people tend to be more Liberal and "quote" progressive – until they get older and realize that Conservatism is a better way of life. Morals, principles and accountability are 3 things that are missing from the Liberal/Progressive agenda. Do what we think is best for all us and to hell with the people that don't believe like we do. Our current administration is a perfect example.
"What do you guys (sic) stand for?"
Please, CNN, stop using male chauvinistic language. BTW, International Women's Day is coming up on Monday. Don't ignore it.
Coffee, Tea, whats the difference in Caffeine content? Are the people in any of these two offshoots any different than those we have in office right now? Are they willing to take a look at what the real problem is in America? Entrenched power and big business that will not let loose of their stranglehold unless they are toppled like Saddam's statue. Any party that forms now if it consists of the same bunch of establishment ess kissing nerds who resemble the past crop since the 70's will be of no value to the public. They will get bought and sold by Corporations in the same fashion the Repubs and Dems have been. Unless Americans shirk themselves awake from the brainwashing they have received for the past few decades, about how Capitalism is their high and holy savior... expect this party to go on for the elite for a long time to come.
When people start saying, " working toward the common good", or the greater good, red flags should start popping up all over the place–and I mean "Red" flags.
I think the problem is simply that we are very polarized as a society right now and people don’t really want to hear why they’re not right, or consider alternative viewpoints from their own. I think it’s a cultural thing. Plus I think the media, particularly “infotainment” and political pundits fan the flame – so instead of celebrating diversity of opinion we chastise anyone who doesn’t think like us, or doesn’t agree with us. I think it will take a real cultural shift of attitude to get to the point where we can discuss issues, agree to disagree and be respectful of each other. Based on the “Town Hall” meetings of healthcare reform this is not likely to happen any time soon. Therefore what’s going on in Washington is a simple and mirror of what’s going on in American society.
On the issue of a two-party system, I think the system as a whole works well. It definitely needs tweaked. America likes winners we don’t like losers. Again, it’s a cultural problem. Some individuals feel it’s perfectly acceptable to say and do anything to get their candidate elected. Violating rules is part of the game. The only way to fix is this would be strictly implementing such things as campaign finance reform – force honesty and transparency. Now that the Supreme Court has weighed in and changed precedent, and corporations and unions can now spend freely on “their” candidates, full disclosure of donors is going to be even more important. You don’t want a multi-party system. It doesn’t work well. For a great example, look at the history of the Knesset (probably THE most democratic government institution in the world) – since no party gets the majority to govern, they have to cobble together support from fringe and tiny factional parties given these parties unprecedented power and concessions. And every time a little party gets unhappy they threaten to (and can) bring down the government and force new elections. Very little gets done. If you think things are bad now….
I hope this movement takes off. I don't necessarily agree with the Tea Party crowd, but I hope that movement keeps gaining momentum. What I see in both this interview and the Teabaggers is that they are putting being AMERICANS first. Both the Democrats and Republicans are more concerned with putting their party's goals first. I hope this awakening is not a false start, but keeps going. America is a great country that deserves better leaders than we have now. And, the only way to get those leaders is for more and more of us to get off our couches, put the joysticks and french fries and work to steer OUR country back on course.
Where do I sign up?
She didn't say anything. "We stand for representation." Duh – what is your platform? Where do you stand on the issues?
There was just no content in that speech.
To Alfred89 & Sean S
Do some research on the Tea Party movement. They are being funded by Republican Operatives. Americans for Prosperity & Freedom Works are Republican lobbying groups. They even share office space with Republican consultants.
So before you yell at this lady (who ironically just wants a group to have a civil conversation about the parties & issues) you need to look in the mirror first.
The only representation happening in Washington is happening for those companies who have the financial muscle to get what they want. Until Government, all Government, represents its individual citizens, nothing will work. True, Corporations should have a vote, but a single vote just like each citizen. Their money cannot be allowed to influence decisions.
I'm going to start a Fruit Cake Party; nobody wants it, ya can't get rid of it, and more comes every year.
Just as the Teabaggers are republican shills,the coffee party is a democratic party entity.Annabel was a founder of the United for Obama democratic campaign on youtube. Flush them both down the drain with their corporate owned political parties.Outlawing these thugs are the only way to return power to the electorate.As long as we allow political parties to subvert the role of our elected representatives we will be denied the representation we have every right to.Holding to a "party line" despite the voters will is fraud.
What do I stand for?
I stand for elected officials and government employees who serve the best interest of the voters and not sources of big money.
I stand for a political system where differences are resolved by cooperation and negotiation rather than obstructionism.
I stand for a political process that attracts people to serve who seek to: improve our country rather than sustain a career; who support the best long term policies rather that the policies (that will keep them elected) favored in the latest poll; and who follow their conscience and intellect rather than the "party line."
I stand for a political process where the electorate: takes time to understand the issues rather that basing decisions on a 30 second sound bite; who selects candidates based on their accomplishments, principals and intellect rather than one narrow issue or their appearance/charisma.
I stand for a political party: that focuses on solving problems rather than treating symptoms; that tells citizens what they need to hear rather than what they want to hear; that places high priority on policies that affect our ability to compete and thrive in the world.
If this is also what the coffee party stands for, then I’m on board.
Ron Purvis.
I'm not surprised that something like this happened eventually.
I'm also not surprised at the way major liberal media outlets are PUSHING it hard (NY Time, Washington Post first).
And I'm especially not surprised that it's "founder" is, in fact, a long-time Democratic activist, but insists on retailing a story of "just posted a status on my Facebook.. that snowballed". Why can't you tell the truth? This was NOT at all so spontaneous, but carefully calculated and marketed.
Now it's perfectly fine to start a group to promote your views... but why do you need to be so dishonest about your own background how it all came about? (I've also seen the cache of Annabel's LinkedIn page – since removed – that made her activist history very clear.... I guess TOO clear? so it had to come down?)
Actually, I think I DO know why you did it that way. Because that's what REALLY happened with the Tea Party, and you can't acknowledge you were unable to generate the same sort of REAL grassroots organization.
Sad actually.
Sad too that the MSM, so eager to misrepresent and caricature the Tea Party is similarly eager to push and praise and provide lots of free publicity for this group that conveniently matches THEIR political leanings. Again, OK... but can't you at least be TRUTHFUL about your biases?
There’s nothing wrong with saying the Coffee Party aligns with liberals or Tea Partiers are aligned with conservatives. But both are claiming to be in the middle, and neither are. Maybe slightly closer to the middle than their counterparts, but true independent discourse divorced from either party you will not find here. Why do I sound like Yoda?
The Democrats have disappointed all of us who voted them in. I agree with the Coffee Party so far. The Tea Partyers are nothing but right wing nuts, I know as I joined their web page.
It's time to send both parties a message.
Some thoughts...
1. "Collective decision making" is socialism and/or communism, where the bigger government makes the decisions, instead of state and local gov't, or (God forbid) individuals
2. It's amusing that collectivism is co-opting "democracy". It shouldn't matter, anyway, since we our Constitution gave us a republic (empowering state and local gov't, not federal gov't). It is also funny that, somehow, a bigger gov't will give us MORE freedom... figure that one out.
3. Anyone that claims to be in the TEA (that is, Taxed Enough Already) Party and also the "Coffee Party" does not understand that the viewpoints are diametrically opposed. Tea partiers want state, local, and individual rights and freedoms; coffee party collectivists want all-powerful central gov't, "social justice", etc.. Want proof? What is Annabell's answer to the two-party system, 3+ parties, or 1?
Sounds like a progressive movement to me, especially the common values part. Much more aligned with Democrats than Republicans, I can go for that. Young people are generally much more liberal/progressive and that is the trend of the future–plus I love my coffee!
tell me where i can join
Funny that people think this is "astro turf" and the tea party isn't. Challenging the 2 party system would be a major improvement for the country to get rid of this right v left mind set.
I am a Tea Party member that does not have a problem with the Coffee Party at all. I am not an idiot as stated above nor am I " a bunch of stupid misguided morons who chant meaningless slogans and the best that can do politically is to shut down dialogue by shouting insults".
A fine way to represent a group trying to unify a divided America. Thanks but no thanks – this type of unification can be found in the current Republican and Democratic parties. I'll stick with the Tea Party movement and the Constitution. Afterall, I am an American.
Government absolutely IS the enemy. The only way for another citizen to legally take away my rights is to get Government to do it for them (which makes you the enemy of your opponents). Until we remember that it is about INDIVIDUAL rights we are lost. This whole Greater Good nonsense is just an excuse to trample on other's rights. We need to return to individuals making informed, thoughtful decisions and acknowledging that sometimes individuals will make decisions other than what you want them too. The reason the discourse is uncivil is because Government = force and some people are beginning to remember that. Simply saying that we shouldn't argue implies that we meekly accept what 50.01% of a poll says we want – ridiculous! This is exactly why our Constitution created a Representative Republic (NOT a democracy), free citizens should not be held hostage to the whims of popular opinion.
I will join the Coffee party movement. At least it represents the 'real' america. Which is DIVERSE and about getting tax-paying citizens basic needs (affordable healthcare..solutions etc..) The tea party have valid points on the deficit...but they fail to acknowledge where the deficit came from. They are fuled by hate, corporate talking heads and republican rhetoric.
Go Coffee-the "real' Americans drink!
I would like to start a wine party movement. Is anybody interested?
when I heard about the Coffee Movement I looked into it.
On the surface it sounds great and brings up a lot of the same issues and problems that the Tea Party does. However, as one digs below the surface it becomes apperant that this is just a progressive response to the tea party.
Bottom line if you think the federal gov't should have more control and influence over your life you will find the coffee movement appealling. If you believe in the constitution and limits it places on the role of the federal gov't you would be better served by the Tea Party.... at least based on what I have read coming out of the coffee movement.
For those of you who call this woman a fraud because she worked for Obama....how many members of the so-called Tea Party worked for McCain and Palin? Palin is a shill for the Tea Party right now; in fact, while she tries to use the Tea Party to further her own private career, the Tea Party uses her to push their agenda. The radical right has co-opted your "movement" and lets all kinds of crazies attend their rallies. Before you point fingers at Parker, clean up your own mess.
Both tea and coffee are foreign products – why not form a "beverage party" that truly represents the country -THE BEER PARTY. Think about it – alcohol in moderation is good for the body. Caffiene is detremental at any dosage. Caffiene makes people jittery and edgy whereas beer soothes the nerves and often contributes to thoughtful debates on all sorts of issues at local watering holes. On any given night, I bet there are hundreds of folks discussing health care over a Bud or a Miller for every one at a tea party!
This would be nice if it were true, but I don't believe this group is in the middle at all. This is very obviously a liberal (progressive) group trying to take the steam away from the tea party movement, and show that liberals can be upset with government too. The only thing this group is upset about, is that universal health care hasn’t happened yet, and that the American people are not into a socialistic government. If I’m wrong, I will apologize, but unfortunately I’m not. Good try tho.
Okay lets think this through. "The two party system is a failure"...so adding more parties will create more civil discourse and lesson grid lock? Answer...[NO]. "We need to change our political system"; the political system derived by the constitution, the same constitution that has helped make us the most properous country on earth. Answer...[NO]. We want politicians to talk to each and agree...really I want a unicorn. Answer...[NO].
Look ...Tea, Coffee, Tuberware Party, the answer is simple. Politicians will take our concerns seriously when they start taking US seriously. The Charlie Rangels of the world do what they do because they know the saps in thier districts will keep voting for them, no matter what. When they know thier is a real risk of them being fired then they'll do our bidding.
Folks – just remember what it took to get this country so powerful – now these people or the left want to recreate Europe! They want to take something that has been working (albeit no perfectly) and changing it to something that is not working effectively (ie. Europe). Open your eyes folks – in time you will see the true members of this party. Right now, in this interview I simply heard the woman say let's all get along and work it out together – rah rah rah! Where's the beef?
Our representatives pay the greatest amount of attention to those who get them elected: the lobbyists and special insterest groups that fund their campaigns. Until we can find a sure fire way to change that situation, nothing much else will.
IF this movement is a leftist movement for some kind of revolution – then I'm out! I do not want our already troubled government to become a banana republic like what Europe has. This is just a ploy to offset the Tea Party. It appears this person is a liar and if they're not honest with how they've voted in the past – they're no different than the corruption that already exists.
Sign me up! I've had a belly full of time-wasting name calling and negativity – she really hit the point head on about starting from a community point of view. If we don't come to some consensus soon we will have a near civil war here, or a lot of people moving to Canada – esp. after how attractive and positive it came off after the Olympics! (could they warm it up just a little?)
Judge Naplolitano for PRESIDENT!! See his down to basics youtube speech.
Even the comments on this blog show the polarization of this country!
It is OK for the teaparty to align themselves with the republican party but the coffee party must be part of the liberal left?
Come on people, even if these people worked for the democrats that doesn't mean they don't have a right to voice their opinions. I can't beleive the "My way or the highway" attitude is so prevelant in our society.
Civil discourse requires BOTH parties to be CIVIL!
I am an independent – I embrace values and ideals from all three parties, but extremists prevent me from being able, in good conscience, to align myself with any one party. The Coffee Party seemed like a good fit for me – until I checked out the Facebook page and the first three things I saw were Republican bashing/pro Dem articles posted by Ms. Parker and jr. high-level name calling of anyone who dared to bring up a conservative point of view. I’m not looking for a one-sided conversation.
If a representative government is perceived by people as the enemy, where is the benefit of the Democracy??? People do not fight for pure "ideology". Behind each ideology hide interests. And for me the fight is between the old and already exhausted money and the new full of energy money. Until the day comes, we have to support the new money (remember how Rockefellers and Carnegies were replaced by Bill Gates and the likes?) This is how the world goes forward. Tea party represents the old money, I hope the coffee party will be smart enough to support the government, which I guess is aligned with the new money.
Mike, here's what the coffee party stands for: good government.
The tea party is full of rhetoric about government being the enemy of the people. Which is interesting considering that in a democracy, the government is elected by the people. So, what, do you think we're just choosing our own enemies?
I think the tea partiers are actually opposed to democracy itself.
Look at protest on both sides, liberals are against BAD elected government: George W. Bush, Reagan, Nixon... Conservatives just seem to be against elected government as such. When conservatives are in power they work tirelessly to destroy the very government they are charged with preserving, protecting, defending.
Actually, I think the government represents us perfectly. We continually ask for new entitlements and services without having to pay for it. The government has been doing that very well.
It should be stated to those who bash anything progressive that the tea parties were anything but spontanious. They were financed by corporate money and organized by party operatives. Quit bashing the other until you fix your own. Oh gee, isn't that kinda what the coffee party organizers are trying to say.
This is such a transparent bit of astro-turfing that it's not even funny.
Park: "So it's kind of a simple call to action for people to wake up and take control over their future and demand representation."
Translation: "We want everyone to demand that the Republicans cooperate and let President Obama do what he wants."
Sooner or later Ms. Park will have to actually take a stand on an issue, instead of mouthing empty platitudes. And when that happens, you'll see exactly what the Coffee Party is all about.
The COFFEE Party Movement is growing extremely fast. It is by far the fasted growing political organization in the U S! It has grown in less than a month from (1) to almost 100,000 Members.
No hate banners, no anti govt threats,no parading around with sadistic cartoon caricatures, just concerned CITIZENS trying to avoid another situation that gave birth to the THIRD REICH.
I recently joined this movement to add my support to it's stated mission. Which basically is to interject RATIONAL discourse to the Fox news generated TEABAGGERS. And to demand that our politicians start doing their jobs; stop pandering to the LEFT OR RIGHT. And make "COUNTRY FIRST" something more than a campaign slogan! I fully support the coffee party organization. Enough of the foolishness already. I encourage "ALL Americans", not just the self described"real americans", to join this movement ASAP. Your future and well being could very well depend on it!
Coffee party? Please! what a joke! Progressives, liberals, whatever. Community organizers unite! More like communists and fascists unite. These Obamanations change their names and stripes, just like ACORN, to deceive and to hide their real agenda. They think Americans are stupid and will buy into this newest version of the same old government control of every aspect of your life. Obama ate lunch in Georgia yesterday saying, "don't give me crap about my cholesterol", and "don't tell Michele". Maybe you should heed your own sentiments Mr President, and get out of Americans lives. Pro-abortion types want the govt outta the bedroom, they should start by getting outta American's wallets! If ya want healthcare, sell the flat screen tv, cancel the cell and internet service, and shazamm!! You now can afford your healthcare! If you believe that healthcare is some fantasy "right" of all citizens, then by all means, write the check for your neighbor's health insurance. If not, then don't presume that all hard working citizens wish to work for someone else's benefits.
All I know is, the Democrat Leadership in the House have fallen off the left wing cliff- so far, in fact, even members of their own party are deeply concerned.
So... what do they actually stand for? I dont see anything but 'happy talk', no substance here at all.
Maybe this is a way to funnel would-be Tea Partiers away from the Tea Patries and toward something that is unproductive by design.
I like the idea of holding the people we elected to represent us accountable to actually representing us. That is a great idea. To achieve that goal, we need some actual access to the discussions that go on now behind closed doors so that we can see what our elected representatives are voting for and against and so that we can stop that hidden negotiating and bargaining and slipping things onto the ends of bills stuff that goes on. We need honesty and clarity in the lawmaking process.
We need to pay attention to campaign promises and remember them after election. We need to vote based on those things and not an personality or how many times we see a sign with their name on it.
However, the idea that the two party system is outdated might be a little goofy. The two party system evolved out of human psychology and sociology. It is how we make plans and decisions. It is how we work. A vote among several things is never accurate because it does not reflect ranking. A vote distilled down to the two most popular things is more accurate. Two-opposing ideas is how our brains work and how we work with each other. Fix it so it represents us; don't throw it out.
Yeah, so I checked into this coffee party thing. The phrase "common good" was used way to much for my comfort. Not a fan of communism, thanks anyway.
Ms. Park was indeed a volunteer in the Obama campaign – as were thousands and thousands of people across this country.
That past relationship is irrelevent to wanting to work toward improving how folks deal with each other when it comes to politics and dealing with our representatives.
Are the only people qualified to start political movements the people who were 100% apolitical to start with?
As far as the "it's not grassroots" noise – over 76,000 individual people have joined the Facebook group since the group was created a little over a month ago – and the vast majority of that number have joined the group in the past five days. And it's not just folks on the left – quite a few conservatives, self-identified Tea Party folks are amongst that crowd.
It's telling that the biggest smear the critics can come up with – a vast hidden conspiracy! – is based on info easily accessed via Google.
Well, I'm signing up. I don't get why some are trying to discredit Ms. Park because she's been involved in politics before – so? Wouldn't it be natural for a person with political interests to be involved in, uh, politics? The charge though sure looks like the paranoid rant of somebody who is scared – which is quite a compliment to the Coffee Party, actually.
I know something about how movements spread, and there isn't an IOTA of planning or top-down here – it really IS a true grassroots movement , an idea that took off like wildfire (largely because most rational people hate the Tea Party thugs). All Ms. Park is doing is trying to keep up with it, and to her credit keeping a cool head.
As for the language thing: I'm civil to *people* but I can tell you that the Tea Party idiots are a bunch of stupid misguided morons who chant meaningless slogans and the best that can do politically is to shut down dialogue by shouting insults. They contribute NOTHING except lose elections for the more sensible Republicans (for which I am thankful). The *individual* men and women involved might have some real interests but they've been co-opted by the Brown Shirt types.
BTW, the Boston Tea Party wasn't a movement against Big Government and taxation, but a movement against Big Business who had monopolized the tea market. Ironic, isn't it?
It's funny to read some of these comments:
"Annabel Park is a liar and a fraud!"
"Annebel Park is not a civil person"
"The Coffee Party is NOT grassroots"
Not sure how these people came to their conclusions.
Just because Annabel campaigned to elect Barack Obama, then became frustrated by the lack of civility in the Tea Party movement and the overall negative political discourse, and decided to start a Facebook Fan page for the Coffee Party Movement that took off like a rocket... all that makes her a "liar," a "fraud," and the movement "NOT grassroots?"
Strange logic going on there. Those comments appear to have been written by people who feel threatened, for some reason. (Maybe they're Tea Partiers?)
In less than a week, I've seen over 60,000 new people join the Coffee Party Facebook Fan page, leaving comments expressing relief and happiness at finding that valuable resource.
Hardly the work of an "astroturf protest group."
We need to change the conversation in America. Instead of talking about everything that's WRONG with this country, let's start focusing on what's RIGHT, come up with ideas on how we can make it better, and start taking action to get it done!
And let's do it with respect for those who have different opinions.
Not sure why anyone would find fault with that. We're all in this together, after all.
@Sean S, in the interest of full disclosure, I am a Texan, I voted for Obama, and consider myself interested in the Coffee Party.
I found out about the CP about 18 hours ago, at which point the Facebook group had roughly 64,000 members. When I woke up this morning, it had grown to almost 69,000, and now it stands at 75,575...make that 75,654, as more have joined since I began this post.
Feel free to criticize, but please do so based on facts.
Civil discourse is an excellent place to start. I believe our President is very capable of facilitating that, and I am proud that he has called the Republicans to join in that civil discourse. He has gone to great measures to show a willingness to include ALL good and sustainable ideas. The Democrats are not innocent, and yet they seem to be willing to take the Presidents lead, and provide healthcare for most Americans, such as the other developed countries have provided their citizens. We did not get what the Dems wanted (single payer) and yet we struggle still with public option. I am convinced that what is left of the Republican party wants Pres. Obama to fail at all of his attempts to represent the people, the middle class that have been ignored and unrepresented for too long. Poor people need representation too.
Thanks Annabelle Park for starting the Coffee Party USA movement; like many, I'm tired of the scare tactics and divisiveness engendered in Washington and other citizen groups; Coffee Party seems more inclusive and presents intelligent and civil arguments; In my younger days, I was a Republican; when i got to college, I realized I needed to be a Democrat; Now, in my 40's i'm realizing that i should be non-partisan; both parties seem to need the backing of corporations just to get elected... We need to take back our country and show the politicians that they need to wake up and smell the coffee... But I still think we need to support our president... I did not support him initially and i'm willing to give him a chance. The right needs to stop branding him as a "socialist," even the progressives criticize him for being too much of a centrist.
I also joined the coffee party movement. I am not a liberal democrat. I am a conservative prolife democrat. Also, we would like to hear from all parties. We want to meet in the middle, to have civil discourse on the current state of America. We do not hate our government. We appreciate our system, but would like to work with it. Many of us were just turned off by the anger and offensive language of the Tea Party. Civility. Come join us on March 13- Check the website for a coffehouse that is holding a kick off partying. We are also trying to plan a convention that will allow for a civil exchange of ideas and educate us on the political system.
So happy to see my fellow Coffee Party members are sticking to our commitment and not responding to the trolls.
Coffee... now that's a real American drink!
There are many excited people in my area about this movement. We are finally feeling that we may be able to talk about (rather than be shouted at) ideas for a common purpose–to make America a wonderful place to live and work again.
thank god for a breath of reality and fresh air. i am in.
What I don't understand is how the Tea Party and Coffee Party groups think they're the first ones to notice how the two party system isn't working. There have always been more than two parties in this country, the Libertarians being the largest of the "third" parties. Just because they get absolutely no media attention (except on PBS during an election year or an occasional stereotypical portrayal on Law & Order as militant bomb-making anarchists) doesn't mean they don't have a valid point of view. In fact, I would argue that there are a lot of frustrated Republicans and Democrats whose ideals align perfectly with the Libertarians, who believe in small government AND ALSO equal rights for all, including the concept of the government staying out of people's private lives and bedrooms. I would encourage everyone to disregard whatever stereotypes you've been fed and study the platforms of the parties that already exist before coming up with these one-off groups of frustrated citizens and then calling them original. The solution is out there, it always has been. You can't just wait for the media to show it to you because they won't do it. You have to find it yourself.
Annabel i think that the coffee party is jus't what the united states of america really needs right now a refreshing group of ordinary people caring for this country and caring for each other like civilized people should act , unlike that terrorist hatred group of people that have hatred towards their president barack obama hatred towards the goverment and it seems like they also have hatred towards their on country if they hate their president then that means they hate their on country america !!!!!!
I am SO grateful to CNN for having this person on the air this morning. Yes, the system is broken, but I completely disagree with the way the tea party people behave, for the most part. I hope this really gets going, and we get back to civil, respectable behavior. Thanks for this!!!!
hold everything folks, latest news is the COCOA party, as grass roots as it gets, they want to straighten the american political system up, you notice i never used the present two administerations quote needs fixin, like they did in afghanistan and iraq,
Coffee is stronger than Tea!!!
I don't know about not being affiliated with either party. The Facebook page is overtly Dem.
Very refreshing, indeed! We seriously need to work towards being a unified nation and not antagonizing each other the way the two-party system encourages.
I'm so happy that this group came together, I just hope that with this group we can really make a difference for the sake of our country and belief. it is so sad to set back and wacth the way our goverment is handleing things. this tea party movement have created a serious problem that needs to be corrected. if there is anyway i can be of help getting this group on the road let me know.
Obviously the Coffee Party is nothing more that an astroturf protest group of the Liberal left. Did I get that right Ms Pelosi? I hope the media will denigrate all coffee folks the same way they did the Tea Partiers. I guess this will prove the bias of the mainstream media. Lets all watch and pay attention now.
It is just unbelievable that these Progressives now have who now control Congress and the Whitehouse to claim they are the little voice that is fighting the odds.
Obama is a Progressive so it's just laughable that his Obamabots start a "grassroots" to fight against the person they want in power.
How many people could possibley fall for this astroturf?
I suspect they will just be preaching to the choir.
Congratulations! What do you represent?
Finally, someone that makes sense and is proposing inclusion not division. I am sure that some people will attack her call to go back to a common sets of goals & values by calling that socialism, when in fact it was common goals and values that the country was founded on and the Constitution was meant to protect. I hope this movement grows enormously by the next election cycle. Maybe we can hold some of our so-called "representatives" accountable.
Newsflash for CNN and Park.....The people in the tea party movement DO NOT DRINK TEA, they love their American coffee
Gee, CNN doesn't get the facts right on anything.
Annebel Park is not a civil person, she goes around saying that the tea party movement are "dangerous" and calls them "teabaggers" just like the rest of the hostile progressives.
The Coffee Party is NOT grassroots, all it's leaders are from the ObamaforAmerica group, they even produced videos for him.
This is the Obama/Pelosi/Reaid's attempt at astroturfing and it's obvous to anyone who vistis the Coffee Party's Facebook, page, which since the expose in many blogs yesterday, is losing members not gaining them.
Annabel Park is a liar!!! She worked for one of the two parties, the Democrat party! She was an organizer and operator of the "United for Obama" video channel on Youtube. As the "United for Obama" page admits "We are a network of Obama volunteers from all across the country and from all back grounds working together to support Obama's message of unity and change...some of us are filmmakers and we created this page to amplify Obama's message on YouTube. The film makers include ...Annabel Park. Park was also a Strategy Analyst for the New York Times. Even Reuters, while also omitting the founder's past work for the Obama campaign in a blog entry on Tuesday, noted that the "Coffee Party" was a movement of the left. Annabel Park is a liar and a fraud!
well , rep's/dem's, bailing out of congress. some even remove their names from the up coming election ballott. some bad times are still ahead, its not over yet. i feel sorry for the president. how can he do in 1 year work all the work, repairing what the bush admin. has left for him, plus the war involvement, where it was from the beginning a huge mistake going only to irak and leave iran out.however thats my view. healthcare?? a joke. we have now in the news daily, what billing practices being used for 1 tylenole pill or the cost for 1 pair hospital gloves. let those institutions go on with this.
the gouvernment had helped banks, aig, general motor etc.
never have i seen requests of bail out, from the oil companies as well coming from the health care providers and manucfaturers. tuff thought.
un employment, running out of money.
i wish that jimmy carter had never been in office, deregulation and progressive lending.
well i am all open for comments.
whats left from the middle class and for surten the working class will bleed very heavy in the future.
thanks
This is very refreshing I am tired of scare tactics and hate. I believe in the people of this country, I have seen us come together and do great things, let's be great again and President Obama and the Dems, nor the Rep. Have to fail. I thought when the American people win we all do. Go Coffee Party!
The only difference between this and the Tea party that I can see is that the Coffee party isn't coming out to take a particular stance on any issue. The way our system operates is far from perfect, but there's no getting around the fact that there will always be winners and losers when we as a people have different ideologies.
Where do they stand on health care reform? The public option? "Our political system is messed up." That's not an answer!
I joined the CoffeeParty, it's time the people have a voice without the lobbyists, corporations and the corporate pundits, interfering and overruling the "will of the people" for their own purposes. Hopefully, the CoffeeParty will be able to hold civil, respectful and intelligent discourses on the issues that effect all citizens.
a breath of fresh air..
We should be careful what we wish for. Whether we have 2 parties or a dozen we will have the same problems we have now if we have the same system of campaign financing and lobbyist controlled governing. Adding multi-party deal making to the mix may make things even worse.
The only thing I agree on with the Tea Party is the fact that the 2-party system is a miserable failure.
I'm tired of the generalization that all politicians are corrupt liars. We have made them into that by allowing them carte blanche with our rights and our money.
I love the United States and I wish to see it regain it's rightful luster as the Land of the Free.
Our government has ventured too far down a venal path of corruption and gods know what will save us now.
Annabel hit the nail on the head with this:
"Democracy should start with the sense that we're a community, we share common goals and values, and that there's such a thing as a common good that we're all working towards. And the two-party system really doesn't encourage that way of thinking about it. It is about winning and losing, and we're really tired of it."
Thank you, Coffee Party! We need our representatives to remember that they should work on behalf of citizens, not corporations or lobbyists. And the "right/left", "them/us" system we have is not serving us well – it keeps the voters divided, and prevents real compromises and consensus-building.
Annabel just spoke the sentiments of my heart, and as you can see from Coffee Party USA explosion of fans, tens of thousands of others. I have joined as a small voice to say "It is time for Government to stop the in-fighting and listen to one another other. Decisions are being made that affect all of the citizens of this country, the rich, middle class and poor. We have the same needs as our Government officials. We want to eat well, have your type of health care coverages, and own homes. Your squabbling with each other has created a divide in this nation that our forefathers gave their lives to mend. Ordinary people want this mended again and we want this government to establish a means whereby citizens of this country can be heard and prosper at all levels of life. Our elected officials were not elected for in-fighting and grid-locking. We thought that you were the best negotiators and organizers in our country who would lead in development of plans for equal growth opportunities in our nation. We want true representation – beyond the voice of multi-millionaire/billionaire executives of corporate America. We are ordinary people, living in ordinary communities, with ordinary needs: food, money, health, education, and homes. Please give us what we need." My request of this USA Government.
Thanks so much A.M. for having Annabel on. I joined this movement on Facebook, and it really sums up a lot of my own belief about the two party system, and how striated this country has become along those lines. We are so much more than black and white issues, and it's so great to hear someone say so in the national media . Let's figure out what works, what doesn't, and how we can move forward together! I love that the Coffee party is a very positive, forward thinking, community driven group – much different than the impression I get of the tea party (and republican, and democrat) of being so solidly against any other opinion, very aggressive, driven by anger and fear and the need to force others to conform. Let's do great things together, join the Coffee party!
Isn't it interested that these two "party movements" were initiated by young-ish women–feeling cut off from the political system but wanting to reengage?
This is so refreshing! Americans don't want to play games and take sides, they are tired of being told to oppose or support things because of party lines and not because of sound objective judgement made for the good of the people. We don't need conspiracy theories, lies, or agression for one side to win, what we need is a civil dialog and people working together for win/win solutions. Let's get back to the real work and leave the childish petty stuff behind!
Annabel speaks for many, many people. We will accomplish so much more when we engage in civil discourse with our fellow citizens and with our government. Government is not the enemy; it should be the expression of the collective will of Americans. When we parse our national conversation down to "winners" and "losers," we all lose. We can do better than that! Many thanks to American Morning for featuring Annabel Park and The Coffee Party Movement. Keep on the story, CNN. This movement is growing by the minute!
If we havent already arrived there that is!