LS6,
Nor, in an ideal world, would I think anyone would credibly assume that 12, 13 million people are monolitic in their thinking. This is usually the argument from political operatives who either don't care to or don't know how to put votes in play,---> voter cultivation based on credible and substantive policy initiatives. Recognize and go after the economic/educational/social differences within the AfAm community. Heck, it's basic marketing; we're no more complex than any other "voting bloc" a political entitly sincerely wanted to pursue.
I regularly vote D and R, depending on the candidate's position/sincerity and the issue; and I know hundreds of similarly situated AAs who do likewise. I respect and admire the work and political/physical risk Rev. Jesse Jackson (Omega) has made on behalf of black folk for 30+ years, but there are several issues on which he and I will probably never agree. Nor have I ever cast a vote because "Jesse tole me to do so."
I'll agree with you that there's a good debate to be had on how beneficial/non-beneficial the D Party has been for Af-Ams. But IMO, that's not at all a compelling reason to just automatically give my vote to anyone else. Black folk, like everybody else, vote in our own self-interest. Every election cycle Ds and Rs both know how to come get my vote. The one that wins it is the one that works hardest for it.
...and I think the Senator you alluded to was most likely Robert Byrd, D-W.Va., someone I seriously doubt I'd ever vote for.
peace to ya.
