BTL: Jim Hightower's Rolling Thunder Down-home Democracy Tour Organizes...

Jim Hightower's Rolling Thunder Down-home Democracy Tour Organizes Progressive Revival Meetings Across the U.S.

Interview by Between The Lines' Scott Harris

Jim Hightower, a former Texas agriculture commissioner, author and populist commentator has for many years advocated that progressive groups come together in a grand coalition to provide the public with an attractive alternative to the stale ideas of Democrats and Republicans who have a virtual monopoly on U.S. politics.

On a sunny March day in Austin, Texas, Hightower, with the backing of 40 national organizations including the Communications Workers of America and the direct action Ruckus Society, kicked off a new initiative to "put the party back into American politics." The Rolling Thunder Down-home Democracy Tour, as it's called, is a traveling political carnival that features speeches, music, games and food, all designed to build a sense of community among activist groups who often operate in isolation from one another. Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. and moviemaker Michael Moore were among the luminaries who spoke to a crowd of more than 6,000 at the Rolling Thunder's Austin coming out party.

Between The Lines' Scott Harris spoke with Jim Hightower about the historical roots of the Democracy Tour, and what he hopes to achieve with this unique road show that will crisscross the country this summer(A RealAudio Version of this interview may be found at http://www.btlonline.org).

For more information about the Rolling Thunder Tour and how to organize one in your community call (510) 645-1027 or visit the tour's Web site at http://www.rollingthundertour.org
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