I have a new preoccupation: a campaign to convince the DNC to hold an off-year convention. It is a radical idea with slight chances of success. But after watching the current political devastation, I am tired of feeling helpless. This is my way of fighting back. I don't know how to use social media, but I'm hoping to enlist enough patriotic friends in the effort to spread the idea until it arrives at decision makers. Would you be willing to forward this open letter to others? Feel free to sign your own name.

Subject Line: 2026 DNC National Platform Convention

Dear Democrat:

The threat to American democracy is no longer abstract. Fascism cannot be the new normal — not in our country. The moment demands urgency, clarity, and bold action. The Democratic Party must meet this crisis not as if it’s a normal election cycle, but as a historic turning point. That means organizing — visibly, forcefully, and strategically — to defend democracy.

I urge you and your colleagues to consider a bold, unifying step: convene a Democratic National Convention in 2026 focused solely on adopting a forward-looking party platform — a clear public roadmap for governance, not nominations. Like the Republicans’ Project 2025, this could be our Project 2028: a comprehensive, values-driven statement of what the Democratic Party will do when entrusted with power.

A platform convention, televised, streamed, and debated across media, would give Americans something to believe in, fight for, and vote for. Why now? Because confusion and disempowerment dominate the public mood. Voters feel overwhelmed by disinformation and alienated by the toxic spectacle of modern politics. But a convention centered on platform debate, not personalities, would refocus attention on ideas and inspire renewed civic engagement.

Why a convention? Because it demonstrates that the Democratic Party stands for democratic process, not just anti-Trump reaction. Just as the 1948 convention courageously committed the Party to civil rights, this would give voters a clear moral and policy choice rooted in democratic values and rule of law.

What’s the risk? Some say it might expose divisions. But Democrats are already known to be diverse and passionate. Let’s turn that into a strength. Let Americans see the Party's best and brightest make their case. Let them debate vision, not just opposition. A platform forged in public debate could do more to educate and mobilize voters than months of soundbite-driven primary debates.

What’s needed? This idea needs your leadership. Please bring it to your colleagues in the DNC, to your allies in the media, and to fellow lawmakers. Encourage open discussion and show the American people that the Democratic Party is prepared not just to win an election, but to govern with vision and integrity. This is a moment to be bold. Let’s not just run against Trump. Let’s run toward something worthy of our nation’s ideals. Thank you for your time and for your continued leadership.

Stanley Cutler

Chestnut Hill