Proposed Solution For Disaffected Kossacks

I hope this idea is kosher.  If not, please just let me know in the comments and the diary will come down forthwith.  So here goes.

Problem:  Many valued Kossians are frustrated with the ratio of candidate diaries to issue diaries on the rec list.

Solution:  A time is established either every day or some days for those disaffected to agree to be logged on and to rec only diaries with the issues which interest them.

Complaints have been varied, decrying everything from general demeanor to vilifying the supporters of particular candidates.  I have felt that most of these valid complaints can be coped with by filtering content--choosing only diaries unlikely to be venomous and breezing through offensive comments with a minimum of reaction.  The biggest problem, as I see it, is that interesting diaries do not make it to the rec list.  Some diaries receive well over 100 comments before drifting away from the perspicacious eyes of the astute and serious members who are logging on too late to participate.  Many of the very popular issue-oriented diaries fail to break through the logjam of outrage, advocacy, and meta that is our rec list most days.  And when the diaries fall, the stimulating and productive discourse abruptly ends.

So here is my simple proposal.  Interested members choose a time to agree to do their best to be logged on and responsibly rec'ing the kinds of diaries they would like to discuss at length.  My guess is that many of the Kousins who have complained about the situation would be in substantial agreement as to which diaries are interesting.  And they can plan to publish their diaries during this time as well.

I'm not thrilled about suggesting that we institutionalize a kind of rift here.  And I am given pause at the prospect of conspiratorial action to influence the rec list (although I've been told that does happen.)  But I am concerned about the emotional affect this is having on some of our most enlightening and enjoyable members as well as quite selfishly concerned at the prospect of losing their writing and wisdom.

I don't want to lose some of our best writers and most serious thinkers.  I want there to be room for all on this site that represents the Democratic Party.  Can we agree to make some room?

Alternate suggestions?  Please fire away.  But let's not rehash the problem.  It is enough that people are discontent.  Please let's not discuss here why or if it is justified.  Please do critique or refine this simple suggestion.

If this idea catches on, the following poll will matter in that it will determine the best time of day for the most people.  Please follow these polling guidelines: If you are feeling sidelined by the state of things here, please vote the time of day you can most easily be on site.  If you like the candidate diaries and don't want to be around for this, please vote the time of day that would inconvenience you least by having this happen.  Thank you.

I'm not going to comment much here.  I have neither the longevity nor the mojo (in every sense of the word) to go much farther than throwing out this idea.