Apparently, my Microsoft - Mpls. DFL analogy needs a
little additional explaining. Here goes:
Microsoft's browser -- used to surf the Web -- got to
be dominant because it came pre-loaded with 95% of all
PC's sold. Substituting Netscape's was theoretically
possible, but practically impossible. Numerous,
tricky steps were involved that made it impossible for
all but the most computer-savvy. (Trust me on this:
if changing "12:00" on your VCR is a "1" in
difficulty, swapping browsers is about a "9.99").
Adding to people's sense of infuriation is that many
of the necessary steps to switch were either hidden or
boobytrapped by Microsoft. Microsoft then brazenly
claimed that people had "free choice" because people
could always go get Netscape's browser.
The DFL's selection process seems equally
"pre-loaded"; SSB is the pre-installed "default," and
any challenger has to overcome very long odds and
procedural boobytraps.
Perhaps another analogy is better: the incumbent
(Microsoft) methodically helped create a very unlevel
playing field for competitors, even as it
disingenuously claimed that the field was perfectly
flat. I admittedly don't know what SSB has said or
done about the DFL delegate selection process, but I'm
going to guess she hasn't exactly been an outspoken
critic.
Everything clear now???
Ross Kaplan
Fulton
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