[dps]

Hello. I am interested in obtaining opinions about the political/social atmosphere in the Traverse City area (Leelanau, G. Traverse, Benzie counties). I am not looking to start a political Red State vs. Blue State arguement. I am more interested in honest opinions of what it is like to live in the area on a long term basis (from both ends of the spectrum). Is the area bright red or dark blue? So, for some fun, I've added a scale--feel free to use it in your opinion or make up a new, more appropriate local version if you are so creatively inclined.

Dark Blue
Light Blue
Neutral
Light Red
Dark Red

Thanks to all in advance who take the time to offer opinions.

P.S. Not to get preachy but here's a saying to help remind everyone that I'm just looking for honest opinions. "You'll soon learn that many of the truths you cling to depend greatly on your own point of view."

[Rapunzll]

The city itself is blue. It is surrounded by red.

[Peter B]

Originally Posted by Rapunzll

The city itself is blue. It is surrounded by red.

Spot on! The city itself is rather progressive minded. But, some of the old guard would like to keep things the same. Why would you like "opinions"? U moving here or just looking to stir the shiiiite?

[jtur88]

For a city of its size, Traverse City has a very active and vibrant progressive community. The Public Library reflects a strongly liberal posture, and the public schools are very realistic and tolerant of students who do not fit an orthodox norm. Protests against conservative policies are frequent, vocal and well-organized. The Reds might outnumber the Blues, but the liberal feeling in Traverse City is expressed loudly and clearly.

There is an all-talk NPR affiliate with an impressive, full-time staff of investigative reporters. Michael Moore lives there and sponsors a film festival of independent films. There have been regular radio programs and newspapers that refuse advertising and attempt to rock the boat. The public library is openly hostile to the Patriot Act and the city council was one of the first to pass a resolution to refuse to enforce the Patriot Act. Arrests were made during protests of the departure of local reservists to Iraq and the campaign visits of GWB. Traverse City's Freenet was one of the nation's first and most active, and still functioning. The Gay-Lesbian community is so free and visible, Rev. Fred Phelps made a special trip there to try to crush it.

[dps]

Hello. Thanks Rapunzil, Peter B, and jtur88 for all of your responses. I just wanted local opinions on what it is like up there because I may be moving to the area--not trying to stir things up Peter B. Do any of you mind more questions on the area?

Once again thanks,

dps

[michigan83]

For a city of its size, Traverse City has a very active and vibrant progressive community.

Now we can debate whether or not this is something to brag about.

For the record, a true conservative or libertarian would probably likewise be opposed to the patriot act, due to its unconstitutionalness. Republican policy is sometimes thought of as interchangeable with conservativism, but that is not always the case. Conservatism as our founding fathers intended is a perfect and absolute truth. It's just a question of whether Republicans are able to practice it (they have been miserable failures as of late).

But, anyhoo... I'm voting "light red" for the Grand Traverse Bay region.

[jtur88]

Originally Posted by michigan83

But, anyhoo... I'm voting "light red" for the Grand Traverse Bay region.

Given that you're right-wing, that is probably a good call. The OP will no doubt take note.

[mkfarnam]

Originally Posted by Rapunzll

The city itself is blue. It is surrounded by red.

Cherry that is, and some have different reds to them.

[Jswee]

TC native here, as has been mentioned TC is pretty progressive within the city limits, more conservative in the surrounding areas. Pockets of Leelanau Co. are also fairly liberal (oops, I mean progressive )

Oh and Michael Moore does not live in TC although he does visit frequently.