Democracy for America (remember, the DEMOCRATIC wing of the Democratic Party) is urging all of us to, in the words of its current head, Jim Dean, "Take ownership of the process." Coming up Feb. 5th are two heavily targeted primaries where progressive Democrats are challenging corporate Democratic incumbents. Here is their pitch:

Democracy for America doesn’t shy away from tough fights. Bush Democrats think that the “D” next to their name keeps them safe, but you know better. DFA stands up for progressive principles in any district, in every state. We make primaries matter and hold Democrats accountable who are afraid to stand up to President Bush and for a progressive America.

The primary I consider a progressive "must win" is Mark Pera vs. Lipinski in the IL-3 district. Lipinski is an anti-choice, pro-Iraq war Bush Democrat. Mark Pera is a genuine progressive who has a real chance of unseating Lipinski. Here is what DFA has to say about this race:

DFA-List endorsed Mark Pera is fighting back against Bush-Democrat Dan Lipinski in Illinois. This race is a classic example of the culture of activism versus the culture of incumbency. DFA members have knocked on over 4,100 doors of targeted Democratic voters, made hundreds of phone calls, generated national media attention, and raised thousands of dollars for Mark’s campaign. Meanwhile, Congressman Lipinski depends on lobbyist money and establishment support to fund his campaign.

Donna Edwards is a good candidate too, running in MD-4. Though her oponent is not as Bush-friendly as Lipinski, it would still be progress to replace him with Donna. I have kept out of this primary to a large degree, but here is what DFA has to say about it:

DFA-List endorsed Donna Edwards is in a tight primary race against Bush-Democrat Al Wynn. You’ve raised tens of thousands of dollars, knocked on thousands of doors, and recruited hundreds of volunteers. You took the lead and now MoveOn, Emily’s List, SEIU, UFCW, and The Sierra Club have all made this race a top priority.

The progressive grassroots can really have an impact on these races. I urge you to donate through DFA's Last Chance Act Blue site to help replace two corporate Dems with progressives. We have to pick our fights and these two are good picks. I also have my own primary battles I have picked, for those who are interested, including the defense of some progressive Congressional reps being challenged by corporate Democrats. Also, don't forget the official Daily Gotham Act Blue site to donate to New York races across the state.