No, the Left cannot raise citizen soldiers, because that sort of personal reponsibility and civic engagement is pretty much what defined the Right. Leftists are a gang; and every gang needs a strong Leader; and they want to be the most powerful gang in the country so they can impose their will. It’s a fundamental difference in psychology.

But that doesn’t mean the Armies of the Right will be successful unless they get to the root of the problem. Mr. Smith can go to Washington D.C., but Washington is bigger than any one man (or even 435 of them). Pretty soon the realities of campaign finance, lobbyists, and re-election cycles will begin to influence how they act and behave.

-Without real campaign finance reform lobbyists will continue to write the legislation.
-Without switching to a Range Voting system two Parties will remain in control (even if it’s not the same two Parties as today). Only range voting can allow real third party competition.
-Without term limits too many Congressman will come to see themselves as Washington insiders first and citizens and Representatives of their home districts second (or third).

It’s like capitalism and socialism. No matter how well intentioned the individuals inside the system, it’s eventually the system and its incentives that control the results. Sending men and women of good character isn’t enough.