Walter -
In maybe the last 15 years, when have demonstrators made a difference on a national issue? City issues? maybe, well, yes, but not nationally. The public backing lobbying groups like the NRA or AARP make a difference. Voting for like minded people makes a difference. Judges appointed by your elected reps or the Pres makes a difference. Code Pink? nah. Cindy Sheehan? nah. The demonstrators with dualing Hitler-bama and Chairman Oba-mao signs? nah!