Coffee Party Pooper

The San Diego chapter of the Coffee Party drew close to 100 people to a discussion with Democratic congressman Bob Filner on April 11 at Queen Bee's Art and Cultural Center in North Park. Attendees from across San Diego and communities such as Oceanside, Ramona, and Escondido came to the upstart political group's "Coffee with Congress" event.

"Number one," said Filner, discussing issues facing the country, "we have to change the financing of campaigns." His remark drew cheers and applause from the crowd, as the Coffee Party has placed campaign finance reform at the top of its legislative wish list.

During the first several minutes of the event, a lone protester outside the building shouted criticisms of Filner and held a sign comparing President Obama to the Nazis. Eventually, the protester's sign was broken by a man who said he was blocked from his car.