The Tea Party very likely started out as a grass roots organization (or dis-organization)---it had no real effect until it was taken over and directed by organizations like Fox. What made it possible for them to have the power they have is that its disparate members (simple-minded libertarians, Conservative Christian activists, and general malcontents)simplified their message to "Cut Spending and taxes"and pressured candidates in local elections and primary fights, even though the Tea Party was never ver popular among the general population.
Tee Wall Street protesters should learn from their successful methods..