Deal or No Deal
Yesterday, Jeff Greenspan and Brian Kominsky of the Ron Paul campaign sent out an email update which included the following…
“Currently, it seems that the (Nevada Republican) party is not interested in negotiating an outcome that is satisfactory to all. State Senator Beers promised the list of delegates and nominees, and that promise has not been kept. Would we be open to good faith negotiations? Yes. However, at this point we are hearing that a ‘do over’ convention is being discussed, which would invalidate the votes of the delegates, or even possibly a mail-in ‘do-over’. No delegate should settle for anything other than the reconvening promised regardless of the candidate they support for president.”
At the risk of stirring the pot even further, the fact is I and the Nevada Republican Party have already tried to “negotiate an outcome that is satisfactory to all.” While there is some dispute over who actually broke that “deal,” the fact remains it was broken and the level of trust on both sides is tenuous, at best.
Is the party also open to “good faith negotiations” to resolve the current dilemma? Absolutely. But the operative phrase here is “good faith.” It’s pretty difficult to deal with folks in good faith who constantly make incendiary and untrue statements such as accusing Sen. Beers of breaking a promise. The fact is Sen. Beers can’t provide a list of delegates because he doesn’t have it. That list is in the control of the Nevada Republican Party - and we are not releasing it to anyone at this time for various reasons which can be discussed at a later date.
So if you want to be mad at someone over the delegate list, be mad at me and stop besmirching Sen. Beers’ good name and reputation.
I fully recognize that neither Jeff nor Brian can speak for all of the Ron Paul delegates who are and should be free to vote their consciences. However, I believed before the Reno convention, and I believe now, that a satisfactory arrangement could be reached which a majority of all convention delegates would be happy and satisfied with.
It was, and still is, my desire to welcome and support Rep. Ron Paul and his legions of supporters and delegates into the party. The vitriolic accusations to the contrary have certainly poisoned the well, but I’m more than happy to once again try to work toward a resolution of this matter which will be something the majority of delegates to the state convention will be willing and able to ratify.
No decisions on how to proceed have been made yet, contrary to accusations some have made. If anyone has any suggestions on how best to resolve this matter equitably and quickly, I’m all for it. Post your suggestions here or email them privately to me at: chairman@nevadagop.org
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[...] Nevada Republican Party Chairwoman Sue Lowden responded this morning to the Paul camp’s entreaty on her blog HERE [...]
» Nevada News & Views - May 7, 2008 NoisyRoom.net: Courage is the price that Life exacts for granting peace. Amelia Earhart — May 7, 2008 @ 7:44 pm
State Delegate Falconi–Washoe County
I can’t speak for all of the delegates, but I can say this. It looks like for the first time in half a century, people are REALLY getting involved in politics. Pulling the lever is not democracy. Attending a convention is, and wow did it feel like a true democracy in there.
Anyway, the point is, with people getting back into it, we have to face the fact. These conventions never belonged to the political party or the candidates in the first place! The delegates decide everything. There’s no deal that can be made, that the 600 Paulites will accept. They aren’t there to support Paul, they’re there to support an idea, and that is unbreakable.
Let the convention reconvene, finish counting CD 2, and allow for a vote on the delegates at large. There will be no deal. And if there is, there’s no ensuring it’ll work out. The revolution is out of everyones hands now. Not even Ron Paul himself could convince us otherwise.
-Alex
Alexander Falconi — May 8, 2008 @ 1:43 pm
If this is how the repubs expect to get support for the presumptive candidate, it isn’t working. All you are doing is encouraging Ron Paul supporters to vote 3rd party or democrat. I have been registered repub for more years than I can count, but will never vote for mccain. There is no one on the democrat side I will vote for. So I guess I get to vote 3rd party in November. When a chairman is allowed to recess a convention with no motion, 2nd or vote, then it is time for a new chairman or a new party. I think you can actually start looking forward to the republican party to go the way of the whigs. Oh well, it’s not what the people want, it’s what the “party” wants.
Will — May 8, 2008 @ 2:03 pm
No matter how you spin it, the solution is extremely obvious.
The only way to convince Americans that the Nevada State Republican Party is not manipulating the election by disenfranchising Nevadan delegates is to simply reconvene the convention in Washoe County and allow continuation of the vote already in progress.
The longer we wait, the worse it is for both the party and the reputations of individual party leaders.
Stop stalling and allow our system of proper representation to work!
D. O'Hurley — May 8, 2008 @ 2:06 pm
Ditto what Alexander Falconi said above. As a member of the “free” press, I personally videotaped the convention from start to abrupt end and then for the following hours with interviews of the frustrated delegates. The convention and stalling tactics of those running the show leads the viewer to obvious conclusions, the desires of all delegates were ignored, the will of the people was ignored and the only result of the convention at this time is to feed the frustrations of Nevada’s citizens and label the Nevada GOP as unresponsive to their desires. After viewing the convention for a second time, first of all it is worse than the first time, and evident that time was ample to accomplish the business that should have been done but wasted with trivialities. The room was not just full of those pesky Ron Paul people, it was full of Americans volunteering their time and money to participate in a process for change, and the Nevada GOP denied them their opportunity. There is no “making a deal” because GOP leadership doesn’t agree with their own rules. Sue Lowden (and everyone else in attendance) needs to watch her “Welcoming” speech at the convention and listen carefully to her own words.
Dennis Grover — May 8, 2008 @ 2:12 pm
Deal, deals, deals???
Who the heck is making all of these deals on my behalf? I don’t want Jeff Greenspan, Sue Lowden, Bob Beers, Brian Kominsky or ANYBODY else making these “deals” on my behalf. I worked countless hours canvassing my neighborhood, talking to neighbors, and building trust to be elected a delegate. I paid the fees, made travel arrangements, attended central committee meetings, andvolunteered on behalf of the Republican party all in good faith that this same party would be the one to restore our country to Republican values. Any backroom “deal” smacks in the face of democracy.
Let me back into the convention and let me VOTE. How can you rob your constituents of this right by either recessing the convention or brokering back room deals? Who gave any of these people the authority?
KC - Delegate Wassoe County — May 8, 2008 @ 2:58 pm
Sue -
Here are a couple of options I thought of…
Option I.
A. Devise a means to quickly, fairly and verifiably handle the election as reality required after the rule change. This means allowing any Delegate who self nominates to stand before the party and at least say they’re name. This could be done in the form of one line of voters passing by another line of Delegates. It then means counting 22 votes from roughly 1300 people and scoring it in an array of roughly 200 nominees and arriving at 22 Delegates with the top votes. There are plenty of people like myself whom you could consult with to devise a means for this within a days time.
B. Reconvene the convention in Washoe County as required.
C. First Motion: to change the order of business, if altered, to continue to be the election of delegates at large and save any accolades, back patting or other less significant business for last.
Option II.
Contract a third party to conduct a fully verifiable election via mail/web for the delegates at large. Be sure the nominees are allowed equal space in the mailer or website.
Thomas Hoops — May 8, 2008 @ 3:04 pm
Many of the people who have joined the party this year are here because their pissed, not because they’re excited about being Republicans. They know that the only way to save the ship is to do the hard work it’s going to take now. Thus, people are very sensitive to ANY possible hanky-panky after so many years of seeing it happen and suffering the results of it. Ron Paul supporters are particularly sensitive because of the unfair media time Paul has received and various other incidents which indicate the presence of a force not willing to play in a level field. Please, whatever you do make sure you consider these sensitivities.
If John McCain is the best the party can do for a candidate after tossing away others better suited, it’s no wonder people are suspicious.
Thomas Hoops — May 8, 2008 @ 3:11 pm
As one of those “pesky” Ron Paul delegates, I have several more immediate concerns with the resumption of the convention. When, where and are we going to be charges yet another fee?
Are we going to be able to complete the selection of national delegates? If the state organization doesn’t allow the delegates a voice in that selection then there is little use in holding another convention. I for one will not follow state party dictates.
PN - Carson City Delegate — May 8, 2008 @ 3:17 pm
The Republicans of Nevada do not need a deal. We do not need a ‘New Deal’. We need to reconvene the convention and complete the voting process. It is simple, and it is the legally prescribed process.
The Republican Party has faded from prominence due to a lack of leadership. It is unresponsive to it’s membership. Gone were the days of Reagan’s strength. Gingrich’s reform of the party has stalled. Republicans have been fleeing to other parties or staying home due to apathy.
This year, one Republican candidate has breathed new life into the GOP. He has inspired the people to come out and participate. It is time for the party leadership to embrace this outpouring of support. It is time for the party leadership to listen to the members. Let us vote! Let the delegates choose the direction of the party so that we can have a Republican party that we are proud to support.
Todd Smith — May 8, 2008 @ 3:39 pm
IMO, the whole idea of a “deal” stinks. Those complaining of a “deal” being broken are misguided at best.
So what if Greenspan broke a promise. (And I am not saying he did.) But even if he did what he is accused of, that is, not telling all those in Paul’s camp to vote in favor of adopting the prepared list of nominations, still, the main thing is that the vote was indeed taken. And the result was that the OFFICIAL body of the Convention voted not to accept the prepared list and to have open nominations.
No amount of complaining by Sue Lowden, Bob Beers, Jeff Greenspan nor anyone concerned can change the fact that the Convention carried out an official act. We voted to have open nominations. Those who now want to claim Greenspan broke his word regarding an UNOFFICIAL deal and somehow that invalidates the OFFICIAL votes of the Convention to:
First allow open nominations,
And the following acts actually having those open nominations,
AND conducting the 3 separate Congressional District elections carried out by the OFFICIAL Convention…
are out of their minds.
Yes, maybe you have a complaint and maybe in the future you would not buy a used car from the man you claim betrayed you… but that has nothing to do with official business.
We voted for open nominations. One side lost. One side won. The winning side was determined by the vote TAKEN AT THE CONVENTION. Any talk of denying the OFFICIAL outcome based on an unofficial back-room deal being broken by someone who has no official authority to make such a deal is moot.
BTW, I am a Ron Paul supporter and I have nothing to do with Greenspan. From my perspective, I see those who want to dismiss the actual votes by the delegates based on a broken promise as nothing but a wrong and childish act. Wrong, because the votes were determined by the body of the Convention. And childish because those who are trying to say the broken promise is grounds for a new Convention are so childish they aren’t even aware of how foolish an argument they’re attempting.
Dan — May 8, 2008 @ 4:25 pm
I am an elected delegate from Clark County to the Nevada State Republican Party Convention. As such, I received information from the Nevada State Republican Party, by mail, informing me that the convention would be held from 9 - 6 on Saturday. Great! The last flight from Reno to Las Vegas leaves Reno at 8 PM.
The convention business ran quite long, the only choice was to call for a recess. The recess does create some challenges - but WE ARE REPUBLICANS, WE ARE CHALLENGE SOLVERS.
The Nevada Republican Party Chairman, Sue Lowden, has offered a TERRIFIC SOLUTION - mail-in ballots for the selection of delegates to represent Nevada Republican Party at the 2008 Republican National Convention.
I think that this proposal is the RIGHT SOLUTION. Delegates who are not residents of the Reno area paid their own way to attend the Convention - I do not think it is reasonable to ask the delegates to double that expense with a second trip - a trip that would reconven of the convention solely for the election of delegates to the RNC National Convention.
Mail in ballots sent to each registered delegate of the Nevada State Republican Party is the quickest, simplist, and most economical manner for us to elect our Delegates.
My only suggestion for the mail-in ballots is that the ballots contain a special watermark - to insure that only legitimate ballots are cast.
Mail-in ballots are acceptable forms of voting in primary and general elections nationwide!
Sage — May 8, 2008 @ 4:29 pm
Whoa Nellie! as the dems say to their jackass.
I haven’t heard so much whining since… well since watching the liberals on tv!
Personal agendas are not the reason Republicans hold conventions. Any Delegate who attends a convention for the purpose of self-glorification and the promotion of personal agendas is NOT acting in the manner of a true Delegate elected to represent his or her neighborhood or county and SHAME ON YOU!
Seems to me that the personal agendas were what made the convention in Reno take way too long, which caused the recess. Of course if time limits had been put on discussions and comments from the floor - I’ll just bet that the convention would have completed its business on time and there would still be WHINERS COMPLAINING that they didn’t get their personal agendas verbalized and voted on.
YES RECESS with the date, time, and location to be arranged and announced in the near future. Geeze!
A quorum is required to take nominations, motions, and vote - DUH! Someone must have looked up three letter words in the dictionary.
So now try: technological advancements: e-mail and/or phone. Yes these two great modern communication methods are capable of connecting people around the state. Delegates even. And our Nevada State Republican Party Office has a both!
I would venture to say that most delegates have either email or phone too and that they would be capable of calling to cast their vote on a motion to conduct the election of delegates to the RNC National Convention by mail-in ballot.
Oh yes, safeguards for ballots. The USPS has these great options called “Registered Mail” and “Return Receipt” “Certified Mail” and even one called “Delivery Confirmation.” These great options - if used by the delegates and by the Nevada State Republican Party - would verify delivery of ballots IN BOTH DIRECTIONS.
I like the suggestion of a special watermark on the ballots - BRILLIANT!
As for the counting of the ballots and the whining about that. Why not allow anyone who wants to be present for the counting of the ballots to - well - to be present. DUH!!!!
IF someone is so insecure about the credibility, honesty and integrity of the Nevada Republican Party then let that person - probably just one since they say that “there is one in every bunch” - so let that person pay their own way with their own money to watch the counting of the ballots.
And in conclusion:
I am an elected and paid delegate to the Nevada State Republican Party Convention.
I am now emailing a motion to the Nevada State Republican Party. Here is my motion:
“I move that the election of delegates from the Nevada State Republican Party to the RNC National Convention be done by mail in ballot. That said ballots contain a special watermark to prohibit fraud, and that the said ballots be mailed “Certified,” “Registered,” or “Delivery Confirmation by the Nevada State Republican Party and that delegates return them to the Nevada State Republican Party in the same manner.”
There! if you agree then please email or phone (there are those great technologies again) the Nevada State Republican Party and second my motion, or if it is already seconded - then cast your vote in favor of it.
Sheepdog2709 — May 8, 2008 @ 6:34 pm
We were Delegates and volunteers from Clark County to the State Convention in Reno…
Thank you for all your hard work under the most difficult of circumstances…All seemed to go relatively
well until the call to vote for delegates to the National…The Ron Paul faction unfortunately had their own
agenda and chose to demand that nominees be chosen from the floor in lieu of the process of allowing
the nominating committee to present its slate which was determined from an application, resume/vetting
process which all delegates who wanted to go to the National had the opportunity to submit…It was
obvious that the majority (based on several voice votes including the one to adjourn) were being
sucker punched by the Paulites with the attempt to load the national delegation with their people…
Nothing wrong with that but last time I checked the majority still rules…May I suggest the State Party
consider an electronic vote for delegates…Have the nominating committee offer its slate and the Paulites
offer their slate. Any individual delegate still wanting to do so could self nominate. All nominees wishing
to be considered should appear on an electronic ballot one week before the last day to vote. Any delegate
not having electronic means to vote could call the state headquarters for help… Should the Paul folks refuse to submit a slate proceed and post only the nominating committees’ slate. This would be better than
trying to get 2000 delegates back to Reno not to mention the expense…
Robert and Yolanda Smith
Henderson NV
Robert& Yolanda Smith — May 8, 2008 @ 7:06 pm
I am an elected delegate to the convention and want to get my two cents in. I am a Ron Paul supporter, but I was not dead set against voting for the nominating commitee slate of delegates.
I wanted to at least take a look at the slate, and I personally could see no reason why the list, if legitimate, should not be presented to the convention as a whole prior to the convention. My frustration level became very high when I was told that the party leaders would not release the names prior to the voting! I spoke to my local GOP party leader regarding this rather large detail and was informed that the list was not even completed yet! Now here comes Sue Lawden with the unbelievable statement that: “we are not releasing it to anyone at this time for various reasons which can be discussed at a later date.” I for one think this stonewalling is only to be expected if the slate is 100 percent McCain supporters and therefore does not in the slightest resemble the feelings of the majority of the delegates to the convention. My suspicion is that the list is comprised of the very people who are on the nominating commitee: the state federal and local republican officials who for the most part did not attend and participate in the county conventions. I guess we will have to wait for the “later date” to find out for sure, but in the mean time don’t expect me to support any Republican candidates for any office.
Paul Smith — May 8, 2008 @ 7:07 pm
I am a delegate from Clark County, was present during the convention and recommend that the voting be done by certified mail containing a security watermark.
It is illogical to expect all attendees to have a second and unwarranted expense of going back to Reno, transportation, hotel, food & beverage and the time taken from one’s regular affairs.
We are all honest Republicans who should desire the quickest, most-efficient way to resolve our pending issues, utilizing modern means with which to do so.
Let’s get on with our business and conduct the vote by mail.
DD — May 8, 2008 @ 8:48 pm
I agree with Sage and believe we should conclude the voting by mail at the earliest possible convenience.
There is no need to return to Reno and create additional expense to the delegates. We need to move on and collaborate not continue the divisiveness.
JH — May 8, 2008 @ 8:51 pm
times up for u fat chronies ..the American people are taking our country back.which side are u on?
Jay — May 8, 2008 @ 8:54 pm
http://www.dailypaul.com/node/47172
Samantha — May 8, 2008 @ 10:00 pm
As often happens, the stories being told in the media do not reflect the true story about what occurred at the Nevada Republican Convention. The following link accurately reflects my recollection of the events of the day. Please take a look. This is how the process of liberty is being stolen from the people and returning us to the days of King George. Really, please look….
http://www.dailypaul.com/node/47172
This quote shows the conspiracy on the part of the party, “The person walking from the counting room took a straight line to State Chairwoman Sue Lowden, leaning over and whispering into her ear. After the person walked off Sue sat there for about 30 seconds tapping her foot and then stood up and walked over to Commissioner Woodbury who was sitting in front of me, leaning over she said, “If we can break Quorum, can we invalidate this?” People traveled from all over Nevada to participate in this event. Surely they deserve better from the Republican Party than to have their wishes dismissed.
Again, please check out the entire story. What is happening affects YOU.
Todd Smith — May 9, 2008 @ 12:10 am
“That list is in the control of the Nevada Republican Party - and we are not releasing it to anyone at this time for various reasons which can be discussed at a later date.”
This kind of attitude and approach quoted above is *exactly* the problem, and as far a I’m concerned eliminates any possibility for “negotiation.” By not releasing the list of delegates, it eliminates the possibility of any trust. THIS APPROACH IS EXACTLY WHY THE DELEGATES CHANGED THE RULES IN THE FIRST PLACE.
So let me get this right. You want a bunch of people, who went to a whole lot of trouble to become delegates, to sit back and say “ok, we trust you to choose a slate of delegates in my best interest”?
Then what was the point of going to the convention? To watch a pretty picture show of Republicans dogging on Democrats? I could have watched that for free on TV.
It is best to reconvene the convention, as soon as possible but with ample notice to the delegates to make travel arrangements. The convention was “recessed” illegally. The voting should continue, and it should be planned that the convention is not over until all business is taken care of.
It is not wise to try to pull another fast one on the delegates. I believe they have already proven themselves to be perfectly capable of thinking for themselves and standing their ground. They went to the convention to represent their neighborhoods and vote what is right in their heart. Not giving them this opportunity shows how corrupt and manipulated the political process in the US has become.
I don’t blame Bob Beers for this. But I DO blame both Sue Lowden and the chair of the nominations committee. It has been made out that Lowden is a friend of Ron Paul because she asked him to speak at the convention. I say bullpuckey. First of all, I would expect *all* Repub. candidates still running to be able to speak at a Repub. delegate convention. Second, this was merely a tactic of throwing a bone to the Ron Paul supporters, in the hopes that maybe they won’t pay attention to what is important - delegates.
If the State Repub. party establishment would truly welcome Ron Paul supporters, that would be fine. But all the evidence points to the reality they do not. That is fine, we will replace you.
Truthful Delegate — May 9, 2008 @ 1:12 am
Wow! Reading some of the “comments” on this page is really something else. Why do some of you people wish to cause all this unnecessary conflict? Your aggressive language and insults directed toward our Republican Party is very uncivilized and un-Republican.
Sheepdog emailed a motion to the Nevada State Republican Party. AND called upon all Delegates to email their seconds and their votes in too.
I cast my email vote in favor of Sheepdog’s motion. And I too am encouraging Delegates to do the same. Email can be traced and verified and Internet Fraud is a crime. The same holds true for sending mail through the Post Office.
By the way, did you know that if a delegate votes based on their own personal preferences at the Republican National Convention instead of voting for the candidate that they are bound to by their State they are committing a Federal Crime? There are some State Delegates - the ones acting like two year old children - that I honestly would not trust to vote as they are bound.
Sage — May 9, 2008 @ 3:36 am
At our convention we took a vote to either accept the prepared list of nominess or have open nominations. THAT BUSINESS HAS BEEN SETTLED. For the life of me, I can’t understand why some believe the matter is still in question. Or why some believe the outcome was so undesirable.
IMO, the outcome was the most wholesome. To those who do not agree with me, I ask you this. Why is it you have such a hard time acknowledging an official vote was taken? The the vote decided the Convention was to have open nominations. And then we conducted an official vote for the 9 delegates using that method of open nominations. Why have you not announced the winners of that election? Is it because you don’t like the results? Is it because NV voted to give 6 of those 9 delegates to the Natl Convention to Ron Paul supporters?
Dan — May 9, 2008 @ 9:15 am
Quick clarification, Sage. Nevada delegates are not bound.
HC in NV — May 9, 2008 @ 10:17 am
“By the way, did you know that if a delegate votes based on their own personal preferences at the Republican National Convention instead of voting for the candidate that they are bound to by their State they are committing a Federal Crime?”
This statement above is not correct. Each state sets their own rules as to whether delegates are bound or not. Delegates in Nevada are not bound. Please don’t spread inaccurate/incorrect information.
“Why do some of you people wish to cause all this unnecessary conflict? Your aggressive language and insults directed toward our Republican Party is very uncivilized and un-Republican.”
I don’t believe these people are causing conflict for the sake of conflict as you imply. I believe they are trying to elect national delegates in a fair manner by the rules, and the party officials have not been conducive to that process. If party officials had not wasted so much time on red herrings and frivolities at the convention, we could have easily completed the business at hand, and would not be in this position now. And by the way, the post quoted above is itself inflammatory.
I also would have to disagree with you an the un-civilized and un-republican part. It is uncivilized to compromise on principles that promote civilization. It is uncivilized to compromise on one’s principles for the sake of faux unity for its own sake - especially when that compromise means the destruction of the principles of your own party or country. Compromising principles for the sake of unity is exactly what is wrong with the Republican party, and politics in general today, because it leads to a situation where there is no substance. At that point it becomes all about a meaningless charade of a process.
By that same logic you mention above, well, we should all unite behind Obama for the sake of the Unity of the Country. Clearly most Republicans would not agree with that statement. And that “logic” is as flawed on one level (of the party) as another (the country).
Furthermore, one could argue that McCain is not really a Republican, and that supporting him is un-Republican, since it compromises many core Republican values. But I guess you would have everyone go along with any candidate, as long as they are labeled “Republican”. This shouldn’t be about what is Republican, this should be about what is AMERICAN.
Robert — May 9, 2008 @ 10:22 am
In the U.S. we have a long and rich history as it concerns political conventions. A political convention has historically been a time for rank and file party activists, not just political insiders, to directly participate in the governance of a major political party, and therefore the political process itself. Even the most superficial study of American political history will confirm this fact. I believe that a majority of the delegates to the Nevada State Republican Convention had this historical frame of reference in mind when they attended the convention. Furthermore, it is my sincere opinion that the majority of delegates attended the convention so that could have some say in how the party operates for the next two years.
The problem we face can no longer be solved through behind-the-scenes deal making between various factions. The decision to recess the convention indefinitely without discussion or a vote has disenfranchised all of the delegates to the Nevada State GOP Convention.
I understand that political history and tradition of the Nevada State GOP is one marked by tightly controlled State Conventions and the centralization of decision-making power into the hands of the few. However, when the Precinct Caucus date was moved to Jan 19th a floodgate was opened in terms of political participation. Nevada became a little more important, people wanted to participate, and with this participation came newfound political power for party leaders and party insiders. The problem for party leaders is that this grassroots driven power cannot be controlled in the same manner that a recalcitrant politician can be controlled with a campaign contribution, or a donor’s ego can be massaged with a fancy luncheon in his or her “honor”.
The rank and file members of the Nevada State GOP expect their party leaders to be “Good Republicans”, to “Follow the Rules”, and now the State GOP leadership finds itself in the curious position of having to actually study the Nevada Revised Statutes on Election Law, having to read its own bylaws, and brush off that dusty copy of Robert’s Rules of Order.
The best course of action for the party as a whole is to reconvene in Reno and conclude the business of the convention. Anything less would be a disservice to all members of the Republican Party, and particularly those who participated in the entire caucus process, a process, I remind you, which did not end on Jan 19th.
This solution will not be cheap. This solution will not be quick. This solution, however, will be equitable.
Jason Hollowau — May 9, 2008 @ 1:06 pm
The fact of the matter is that since Ron Paul is a Libertarian and NOT a Republican he and they don’t care about the party or winning the White House. All they care about is making a point and causing chaos.
Dr. Ron Paul doesn’t have a chance in hell of winning the nomination, he is to be commended for doing such a good job and for having such loyal supporters but we are now in a race with the Democrats over the White House, it’s time to unite, if you really want to be called Republicans and win the race, not a small battle, act to win THE WAR.
Ron Paul should drop out of the race, he doesn’t and will not have the required number of delegates necessary to win the Party’s nomination. It is clear that this is about self-interests and has nothing to do with being true Republicans and preserving the Republican principles. He should have had the decency to run as what he is: a Libertarian never a Republican.
The time has come to do the right thing, to unite to triumph, it is about winning the White House and beating the Democrats, we all had a chance to stand up for our candidates and fight for them. Mitt Romney won in Nevada and John McCain won fair and square in the National race. It is time for Dr. Paul to recognize his defeat and support the Republican candidate, John McCain.
EW — May 9, 2008 @ 3:03 pm
EW,
The purpose of a State Convention, in my view, is for members of the party to decide what direction the party should take for the next two years. This cannot be done without some degree of conflict. The mechanism to resolve this conflict takes place on the floor of the State Convention when the assembled delegates vote on various issues in accordance with Robert’s Rules of Order, the State GOP Bylaws, and the Nevada Revised Statutes on Election Law.
Process is important. I congratulate Romney and his supporters for winning the Preference Poll on Jan 19th, but I’d like to remind his supporters that Romney did not technically win Nevada. The caucus process in Nevada did not end on Jan 19th. The precinct caucus on Jan 19th was the first of a three part caucus process. Why should delegates participate in State Conventions in the future if the entire caucus process is revealed to be nothing more than a charade?
It seems the only crime that Ron Paul supporters are guilty of is caring enough about the Republican Party to show up to the State Convention.
Guilty as charged.
Jason Holloway — May 9, 2008 @ 3:56 pm
The point, Jason, now, is that the Republican Party needs to win the White House over the Democrats, in order to do that and to provide the official candidate with all the monetary support and endorsements available and be able to concentrate on beating our contenders, we must have an official candidate. All of you Ron Paul supporters know this, Ron Paul knows this, it is time to condede defeat and line up behind the candidate that has the required number of delegates: McCain. Ron Paul is, unfortunately, unable to achieve this feat at this time, so, please, get out of the race and rally your troops in support of the candidate that has all the required delegates to win the Presidential Election in November. This futile attempt to make a point is disastrous for the Party, there comes a time when one must do the right thing. Perhaps 2012 will be a good time for Ron Paul. It is impossible this time around and you’re just creating divisions instead of uniting behind the only candidate who can get us there.
This whole issue would be resolved by Ron Paul facing the music and pulling out of the race. A race he will never win–not this time, anyway…
EW — May 9, 2008 @ 4:48 pm
Yes, let’s all unite. Since it has shown that Ron Paul has more support in NV than McCain, let all the republicans unite and support the candidate that received 2nd place in NV, not 3rd, in the presidential preference poll. That would be Ron Paul.
The purpose of having a caucus is so that delegates can be elected to represent NV based on how Nevadans voted.
Well, they voted for Ron Paul more than they did McCain, so let’s all unite to support Ron Paul.
Truthful delegate — May 9, 2008 @ 4:54 pm
I learned about this blog and read the posts. My opinion? It’s time to stop the finger pointing and get back to business.
Bob Beer’s last words before he struck the gavel were “… we will reconvene to conduct the second day’s business and elect delegates. We stand in recess.” A lot was accomplished on April 26th, and we must continue until the task is completed.
I propose that we reconvene at the earliest possible date, allowing reasonable notice and time for delegates from Las Vegas and rural Nevada.
It’s possible that many of the delegates who self-nominated themselves did so on the spur of the moment, without considering the travel, food, and lodging expenses, or time away from work and family. The field may well be narrowed down when the convention reconvenes.
For those remaining who are willing to make the commitment, perhaps allowing each one to introduce himself or herself to the attendees for 60 seconds each would be appropriate?
I think we’ll all agree that the United States is the greatest Republic in the world, and we need to show the nation and the world that we can finish the job fairly and in a timely manner.
I don’t know what percentage are John McCain supporters or Ron Paul supporters or undecided, and at this point it doesn’t matter. If John McCain wins fair and square, he’ll get the vote from Nevada, with no hard feelings. If Ron Paul wins fair and square then he’ll have one state out of fifty, with no hard feelings. Not an earth shaking event, and if anything it would motivate John McCain supporters to more actively support their candidate, after hearing for the past few months that he’s the nominee and, therefore, allowing themselves to fall into a state of apathy. Ron Paul already has motivated supporters, but one state will not win him the nomination.
So, let’s all play fair, elect the delegates, and finish our job.
Sound reasonable?
John
State Delegate
John — May 9, 2008 @ 5:12 pm
The point, EW, which you clearly fail to grasp, is that if the policies of the remaining candidates are so similar that you can scarcely tell them apart, then it makes no difference who the “President” is. If the policies are all set by people behind the scenes, and those candidates are puppets anyway, does it really matter if we call them “Democrats” or “Republicans?” Let’s call it how it is. Maybe two of them like “butter” a little more, and one of them likes “guns” a little more. But in either case it is a policy of more “guns and butter” that will lead to the destruction of the US economy into 3rd world banana republic status. If you would like to see what the 1970’s stagflation was like, just pay attention for a short while, because it is inevitably upon us due to the current fiscal and monetary policies. If you would like to see what a 1930’s US style deflationary depression is like, or a 1920’s German style hyper-inflationary depression is like, keep pushing the status quo and you will get to see it. McCain is certainly a continuation of the status quo. Contrary to your claim that Ron Paul supporters are only interested in “causing chaos” - we are trying to FIX the absolute destruction of the US economy, constitution, and liberties, that so many previous administrations have perpetuated.
Everyone should study the history of the collapses of the Roman, Spanish, British, and Soviet empires. They all imploded from within because their economies could not support the cost of being a global empire. The US is no different. The US currently has more than 13 Trillion in debt (that is just already existing debt), plus an additional 70+ Trillion dollars of unfunded liabilities in programs like Social Security, Medicare, etc. It is mathematically impossible for that to ever be paid unless we turn over every last cent to government. Americans are going to wake up one day soon and see that they are not going to ever see that money - it is gone. They have been swindled. That is the legacy of the status quo from *BOTH* parties that we have been left with. It is inevitable that things are going to change, because they cannot continue as they are. The US global empire will end because there is no money to pay for it. The US will NOT survive another 8 years of status quo, and possibly not even another 4, the way things are going. The only question is, will things change gracefully or catastrophically? History tells us that people keep their heads buried in the sand until they are forced to do otherwise. My hope is that we will have a little more wisdom than that.
As a quick note about delegates at the National Convention, many delegates are not bound to vote for McCain at all (think of all the Romney and Huckabee delegates), and once the first round of voting occurs, ALL delegates become unbound. Let us hope they *”do the right thing”*, come to their senses, or vote their consciences, because they too will benefit from or suffer for the choice that they make.
Robert — May 9, 2008 @ 7:01 pm
I am frustrated with you, not Senator Beers. You are right–he is not to blame! As I shared with Bob Beers and my county Republicans last night at the Douglas County Central Committee meeting::
Due to Beverly Willard’s hard work, Nevada is a non-binding state, with 34 delegates! Emphasis on: NON-BINDING. That means that there is no such thing as Ron Paul Delegates or John McCain delegates (or even Mitt Romney delegates!). We are all simply “delegates” with the right to represent our neighborhoods, counties and state.
Despite the hard work of Doug Matthews and his committee, and yourself–Jeff Greenspan, Ron Paul and John McCain are not delegates that you can negotiate with. They have worked hard, but they did not work within our process. They did not attend the January 19th caucus and receive votes from their neighbors. They did not attend the county conventions and fairly receive the right to move forward to the state.
Jeff Greenspan is a paid campaign representative, doing what campaigns do. Making deals, working really hard, and looking for bumps in the road ahead. Feel free to chat with him, but do NOT put my vote in his hands.
You, Sue Lowden, are the party chair. I really don’t know what is normal behavior for a party chair, and frankly, I don’t care what other chairs have done in the name of politics. My expectations for my state party chair: be fair to the process that you tout in speeches and emails, be transparent to the people, stay true to the Constitution that you have sworn upon.
The fact that you even admit to making a “deal” really concerns me. It shows how unethical our party has become. Immorality is simply “what we do” and “have done” around here. Not anymore! I am asking that a change come first from the party chair. Tell us the truth; put your career and good name at risk. The truth is worth it. The truth is the only hope the Republican party has of winning in November, and continuing throughout my lifetime.
SOLUTIONS:
-Let’s make deals out in the open, and deals that benefit everyone. Volunteers have offered to find a venue at minimal cost. They wear Ron Paul buttons, but hey–you wear a McCain pin. Seriously, we MUST stop seeing our delegation as a split group of people and accept help from ALL volunteers.
-Volunteers have offered the use of printers and papers at no cost to the party. Use them!
-Use the state party website: post the list of nominees. Delegates can look at the list to verify that they are on the list. A delegate can add his name by printing a form, self-nominating himself on the form, getting the form notarized and mailing or faxing it to the party. This will eliminate the panic when we reconvene, when a nominee realizes he is not on the list. I have heard that people are concerned about posting names publically. Whatever problems they are referring to are minimal compared to the problems of HIDING the names.
-Nominees can also retract their name if they have had a change of heart and no longer want to run. Post a printable form to be signed by a notary and mailed by certified mail–if a nominee wants to withdraw. Include an appropriate deadline. The webmaster can strikethrough the names that have withdrawn, in order that the delegates can adjust their decision.
-For people who do not have internet access, county chairs will be responsible for contacting by phone or mail and making appropriate arrangements.
-One convenient way to vote for masses of people by masses of people:
When the delegates sign in, give each delegate a sheet of 22 labels or proprietary stickers (to make it totally fair–the labels could have a unique serial number or code on it, to ensure that delegates only vote once per nominee). Then, post one piece of posterboard (or paper proportionate to the labels) per nominee (with nominee’s name in LARGE PRINT at the top) around the room. Next, have delegates take their labels and walk around the room–posting one label on each poster of their choice. In order to reduce chaos, just have 1 section of delegates vote at a time. By the end of voting the counting will already be completed. By putting graph lines on the posterboard (or by using pre-made teacher-size graph paper), and instructing delegates to post one label per box–the vote is DONE! You will be able to visually see which nominees received 0 votes, 10 votes, 100 votes. Volunteers can scan the posterboard to verify that there are no repeat votes if the people call for an inspection.
-The above method is extremely inexpensive. The cost of labels would be equal to the cost of postage for mailing out this information. The cost of large graph paper is going to run no more than $50. It will take about a day to print the nominee names and paste them onto the graph paper. Count me in as a volunteer.
-I know there is talk of doing a mail-in vote. My concern about this method is that the party-delegate trust level is very low. My trust in the U.S. postal service is even lower than my trust in the Republican party. It would be disconcerting to vote by mail, and then wait…. and wait…. and lose all control over the process. The results will be questioned extensively if the delegates cannot see the process firsthand.
-The other concern is the delegates who will have a difficult time returning to Washoe County. It would be easier to come up with solutions if we knew what we had to work with. How much money can the party set aside for reconvening? If a venue can be found for $1000, does that leave you $9000 to organize a fleet of tour buses from Clark County? :) Let’s get creative!
-How short on funds are we? At the convention I was craving a hot dog or ice cream. Maybe it was the baseball stadium energy in the room! I know many Republicans in the room want to keep the professional prestige of years past; that’s not working anymore. Instead of auctioning off useless pins, let’s GET FUNctional. Instead of spending $7 on a Peppermill ice cream sundae, let’s get the delegates satisfying their appetites to the delight of the Republican party’s wallet. Ask each county to provide a different food-raiser; Douglas County will take care of ice cream, and I know Washoe has a good handle on pizza. :)
SERIOUSLY! If the Republican party is to live on, it needs to become a functioning voice in government–not an elitist social club. If you are confident enough to tell the PRESS that you are out of money; God, we are in a sorry situation and need to make some drastic changes.
-Speaking of money… I want the party to be transparent about income and outgo. By my rudimentary calculations, the party brought in a minimum of $70,000 (1400 delegates times $50 for early registration) from the convention. It’s unfortunate that people from Clark County made the arrangements for a room. Everyone in Reno knows that the Tuscany Ballroom at the Peppermill is the most expensive venue in all of Washoe County. So much for fiscal conservatism!! I think we would have been comfortable in a school gym! It would be interesting to compare costs and revenues of the Boots & Rhinestone event with the Ron Paul Rally (and to the Republicans who think the RP Rally was a way to hijack the Boots & Rhinestones–*cough cough*–some of us are TRUE REPUBLICANS who value being conservative and are much more comfortable with a $5 admission fee). We don’t have to compare to laugh at the “other side”–we can compare to show that there are new ideas and new ways of doing things coming into the party. These are things the party and country can BENEFIT from.
I will leave you with a quote:
“Whether Dr. Paul becomes the Republican nominee or not, you have to appreciate the democratic process. The nominee of the Republican convention will have won the majority of votes. Period. You may not like it, but in a free country…..the person with the most votes wins.”
–Sue Lowden, personal email, April 20, 2008
In all honesty,
Angela “Gertie” Refsland
Douglas County
Gertie — May 9, 2008 @ 7:11 pm
Below is a quote from Dr. Paul’s book, The Revolution - A Manifesto:
“… There are far more interest groups lobbying in Washington for special benefits and privileges than most Americans can imagine. I do not oppose just this one or that one. I oppose the whole apparatus, the whole immoral system by which we use government to exploit our fellow citizens on behalf of out own interests. For someone like me to win, there would have to be enough Americans who believed in freedom to be able to offset the combined power of interest groups that have grown accostomed to treating the people as a resource to be drained for private gain… What moves me the most when I think about my supporters in my presidential campaign are the staggering efforts and creative energies - extraordinary and unprecedented, as far as I can see - that they expended on behalf of a message that pormised them no special benefits, no loot taken from their fellow men. The message promises only freedom, and no special privileges for anyone. No one is surprised that people donate to a political campaign in the hopes of receiving some special favor if the candidate wins. I was quite surprised, on the other hand, at how many would donate, volunteer, and vote in pursuit of nothing other than freedom, and the prosperity it naturally brings.”
This sentiment resulted in the dedication of so many delegates at the convention. WAKE UP FELLOW REPUBLICANS! PLEASE let’s unify in understanding the desprately needed change for our beloved America.
Tom
State Delegate
Tom — May 9, 2008 @ 7:20 pm
The one thing I don’t understand here, is: if McCain already has the delegates he needs to be nominated, then why does he need Nevada’s? What’s wrong with them all going to Paul?
George Dance — May 9, 2008 @ 10:13 pm
Hat’s off to Gertie, she covered the disputation well and her suggestions appear doable and inexpensive. Reno’s conference center is big enough for reconvening, and ought to be cheaper than the Peppermill’s Tuscany Room. Might be better not even to have chairs, we’d just be going there to vote. If properly organized in advance, it could all be over in an hour. That seems better than a mail-in vote with its inherent difficulty in maintaining checks and balances acceptable to all factions.
It would do much to salve wounds if party leadership would apologize for improperly recessing the convention and announce that steps to complete the convention’s work will be transparent and honorable. Bob Beers told Douglas County central committee members Thursday evening that we should not be unsettled by events at the convention, it was just politics as usual. While I have the greatest respect for Senator Beers, that approach is far too jaded for the many new first-time delegates, who based on comments on this blog, have little interest in the grimy trench-warfare we have seen in past years, and far more interest in taking it out of the “Tammany hall” mode to a higher plane consistent with the elements and ideals the nation’s founders wrote into the Constitution, open choices and open and transparent but secret voting. Some leaders may consider the stakes too high for honesty and openness. They do not deserve to lead.
The conclusion I drew from the convention is that State Chair Lowden and party leaders wanted convention delegates by their voice vote to empower a nominating committee composed of state party insiders to determine who should become national convention delegates by any process they chose to use. How else to explain the failure of the nominating committee to have their slate on our chairs when we arrived at the convention? To this date Sue Lowden and Senator Beers and perhaps more importantly nominating committee chairman Doug Matthews have failed to issue a clear explanation.
Completing the work of the convention with anything other than honesty, clarity, transparency, and accountability could only sunder the Nevada GOP with potentially irreparable damage to party membership and republican candidates at all levels, including the presidency. Great leadership calls for great leaders following great principles, the official published Principles of the Republican Party and the principles enshrined in the Constitution and Declaration of Independence.
JACK VAN DIEN — May 11, 2008 @ 8:29 pm
I have a concern that has not been addressed. There is more business left than just electing delegates to the national convention. There needs to be a reconvening of the convention to finish all the business left undone by the call for recess. I do believe that a recess implies that a reconvening will and must take place. If we do not reconvene with a quorum and finish the convention with a gavel hitting after “meeting adjourned” is spoken by the chair, then we run the risk of having our state convention invalidated by the Republican National Committee. Then we have only three delegates: The State Chairperson, National Committee Man and Woman. And all the work registered Nevada Republicans and their elected representatives (delegates) have done from submiting platforms and resolutions to participating in the caucuses, will have been for naught. At best, Nevada republicans will be unhappy and at worst we will be losing them to another party.
Also, if we only vote by mail the 2008 Nevada State Convention will never have been adjourned leaving our convention open ended. A violation of national rules?
As to reconvening by phone or email there are no rules pertaining to it. We must work under the rules that we convened on.
WE NEED TO RECONVENE IN PERSON TO BE LEGAL AND VALID!
How does it happen? There have been some good suggestions on how to do this with the least financial impact on delegates. I believe a solution can be found by using all the brain power we have as one group working in one unfragmented direction. If you do not want to reconvene because you already dedicated a day or two out of your life or worse to filibuster because of principle, then you should not have become a delegate. You were elected by your fellow republicans to represent them and to carry out certain duties, no matter what the cost. You have an obligation to fulfill.
Remember, not just all of Nevada is looking at whether we will follow our own rules, but the entire nation will be watching to see how we conduct ourselves as Nevadans. If we really want to have respect as an early voting state in future elections, then we must do what is right, not what is easiest for the currently elected delegates, but what is right.
I am signing my name not initials or a faux name because I want the same transparency from everyone in my party including the leaders. We all have our points of views, but we are in one party so we need to be able to express our views without fear. Everyone deserves the respect of each and every other party member for our party to grow and have respect within our country.
Norris Coit
Delegate
Douglas County
Yes, if this happened in Clark County I would go back down there for a reconvening whether I were to drive, fly or ride a bus.
Norris Coit — May 11, 2008 @ 10:20 pm
Looks like we won’t please all the delegates no matter which method of reconvening is selected by the Nevada State Republican Party.
There are plenty of opinions and suggestions on this blog - from Delegates.
As you have read from my previous posts here, I do want to vote by either registered or certified mail with a delivery confirmation receipt and on a watermarked ballot.
As for Delegates not knowing anything about the Delegates nominated or self-nominated to become the Delegates to the National Convention - that too can be handled through modern technology:
CREATE A WEBSITE specifically for each potential delegate to have their photo and their statement as to why they hope to be elected. Place a link to this special website on the Nevada State GOP Website so that it is easy for everyone to find.
My company would be happy to handle this.
Sage — May 12, 2008 @ 7:54 am
http://www.lvrj.com/opinion/18841459.html
Samantha — May 12, 2008 @ 8:46 am
Um I hate to be the pedantic one of the group, but has anyone considered that in fact the convention was not recessed? In fact, it was adjourned due to a lack of quorum. Among other things, a recess requires specified reconvening times, can not be open-ended, and must be placed before the body in the form of a motion, to be voted on just like any other motion. Did any of that happen? Here is the full text of Robert’s Rules regarding recess: “This motion is practically a combination of the two preceding, to which it yields, taking precedence of all other motions. If made when other business is before the assembly, it is a privileged motion and is undebatable and can have no subsidiary motion applied to it except amend. It can be amended as to the length of the recess. It takes effect immediately. A motion to take a recess made when no business is before the assembly, or a motion to take a recess at a future time, has no privilege, and is treated as any other main motion. A recess is an intermission in the day’s proceedings, as for meals or for counting the ballots when much time is required; or in the case of meetings like conventions lasting for several days a recess is sometimes taken over an entire day. When a recess is provided for in the order of exercises, or program, the chair, when the time arrives, announces the fact and says the assembly stands adjourned, or in recess, to the specified hour. The assembly by a two-thirds vote can postpone the time for taking a recess, or adjournment. When the hour has arrived to which the recess was taken, the chairman calls the assembly to order and the business proceeds the same as if no recess had been taken. If the recess was taken after a vote had been taken and before it was announced, then the first business is the announcement of the vote. The intermissions in the proceedings of a day are termed recesses, whether the assembly voted to take a recess, or whether it simply adjourned having previously adopted a program or rule providing for the hours of meeting. When an assembly has frequent short regular meetings not lasting over a day, and an adjourned meeting is held on another day, the interval between the meetings is not referred to as a recess.” Robert’s Rules of Order Revised
Scott — May 12, 2008 @ 10:28 am
I am a Connecticut resident and Republican following the Nevada State GOP Convention. I want to give my heartfelt thanks to all attendees of the convention for their unselfish participation and expense. Please know that many Republicans from other states are watching this very carefully. From the videos and interviews taken during the convention, it seems clear to this observer that Bob Beers and/or Sue Lowden panicked when it became clear that Ron Paul might not only win, but win a super-majority of delegates.
I emailed everyone on the GOP staff and Bob Beers’ office as well expressing my feelings that the our republic has been sort-circuited and the convention was derailed by a select few. This of course is just my opinion, but I am certainly not alone with it. Without exception, every Republican I know (for Paul and for McCain), feels that their is borderline impropriety involved. We wish you well, Nevada… may you QUICKLY reconvene your convention and complete the vote count process as prescribed.
Steve — May 12, 2008 @ 11:49 am
To Steve, from Connecticut, You’re right on, of course the Convention was derailed by Beers and Gang. Beers was on a local call-in talk-radio station shortly after the Convention giving “his side” of the matter. All of it phony. He never took any calls as the case is usually with the station. Then, and even to this day, Beers, who was elected Chair of our State Convention, has yet to announce the KNOWN RESULTS of our abbreviated election. Ron Paul supporters WON 6 of the 9 spots voted on. If Beers wanted to portray himself as a Chair should, that is, by being and acting neutral, the very least he could do is announce what results we do have. Instead, whenever he’s had the chance, he says, due to the rule change FORCED by the Paul supporters, there wasn’t enough time to complete the electing of delegates.
It is false that we FORCED anything, we voted not to accept their proposed Rule Number 2.9 which was their prepared list of nominees. Instead, we voted for nominations to be open from the floor of the Convention. If Beers wants to call that FORCE, so be it. Beers also never reports that we were never even allowed to see the list before we were to vote to accept it.
The fix was in. But the fix failed. And when we had open nominations, and then held 3 separate elections to elect 3 delegates from each of our 3 Congressional Districts, and the votes were counted, suddenly the Convention ended without any announcements of the results.
The R Insiders are counting on their control of the local media to cover up their nonsense. So far, the only honest report of the matter that I have seen was in the Boston Globe. Nothing yet even close to the truth has been reported here.
If someone cares to correct me, I would not mind at all. Someone please provide a link to some local story in which one or more of the official Rep. Insiders acknowledges Paul winning the 6 delegates positions of the 9 voted on.
Dan — May 13, 2008 @ 12:15 am
Not sure you’re correctable, Dan. All I have is reality to offer…
The elections by district were not controlled - i.e. no one verified that people went to their correct congressional district to vote. Now, that vote is plagued by complaints that a large group failed to show up for their correct district, went to the wrong district(s), and sacrificed one congressional district in order to do well elsewhere.
Republican conventions, and Republican parties, are populated by volunteers. No one except a small few believe it reasonable to make those volunteers work all night, and probably through the next day as well.
The Boston Globe? Puh-leeeze.
You should move to Nevada and help me elect solid, constitutionally-respectful, fiscally conservative candidates for local and state offices, or pipe down.
By the way, guests don’t control the taking of phone calls at KDWN. Oh, I am sorry - I forgot - the conspiracy involves all the Republicans, all the conservative media, and the World Quadralateral Commission too.
Bob Beers — May 13, 2008 @ 2:04 am
Beers
The elections by district were not controlled -
Dan
That’s funny, I have a delegate badge with your signature on the back indicating I voted in Congressional District One, the same one you’re in, and the same one you supervised. I kinda thought it was controlled - by you. But now that it’s completed, you seem to believe it wasn’t managed properly. I believe you said to make sure no one voted twice, when we turned in our ballot, we had to at the same time, present our delegate badge and have it signed by one of those at the table who were collecting the ballots. You were the one that signed mine.
Although I didn’t fully approve of all things you did while you managed that election, still, I abided by your direction, including the 10 second speech rule for all nominees, which I believe was initiated by you and I do not criticize you for how you ran the election because we were working in the moment and all things considered, you did all right. But the fact is, we did hold the elections for the Congressional District delegates. Your statement that the Convention ended without the electing of delegates, I believe to be at the very least, very misleading.
Beers
i.e. no one verified that people went to their correct congressional district to vote. Now, that vote is plagued by complaints that a large group failed to show up for their correct district, went to the wrong district(s), and sacrificed one congressional district in order to do well elsewhere.
Dan
It is my understanding that Paul supporters won 6 of the 9 spots. The 3 we lost were to be expected, being Senator Ensign, Representative Heller and the very likeable and popular UNLV basketball star, Danny Tarkanian. I do not believe any significant mistakes were made.
It is my opinion that a Convention may very well make some mistakes, you and I both plus all the other delegates present can take responsibility for those mistakes, but that should not discount the fact that we did hold elections. Why not release the results? Even in dictatorships when the results are contested, they still release the results. Then go on to say there are questions about the validity of the election due to - fill in the blank. But to not release the results at the Convention, then not to state on KDWN that we did in fact have elections, leaves me believing you didn’t approve of Paul winning. And btw, don’t you think asking us to vote on the prepared list of nominations without even letting us see it is a bit ridiculous?
Beers
Republican conventions, and Republican parties, are populated by volunteers. No one except a small few believe it reasonable to make those volunteers work all night, and probably through the next day as well.
Clay
I agree. IMO, the highest priority should have been the electing of the delegates and we should have skipped a few of the lesser matters like the Newt Gingrich video. Also, how long would you estimate we spent arguing for open nominations? Two hours? And explain why you were so opposed to open nominations?
Beers
The Boston Globe? Puh-leeeze.
Dan
As I said, at least the Boston Globe reported the Convention was shut down just prior to the announcement by Party officials of Paul’s supporters winning the majority of delegates. Can you name a local paper that did? And why have you not?
Beers
You should move to Nevada and help me elect solid, constitutionally-respectful, fiscally conservative candidates for local and state offices, or pipe down.
Dan
I am here. And I am trying to do just that by supporting Ron Paul. And delegates who support Paul and the Constitution. Are you supporting McCain? Are you sure he supports the Constitution? How do you feel about McCain supporting Bush’s Amnesty Bill for illegal immigrants? How about McCain’s latest stance on global warming?
Beers
By the way, guests don’t control the taking of phone calls at KDWN. Oh, I am sorry - I forgot - the conspiracy involves all the Republicans, all the conservative media, and the World Quadralateral Commission too.
Dan
Hey, you can clear everything up by simply announcing the results of the election we had at the Convention. I’d bet KDWN would love the scoop. You might also mention that we Paul supporters are doing our best to reconvene the Convention so that we can make it official. But we need the list of delegates so we can notify them. However, what was it you told us at our last meeting? That we can’t have the list because it belongs to the Party?
As Chair of the State Convention, can you tell us when exactly you plan to reconvene?
Dan — May 13, 2008 @ 3:39 am
“Republican conventions, and Republican parties, are populated by volunteers. No one except a small few believe it reasonable to make those volunteers work all night, and probably through the next day as well.”
Actually, we don’t know if only a few people think it is reasonable to make volunteers work all night. The issue was never put forward to the body of assembled delegates for a discussion and a vote.
Jason Holloway — May 13, 2008 @ 2:53 pm
Dear Sue,
I’m sure you’re just doing what you’re being directed to. I’m also sure you know in your heart that it’s wrong. Ron Paul is an elected Congressman who serves his PEOPLE, not the other way around. He is brave enough to still run even when all odds are against him, his own party won’t stand up for him. Being a Republican means nothing to me or my family unless our candidates represent our values. McInsane DOES NOT. The Republican party should be thrilled to have Ron Paul’s people involved. We have worked very hard, learned and then played by the rules, spent hours of our time andlots of our own money on Convention planning, travel and lodging, only to have the “party” walk out. I’d never been involved in politics, always heard how “dirty” it is, but it is worse than dirty. It is scary that this could even be allowed to happen within our system. There is nothing to feel hopeful about except Ron Paul’s message, and, heaven forbid, John McCain, Obama, or Hillary is our next President, as they’re all alike. We are in big trouble. I’m sure I’m just wasting my time here, but wanted to put my 2 cents in. Please reconvene the convention fairly for the sake of the future of this once great State and Country.
Cindy — May 13, 2008 @ 3:18 pm
Your post wasn’t a complete waste of time Cindy, I sure appreciated it.
I don’t know how much of this fiasco is intentional and how much is just poor planning but judging from the actions of those who shut down the Convention and now their inability to properly address any of our honest concerns, I’d say if we want the Convention reconvened, it’s up to us.
If they had any intentions to reconvene I would think they would have made some sort of announcement by now. The only response I got when I asked Beers for the list of delegates was negative. W/O the list, we can’t notify the delegates of a reconvening.
We’re having a meeting tonight. I will propose the idea that we try to form our own list by contacting all those that we do know.
Dan — May 13, 2008 @ 6:52 pm
I propose we obtain the list by any means possible…money talks. Then again, we might just pay and get toilet paper. I say we place some ads announcing a new date, whomever attends (of those who previously did, of course) establishes a new quorum…it’s gotta be written somewhere that if any length of time elapses during a “recess” that those who attend the reconvening establish a new “number” and thus, a different quorum. Sounds reasonable, huh???? All the delegates who want to attend know who they are! Those are the ones who should count. The others should hang their heads in shame.
Cindy — May 13, 2008 @ 11:06 pm
I was at the State Convention and was privy to all that nonsense that the party did.
Now they want to back pedal and give all kinds of excuses why the convention was not finished, could not go on, blah,blah,blah.
They will continue the lies and deceit but the facts remain (on video) that the Party walked out and Ron Paul supporters did everything they could to continue their work and duty.
Now the party feigns concern about delegate costs and expenses? That should have been thought of before the illegal “recess” that Beers called.
My family consists of three elected State delegates and I dont care what the costs are, if this Convention reconvenes, we will be there to complete the process and our duty. And we will assist in every way possible other like minded State delegates to do the same.
NO DEALS ACCEPTED, NO MAIL IN. LET THE DELEGATES FINISH.
J.L — May 14, 2008 @ 12:02 am
I was mistaken, there was no meeting tonight. I’ll pass on whatever info I get whenever I have something.
Cindy, you might be on to something. I’ll have to check with Webber or some other parliamentarian but perhaps an announcement in the newspapers could pass Robert Rules of Order for a legitimate notification of a reconvening of the Convention.
One thing should be obvious to those who consider themselves neutral onlookers. It is the Paul camp that is making their attempts at reconvening in an open manner. But to be fair, perhaps the McCain/status quo camp is also trying and we’re just not aware of it. If any of them are listening in, please inform us of any news.
Dan — May 14, 2008 @ 12:18 am
I have to agree with J.L, no matter the cost I will be there as well. I have even talked to other delegates into carpooling. It doesn’t matter which candidate I support, I will have my voice heard. It was unfortunate it had to come to this, but let me say I know have a different opinion on the leadership of the Nevada GOP.
K. H. — May 14, 2008 @ 12:42 am
“By the way, did you know that if a delegate votes based on their own personal preferences at the Republican National Convention instead of voting for the candidate that they are bound to by their State they are committing a Federal Crime? There are some State Delegates - the ones acting like two year old children - that I honestly would not trust to vote as they are bound.” Quote from Sage — May 9, 2008 @ 3:36 am
What do not understand about the NV Caucus process? NV delegates are unbound all the way to National! Learn the rules or just stay home! We as delegates have no candidate that we are suppose to vote for except the one we have a “PERSONAL PREFERENCES” for. Tell your masters to let you read the rules! NO ONE IS BOUND IN NV SAGE! I can’t take anymore damn propaganda. Wake UP!
Carl Bunce — May 15, 2008 @ 4:27 pm
Yeah, I have to agree with Carl on this one, Sage. Have you not read the RNC rules? They are very explicit in their prohibition of any Unit Rule. If you want a copy of the RNC Bylaws and rules, I’m sure we can post them somewhere, but it is mildly laughable that you would assert that a federal crime has been committed if a person votes in some other way than their State seemed to have wanted. Which federal law are you suggesting would have been broken? Now, if you want to talk about ethics or moral obligation, I’m sure that would constitute an interesting conversation, though not at all, I fear, what you were intending.
Scott Austin — May 15, 2008 @ 9:24 pm
I’m astounded that anyone would WANT to be told how to vote!
Cindy — May 15, 2008 @ 9:43 pm
YOUR SURVEY IS DANGEROUS TO DELEGATES!
Under what authority do you create your survey?
You are not in charge of anything and you were not asked to create the survey; so….
YOU MUST PERSONALLY want to collect the Name, Address, City, Precinct, ZIP Code, Phone Number, E-Mail Address of each and every Delegate.
Which brings me to my next point: Why would someone who has no regard for the structure of the Nevada Republican Party want the personal information of each Nevada GOP Delegate? Are you planning to “send the boys out to visit Delegates?” IT AIN’T HAPPENING Robert.
Robert, nobody knows you in Clark County. You attended the County RCC meeting out of nowhere to run for Chairman. Even then, people simply referred to you as the “RP Guy.” YOU LOST.
Have you sought counseling?
It seems that you can not accept the reality that YOU ARE NOT IN CHARGE.
The Nevada State Republican Party Chairman and Officers WILL announce the method for reconvening our Nevada State GOP Convention. It is THEIR responsibility - not yours or mine. Accept it.
I sincerely hope that once the Nevada State Republican Party Chairman and Officers do announce; that we will have several weeks with which I hope the “hot heads” will cool off.
“Mob Frinzy” is a very distructive psycho-social problem. The “Mob Frinzy” showed its ugly head as we were recessed from Reno last month by somebody actually threatening Senator Bob Beers and others.
Again YOU’RE NOT IN CHARGE, YOUR SURVEY WAS NOT SANCTIONED by the Nevada State Republican Party, YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO the Personal Information of Delegates. And “your boys” should perhaps join you in counseling.
Sage — May 25, 2008 @ 8:35 pm
Robert, why in the world would YOU think that YOU are in charge of finding out if the Delegates want to “help restart the convention”?
Here’s the simple answer WITHOUT YOUR DECEPTIVE SURVEY: “Yes”
YOU DO NOT NEED THE PERSONAL INFORMATION OF NEVADA REPUBLICAN PARTY DELEGATES.
YOU SHOULD HAVE A DISCLAIMER ON YOUR SURVEY letting people know that you are in NO WAY IN CHARGE OF ANYTHING RELATED TO THE RECONVENEING OF THE NEVADA STATE REPUBLICAN PARTY CONVENTION and that you are just gathering PERSONAL INFORMATION on the Delegates for your own use IN WHATEVER MANNER YOU SEE FIT.
Instead you deceptively promote your survey as though you are sanctioned and authorized to gather the personal information of the Delegates.
Again I ask: WHY you are trying to get the personal information of the Nevada Republican Party Delegates?
You see Robert, the Delegates to the Nevada State Republican Party Convention KNOW that the Nevada State Republican Party Chairman and Officials WILL announce the information regarding the reconvening of our convention in due time.
Robert your motives are questionable at best. You lack the authority, knowledge to DO ANYTHING related to the reconvening of the Nevada State Repulican Party. This should not upset you so much - please seek counseling, get a group rate so your friends can benefit too.
Oh ooops, did I misspell “frenzy” darn. Did it take you a whole 15 minutes to look at your medical diagnosis for the correct spelling?
Try cooling off for a while Robert, get into counseling and in time perhaps people will forget what an embarrassment you & “your boys” are to yourselves.
Sage — May 26, 2008 @ 10:12 am
Robert,
I mean YOUR SURVEY is deceptive because nowhere on your survey site does it inform the public that your survey is not sanctioned or authorized by the Nevada State Republican Party AND nowhere does it state what YOU INTEND TO DO with the PERSONAL information you may collect from anyone naive enough to participate in it. Further by your choice not to include a disclaimer you give the ILLUSION that you are in charge of something having to do with the Nevada State Republican Party and it’s Chairman and Officials and with the arrangements for the reconvening of the NV State GOP Convention -WHICH YOU DO NOT. It seems like a pretty thin line that you are walking with your failure to place a disclaimer.
As for the Nevada State Republican Party sending out a survey prior to the Convention; hmmm…. let me think…. Oh yes, as a Delegate I did receive a packet in the mail FROM the Nevada State Republican Party, hmmm….and it contained:
1- Instruction on Delegate registration and payment of fees for the Convention
2- Date, time and location of the Convention
[this is an important part Robert because many Delegates made their airline reservations based upon the time frame of the convention.]
3- Instructions on HOW TO PROPERLY SUBMIT your application for consideration as a Delegate to the RNC National Convention - which needed to be submitted by a specific date and include references from elected officials and a resume of your past & current involvement in the Republican Party and a cover sheet which was your opportunity to tell the committee why you believe you should be a Delegate.
4- Questions:
- Will you be bringing a guest to the convention?
- Would you like to purchase a lunch ticket?
- Would you like to purchase a lunch ticket for your guest?
Now Robert, you can’t possibly see deception in that!
The Nevada State Republican Party Chairman and Officers are responsible for the arrangements, costs, etc of the Convention. Delegates are NOT.
Cope with it Robert. The convention will reconvene in due time and in the manner that the Nevada State Republican Party Chairman and Officers arrange and announce.
Sage — May 26, 2008 @ 1:31 pm
It is illogical to even consider for a brief moment that the Nevada Republican Party would not have Delegate representation at the RNC National Convention. Hey Robert why are you scaring KC [and others perhaps] with your inane verbal outbursts? Do you completely lack compassion for those, like yourself, who are relative newcommers to the political arena?
At least the reports last couple sentences are correct: the news media will be informed of the reconvening of the convention by the Nevada State Republican Party.
Sage — May 26, 2008 @ 1:43 pm
Robert Holloway has crossed over the line from commenting on the situation regarding the Nevada Republican Party convention to undermining the party. Therefore, I have removed all of his comments and he will no longer be allowed to post on this blog.
Sue — May 26, 2008 @ 2:26 pm
Is there any official update on reconvening the Convention?
Dan May — May 26, 2008 @ 4:34 pm
Thanks for responding Jason. There’s a meeting tomorrow, maybe I can find out then about the official status on reconvening. I’m try to plan out the summer.
Dan May — May 27, 2008 @ 11:26 am
This is exactly the type of strong-arming and manipulation the gop pulled in Reno. First Robert, then Jason! If you disagree the gavel is slammed down and the lights turned off. Censorship at it’s worst. I’m prepared to be thrown off this farse of a blog, too. You should place in the rules, “this blog only open to sheeple, people who wear funny hats and do what they’re told. Anyone with a differing opinion, anyone who has a mind of their own or speaks the TRUTH not allowed”. Welcome to COMMUNIST RUSSIA. We had lots of polite debate with people of differing views at the Convention. Apparently, we are running out of places to disagree, first at the state level, then what? Our right to vote how we feel and believe has been stolen. How can anyone be ok with this? Don’t you realize this isn’t about PARTY RULES?
Cindy — May 27, 2008 @ 1:44 pm
Sue,
Thank you for taking the time to look into all of this, and please accept my apologies if any of the comments I left were seen as undermining the Party. I suppose I rather pedantic, and argument-oriented. Let me know if there are any updates on when the Convention will be held again.
Scott
Scott — May 27, 2008 @ 1:56 pm
Hey, I thought Robert’s survey was super. Glad I signed up; it’s about time someone took the initiative. It’s a shame that undermining the Republican party will get you booted from the list. Maybe Sue or Bob will post on my blog so I can boot them too!
http://bob-beers-and-sue-lowden.blogspot.com/
KC
KC V. — May 27, 2008 @ 3:47 pm
Cindy,
It’s alright. This is Sue’s blog, not the party’s blog. I think even the most fair-minded person would be reluctant to allow such criticism on their own blog.
While this is Sue’s blog, this is OUR party and in spite of the reluctance for the leadership to conform to the majority will of the delegates to the 2008 Nevada State GOP I suggest we follow the suggestion of Abraham Lincoln:
“Neither let us be slandered from our duty by false accusations against us, nor frightened from it by menaces of destruction to the Government nor of dungeons to ourselves. Let us have faith that right makes might, and in that faith, let us, to the end, dare to do our duty as we understand it.”
Abraham Lincoln - Feb.27th, 1860
Jason Holloway — May 27, 2008 @ 3:59 pm
I’m with you! Thanks.
Cindy — May 27, 2008 @ 4:13 pm
I am anxious to hear the new date! I heard you on Nevada News Makers on the 28th. Great news! It was a very good interview. You are a good party chairwoman; you have the interest of the party first and foremost. I think that things are getting a bit out of control. I have personally been very frustrated at the extreme delay as you could probably guess. But people are really starting to feel like they have no options to have their voices heard in the Republican Party. I know you can understand this Sue. This whole mess has nothing to do with which candidates’ delegates we send to the RNC at this moment. It is coming down to people feeling stepped on and being censored. I participated in the article that Robert Holloway put in the paper. We were left with no choice; we had to know how many people were feeling the same way we did in Nevada, because there was no communication from Party Leadership.
Just a note, your fears of not having a quorum at a reconvene are unfounded. From our “Survey” which Sage claims is so terrible. We have gotten well over the needed numbers for a quorum and 90% percent were willing to head to back Reno, in order to proceed with party business. The party should have done a survey and you would know this as well. Also, some of the comments left were people are outraged at what is going on. McCain delegates as well.
Sample:
“What happened at the convention was a disgrace, I was a McCain supporter from the time of caucus. When someone told me we were leaving because the “Ron Paul” people are staging a coup. I could not believe we would attempt to leave our convention. I am 67 years old and I have never seen such poor show of character by people. I will be in Reno, and I will be supporting the delegates who have character.”
Sage, I find your fears unfounded as well, no one has intentions on going to people houses and bothering them. Please calm down we are not the enemy. We have to unite this party to take out socialist candidates like Dina Titus in the elections. I used to be on a plane to Reno with Dina Titus every Monday morning and evening during 2006, some of the conversations I heard were outright scary. We are going to have to reform the GOP where people in the public actually respect us. The Bush Administration has destroyed our party with the way things have been run, it is time to rebuild. Sue with the right choices you can make Nevada the beacon of the re-branded Republican Party.
Carl Bunce — May 31, 2008 @ 1:47 pm
Carl neither you or any other person will ever be capable of “re-branding” the Republican Party. The Republican Party is the BEST Political Party in America - and has been since its origin in the 1850s.
Our Republican Party Platform & Principles will continue to guide us nationally, and locally as well as individually, with Republican-based resolutions to the internal and external challenges we face.
Sage — May 31, 2008 @ 4:21 pm
Ok, so can someone either confirm or deny that there will be a reconvened Convention on the 28th? More importantly, what happens if, for whatever reason, a quorum shows up on that date, evidence of who shows up is sent to the RNC, and a slate of Delegates is selected. I have been told both that the RNC would not recognize that if the State Party did not call for the reconvened Convention and that the RNC would not have a choice. Does anyone know what the answer is? Sue, do you have any suggestions on how to deal with this?
Scott — June 2, 2008 @ 10:03 am
Hello Sage,
I agree with you completely! But lets think of the Republican Party as product like “Coca Cola”, most everyone loves Coca Cola, but for some reason, “PEPSI” sales are just so much higher. Lets just say PEPSI is the Socialist Democrats. PEPSI is kicking COKE’s butt week after week in sales. People are just passing COKE by in the stores. To draw on that, this is happening to the Republican Party as well, we are being passed up by people who would like our values if they could just taste them. In the past 2 weeks in Clark County DEM’s have registered 5.6 times as many voters then REP’s. Also Non-partisan voters have more then doubled our registrations. Whatever the reasons are for these events taking place, something has to be done or we are going to lose in the General Election just by numbers alone.
So what does a company like Coca Cola do when sale are dropping and there seems like nothing they do stops it? They “re-brand!” Re-branding is nothing more then changing the color or the packaging, maybe even changing the copy on the product to increase sales. The core product does not change, it is still the same Coke inside the can, or in the REP party’s case it will still have the same great values and ideals. We just have to get rid of the image that voters have of us. We have to give them an image of something new and fresh, that makes them mark [REPUBLICAN] on their Voter Reg Applications. Republicans are being blamed for the ills of this country and it is not our fault, I know that. It is the fault of a few people and bad policies. We have to distance ourselves from those people and policies or we will fail. This is just common business sense! You can not deny it! We can’t live in a little box anymore and think we are going to win in elections with the same image we have now. We have had our hats handed to us in 3 special election already and there is no evidence that it is going to get any better.
I know that Sue understands this and I hope that she will see what needs to be done to insure victories against people like Dina Titus in DEM voter rich environments! From recent experiences, I know exactly what will get NP voters and DEM’s to switch over to REP, do you? I have switched more then 20 in this past weekend, how many have you converted?
Carl
Carl Bunce — June 2, 2008 @ 11:01 am
Well said, Carl! We need to inject new thinking into the “BEST” party. We must get back to our core conservative values and elect representatives who are TRUE to those and reject any representative or candidate who is not. We must never be told who to vote for. We have the perfect document to guide us, The Constitution. There are well over a million people registered Republican for one reason only…
Cindy — June 2, 2008 @ 11:19 am
Carl,
Let’s not compare Coca-Cola to Pepsi Cola but instead let’s do a little walk down memory lane to the 1985 Coca-Cola Company in the USA.
Early in 1985, the Coca-Cola Co we started to hear about a new kind of Coke with a different recipe – a new, improved, and even better recipe. From 1983-1985 Coca-Cola had done extensive research, variations of ingredients and extensive taste-testing of its New Coke.” The Coca-Cola Co was certain that this change was going to sweep the country.
On April 23, 1985 New Coke was launched along with a major advertising campaign to coincide with the 100-year anniversary of the Coca-Cola Co.
But despite the efforts of Coca-Cola Co, the public opinion was extremely NEGATIVE. People en masse purchased as much of the Old Coke as they could find and shunned the New Coke all together. Some people even went so far as to switch to Pepsi Products!
On July 11, 1985 Coca-Cola Co removed New Coke from its line of products. The President of Coca-Cola Co publically stated that “We did not understand the deep emotions of so many of our customers for Coca-Cola.”
Coca-Cola Co learned some very important - and costly - lessons from the New Coke Campaign:
1- People who enjoy Old Coke did not and do not want it to change
2- Coca-Cola Co thought they were going to make an improvement in Coca-Cola - they found that their customers did not want their so called improvements
So here we are in 2008, and Coca-Cola is made up of the same ingredients that it has had for decades. Their customer base has grown, their company is very financially strong, and they now market Coca-Cola on a GLOBAL Market.
So Carl, for me; I’ll continue to be a loyal member of the Gallant Ol’ Party AND I will continue to drink Good Ol’ Coca-Cola too. In my opinion they are the BEST the World has to offer!
Still not sure what our Gallant Ol’d Party stands for? Check out the “Creed” that was developed at the RNC COnvention in NY 2004. It is available for viewing on gop.com
Sage — June 2, 2008 @ 11:21 pm
Sage,
You made my point for me! New Coke was not re-branding it was a new product! You will notice Coke does re-branding about every 5 years. Same product inside, but different labels, logos, slogans. It is a must to continue growth! Which coke has done well at. I am loyal member of the GOP as well. I want us to grow and not die off like the Whigs did when they backed a War president. Sage, please stop taking offense at everything that I offer up to help this party grow.
I registered 45 new REP’s today! 17 were DEM’s. Please stop brow beating me! I don’t deserve it! I am here to grow this party. The DEM’s platform is our enemy! Sage we need to have lunch. carlbunce@gmail.com
Carl
Carl Bunce — June 2, 2008 @ 11:52 pm
Carl,
Changes in advertising campaigns are one thing but changing the recipe of a great product always backfires. If you’re talking of advertising then yes we are of similar opinion. But if you are talking about changing the recipe we’ve got some distance between us. As for brow beating - I disagree.
How many Republicans do you know that actually talk with strangers - people in the check-out line behind you at the store, the waitress serving you a meal, etc - who cross their paths every day about the core Republican principles? Advertising of the least expensive and the most valued kind is the word-of-mouth advertising.
Heck, there are many people today that believe in strong family values, enjoy the income tax cuts - proposed by a Republican President passed by a Republican Congress - who would like to see the size of government (and it’s overspending) reduced, who think that government has no business dictating their personal lives, who would certainly like to know that there would be a social security system available to them when they retire, etc. BUT, they have never been educated in the fact that the Republican Party stands for these same ideals. Change the recipe - No, increase the amount of word-of-mouth advertising by individual Republicans - Yes.
As for your invitation to lunch - please see the email I sent you.
As for voter registration efforts and contributions to the RNC, NRCC, and NRSC and to individual Republican Candidates nationwide, are things I have done and continue to do to the best of my ability everyday. In fact 4 Congressional Candidates that I work with are in Primaries today.(6-3-08 NJ & CA) I applaud your local voter registration efforts as well, and hope that the stats for the GOP continue to climb.
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