Watts to seek out more minorities for GOP

[Terri]

Watts to seek out more minorities for GOP

By Ralph Z. Hallow
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
April 29, 2003

Former Rep. J.C. Watts Jr. of Oklahoma plans to use his new post as chairman of GOPAC to preserve and extend the Republicans' governing majority by reaching into communities for voters that traditionally back Democrats — blacks, Hispanics and others.

"My goal is to broaden the reach of my party," Mr. Watts said in an interview last night.

"Too many Americans live by Republican principles of faith, family, hope and opportunity, but vote for Democrats out of sheer habit," said Mr. Watts, who retired from Congress last year after rising to the No. 4 position in the House leadership.

"GOPAC will take the lead in reaching into America's diverse communities. We can't grow our Republican majority without minorities and working men and women," Mr. Watts said before giving his speech last night at the annual Chairman's Dinner at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in the District.

Full Story (http://www.washtimes.com/national/20030429-90202229.htm)

[Saber]

I'll say it again...and undoubtedly it won't go over as a majority opinion....it never does.....but------

I don't believe at all in "reaching out" to ANYbody and it follows then that I don't believe in developing a "big tent" theory. I believe political philosophies and allegiances come about NATURALLY and should remain that way. When one starts catering to any single "minority" group, one's principles begin to erode. Witness what is happening right now with the whole illegal immigration charade. We can't FOLLOW THE LAW because it might upset the "minority" applecart. The Republican agenda is out front and center for anyone to appreciate and ponder. People of ANY race, creed, religion or sexual preference (!) need to develop WITHIN THEMSELVES the values of the platform. If the platform is good for them, they will come.........without being led by the nose.

[Bill Hodges]

Quote[/b] ]I don't believe at all in "reaching out" to ANYbody and it follows then that I don't believe in developing a "big tent" theory. I believe political philosophies and allegiances come about NATURALLY and should remain that way. When one starts catering to any single "minority" group, one's principles begin to erode. Witness what is happening right now with the whole illegal immigration charade. We can't FOLLOW THE LAW because it might upset the "minority" applecart. The Republican agenda is out front and center for anyone to appreciate and ponder. People of ANY race, creed, religion or sexual preference (!) need to develop WITHIN THEMSELVES the values of the platform. If the platform is good for them, they will come.........without being led by the nose.

Saber, very well stated and I could not agree more.

http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif

[Terri]

As Saber knows, I don't agree.

I do not believe in pandering or in offering special considerations to any group.

I do believe in explaining the reasons why the Republican Party is better for every citizen in this country, every sex, every color, every heritage, everyone.

I believe we should be sending emmissarys to every event and neighborhood where traditional Democrat groups gather and we should be explaining why families do better under Republican policies.

No need to hide our light under a bushel. Let it shine.

Almost forgot, I think JC Watts is a great guy and I hope he is an example to 1000s of people.

[NWGOPMom]

*** Terri snuck in here while I was typing but here's what I had to say.

Saber and Bill, *I agree with what you said, in principle but have to take some exception.

There are alot of people out there that are simply unaware, uninvolved, political atheists or agnostics. *But when they go to the polls (when they do), they typical vote democrat just because they always have and don't know any better. *While I agree that people should not be led around by the nose, I also think that if people were invited to listen to the conservative message and platform, they would be able to make a much more educated decision on how they vote. *As I said, alot of people don't know or understand the platform of either party. *They simply vote a certain way because they always have, their parents always have, etc. *So to develop "within themselves" the values of the platform, they have to know what the platform is. *

Do I think that a concerted effort should be made by Watts that is geared specifically towards minorities? Absolutely not. I think that the general public should be invited to organized functions that educate, not preach. *

I suppose, if people are interested in the republican party, they can read about it and make their own decisions. The problem I see is the lack of interest by these people because they don't know what the benefits would be to them. *Why would they be interested in learning about the party if they have been living off of the old opinion "Democrats are for the poor, Replicans are for the rich". And that is what they base their votes on. Do you know how many people out there actually believe that? *

As I said, I don't believe in the "big tent" thing either. This isn't a southern baptist rally to save souls. It should be a political awareness campaign. * -- ruth ---

[Saber]

Quote[/b] ]No need to hide our light under a bushel

How are we hiding under a bushel? If we are, we have no one to blame but our esteemed elected officials for not speaking out!!

Quote[/b] ]There are alot of people out there that are simply unaware, uninvolved, political atheists or agnostics.

If they are a-political, I doubt that they waste their time going to the polls.....unless, of course, they are offered a pack of cigarettes. http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/angry.gif That said, there are LAWS against that sort of thing that ought to actually be enforced. http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/angry.gif BUT......any a-political should NOT be voting and I seriously doubt that most of them could drag themselves away from Jerry Springer to trudge into town to vote.

Quote[/b] ]I also think that if people were invited to listen to the conservative message and platform, they would be able to make a much more educated decision on how they vote.

People that don't care aren't going to listen. Those that do care should be able to make up their own minds.

Quote[/b] ]Do I think that a concerted effort should be made by Watts that is geared specifically towards minorities? Absolutely not.

I believe that that is exactly what "they" want him to do....court the minority vote.

Quote[/b] ]As Saber knows, I don't agree.



Yep. We've "been there/done that" a couple or three times, right Terri? LOL http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/grouphug.gif

[Terri]

Maybe there are a lot of Republicans who don't want the minority vote but I will never agree. If being Republican is better for JC Watts then who better to explain to others why it would be good for them too.

I believe that the Republican philosophy is the best for jobs, for business, for families and for the general well being of our country.

It makes no sense to me not to want to explain that to everyone who has a vote.

I don't understand wanting to exclude certain groups. Banding together is how we will win elections.

Don't give me the pandering, special programs argument either. That is not what I'm advocating and not what Republicans need to do to be the best political party for all American families. We already are. Everyone needs to hear from us.

[Saber]

Quote[/b] ]Maybe there are a lot of Republicans who don't want the minority vote but I will never agree.

Quote[/b] ]I don't understand wanting to exclude certain groups

Terri, please. Where is ANYONE saying this? No one wants to exclude ANYONE. In fact, I believe I said:

Quote[/b] ]The Republican agenda is out front and center for anyone to appreciate and ponder. People of ANY race, creed, religion or sexual preference (!) need to develop WITHIN THEMSELVES the values of the platform

That's pretty inclusive.

The question of inclusion here is HOW is it accomplished. I simply say that it should be a natural assimilation.

[Saber]

Quote[/b] ]Don't give me the pandering, special programs argument either. That is not what I'm advocating and not what Republicans need to do to be the best political party for all American families. We already are. Everyone needs to hear from us.


Okay. I won't bring it up. http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif But, you did.

If we're not pandering to the minorities, then how do you explain our border crisis and this Administration's invisible contortions to not do the right thing in this regard?

[Terri]

Quote[/b] ]Terri, please. *Where is ANYONE saying this? *No one wants to exclude ANYONE.
If you say so. *

JC Watts shares Republican priniciples. He is one of the good guys and in my opinion he's an excellent spokeman for our party.

Forever, all political parties, all groups of any kind have had membership drives. Of course, everything is out there but people don't join, don't find out, don't learn a lot of things until someone brings it to their attention. In my opinion, it is well worth our effort to do so.

Saber, I don't like it, and I'm not through fighting it, but the simple fact of life is that there is no political party in this country who shares my opinion on the borders. I will continue to do what I *can to change this but it will not keep me from wanting all legal voters to vote Republican.

[Saber]

Quote[/b] ]If you say so.


Well Terri, if it's "not so", please show me where anyone has said that they want to exclude minorities (or any group for that matter) from the party. I believe my quote was more than inclusive of EVERYONE. To me, that response above is a bit flippant.

[Terri]

My apologies for appearing "flippant". I assure you I'm as serious as can be about this.

I believe that the future election of Republican candidates depends on outreach.

It's a very important issue. Our failure to reach out will mean living under the Democrats and that's something I don't want to do.

So, I'll just continute to think JC is doing what we need him to do.

[stormy]

How could anyone be offended if someone like J. C. Watts visited an area like mine. * We are about 92-95% Latin-American here and the majority of the people supported the war!! *

It's also a highly Catholic area and has always been a democratic majority--however, a HUGE percentage can't stand the Clintons and voted for Bush! *

Now, how could anyone take issue with someone encouraging them to do the RIGHT thing in electing conservatives and bringing the conservative message to them while they are ripe for it? *

Is there something here that I don't understand? * Remember, everyone likes to be noticed and encouraged! * Most of the people I know who are of Latin-American descent, and working for their living, hate the welfare programs as much as any working Anglo-American! *

Personally, I would love to see J. C. come to an area like this and make some waves! * Just to show you how things have changed in this area, the Salvation Army in McAllen just hosted a HUGE meeting with Oliver North as the speaker and it was highly promoted! * *Who do you think the attendees are mostly going to be--we don't have enough Anglo-Americans here any more to support any one thing!

Just my http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/twocents.gif

Stormy

[Saber]

stormy, I totally agree with you.

ALL Republicans should be out speaking to everyone 24/7. *I just don't happen to like their "zeroing in" on recruiting certain segments of the population. *People who care about politics will come by the messages of the parties naturally and, IMO, don't need special attention.

Quote[/b] ]It's also a highly Catholic area and has always been a democratic majority--however, a HUGE percentage can't stand the Clintons and voted for Bush! *


GREAT! *I guess the Republican message is getting out to EVERYONE then! Minorities are just as astute and reasonable as everyone else and will be able to see the forest for the trees without any extra recruitment by anyone.

I agree that JC is a great guy, a great Republican and a great speaker. *So are a number of other Republican leaders who speak out often. *The message is what matters to anyone and everyone........not certain messages delivered to certain segments of the population.

I would like to see the Republican platform remain strong and firm. *When we cater to certain segments instead of standing for principles, the principles suddenly get watered down. *I'll ask again.......what, exactly, is the reason for not dealing with our border problem? *What, exactly, would be the reason for Frist not boldly and confidently leading the Senate in the reasons for a large taxcut? *In both these recent cases, IMO, it's because we don't want to make waves with certain segments of the "big tent". *i.e. in these cases, hispanics and moderates. *I believe it is a leader's job to say "here's our stance and here's why"...and keep leading and keep leading until it is understood why these things are the best principles for the ENTIRE nation. *That's exactly what President Bush did on this war and it's the very reason it was so successful.

No where have I ever said I don't want to be inclusive. *No where have I said I don't want JC Watts to be a speaker for the party or that I would be offended if he came. *Hell, I'd pay big money to see him speak and strongly support Republican positions!

Quote[/b] ]Now, how could anyone take issue with someone encouraging them to do the RIGHT thing in electing conservatives and bringing the conservative message to them while they are ripe for it?

The difference is that I would like to see the entire Republican spokesteam put the emphasis on encouraging and leading "everyone"...... not just concentrating on recruiting "them". *It leads to principles being watered down and compromised in the name of diversity.....whethe r that diversity comes in the form of minorities or moderates.

As you so eloquently stated above, the message is getting out to the masses because people cared to look around and see for themselves that the best message for them comes from the Republican platform.

We ALL want inclusion. The debate is how we get it. I say in a "natural" progression and not special recruitment.

[Bill Hodges]

Quote[/b] ]ALL Republicans should be out speaking to everyone 24/7. I just don't happen to like their "zeroing in" on recruiting certain segments of the population. People who care about politics will come by the messages of the parties naturally and, IMO, don't need special attention.

I completely agree with this assessment. 'Zeroing in' AKA "pandering" waters down the Conservative message in order to obtain votes. Diluting Conservatism does not benefit the Conservative agenda in any form, in my personal opinion, it simply moderates the ideology of the agenda.

William (Bill) Douglas Hodges
T/O Ranch
Erick, Oklahoma



http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif

[stormy]

Quote[/b] ]
ALL Republicans should be out speaking to everyone 24/7. I just don't happen to like their "zeroing in" on recruiting certain segments of the population. People who care about politics will come by the messages of the parties naturally and, IMO, don't need special attention.


I completely agree with this assessment. 'Zeroing in' AKA "pandering" waters down the Conservative message in order to obtain votes. Diluting Conservatism does not benefit the Conservative agenda in any form, in my personal opinion, it simply moderates the ideology of the agenda.


Okay, let's say for arguments sake that someone like J.C. comes to this area and there are rallies, pachongas, etc. for him! Since the population is only about 6-8% Anglo-American and probably less than 1% black--don't you think he would be accused of "Pandering" even if he wasn't?

Stormy

[Bill Hodges]

Quote[/b] ]Since the population is only about 6-8% Anglo-American and probably less than 1% black--don't *you think he would be accused of "Pandering" even if he wasn't?

I have a great deal of respect for Mr. Watts but I will be the first one to make that statement as my personal observation if it were to take place.
I feel this type of activity is the VERY reason Mr.Frist is being viewed for having no backbone as the Speaker. I believe his giving into needless concessions is due to an attempt to appeal to "potential" constituents and show a flexibility of the "Conservative Party". The final result is giving into unwarranted concessions and a dilution of of the Conservative agenda. It is nothing but an act of pandering while running out to kiss babies and shake hands in order to win over the minds and hearts of "potential" constituents. In the end, the Conservatives lose by becoming moderate (as a party) and the Liberals win by softening the Conservative message. There is no logic behind this reasoning.
November 5, 2002 was a very loud and clear message that majority of Americans want to distance themselves from the concessions of moderatism, why then, should the leadership retreat now that they've won the battle? It is self-defeating.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *William (Bill) Douglas Hodges
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * T/O Ranch
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Erick, Oklahoma


http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif

[Saber]

Bill, you are much more concise than I was. It took me...what...5 paragraphs to say what you said in 1.

stormy....I guess the specific answer to your question is "it depends"! LOL If JC is there to specifically speak to hispanics about what the party can do for them....then yes, I'd call it pandering. If he's speaking to ALL people about the platform of the party and the benefit to the country of that platform, then I view it differently.

The title of this article is "Watts to Seek Out More Minorities for GOP". I assume that to mean exactly what it says....that he is going to specifically strive for votes from selected groups (i.e. hispanics and/or blacks). I'd be more than happy to hear him everyday of the week speaking out to the entire country on the Republican principles. When one starts making specific speeches of interest to minorities at specific places (for instance.....the local Black Panthers Convention of Minneapolis; or the Hispanics for Open Borders) then I see a problem. Party principles should be etched in stone~~sharp and firm. Things start getting mushy when you cater to specific special interests......as my two examples in a previous post seem to show.

JC Watts should not be "seeking out" any one special interest group....those that are interested will seek HIM out. Just as Orrin Hatch should not be "seeking out" the Mormons. In each case, blacks, hispanics and Mormons that agree with the firm and rigid platform will seek out the Republican Party.

[stormy]

So, if he just came to make a speech/talk to EVERYONE, you'd think it was ok--am I understanding that right? You'd have to live in this area to understand that the Latin-American voters use those pachangas to get a bunch together for most anything. http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif Probably more for political gatherings, though, than anything else.

I'd still love to see him come down here and get acquainted. The mayor of my town was a democrat until Clinton ran the second time!! He quickly changed! And, he told me that the only reason our representative ran as a democrat was because he didn't think a republican could be elected--that his whole family had voted Republican prior to that. Now, that's hearsay and I can't vouch for it, but it wouldn't surprise me.

If you've noticed, that's one democrat that hasn't criticized the president and the war--his family business is furnishing a lot of the MRE's!

Anyway, I can't argue with ya'll--you're pros at it--I can easily discuss, but I find it very difficult to do in writing.

Stormy

[Bill Hodges]

Quote[/b] ]So, if he just came to make a speech/talk to EVERYONE, you'd think it was ok--am I understanding that right?

That would be my expressed meaning. Any time someone strays from that platform and embraces special concession to be heard by a select group, it then becomes a pandering for support.
A person either has to stand on principle and express the successes of their principled ideologies to the whole audience or the person has no principles to stand on.
Even in THIS day and age, I doubt very seriously we would EVER see the likes of a man like Abraham Lincoln targeting a select group of citizens in order to obtain more party votes. Nor could I ever conceive a man of his type of political stature ever offering concessions in order to appease a select group. Why should we begin that type of water-based politics now if this is to continue to be the party of Lincoln? You either win the hearts and souls of the constituents by supporting firm, principled convictions, or you find another party that more suits your political ideology. The Conservative Party should always be the party of solid, firm, sound ideologies and NEVER become the party of concession.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *William (Bill) Douglas Hodges
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * T/O Ranch
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Erick, Oklahoma


http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif

[Saber]

BILL........ http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/twothumbsup.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/yelclap.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/twothumbsup.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/yelclap.gif
IMO, the border problem and, most recently, the Frist tax flop, are directly attributable to "the party's" caving on principle to appease special groups. *In the border fiasco, they are directly flaunting the laws of the land....not to mention the Oath of Office, at the expense of the security of this nation. *For me, it's just that clear. *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/angry.gif Anytime you've got agreement on principle with the democrats......you know you've fallen into the abyss! LOLOL

stormy, maybe it's easiest to understand what I'm saying this way.......

Is the speech being given to a group of hispanics (for example) about what the GOP can do for them specifically?....... ....or is the content about what all people could do, collectively, for this country, by following the model of the Republican party platform?

Sounds kinda like the Kennedy model of "Ask not what your country can do for you........ask what you can do for your country".

[Terri]

It's important for those we are trying to reach to understand that there is another Republican and conservative point of view among the rank and file, and I'm as rank and file as anyone.

Many of us DO want to reach out and DO want to invite new voters and DO want to explain our party to everyone.

America today is not the same America any of us grew up in. If minorities don't vote Republican then we will live under Democrats.

Democrats are reaching out and always have. If you want to see some real pandering you can see it in their outreach.

The fact is that Republican policies are better for all families and there is nothing wrong with explaining the reasons why that is so. It isn't pandering to give information and to explain WHY Republican policies are better for families.

If business flourishes, there are jobs. If there are jobs, breadwinners work. If breadwinners work, families flourish.

Here's two more examples. Republicans are for vouchers. Vouchers are more important to low income families than to anyone else. Republicans are for lower taxes. Lower taxes are more important to families than to anyone else.

Minorities are moving up in America. Black two parent families have moved way up the income scale. They don't want to give all their money to the government anymore than Republicans do. They want the same things for their families that Republicans do.

Hispanic families follow the three generation model. The first generation will either not vote or vote Democrat. By the third generation they are middle class and much more likely to vote Republican. Hispanic families have very strong family values and strong religious values. Those values are much more inline with Republicans than they are with Democrats.

But if you have Democrats out there parroting that the Republican party is only for the rich isn't it necessary to tell people that isn't so? Isn't it necessary to explain that everyone is better off in the Republican party? Isn't it necessary to make clear that everyone is welcome in the Republican party? The answer is obviously, yes. Every entity that wants membership advertises and reaches out, not just political parties.

JC goes out and makes himself available as an example of what hard work and voting for the right policies can accomplish for a black man in this country. He's a lot better role model than a rapper for black youth.

Republicans should be reaching out to everyone, as a party and as individuals. In organized ways, and person to person in an informal way. We should be at every community activity in every community in this country, all the time. There has been entirely too much sitting back and waiting for people to come to us.

No one here has to agree with me and I'm not going to continue to argue with those who firmly believe otherwise. But as a rank and file Republican American I do want to actively recruit everyone and so do lots of other ordinary Republicans.

No matter where you came from, no matter the color of your skin, if you are a legal American citizen concerned about the future of your family, you belong in the Republican party.

[Bill Hodges]

Quote[/b] ]America today is not the same America any of us grew up in.

And I believe this to have been caused by appeasement and the straying from principled convictions.

Quote[/b] ]If minorities don't vote Republican then we will live under Democrats.

This may be true, but if Republicans offer concessions to their political ideologies in an attempt to pander to a constituency base, they'll become known as "Democrats".

Quote[/b] ]Democrats are reaching out and always have.

The very reason many inside the Democrat's ranks are known to support Socialist ideologies. A danger that the Conservative Party MUST avoid at all cost.

Quote[/b] ]The fact is that Republican policies are better for all families and there is nothing wrong with explaining the reasons why that is so.

I do not believe anyone is arguing this point. However, specifically targeting certain groups of a potential voting base and offering concessions to the Conservative ideology to appease these targeted groups in an attempt to win them over is the very foundation of pandering.
If the Republican Party is the epitome of all great values and truths, then this fact needs to exploited and promoted for all potential voters to be made aware of and be given the option to make a choice by merit. To target only specific groups sends out mixed messages and I personally believe insults the intelligence of individuals within these groups.
In essence, it is a form of stereotyping, an accusation the Republican Party has ALWAYS had to endure. Do you really want to give that type of ammo to the Liberals to fire back at the Conservatives during the upcoming elections?

Quote[/b] ]If business flourishes, there are jobs. If there are jobs, breadwinners work. If breadwinners work, families flourish.

Here's two more examples. Republicans are for vouchers. Vouchers are more important to low income families than to anyone else. Republicans are for lower taxes. Lower taxes are more important to families than to anyone else.

These are the core foundation principles of the Conservative Party. Education and Economics are messages that need to be promoted before ALL potential constituents, not directly to specific minority groups. These are issues that platform the ideologies of Conservatives and affect ALL people, not a select few and can successfully conveyed by delivering this message to the nation as a WHOLE.

Setting the bar to a higher standard in politics must be done by pointing out the values, principles, and successes of a base ideology to all people, equally, not exploited to specific target groups. Yes, it IS important to reach these groups but I believe it is insultive to them as individuals to assume that they must be addressed seperately as if they are incapable of making their own decisions without special influence.
The only time targeting specific groups for support ever works in your favor is when you have something to offer them for their support (i.e., the welfare mindset). If you expect people to be supportive as a whole, you must address them as a whole, equally and convey a message that is positive, backed by evidence of successful ideologies. If that cannot be done, you have already defeated the very ideologies you claim to represent.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *William (Bill) Douglas Hodges
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * T/O Ranch
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Erick, Oklahoma



http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif

[Terri]

Bill, you've quoted and read a lot of things into my post that simply are not there. I could refute each of them but I'm not going to bother.

As I said before, I'm not looking for agreement. Those who don't believe in outreach reflect the point of view of some Republicans but definitely not all Republicans. There is no changing your mind and I'm not trying to change your mind.

I want those who may be reading this thread to know that there are some of us here who do believe in reaching out to non-Republicans. We do believe in explaining. We do believe in education and in modeling how Republican values can work for everyone.

I want Republicans who may not have thought much about this issue to see another point of view besides yours and think about the issue of outreach.

Republicans don't need to pander. We only need to get the word out because we honestly have more to offer. I think we can do that and stand up under "pandering" accusations from members of our own party at the same time.

[Bill Hodges]

Quote[/b] ]Bill, you've quoted and read a lot of things into my post that simply are not there.

I honestly do not believe that to be the case. I merely commented on certain statements that you made. I do not see where I took any of your statements out of context or added to their meanings at all.
Instead, I pointed out where I have witnessed certain situations take place over the years from this type of approach of pursuing a broader constituency by targeting specific voting blocks of potential voters.
If you read my statement clearly you will see that I said the Conservative message should be made clear to ALL groups of people collectively and as a whole, not specifically address groups separately.
The only thing I was trying to point out is that it is MY OWN PERSONAL BELIEF a form of pandering to seek out and address certain groups of people when the message is supposed to be the same as addressed to ALL people, not just target groups. To do otherwise would imply the need to make concessions.
No, I have read and reread. I honestly cannot see where I have taken any of your statement out of context or perverted the meaning that you were trying to convey. If you think I have, I apologize, it was not my intention. I think it is nothing more than differing opinions of how to approach the upcoming campaign strategy, nothing more.
What I fear is that the Republican Party will allow itself to be centered into Moderatism when the obvious mindset of the nation is one of Conservatism, not Moderatism. If the Republicans have a clear message, it will definitely get through without the need to target their message to specific groups. It is based on the assumption that all voters are created equal and expected to make their decision based on a clear, concise, and informative message directed at ALL groups at the same time and at the same level. Nothing more.

Quote[/b] ]Those who don't believe in outreach reflect the point of view of some Republicans but definitely not all Republicans.

I agree, and vice-versa.

Quote[/b] ]I want those who may be reading this thread to know that there are some of us here who do believe in reaching out to non-Republicans.

And I never once implied that should not be the case. I am simply stating that I personally feel that the message should be presented before the masses of ALL voters by the Party's leadership and let the voters make an informed decision of whether or not they wish to vote Republican based on the merit and success of the message being conveyed. If that cannot be done in this manner, it is my opinion the message would have failed to reach any specific target base to begin with.

Quote[/b] ]I want Republicans who may not have thought much about this issue to see another point of view besides yours and think about the issue of outreach.

And I do not feel I have restricted anyone from the ability to consider other points of view other than my own. I simply thought I was allowed to express my point of view as well. Not once did I state mine is the ONLY point of view.

Quote[/b] ]Republicans don't need to pander. We only need to get the word out because we honestly have more to offer.

Yet, in my own personal opinion, I think if the Republican leadership feels the need to address specific groups individually in order to convey their message, then they are pandering. If the individuals within these groups cannot be convinced of the message based on it's merit whether or not it is worthy of support, no amount of group targeting is going to sway their support without offering special concessions to these specific groups. This will then result in the dissolution of the overall message being conveyed and an undermining of the very platform by which the Republicans stand by sending out mixed messages. It's just THAT simple (IN MY OPINION).

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *William (Bill) Douglas Hodges
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * T/O Ranch
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Erick, Oklahoma



http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif

[USNfromME]

Terri,

Outreach is not pandering. You are absolutely correct in that we need to be more inclusive. Not change our message but change the way our message is prostituted by others. When we loudly and proudly proclaim what we are and what we stand for, many people who have been misled by the polemics and hyperbole of the Left will willingly join us. As long as we let the likes of Shrillary to define us, we will only lose relevence.

JC Watts is a very intelligent and articulate young man, who happens to be black. His message is the same no matter who the audience may be. However, if minorities are more receptive to him than to, say, Newt Gingrich, then I'm more than content to let him "recruit" any way he sees fit.

[USNfromME]

Quote[/b] ]I think if the Republican leadership feels the need to address specific groups individually in order to convey their message, then they are pandering. If the individuals within these groups cannot be convinced of the message based on it's merit whether or not it is worthy of support, no amount of group targeting is going to sway their support without offering special concessions to these specific groups.

Sometimes you just have to break down a problem or task into smaller, more workable parts. We could rely on Bush to stand on the presidential stump and speechify. More effectively, we can each, including JC Watts, address the constituency with whom we are the most familiar. As I wrote in another post, minorities are much more likely to listen to Watts than to Newt Gingrich.

This isn't pandering. It's not changing the message. It is sales. Trust in your product and convince the client that it is right for him. The product doesn't change but maybe you can make some sales.

[Terri]

What I've said here reflects my opinion and also that of a substantial number of other Republicans. My comments are clear and stand on their own merit.

I hope that others who believe as I believe will get involved and reach out to bring more voters into the party.

USN! *http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/twothumbsup.gif

[Terri]

Quote[/b] ] I simply thought I was allowed to express my point of view as well.

Bill, you have expressed your view and no one has tried to stop you.

The forum is big enough for opposing viewpoints. I'm not trying to change your mind and I'm not going to refute your posts point by point.

[Bill Hodges]

Quote[/b] ]My comments are clear and stand on their own merit.


And I feel equally as strong about my statements as well. I believe, as we approach increasingly closer towards the onslaught of an upcoming campaign season, you will see exactly what I am attempting to clarify.
I have witnessed the approach before and seen the results and I suppose I'll see it happen several more times over the span of time I'm here on this Earth. I know for a fact you cannot make Republicans by acting like Democrats, but to each their own.

William (Bill) Douglas Hodges
T/O Ranch
Erick, Oklahoma



http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag17.gif http://gopusa.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/flag19.gif

[Saber]

Quote[/b] ]as we approach increasingly closer towards the onslaught of an upcoming campaign season, you will see exactly what I am attempting to clarify.


Bill, I don't believe we have to look to the future to see clarification. I have, more than once, pointed out two recent examples that I believe exemplify the exact point we are both trying to make. Thus far, no explanation has been forthcoming about the "why's" of the two separate situations other than my reasonable belief that it's pandering.

1. Again, how do we explain the lack of following the laws of this land and the Oath of Office in regard to illegals?

2. How do we explain Frist's complete cave in on President Bush's proposed tax cuts?

The answer, for me, is quite clear. I honestly would like to hear other's answers.

Terri, I speak to people just about every single day about the advantages of the Republican Party. It doesn't matter to me whether they are black, green, Jewish, Catholic or polka dot, and it shouldn't matter to the Republican Party who they speak out to either.