A New Political Party

I agree with the idea behind the Tea Parties. I agree with most of the attitudes expressed at many of the Tea Parties. But (the world's largest eraser) I disagree with the current move to use the successes of the Tea Parties to create a new political party. In some ways I really like the idea but the practical aspects of forming a new national party weigh heavily against success. But, don't give up. There is a way.

We NEED a revolution.

A little over two years ago I was selected as a delegate to our Republican State Convention (held in San Antonio, Texas). I was shocked to discover that Republican candidates for office do not have to agree to any of the state or national party planks and that most candidates had not even read them (no wonder they do not read many of the bills they vote for). What are we supporting with our time and money? Why should the membership be more loyal to the party than the candidates are? Doesn't the membership have a right to expect certain standard of behavior from its representatives? Shouldn't those standards be clear to all?

We NEED a revolution.

Revolutions start with PERSONAL COMMITMENT and RESPONSIBILITY.

Revolutions start small. At this time the best place to start is in the Republican Party. It may take 20 years to complete.

1. Start at the local level.
   
2. Go to the precinct meetings after the primary elections. In the smaller precincts very few people attend. Remember to treat those who do with respect. These folks have often worked hard and long to keep the party viable. We should honor their commitment.
   
3. Volunteer for committee work. Especially volunteer for committees dealing with fund raising, recruiting, and reviewing/recommending party planks. Be dependable and competent. Volunteer for those committees that very few want to serve on. Be dependable and competent. Avoid being in "flashy", "high profile", leadership positions, as these are generally counter-productive to moving a revolution forward.
   
4. Be competent. Draw attention to yourself through competence not by being loud and obnoxious – nobody likes loud and/or obnoxious.
   
5. At first the "established" will resist – sometimes not very nicely. Be respectful.
   
6. Next the "established" will try to co-opt the revolution through reasonable compromise. Resist. Know what you believe is fundamental and stick to it.
   
7. The best defense is knowing and being totally committed to your principles.
   
8. Associate with other conservatives. If, "All the world is but a stage …" be sure your audience is other conservatives. Do not play to the non-conservative audience.