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The ConventionBy JGillman, Section News
After the intensity, its hard to pick up and simply write.
Catching up on other important aspects of life means taking a break by some from the posts one might expect after such a weekend. A busy one to be sure and one that had an interesting result with regard to the direction of the state party. The convention went well. The Michigan GOP convention in Detroit actually was a productive affair, that offered a cautionary tone for those who do not understand the dynamics of the tea party, conservatives, or even how those 'Paul' types operate. The Republican party is cleaning itself up, and the active new blood is a big part of it. Hopefully, it is not short lived, and some more patience is seen on both sides. We need to win races in November, and there are legitimate concerns from old guard and new alike. There is a bigger story to tell, but for now, and at least until I get some serious rest, I'll limit the commentary to the 1st district component.
Below the fold ~
One can read all the news reports that have been so far published about the Ron Paul contingent, its plotting, plans, and strategy.
Makes for nifty conspiracy reading. But strangely, its not any different than some of the things that go on by 'regulars' who know the ticking of the clock, the summary "ayes have it" announced by the chair (in the general assembly) before anyone has an opportunity to say nay. Its simply using the tools in place to advance any particular agenda. Something it would be silly to leave out of the tool box. A part of the game. And all who played the game, did so well within those rules and options available. The CD1 contingent was composed of more independent republicans than I had expected. The Chair was Jeff Lamb, who has already selected the tellers, thus drawing the concern of many who had concerns about 'hand picked" vote counters. Their concern was legitimate, yet Jeff had selected a trustworthy cross section of varying loyalties. It was a good set, and with good people. A couple things more about the caucus chair that would serve as constructive critique, and as well a little praise.
This needs to be said however. Some Paul supporters need to take a look at themselves a little more closely in how they interact with those others in the party. The second bullet point I mentioned above, illustrates something that cannot be lost if anyone wishes to truly be effective in these political affairs. While the chair was bending over backward to accommodate a very different set of participants, this "angry" individual came across as trying to hijack the process with repeated motions. The motions were seconded but not adopted, and were confusing to many in the audience. The way in which they were presented turned a few "regulars" off, and if later motions were acceptable in some way those regulars couldn't have cared less. At some point they were just turned off.
Suggestion to that type? Ease up a little. Bend it, don't break it. What we saw at the Friday caucus for CD1 was ultimately a fresh crew of active participants. As long as they keep being a part of the process, and actually help the party elect its candidates. If this new blood can continue promoting the most conservative candidates available through active participation, we cannot lose. Its something that has been needed for some time. But if we are not blessed with those active selves for the November cycle, it will say something entirely different. Friday's activity was only part of the story, and I hope to see some more posted on it aside from the video presented yesterday. I would like to see some other independent reports from the other caucuses as well. But as one person mentioned in a Facebook post "we are still decompressing". Indeed. It may take some time to realistically analyze what really happened over the weekend.
The Convention | 10 comments (10 topical, 0 hidden)
The Convention | 10 comments (10 topical, 0 hidden)
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