Posted by
Darrick Johnson on Friday, November 07, 2008 12:00:10 AM
The first decisions we have to make as movement and party is selecting leadership. Here are some key things we need to look for:
1. Impeccable Integrity
Few things are worse than corrupt politicians...Democrats have them in abundance. We need to assure that they once again have a monpoly on corruption. Corruption cannot be fought by a party that is itself compromised. The era of Ted Stevens, Mark Foley, and Duke Cunningham cannot be allowed to repeat. This is no time for half - measures. Heads need to roll, and candidates and party leaders with even remotely questionable reputations need to be offer resignations, or face primary challenges.
2. No Egos
Expecting politicians to forego their ego is, well, optimistic, but it's necessary. Too many races were lost, or made more difficult, because big egos challenged each other for safe seats, while leaving tough races uncontested. Democrats had a free ride in far too many seats this year, while Republicans fought each other for the easy path to Congress. No more. No more "turn based" primaries. It is utterly irrelevant who's turn it is. Best Candidate, that's it. Forget incumbency, forget years of service. Pick the best option. Reward those who put party and principle above personnal ambition...We'll know who they are.
3. Clear Communicators
It's no good complaining that we face a money and media disadvantage. We need candidates and campaign managers who stop making excuses, and start articulating their message effectively. It's not okay for our Generals to accept defeat because the battle is difficult. They have to figure out how to win with the conditions and resources they have. Our party leadership needs to do the same. That means thinking creatively, being unconventional, instead of bureaucractic, careerist campaigns. We desperately need campaign personnel that care more about their current assignment than building a resume for the next one.
4. True Believers
We now see where the so-called moderates can get us...second place. That doesn't mean we want bomb-throwers and firebrands, but genuine conservatives are a must. One great disadvantage we no longer face is not knowing who is really on our side. The poor know who their real friends are. The rich will never know. Those who stay loyal to the Republican Party and Conservative priniciples when its not popular, will stay loyal when it is again. Sometimes true conservatism will lose....but liberalism lite will ALWAYS lose.