Dear Republicans,
I live in a very conservative neighborhood in Texas. My neighbors are doctors, lawyers, business owners, engineers, etc. They are successful and nearly all Republicans.
Over the last few months I've noticed a subtle change in attitude among my neighbors. It became very obvious about a month ago when I was sitting in the waiting room at my eye doctor's office. Almost everyone was older and the TV was on FOX news, which is typical in Texas. The announcer said the next story coming up was about Benghazi. To my surprise a noticeable groan went up in the room. An elderly woman who had been complaining nonstop about Obama said, "Benghazi, Benghazi, Benghazi! Can't they talk about anything else except Benghazi?"
There has also been a noticeable shift that has gone from mocking "Obamacare" to cautious interest in the Affordable Care Act. Many of my neighbors have children, grandchildren, or other family members who have either inadequate health insurance or no health insurance.
Yesterday I was talking to three neighbors and one of them said (rather defensively)
"I'm a lifelong Republican but NOT one of those crazy Teapartiers! It's embarrassing what they're doing to our party!" The others shook their heads in dismay and agreed.
Moderate Republicans--now is the time to seize the moment and take back your party! The tide is turning fast against the Tea Party.
Practical Pat