It's awfully hard to get guys to run for Congress when you can only promise them a career in the minority.
Arizona Republican State Rep. Bill Konopnicki sure doesn't sound like he's interested in such a life:
There's also the matter of just how excited he does–or rather, doesn't–sound. According to the Capitol Times:
Konopnicki said he isn't interested in serving in Congress unless Republicans take back the majority in the 2010 elections–something that will be difficult to predict in time to mount a serious campaign.
"I'm not interested, quite honestly, in going and being the minority party," he said.
We'll see you in 2030, Bill.
They're already losing guys like Jim Greer, current Florida party chair:
Tallahassee–Republican Party of Florida Chairman Jim Greer today announced his decision to complete his term as RPOF Chairman, forgoing a bid for Central Florida Congressional Seat 24.
"I am grateful to those who encouraged me to seek this office," said Chairman Greer. "While I certainly appreciate the honor of consideration, I feel at this point in time I can better serve the Republican Party of Florida by completing my second term as Chairman. I look forward to working with Governor Crist and all of our great Republican elected officials, State Executive Committee members and Republicans across Florida to move forward with our efforts to increase the Party’s presence in minority communities, upgrading technology initiatives, the 2009 RPOF Youth Outreach Initiative and the successful implementation and deployment of our voter registration strike teams."
Is that because the Republican brand is trash at the moment, with the party at 22% favorable nationwide?
Is it because the GOP and their goon squads like the Club for Growth have made sport of targeting the party's moderates, like Wayne Gilchrest, Joe Schwarz and Arlen Specter?
Is it because they're in the minority for the foreseeable future?
Hmm. Could be all three...and we could ask former Rep. Thelma Drake why she's bowing out of a second race as well.
Former Rep. Thelma Drake (R-Va.) told supporters Tuesday afternoon that she will not run in 2010 to reclaim the seat she lost last cycle to now-Rep. Glenn Nye (D).
Another one bites the dust, as they say.
Part of the problem the GOP faces is that they don't have a viable path back to the majority over the next few cycles. They're trying to convince their recruits that they're going to take back the majority, win 54 seats, party like it's 1994.
They're lying. It can't happen. And a lot of potential recruits know it.