If the GOP thinks it's going to be reviving itself, I don't see how it can afford to turn away those who want to participate.
Yet, Derek Black, the son of a Klan leader was denied a seat on the Executive Committee of the local Republican Party in Palm Beach County, Florida, even though he'd been elected to it, all because he wouldn't sign the party's loyalty oath.
This is so wrong in so many ways.
First, it is clear the GOP does risk marginalizing itself and becoming a regional party, even in states like Florida, where Barack Obama won fairly convincngly. They can't really afford to turn anyone away.
Second, this is so anti-democracy. The kid was voted in by the voters, and yet, the "powers that be" won't seat him.
Third, the insistence on loyalty oaths is both wrong and ineffective. The Nazis had members sign loyalty oaths. I just don't think the GOP is really that aligned with the Nazis, except for the Bush family, and it seems to have been repudiated in the last election as well.
Fourth, if the GOP does want to be a "big tent" party, it cannot neglect its core constituencies in order to obtain dubious advantage from an unidentified bloc. The KKK and the modern Republican Party just seem to naturally go together.
Fifth, Derek is the engineer for his father's media presence, Stormfront Radio. His assistance to the party could be invaluable, as he publically challenges "discrimination against white people."
Finally, I just can't figure out why the GOP in Palm Beach is turning its back on a young person, only 19 years old, who has clearly shown an interest in being involved in the political process, especially as a part of the GOP, whose members are, on average, the same age as a Buick owner.
I believe it is incumbent on every American, regardless of political affiliation, to encourage the Palm Beach Republicans to reconsider their policy of exclusion. This country needs a healthy mix of political parties that can advance the national dialog. By shutting out such dedicated, hardworking citizens, it is hurting not only itself, but the country as a whole.
This story deserves national attention. Please spread the word: the Palm Beach County Republicans needs to acknowledge its connection to, and support of the KKK, Stormfront, and Derek Black.