With the political realignment of the last election cycle, and likely more fun to come in 2010, there are fewer GOP faces among the elected officials in many states. From this weakened position the GOP hopes to launch its Sarah Palin led blitzkrieg back to power.
So who is the most powerful Republican official in your state in the aftermath of this last election? We in New Mexico are proud to say that we now have an entirely Democratic representation in the Congress, having turned down Heather Wilson and Steve Pearce in their attempt to replace Senator Pete Domenici. With Democrats in charge at Attorney General and Secretary of State, and of course Governor Bill Richardson and Lt Gov. Diane Denish. Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Rio Rancho? All Democratic mayors. Other cities have a commission system so everyone gets to be mayor (that doesn't count).
So who do state Republicans toot their horn about? (From their site:)
PATRICK H. LYONS
Commissioner of Public Lands Patrick H. Lyons was elected in November 2002, making him the highest ranking Republican in the state of New Mexico’s Executive Branch. Mr. Lyons is the 26th Commissioner of Public Lands and the seventh Republican elected to that office.
The role of the Commissioner of Public Lands for more than 100 years has been to maximize revenues for New Mexico’s school children, while conserving the health and vitality of our land. Revenue earned from oil, gas and mineral extractions, agricultural leases and commercial development projects on 13 million acres of trust land supports 22 beneficiaries, which include public schools and universities.
The State GOP is also looking to hire a new party leader if you're interested. $70,000 to $100,000 a year to "turn us from a minority to a majority party". No reason given as to why they deserve that honor.
Previous diaries noted that in terms of federal dollars received for dollars paid in taxes New Mexico ranks as #1. We receive $2.04 for every $1.00 we pay in federal taxes (Eat it, Mississippi). Why on Earth would we want a GOP Congressional Delegation promising to cut federal spending, oppose the stimulus and cut our already non-existent taxes?
Colorado is now down to their Attorney General as their only GOP statewide elected official and he seems to be uninterested in succeeding Ken Salazar. The WEST is tired of the refighting of the Civil War and wants our country to be true to its Progressive roots.