I used to believe that both national parties had valuable perspectives to offer. I used to believe that a compromise between liberal and conservative ideology would create the best outcomes for the country as a whole. I used to be an Independent. Now, like many moderates in this country, I consider myself a Democrat. This is because the Republican party has allowed some of the most destructive, asinine and counterproductive personalities available to take over the handling of its P.R.. In the vacuum of leadership that occurred during the last election, these supposed media puppets have now become the puppeteers.
So the question becomes: Is the entire Republican Party willing to devolve into a radical, fringe movement under the tutelage of self-serving morons like Rush Limbaugh -- or will you, its elected leaders, take the steps necessary to reclaim control of your party? I know of no thinking conservative nor ANY moderate willing to associate themselves with the ignorant hysteria your complicity is now fueling.
What happened to manners, intelligence and measured reason? What has happened to "conservatism", itself? Are you really willing to let Democrats claim that virtue, as well -- just as we have claimed the Blue Dogs from your ranks? There's a reason they joined our side, you know. It's because they are grown-ups who want to have adult conversations about how to get things accomplished in this country.
Republican leaders have a choice. You can reclaim the reins of leadership from self-aggrandizing clowns like Glen Beck, and begin guiding your party back onto a path of sanity and productivity... OR you can be the proud owners of a new domestic terrorist movement.
(Find a way out of the woods, guys... and find it quickly.)
Sincerely,
[delillo2000]
Oregon
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Well, that's the the comment I added along with my signature to moveon.org's petition. I thought it might do some good to post it here, too... especially in light of Frum's forced resignation from the GOP "in" crowd that took place earlier today. The Republican Party is clearly going the wrong way during this period of transition -- painting themselves into an ever smaller and more neurotic corner.
Here's the petition link, if anyone wants to add his or her name:
Republican Leaders: Condemn the Hate