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Mr. Billy Wilkins
the Billy Wilkins Journal: Blacks [Moderate and Conservative] in Republican Party
Mr. Billy Wilkins
Black Moderates and Conservatives Provide Rare Opportunity For Republican Party
By: Billy Wilkins
Is the Republican party racist? Have they stood up for black interests more than the Democratic party? Is the Democratic party taking advantage of black ignorance while watching black districts languish?
This week I happened upon an interesting, spirited conversation with two gentlemen about the Republican party. On one side - a middle aged, self-employed black man, on the other side, a retired white man - both longtime Republicans. I suppose that I would describe myself as a Democrat that votes my interest - making me an election risk - but ultimately a guy who doesn't check all the D's all the time.
The Republican party has been lavish on complaints and stingy on ideas lately, so I was hoping that this political conversation would have a hallelujah moment or bright idea somewhere. Maybe the constituents are bursting with ideas about how to include more Americans into their vision.
Will their recent political defeat allow them the insight to revamp their principles and leadership? Or better yet the principles that most Americans view as exclusively Republican?
Its been said that core Republican principles were not "articulated" clearly enough in the last election cycle. Do you know what makes a person a Republican, based on the text-book definition? Republicans have been said to be ideologically anti-black, anti-foreigner, anti-union, anti-gay, any-women, anti-poor, anti-abortion, anti-entitlements and more.
I'm not the typical, "rant and rave, I hate Republicans" kind of Democrat. I just hate people of ANY political persuasion who aren't fully on board with what they endorse. Just like Democrats who carry signs and protest because their friends are doing it - I despise stupid people. As a more moderate Democrat, I didn't feel cornered in the discussion, but I was certainly prepared to receive "double" the ideas from these men. Is the 1960s Republican ideology valid for today's more liberal society? What does this party have to offer citizens looking for change?
Although the exchange was intellectual and focused, the black gentleman repeatedly referenced the RNC's sterling record on racial equality and diversity. He cited Lincoln's end to slavery, and even the Nixon legislation proposed to level the playing field for black students in the 60's (that the Democrats supposedly blocked).
The past party platform is great, but my concern is "what does the Republican party have to offer me today?". There are NO civil rights or equality information sheets or citations ANYWHERE online. NO comprehensive voting records in relation to Republicans on civil rights. Would such a sheet serve as an embarassment?
My larger question: "Is the Republican Party looking to attract today's black electorate?", or have the legislative "gifts" from the Republican forefathers worn away with time and quest for affluent voters? (the BASE that they spoke of during last election cycle).
It's one thing to get a 'vote', but to get the 'heart' of an individual is a key requirement - post Obama. During the last election cycle, Democrats were hailed as having the "enthusiasm factor". What is there about the Republican party that could turn a black person on? What is there about the Republican party that could turn a foreigner or a gay person on?
Hopefully somewhere in the RNC strategy meetings, there is discussion about "what blacks want". Apparently blacks can still turn out to vote, and did in droves last election. Does anyone care anymore about what blacks truly want in 2009? Or are we just a lost cause? I want OPTIONS! The BLACK MAN wants OPTIONS! When was the last time that the RNC put together a strategy meeting to talk about the "black vote"?, Or maybe even the 'educated/conservative/moderate black vote'?.
I LIKE small government. I LIKE business ownership. I LIKE fiscal prudence and free-market capitalism. I LIKE social responsibility and personal accountability. But I'm a DEMOCRAT! Am I different from most blacks? Or do people like me (who are black) not exist?
One thing that the black Republican said during the debate really stunned me. He noted that almost every urban, predominantly black city in America is under democratic leadership - yet education and urban entitlements (community/recreation centers, job training facilities etc.) are at their most ill-funded in 30 years. As a matter of fact, many programs and schools are being shut down this year. Is this an issue from Democratic leadership down? Maybe?
He noted that Republican districts tend to have better schools (and graduation rates), more infrastructure investment and have a higher level of safety than other areas. Is he right? Where do you live?. With this stunning information, why are blacks voting Democratic? Are we simply voting for the status quo and not listening to Republican ideas, or are there NO ideas being articulated from the party that would appeal to black voters? Who's responsible for urban decay? Democrats?
Why are you voting Democrat?
Disclaimer: This article post is not reflective of the views, opinions or thoughts of Mr. Giordano or any other Premiere writer on this site, besides that of the author that has written its content. All comments, concerns or questions, as it relates to the article, should be directed to the author of such post. Thanks again for your viewership and hope you enjoyed the read!
For more info: On this and more check out Giordano, Inc., view the Reporters' Roundtable TV show, listen to the WOLB program, 'Speaking Right to the Issues', Saturdays at 9:30am, follow me on Twitter/Facebook!
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Comments
"There are NO civil rights or equality information sheets or citations ANYWHERE online".
Why? It's all campaign promises in order to get the vote, strengthen the voting block. Who is it serving? Republican party philosophy is not about giving gifts, its about teaching a man to fish. You are on your own. Let's get government out of your face, offer an open door, and you choose what to do with it. You are up against competition, no doubt. No free ride, but the door is wide open. Democratic
Please provide an operational definition for "stupid"people.Please do not use the terms, Copy cats, lemmings or hypocrites in your definition. I look forward to the edification.
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