Colorado's Charlie Smith has had the floor for the better part of a month now, and while he has not used the open microphone very extensively, he is still the lone candidate in the race. For better or worse, whether you agree with his silence since announcing his candidacy or not, no one is exactly forcing him to explain himself.
No platform? No problem, because there is no one there to call him out about running for an office for which he has no plans for. No website? No problem, because no one else can say they have a better one. No announcement of a national chapter and state tour? No problem, because there is no need to get out on the stump for votes when there is no opposing candidate.
This past week, feathers were ruffled when Smith turned down the invitation to appear on a panel at CPAC, a panel which also featured Leadership Institute mogul Morton Blackwell. A group of state chairmen sent him an email expressing their displeasure for this move, but it was largely misconstrued as anger that Smith was appearing to slight the Leadership Institute. The real reason for the email? Well, it is right there in the email, for all to see: how can Charlie Smith claim to not be the CRNC's favored son when they chose him to appear on the panel? In 2005, when it came time for CPAC, Chairman candidate Paul Gourley was tapped to appear on the CRNC's behalf. The CRNC generally gets "their guy" to do this, and while Smith chose not to accept, the very fact that he was asked sends bad signs.
Next weekend is the planned summit of the key players in this election in California, at a pseudo-conference with Michael Davidson that looks to be a much more contentious version of Yalta, where the Churchill and FDR figures will not let the Stalin figure out of line an inch. This is not the first such meeting of the minds, but it is the broadest such gathering of this election season to date. Along with state chairmen and key figures like Davidson will be several key advisors to the former "Opposition" movement, which now finds itself seemingly splintered into a thousand little fragments, a mere shell of its former self.
Charlie Smith has had the ear of Davidson before, but came away without winning the key endorsement. Davidson signing on with Smith would be the death knell sounding upon any hopeful candidate looking get in the race, as California would likely be off the table and in Smith's column. All signs from former Real Reform principals Brian Siler and Brent Ludeman, both of whom will attend next weekend's gathering, point to New Jersey's Frank Luna as the current flagbearer. Luna, however, has been reluctant to commit to a run, taking more of a wait and see approach.
Time, especially in this campaign, is of the essence, simply due to the difficulty of getting College Republicans gathered together in large groups to address. Next month’s edition of CPAC is really the only chance for candidates to have the ears of a multitude of CRs from around the country until July’s CRNC Convention. The March 1 kickoff for CPAC is looming right around the corner, and it leaves only a week and a half after this weekend’s California summit to make preparations for a campaign kickoff. That is roughly ten days to book a location for the announcement reception/campaign kickoff event, get campaign collateral designed and printed, develop a platform for the campaign, organize a street team of supporters to get the word out and promote your candidacy, and get a fully-functioning website up and running. Ten days surely creates something of a time squeeze to say the least.
The next twenty five days will be among the most exciting of the spring for anyone following this CRNC campaign, and especially for those actually involved in it. Imagine this schedule for a random state chairman traveling this weekend to California:
Friday afternoon, February 16: Board plane for cross-country flight, plus connections and layovers en route
Friday evening: Dinner with the other attendees
Saturday, February 17: Meetings and discussions all day
Saturday night or Sunday: Board plane for return trip home
Monday through Friday (2/19-2/23): Classes, midterms, and state federation business
Saturday, February 24 and Sunday, February 25: In the case of Ohio’s Brian Siler, a Leadership Institute YLS and Ohio Board Meeting
Monday through Wednesday (2/26-2/28): Classes, midterms, preparing to travel to DC.
Wednesday afternoon through Thursday early morning: depart for CPAC, hotel check-in, CPAC registration
Thursday through Saturday (March 1-3): CPAC itself, all state federation gatherings, CRNC events, and any other meetings scheduled
Sunday morning, March 4: depart DC for home
In any case, this race will take shape over the next twenty-five odd days, and we will work here to keep you updated on every twist, every turn, every little bit of information that you need to know.
Showing posts with label 2007 CRNC Elections. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2007 CRNC Elections. Show all posts
Monday, February 12, 2007
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Free food and beverage to be in abundance at CPAC
Let alone the fact that this is a CRNC campaign year, and that candidates in that race will undoubtedly throw open-bar bashes, and you will still find plenty of free plunder to be had during next month's edition of CPAC. Mainefest is always on everyone's calendar for the trip to DC, and we reported last week that Ohio will also throw a separate party during CPAC as well. Ohio has historically hosted an event for all Ohio CRs in attendance, but will for the first time be opening the doors to all. Emails were sent out yesterday to state chairmen inviting them to DC Fest 2007, hosted by Mike Keough's DC Federation of College Republicans on the first day of CPAC at the Hawk n Dove. Please consider this my open plea to OCRF officers to NOT name the Ohio party "Ohio Fest". I thought that a "fest" was usually a title reserved for a hippie convention, but I could very well be wrong.
Friday, February 09, 2007
CR Power Rankings
As requested by you, the reader, we present the latest attempt at CR Power Rankings. There are some new names, some old names, and some people that should probably just move on past their glory days. These rankings are completely scientific, so feel free to treat them as such. Without further ado, on to stroking egos:
National Power Rankings:
1) Michael Davidson: Please note that potential candidates to replace Chairman Gourley are gunning for Davidson's approval, not Gourley's.
2) Amanda Hydro: Lay the blame for the past two years at her feet, as she is effectively playing Chairman at this point.
3) Frank Luna: Has everyone waiting to see if he jumps into the race. CPAC fast approaches, so time is of the essence.
4) John Plecnik: His name is here simply for ego stroking purposes. If we were being honest, he wouldn't even smell such a list.
5) Charlie Smith: Mr. Smith has the floor, certainly, but will he take advantage of it or continue backroom dealing?
6) Brian Siler: My humble attempt to suckle at the teet of power.
7) Derek Hall: He may not necessarily ask for importance, but everyone wants his approval just as much as Davidson's.
8) Paul Gourley: Even though he has been effectively forced out of the day-to-day, he may just pop up at the ACU as a comeback of sorts.
9) Mason Harrison: Unless he makes a pledge of support soon, his time will be in high demand come CPAC-time.
10) Lindy Dinklage: Not in the employ of the CRNC any longer, but meddling has always been a favorite pastime.
11) Blake Harris: Moved up the hierarchy of advisors this cycle, but did he forsake what got him there?
12) Michael Miltenberger: Unmistakably making the rounds with Mr. Smith, and has probably landed himself on the ticket. Did he do anything substantive to deserve it though?
13) Brent Ludeman: Found the sledding tough yet again in his second solo go-round.
14) Ryan Bilodeau: Has a network of connections that rivals most state chairman, let alone any rank and file College Republican.
15) Nick Miccarelli: Making the rounds with as well; how high will he be on the ticket?
State Chairman Candidate Rankings:
1) Steve Japinga: Election is a sure thing for him, but how long will the coat tails be in Michigan?
2) Morgan Wilkins: Running the race on her own terms, and most definitely defining the debate in Kentucky.
3) Sean Matthew: Almost seems assured of victory, and Pennsylvania is always a player nationally.
4) Chris Stark: Will he remain unopposed in Jersey, and can he continue Luna's cleanup job of the past year?
5) Erin Karriker: Out of state players are trying to knock him off, but are they a nuisance or a threat?
Power on the wane:
1) Nate Walton: Maine Fest is all he has going it seems.
2) Sarah Armstrong: We will believe it when we see it, but word on the street has Connecticut slipping from her grasp come springtime.
3) Erin McTiernan: New York is always volatile, and we hear plenty of unrest with the way she has (or hasn't) run the state fed.
4) Paul Gourley: Go ahead and add the "former" to his Chairman title.
5) Dan Schuberth: Rumors of a late jump into the national race have all but disappeared.
Ones to watch:
1) Justin Jordan: Who knows what he will say or do next, but we will be watching for sure.
2) Frank Luna/Brian Siler: Will they or won't they? Time will tell, but time they do not have.
3) Ryan Bilodeau: Could be part of the new crop of state chairs, but he has plenty of influence regardless.
4) Michael Davidson: Upcoming consortium in California is last shot to impress before CPAC, and a non-endorsement is as good as a death knell for any opposition to Smith.
5) Presidential candidates: Who gives money, and to whom, will be an interesting saga indeed.
National Power Rankings:
1) Michael Davidson: Please note that potential candidates to replace Chairman Gourley are gunning for Davidson's approval, not Gourley's.
2) Amanda Hydro: Lay the blame for the past two years at her feet, as she is effectively playing Chairman at this point.
3) Frank Luna: Has everyone waiting to see if he jumps into the race. CPAC fast approaches, so time is of the essence.
4) John Plecnik: His name is here simply for ego stroking purposes. If we were being honest, he wouldn't even smell such a list.
5) Charlie Smith: Mr. Smith has the floor, certainly, but will he take advantage of it or continue backroom dealing?
6) Brian Siler: My humble attempt to suckle at the teet of power.
7) Derek Hall: He may not necessarily ask for importance, but everyone wants his approval just as much as Davidson's.
8) Paul Gourley: Even though he has been effectively forced out of the day-to-day, he may just pop up at the ACU as a comeback of sorts.
9) Mason Harrison: Unless he makes a pledge of support soon, his time will be in high demand come CPAC-time.
10) Lindy Dinklage: Not in the employ of the CRNC any longer, but meddling has always been a favorite pastime.
11) Blake Harris: Moved up the hierarchy of advisors this cycle, but did he forsake what got him there?
12) Michael Miltenberger: Unmistakably making the rounds with Mr. Smith, and has probably landed himself on the ticket. Did he do anything substantive to deserve it though?
13) Brent Ludeman: Found the sledding tough yet again in his second solo go-round.
14) Ryan Bilodeau: Has a network of connections that rivals most state chairman, let alone any rank and file College Republican.
15) Nick Miccarelli: Making the rounds with as well; how high will he be on the ticket?
State Chairman Candidate Rankings:
1) Steve Japinga: Election is a sure thing for him, but how long will the coat tails be in Michigan?
2) Morgan Wilkins: Running the race on her own terms, and most definitely defining the debate in Kentucky.
3) Sean Matthew: Almost seems assured of victory, and Pennsylvania is always a player nationally.
4) Chris Stark: Will he remain unopposed in Jersey, and can he continue Luna's cleanup job of the past year?
5) Erin Karriker: Out of state players are trying to knock him off, but are they a nuisance or a threat?
Power on the wane:
1) Nate Walton: Maine Fest is all he has going it seems.
2) Sarah Armstrong: We will believe it when we see it, but word on the street has Connecticut slipping from her grasp come springtime.
3) Erin McTiernan: New York is always volatile, and we hear plenty of unrest with the way she has (or hasn't) run the state fed.
4) Paul Gourley: Go ahead and add the "former" to his Chairman title.
5) Dan Schuberth: Rumors of a late jump into the national race have all but disappeared.
Ones to watch:
1) Justin Jordan: Who knows what he will say or do next, but we will be watching for sure.
2) Frank Luna/Brian Siler: Will they or won't they? Time will tell, but time they do not have.
3) Ryan Bilodeau: Could be part of the new crop of state chairs, but he has plenty of influence regardless.
4) Michael Davidson: Upcoming consortium in California is last shot to impress before CPAC, and a non-endorsement is as good as a death knell for any opposition to Smith.
5) Presidential candidates: Who gives money, and to whom, will be an interesting saga indeed.
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Arkansas State Chairman race update
Arkansas was not a state included in our mass update on the various state chairman races earlier in the week, but a couple of names have surfaced. Arkansas Chairman John Burris, of Arkansas Tech, is not reportedly seeking re-election, and at least two names have been tossed around in the past few weeks. Most recently, former Arkansas Tech Chairman and current Grassroots Director for AFCR Bryant Davis announced his intention to run for the post. Davis has a website up and running for the campaign, and has promised a platform to be forthcoming. A name that has been in circulation for awhile now is that of Chase Dugger of Arkansas State. We will follow this race as it develops.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Christopher Stark to run for NJCR Chairman
Election season for College Republicans is heating up as CPAC rapidly approaches, and New Jersey now has a potential successor to Frank Luna in the pipe. Seton Hall junior Christopher Stark is currently the NJCR Executive Director, and he appears to be supported, although not formally endorsed, by Luna. We will provide a link to his website when it goes live in the coming days, and continue to report on any other candidates in the race. His platform centers on expanding the NJCR presence to every campus within the Garden State and proposes the hiring of a Field Coordinator to supplement any CRNC help. Other stated goals of Stark include improved training, an increased presence on the Internet, decentralization to a degree, and more regular communication within the organization. Keep an eye on New Jersey in the coming weeks, in any case, because we continue to hear whisperings of a Frank Luna run for CRNC Chairman.
Former CRNC Chairman Bill Spadea is seen here on the left with Christopher Stark, candidate for NJCR Chairman.
Former CRNC Chairman Bill Spadea is seen here on the left with Christopher Stark, candidate for NJCR Chairman.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
State Chairman Race Rundown
As promised, coverage of the various CR State Chairman races that are gearing up is here. For now, here is a list of the candidates for office in each state, along with additional pertinent info on the race itself.
Kentucky:
Morgan Wilkins (KCTCS) vs. Michael Wray (Louisville)
Wilkins is the outside candidate in this Reform-held state, running against former KFCR Chairman Derek Hall's candidate of choice in Wray. It is also of note that while Wray would obstensibly hold the same, or similar, views with regard to national matters, Wilkins has not spoken publicly about these matters in any sort of depth. Wilkins arrived on the national scene this past fall after a very public controversy surrounding her performance as a CRNC Field Rep in Michigan, for which some feel she was dealt with in a bad way. She has also joined up with Students for Brownback as the Kentucky Chairman, while Wray's 2008 loyalties are heretofore unknown.
North Carolina:
Erin Karriker (UNC Charlotte) vs. Tyson Grinstead (UNC Chapel Hill)
Former CR John Plecnik appears to be meddling back in his old stomping grounds, as he has recruited Grinstead to run against outgoing NC Chairman Jon Thompson's pick in Erin Karriker. Both have released platforms, and this has been a slightly contentious race to date. Sources say, however, that Karriker has the votes necessary to win.
Florida:
David Stevens (Florida State) vs. Tommy Keller (Stetson)
Stevens is currently the second-in-command to outgoing Chairman Scott Wacholtz, and is rumored to have his support as well. Keller is the current Treasurer of FFCR, and has not made public his support for any of the P2008 candidates. Stevens is believed to be a Romney supporter, and this race appears to be up in the air. We give a slight edge to Stevens.
Michigan:
Steve Japinga (Michigan State)
Controversial two-term Chairman Dan Carlson is on his way out, and Japinga has been in the race for awhile now. At first, rumors swirled as to who Carlson would tap to run against Japinga, but leading potential candidate Justin Zatkoff settled for a run at a lower ticket spot. While there is still time to put someone in the race, we see Japinga as the likely successor to Carlson. Zatkoff is facing Michigan State's Jeff Wiggins for the Co-Chairman slot, a race that is less crowded after Ryan Thompson bowed out last week.
New York:
Kelly Eustis (SUNY Potsdam)
Eustis is the rumored successor to Erin McTiernan, if she decides not to run again. Her announced reason for not seeking a national run was to strengthen her home state, which is truly in shambles. New York has always been a tumultuous state federation, so this will be a state to watch regardless.
Minnesota:
Bethany Dorobiala (Minnesota-Twin Cities)
Dorobiala appears to be next up in Minnesota, and she has paired up with Co-Chair candidate Nathan Swanson for her run. We are currently researching this race and will report information on it as we have it.
Pennsylvania:
Sean-Tamba Matthew (Penn)
Nick Miccarelli's pick is the only known candidate in Pennsylvania at this time, and we will continue to report on this race as more information is known.
Arkansas:
Chase Dugger
Dugger would appear to be the choice of current Chairman John Burris, who will not be seeking another term.
Colorado:
Craig Conroy (Regis)
Conroy has been a rumored successor to CRNC Chairman candidate Charlie Smith, but is not certain at this time.
Tennessee:
Jonathan Bryant (Bryan College)
Lindsay Moffett's handpicked successor currently serves as her second in command.
West Virginia:
Brian Dayton (WVU)
Dayton has done a solid job in his first term, and is rumored to be seeking a second term.
Rhode Island:
Ryan Bilodeau (URI)
Bilodeau is a favorite of RSR, as he has run a phenomenal chapter at URI and is a staunch conservative. He is known to be interested in seeking to follow outgoing Chairman Ethan Wingfield, and there will possibly be opposition to his candidacy from a couple of minor candidates.
Texas:
Eliza Vielma (Texas State) or Justin Jordan (Texas Southern)
Jordan would come to the forefront if Vielma decides not to seek another term, especially with long-rumored candidate Jason Fite graduating.
Ohio:
Although no one has announced, it is believed that if Chairman Brian Siler decides not to seek re-election this spring, his chosen replacement will come from his fellow Executive Board members, most likely one of his appointed officers who were instrumental in executing Ohio's highly successful field program last fall. There is not any major opposition to Siler within the state, but Ohio has a history of candidates hopping in the race as late as convention time in April.
Connecticut:
Over the past few days, Opposition operatives have been bragging openly about picking off this solid Establishment stronghold. We will see how this race develops.
We will continue to report on each of these races, and follow the remaining states as their respective elections near. If you have any information on these, or any other races, feel free to email or AIM us (AIM: redstaterampage).
Kentucky:
Morgan Wilkins (KCTCS) vs. Michael Wray (Louisville)
Wilkins is the outside candidate in this Reform-held state, running against former KFCR Chairman Derek Hall's candidate of choice in Wray. It is also of note that while Wray would obstensibly hold the same, or similar, views with regard to national matters, Wilkins has not spoken publicly about these matters in any sort of depth. Wilkins arrived on the national scene this past fall after a very public controversy surrounding her performance as a CRNC Field Rep in Michigan, for which some feel she was dealt with in a bad way. She has also joined up with Students for Brownback as the Kentucky Chairman, while Wray's 2008 loyalties are heretofore unknown.
North Carolina:
Erin Karriker (UNC Charlotte) vs. Tyson Grinstead (UNC Chapel Hill)
Former CR John Plecnik appears to be meddling back in his old stomping grounds, as he has recruited Grinstead to run against outgoing NC Chairman Jon Thompson's pick in Erin Karriker. Both have released platforms, and this has been a slightly contentious race to date. Sources say, however, that Karriker has the votes necessary to win.
Florida:
David Stevens (Florida State) vs. Tommy Keller (Stetson)
Stevens is currently the second-in-command to outgoing Chairman Scott Wacholtz, and is rumored to have his support as well. Keller is the current Treasurer of FFCR, and has not made public his support for any of the P2008 candidates. Stevens is believed to be a Romney supporter, and this race appears to be up in the air. We give a slight edge to Stevens.
Michigan:
Steve Japinga (Michigan State)
Controversial two-term Chairman Dan Carlson is on his way out, and Japinga has been in the race for awhile now. At first, rumors swirled as to who Carlson would tap to run against Japinga, but leading potential candidate Justin Zatkoff settled for a run at a lower ticket spot. While there is still time to put someone in the race, we see Japinga as the likely successor to Carlson. Zatkoff is facing Michigan State's Jeff Wiggins for the Co-Chairman slot, a race that is less crowded after Ryan Thompson bowed out last week.
New York:
Kelly Eustis (SUNY Potsdam)
Eustis is the rumored successor to Erin McTiernan, if she decides not to run again. Her announced reason for not seeking a national run was to strengthen her home state, which is truly in shambles. New York has always been a tumultuous state federation, so this will be a state to watch regardless.
Minnesota:
Bethany Dorobiala (Minnesota-Twin Cities)
Dorobiala appears to be next up in Minnesota, and she has paired up with Co-Chair candidate Nathan Swanson for her run. We are currently researching this race and will report information on it as we have it.
Pennsylvania:
Sean-Tamba Matthew (Penn)
Nick Miccarelli's pick is the only known candidate in Pennsylvania at this time, and we will continue to report on this race as more information is known.
Arkansas:
Chase Dugger
Dugger would appear to be the choice of current Chairman John Burris, who will not be seeking another term.
Colorado:
Craig Conroy (Regis)
Conroy has been a rumored successor to CRNC Chairman candidate Charlie Smith, but is not certain at this time.
Tennessee:
Jonathan Bryant (Bryan College)
Lindsay Moffett's handpicked successor currently serves as her second in command.
West Virginia:
Brian Dayton (WVU)
Dayton has done a solid job in his first term, and is rumored to be seeking a second term.
Rhode Island:
Ryan Bilodeau (URI)
Bilodeau is a favorite of RSR, as he has run a phenomenal chapter at URI and is a staunch conservative. He is known to be interested in seeking to follow outgoing Chairman Ethan Wingfield, and there will possibly be opposition to his candidacy from a couple of minor candidates.
Texas:
Eliza Vielma (Texas State) or Justin Jordan (Texas Southern)
Jordan would come to the forefront if Vielma decides not to seek another term, especially with long-rumored candidate Jason Fite graduating.
Ohio:
Although no one has announced, it is believed that if Chairman Brian Siler decides not to seek re-election this spring, his chosen replacement will come from his fellow Executive Board members, most likely one of his appointed officers who were instrumental in executing Ohio's highly successful field program last fall. There is not any major opposition to Siler within the state, but Ohio has a history of candidates hopping in the race as late as convention time in April.
Connecticut:
Over the past few days, Opposition operatives have been bragging openly about picking off this solid Establishment stronghold. We will see how this race develops.
We will continue to report on each of these races, and follow the remaining states as their respective elections near. If you have any information on these, or any other races, feel free to email or AIM us (AIM: redstaterampage).
Friday, January 12, 2007
McTiernan Exploratory Committee hits the Net
A website for Erin McTiernan's CRNC Exploratory Committee went live this morning, in a sign that the New York State Chairman is more serious about her candidacy than first assumed by many. The placeholder page can be seen at One CRNC, a domain that was reportedly bought earlier in the week by McTiernan. Two other domains also redirect to the One CRNC site: The New CRNC and United CRNC. We will follow this as it develops, if necessary.
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
BREAKING: Stewie Griffin to run for CRNC Chair?
A source in Ohio just alerted me to a new Facebook group started in light of the circus that is the CRNC election pushing Stewie Griffin for CRNC Chairman. The group states that Stewie Griffin is the only man who can get the job done, and has already equaled the momentum driving the express train that is the Erin McTiernan for CRNC Chairman push at four members. The group is surely to catch on like wildfire and will probably force many a would-be candidate out of the race. Red State Rampage could not reach Mr. Griffin, most famous for his ongoing tenure on the FOX sitcom Family Guy as himself, or any member of his staff for comment at this hour. We will continue to develop this evolving and emerging story as it takes the College Republican world by storm. If Stewie Griffin is indeed formally declaring his candidacy, the dynamic of this race will change drastically, as it is almost sure none of the existing candidates are of equal, or even comparable, stock.
Friday, January 05, 2007
CRNC Election News & Notes
-We will be soon posting interviews with candidate for Michigan Fed. of College Republicans Chairman Steve Japinga, a Michigan State CR, and interim Texas Fed. of College Republicans Vice Chairman Justin Jordan in the coming days. The interview with Japinga should be up later this morning, and we are also in the process of interviewing Students for Brownback Chairman Billy Valentine. Stay tuned for these, and several more interviews in the pipeline over the coming weeks.
-In a move that has been expected for some time, Rhode Island's Ethan Wingfield endorsed Real Reform yesterday, releasing the following statement on his support:
“The biggest challenge the College Republicans face is not reforming its national committee. Our challenge is building an organizational infrastructure that will make it easier for Republicans to get elected. The common-sense goals of the Real Reform platform will streamline the organization, make it less succeptible (sic) to corruption, and will ultimately enable us to more effectively campaign on behalf of candidates we all want to see elected. That's why Rhode Island voted unanimously to support Real Reform.”
The endorsement makes formal what has been known for sometime, and there seems to be quite a bit of grassroots support for reform at the chapter level in Rhode Island. There are now 17 sitting state chairmen supporting Real Reform, and we keep hearing whispers of a major announcement coming from Real Reform principals Brian Siler and Brent Ludeman.
-Truth Caucus is reporting that New York's Erin McTiernan is exploring the possibility of the run for National Chairman. McTiernan is best known nationally for calling out Paul Gourley publicly over a few matters, most notably for the alleged subterfuge of a CRNC field rep in recruiting a registered Democrat to run a College Republican chapter in New York. New York has a long history of infighting, but it is a state who has been solidly in support of reform for some time. It, along with California, is a state notably absent from the supporters of Real Reform.
-In a move that has been expected for some time, Rhode Island's Ethan Wingfield endorsed Real Reform yesterday, releasing the following statement on his support:
“The biggest challenge the College Republicans face is not reforming its national committee. Our challenge is building an organizational infrastructure that will make it easier for Republicans to get elected. The common-sense goals of the Real Reform platform will streamline the organization, make it less succeptible (sic) to corruption, and will ultimately enable us to more effectively campaign on behalf of candidates we all want to see elected. That's why Rhode Island voted unanimously to support Real Reform.”
The endorsement makes formal what has been known for sometime, and there seems to be quite a bit of grassroots support for reform at the chapter level in Rhode Island. There are now 17 sitting state chairmen supporting Real Reform, and we keep hearing whispers of a major announcement coming from Real Reform principals Brian Siler and Brent Ludeman.
-Truth Caucus is reporting that New York's Erin McTiernan is exploring the possibility of the run for National Chairman. McTiernan is best known nationally for calling out Paul Gourley publicly over a few matters, most notably for the alleged subterfuge of a CRNC field rep in recruiting a registered Democrat to run a College Republican chapter in New York. New York has a long history of infighting, but it is a state who has been solidly in support of reform for some time. It, along with California, is a state notably absent from the supporters of Real Reform.
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Three's Company Once Again: Derek Hall Dodges the Draft Movement
The field of potential candidates is back down to three tonight after Kentucky's Derek Hall opted not to seek a term as Chairman of the CRNC in 2007. Over the past few weeks talk had surfaced about Hall's national intentions at a fervor not seen since the summer of 2006, when a candidacy for Chairman by Hall was seen as very likely. With this announcement, the field is pared back down to include the team of Brian Siler and Brent Ludeman, Charlie Smith, and an ever looming bid by Dan Schuberth, who seemed very much a candidate at the December 2006 CRNC Board Meeting. Draft Derek Hall, the blog that really brought talk of a Hall candidacy back to the forefront of College Republicans, has the statement, as does Truth Caucus. Due to the eloquence of Hall's letter, it is being posted here also:
"The past two weeks have been quite a whirlwind experience for me. I have talked to many individuals about the possibility of running for the position of CRNC Chairman, but I felt it was necessary to officially announce that as of now I have decided not to run for the position. I have been extremely flattered by the outpour of support and kind words; I was not expecting to hear from so many individuals from across the country.
I have worked diligently for the College Republicans since stepping foot on the campus of the University of Kentucky, and I feel that I have an invested interest in the future of this organization. We all need to recognize its time to introduce sound, intelligent reform to the CRNC, and hopefully our candidates will continue to preach this message as they campaign over the coming months. At times, we over-complicate this organization, and I hope that our next crop of leaders realize its time to simplify each facet of the group. This means we need to put more emphasis on helping to win real elections and strengthening our local chapters. We need to stand together and proclaim that playing politics within the CRNC is the business of the past and promoting the Republican Party is the answer for the future.
Once again, I want to thank everyone for their support, and I hope we are able to come together to produce the best team for guiding the CRNC. Thank you and God bless."
Hall is still expected to find a place on someone's ticket, and a close relationship with Missouri's Justin Smith and Ohio's Brian Siler could play a large role in where Hall stands in the upcoming race. In the recent Truth Caucus poll, candidates from states supporting Real Reform, including Derek Hall, Brian Siler, and Brent Ludeman, won 78% of the vote, so a combination of the three on a ticket could prove formidable. It is also very refreshing to see someone talking of winning real elections and promoting the Republican Party over inter-organizational squabbles; for whatever reason this seems to have been absent for some time within the CRNC. We will continue to follow all of the potential candidates in the race, and have continuous updates on any decisions being made. No formal announcements are set as of yet, but it is rumored that all candidates are within days of making their final decisions.
"The past two weeks have been quite a whirlwind experience for me. I have talked to many individuals about the possibility of running for the position of CRNC Chairman, but I felt it was necessary to officially announce that as of now I have decided not to run for the position. I have been extremely flattered by the outpour of support and kind words; I was not expecting to hear from so many individuals from across the country.
I have worked diligently for the College Republicans since stepping foot on the campus of the University of Kentucky, and I feel that I have an invested interest in the future of this organization. We all need to recognize its time to introduce sound, intelligent reform to the CRNC, and hopefully our candidates will continue to preach this message as they campaign over the coming months. At times, we over-complicate this organization, and I hope that our next crop of leaders realize its time to simplify each facet of the group. This means we need to put more emphasis on helping to win real elections and strengthening our local chapters. We need to stand together and proclaim that playing politics within the CRNC is the business of the past and promoting the Republican Party is the answer for the future.
Once again, I want to thank everyone for their support, and I hope we are able to come together to produce the best team for guiding the CRNC. Thank you and God bless."
Hall is still expected to find a place on someone's ticket, and a close relationship with Missouri's Justin Smith and Ohio's Brian Siler could play a large role in where Hall stands in the upcoming race. In the recent Truth Caucus poll, candidates from states supporting Real Reform, including Derek Hall, Brian Siler, and Brent Ludeman, won 78% of the vote, so a combination of the three on a ticket could prove formidable. It is also very refreshing to see someone talking of winning real elections and promoting the Republican Party over inter-organizational squabbles; for whatever reason this seems to have been absent for some time within the CRNC. We will continue to follow all of the potential candidates in the race, and have continuous updates on any decisions being made. No formal announcements are set as of yet, but it is rumored that all candidates are within days of making their final decisions.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Editorial: The Many Faces of Charlie Smith
Just who is Charlie Smith? Why is he running to be the next Chairman of the CRNC? What exactly does Charlie Smith stand for? For the casual follower of College Republican politics, those who simply read the headlines and look no further into them, these are questions that cannot be answered. To the average onlooker, they may even think there are three separate Charlie Smiths in our organization: the Charlie Smith who voted for Paul Gourley and was vying to be the heir to his throne, the Charlie Smith who was vowing to Unite the CRNC just weeks ago, and the Charlie Smith that now wants to bring you, Joe CR, a New CRNC by embracing reform and an agenda he once opposed. That average CR would be right, too, in thinking that three separate versions of Charlie Smith exist, because within the past six months each face of Smith has been worn publicly.
There really is no true way to tell where Charlie Smith does, in fact stand, and this is not a good place for a politician of any level to be. Fresh in American minds is the image of a flip-flopping John Kerry, a man who measured the changing winds of opinion before making his choice. In the 2005 CRNC election, Charlie Smith publicly endorsed the current Chairman of the CRNC, H. Paul Gourley, and Colorado cast its electoral votes in favor of Chairman Gourley. This past summer, and into the early fall, Smith was maneuvering to succeed the wounded Chairman in 2007 and be anointed heir to the relative dynasty that is the Establishment within the CRNC. He held at least two separate conference calls discussing the possibility of him running in place of Gourley, in order that the Opposition may not become victorious in the next go round. There was no doubt, until very recently, whose side Charlie Smith stood on.
Then came a couple of amendments, one proposed in 2005 and pulled from the floor and the other a new idea. Both involved making the elections process more accountable, and both were seen by some as a vengeful act by holdovers from the 2005 campaign. Charlie Smith signed on as a sponsor, and Charlie the Uniter was born. In the run-up to the 2006 CRNC Winter Board Meeting, held just last month in Denver, both sides bickered back and forth regarding the merits and intent of the amendments, but by December when state chairmen gathered to vote in the Rockies, both would pass with ease. Some still in the CRNC office were not happy with them, nor with Charlie for playing a role in their passage. Smith's former patrons were none too pleased with their protege, and this is why Charlie Smith did not announce his candidacy at the Board Meeting.
Now playing cowboy, and rounding up all of his straying cattle, he was on the defensive. No solid platform had been proposed, and so Ohio's Brian Siler and Brent Ludeman of Washington, two other rumored candidates, put forth an all-encompassing slate of ideas for reform, under the label of Real Reform. Nearly every supporter of Real Reform initially, and to this day, has been an unquestioned supporter of reforming the CRNC, so it was somewhat surprising to see Charlie's response to the move. Charlie Smith was so brash to welcome proponents of Real Reform to the debate, a debate that Charlie himself was more than fashionably late to. He released his own list of supporters, and it was noticeably heavy on Gourley supporters, especially for a group posing as one of reformers. What he could not admit, however, was that his letter brought no substance to the debate, but merely rhetoric.
Still portending to wish a coming together, a unification of the CRNC, Charlie Smith purchased a domain to back up his Unite the CRNC platform, which never went live (and no platform ever emerged). Shortly after this was discovered, just in the past few days, Smith shifted his focus yet again. After receiving a mere 22% of the vote in a Truth Caucus poll, he wrapped himself in a new banner: a New CRNC. Another domain was bought, and College Republicans were left wondering what this Smith guy stood for.
As a Christian, a conservative, and a Republican, I am all for conversions in faith and beliefs. One of the biggest goals of College Republican organizations across the nation should be winning hearts and minds with our proven message. True conversion is something that must manifest itself in concrete actions and not mere words. So when I see politicians converting from pro-life to pro-choice, and back again, simply for the purpose of winning votes and support, it disgusts me. I have seen this same convenient conversion, still a false change, in the evolving stances of Charlie Smith.
This pandering nature is something I have noticed for some time, and have remained quiet. Everyone should be given a chance to show themselves true, and so I have allowed this chance multiple times in Charlie Smith's case. Time and time again, we have seen him change his foundations to what is currently popular, seemingly for his own benefit. Though I have not met him, Michael Davidson appears to me to be a great diviner of character. You will recall that Davidson recently met for dinner with Charlie Smith, purportedly to discuss Smith's intentions of running nationally. You will also recall that Smith was sent away for want of solid evidence of his reformer stance. If Michael Davidson did not see him as a true reformer, I remain hesitant to as well. This upcoming CRNC election is far too important to choose a new Chairman based solely upon what a man may say. No, we must follow those who have backed up their words with actions, like at least three other possible candidates have. We cannot, and must not pick a man who does not even know where he himself stands. Charlie Smith, a man of many faces, is most definitely not the man for the job.
From here on out, Red State Rampage will pull no punches, because Charlie's third change was the charm. We need leadership with clear direction, not someone who is heading down three separate paths. We need a man who will stand up and fight for his beliefs, not a man wishing to be everything to everyone. The answer to the question, then, is that no one really can know who Charlie Smith is. One thing is certain though: until he makes up his mind, we should not be trusting him to lead us.
There really is no true way to tell where Charlie Smith does, in fact stand, and this is not a good place for a politician of any level to be. Fresh in American minds is the image of a flip-flopping John Kerry, a man who measured the changing winds of opinion before making his choice. In the 2005 CRNC election, Charlie Smith publicly endorsed the current Chairman of the CRNC, H. Paul Gourley, and Colorado cast its electoral votes in favor of Chairman Gourley. This past summer, and into the early fall, Smith was maneuvering to succeed the wounded Chairman in 2007 and be anointed heir to the relative dynasty that is the Establishment within the CRNC. He held at least two separate conference calls discussing the possibility of him running in place of Gourley, in order that the Opposition may not become victorious in the next go round. There was no doubt, until very recently, whose side Charlie Smith stood on.
Then came a couple of amendments, one proposed in 2005 and pulled from the floor and the other a new idea. Both involved making the elections process more accountable, and both were seen by some as a vengeful act by holdovers from the 2005 campaign. Charlie Smith signed on as a sponsor, and Charlie the Uniter was born. In the run-up to the 2006 CRNC Winter Board Meeting, held just last month in Denver, both sides bickered back and forth regarding the merits and intent of the amendments, but by December when state chairmen gathered to vote in the Rockies, both would pass with ease. Some still in the CRNC office were not happy with them, nor with Charlie for playing a role in their passage. Smith's former patrons were none too pleased with their protege, and this is why Charlie Smith did not announce his candidacy at the Board Meeting.
Now playing cowboy, and rounding up all of his straying cattle, he was on the defensive. No solid platform had been proposed, and so Ohio's Brian Siler and Brent Ludeman of Washington, two other rumored candidates, put forth an all-encompassing slate of ideas for reform, under the label of Real Reform. Nearly every supporter of Real Reform initially, and to this day, has been an unquestioned supporter of reforming the CRNC, so it was somewhat surprising to see Charlie's response to the move. Charlie Smith was so brash to welcome proponents of Real Reform to the debate, a debate that Charlie himself was more than fashionably late to. He released his own list of supporters, and it was noticeably heavy on Gourley supporters, especially for a group posing as one of reformers. What he could not admit, however, was that his letter brought no substance to the debate, but merely rhetoric.
Still portending to wish a coming together, a unification of the CRNC, Charlie Smith purchased a domain to back up his Unite the CRNC platform, which never went live (and no platform ever emerged). Shortly after this was discovered, just in the past few days, Smith shifted his focus yet again. After receiving a mere 22% of the vote in a Truth Caucus poll, he wrapped himself in a new banner: a New CRNC. Another domain was bought, and College Republicans were left wondering what this Smith guy stood for.
As a Christian, a conservative, and a Republican, I am all for conversions in faith and beliefs. One of the biggest goals of College Republican organizations across the nation should be winning hearts and minds with our proven message. True conversion is something that must manifest itself in concrete actions and not mere words. So when I see politicians converting from pro-life to pro-choice, and back again, simply for the purpose of winning votes and support, it disgusts me. I have seen this same convenient conversion, still a false change, in the evolving stances of Charlie Smith.
This pandering nature is something I have noticed for some time, and have remained quiet. Everyone should be given a chance to show themselves true, and so I have allowed this chance multiple times in Charlie Smith's case. Time and time again, we have seen him change his foundations to what is currently popular, seemingly for his own benefit. Though I have not met him, Michael Davidson appears to me to be a great diviner of character. You will recall that Davidson recently met for dinner with Charlie Smith, purportedly to discuss Smith's intentions of running nationally. You will also recall that Smith was sent away for want of solid evidence of his reformer stance. If Michael Davidson did not see him as a true reformer, I remain hesitant to as well. This upcoming CRNC election is far too important to choose a new Chairman based solely upon what a man may say. No, we must follow those who have backed up their words with actions, like at least three other possible candidates have. We cannot, and must not pick a man who does not even know where he himself stands. Charlie Smith, a man of many faces, is most definitely not the man for the job.
From here on out, Red State Rampage will pull no punches, because Charlie's third change was the charm. We need leadership with clear direction, not someone who is heading down three separate paths. We need a man who will stand up and fight for his beliefs, not a man wishing to be everything to everyone. The answer to the question, then, is that no one really can know who Charlie Smith is. One thing is certain though: until he makes up his mind, we should not be trusting him to lead us.
Decision from Derek Hall Tomorrow?
Sources say that a decision on whether to run for CRNC Chairman in 2007 may come from Kentucky's Derek Hall as early as tomorrow. Hall's name has been on the tip of many a College Republican's tongue in the past week as many wondered about the strength of the Draft Derek Hall movement. In the recent Truth Caucus poll asking which potential candidate one would support, Derek Hall came away with 42% of the vote, to the combined support of Real Reform principals Brian Siler and Brent Ludeman's 36% and Charlie Smith's 22%. Hall has always been seen as a reluctant candidate, but it appears that there is at least a decent-sized segment of grassroots College Republicans that would support his candidacy.
-In other CRNC elections news, Colorado's Charlie Smith has released a letter detailing a few of his proposals for reform within the CRNC. Smith states that his New Year's resolution for the CRNC is to bring reform to it, and several of the points he proposes mirror the platform outlined by Real Reform principals Brian Siler and Brent Ludeman, simply with slightly differed wording. If you would like to see the entire letter, please head over to Truth Caucus, where the letter is linked in its entirety.
-Finally, it appears that another Internet domain name has been purchased by the Smith Camp, and this time the website is NewCRNC, seen at www.newcnrc.org. The placeholder page that is currently posted is that of the Unite the CRNC logo from the previously purchased domains www.unitethecrnc.com and www.unitethecrnc.org. It was thought that the Unite the CRNC slogan was abandoned, but it has apparently found employ once again as a page marker. We will continue to follow the development of all domains purchased by the Smith Camp.
-In other CRNC elections news, Colorado's Charlie Smith has released a letter detailing a few of his proposals for reform within the CRNC. Smith states that his New Year's resolution for the CRNC is to bring reform to it, and several of the points he proposes mirror the platform outlined by Real Reform principals Brian Siler and Brent Ludeman, simply with slightly differed wording. If you would like to see the entire letter, please head over to Truth Caucus, where the letter is linked in its entirety.
-Finally, it appears that another Internet domain name has been purchased by the Smith Camp, and this time the website is NewCRNC, seen at www.newcnrc.org. The placeholder page that is currently posted is that of the Unite the CRNC logo from the previously purchased domains www.unitethecrnc.com and www.unitethecrnc.org. It was thought that the Unite the CRNC slogan was abandoned, but it has apparently found employ once again as a page marker. We will continue to follow the development of all domains purchased by the Smith Camp.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
CRNC & College Republican News and Notes
-The Open CRNC Finances Project has been quite some time in the works, but University of Florida College Republican Mike Zagorsky now has a website up at www.crncopenfin.com. It appears, at first perusal, to be very well organized and researched. Reports are available for all financial matters of the CRNC, using data from IRS filings from July 2005 until last month. The data is available in terms of donor information, expenditures, and financial summaries. We will be following up with Mr. Zagorsky on this apparent unbiased project (it is simply numbers, after all), and hope to publish an interview or statement of some sort in the near future. If you would like to assist him in the project, you can contact him by email.
-It appears that the principals behind Real Reform are set to announce another key supporting state chairman in the next few days, but we will not reveal which state they are from due to sensitive sources. However, the state will not be all that big of a surprise. This will bring the total number to 17 sitting state chairmen who support the Real Reform platform.
-If you have yet to read it, suggested reading at Red State Rampage is the interview we did with incoming Chairman of the College Republican Federation of Virginia, Jarrett Ray. Chairman Ray looks to do great things for his state in the upcoming year, and, for now, is not picking any sides in the national struggle.
-One final comment on the Draft Derek Hall blog, at least for now. Personally, I think whoever is writing the blog is doing a fairly solid job of promoting Derek Hall, but it is still only one man. I think that he did a great job in leading Kentucky, as I have stated before, and I would definitely have no problem with him running for CRNC Chairman come spring 2007. However, I am reluctant to start calling this one blog a "movement" or say that it is gaining intensity. A Derek Hall candidacy is not a new revelation, so I will not report it as such. And I am not going to inflect momentum into such an effort unless it is actually there. I am here to report the news and comment on it, not make up what I want to be the news.
-It appears that the principals behind Real Reform are set to announce another key supporting state chairman in the next few days, but we will not reveal which state they are from due to sensitive sources. However, the state will not be all that big of a surprise. This will bring the total number to 17 sitting state chairmen who support the Real Reform platform.
-If you have yet to read it, suggested reading at Red State Rampage is the interview we did with incoming Chairman of the College Republican Federation of Virginia, Jarrett Ray. Chairman Ray looks to do great things for his state in the upcoming year, and, for now, is not picking any sides in the national struggle.
-One final comment on the Draft Derek Hall blog, at least for now. Personally, I think whoever is writing the blog is doing a fairly solid job of promoting Derek Hall, but it is still only one man. I think that he did a great job in leading Kentucky, as I have stated before, and I would definitely have no problem with him running for CRNC Chairman come spring 2007. However, I am reluctant to start calling this one blog a "movement" or say that it is gaining intensity. A Derek Hall candidacy is not a new revelation, so I will not report it as such. And I am not going to inflect momentum into such an effort unless it is actually there. I am here to report the news and comment on it, not make up what I want to be the news.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Draft Derek Hall for CRNC Chairman
Just a couple of quick thoughts on the Draft Derek Hall blog that popped up earlier in the week that I wanted to pass along:
-Derek Hall was considered a front-runner most of the first half of 2006, and a run for CRNC Chairman looked increasingly likely heading into the fall. Then Kentucky Chairman Hall resigned his post to run a local campaign, and talk of such a move quieted considerably. This talk of a Hall campaign is not a new phenomenon, though.
-Hall was always seen as a reluctant candidate, one who did not necessarily yearn for the spotlight. He got things done in Kentucky, doubling the number of chapters and running his own field program. However, even given his track record of success and seemingly endless likability, Hall has never been an eager candidate. A draft movement with strong support and deep roots is probably the best way to convince him to run.
-There are a couple of key relationships to keep in mind when it comes to looking at a Derek Hall for Chairman campaign. First of all, Hall is close with Missouri's Justin Smith, an endorser of Real Reform. His replacement in Kentucky, Brian Weber of Morehead State, is also a public Real Reform supporter. Finally, Hall is reportedly close with Ohio Chairman (and Real Reform kingpin) Brian Siler as well. It is hard to see him striking it out on his own if these three are not behind it.
-Here is the bottom line, as I see it currently: there may very well be a continued presence of a Draft Derek Hall movement within this CRNC campaign, but I seriously doubt Derek will end up at the top of a ticket. More likely, instead, is a spot a bit lower on a ticket, more than likely whatever Siler and Brent Ludeman are hashing out. My personal hope is that Hall gets involved once again, hopefully on a national level, so that he can bring his leadership to a wider audience of College Republicans.
-Derek Hall was considered a front-runner most of the first half of 2006, and a run for CRNC Chairman looked increasingly likely heading into the fall. Then Kentucky Chairman Hall resigned his post to run a local campaign, and talk of such a move quieted considerably. This talk of a Hall campaign is not a new phenomenon, though.
-Hall was always seen as a reluctant candidate, one who did not necessarily yearn for the spotlight. He got things done in Kentucky, doubling the number of chapters and running his own field program. However, even given his track record of success and seemingly endless likability, Hall has never been an eager candidate. A draft movement with strong support and deep roots is probably the best way to convince him to run.
-There are a couple of key relationships to keep in mind when it comes to looking at a Derek Hall for Chairman campaign. First of all, Hall is close with Missouri's Justin Smith, an endorser of Real Reform. His replacement in Kentucky, Brian Weber of Morehead State, is also a public Real Reform supporter. Finally, Hall is reportedly close with Ohio Chairman (and Real Reform kingpin) Brian Siler as well. It is hard to see him striking it out on his own if these three are not behind it.
-Here is the bottom line, as I see it currently: there may very well be a continued presence of a Draft Derek Hall movement within this CRNC campaign, but I seriously doubt Derek will end up at the top of a ticket. More likely, instead, is a spot a bit lower on a ticket, more than likely whatever Siler and Brent Ludeman are hashing out. My personal hope is that Hall gets involved once again, hopefully on a national level, so that he can bring his leadership to a wider audience of College Republicans.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Real Reform adds another: Missouri's Burks signs on
Real Reform solidified their base of support within key reform state Missouri, who has the largest membership presence on Facebook according to Hotline with over 3000 members. Incoming Missouri Chairman Taylor W. Burks has signed on to Real Reform, ending any speculation that Missouri would be looking elsewhere. Here is a brief snippet of Burks' statement on supporting Real Reform:
"I understand the need for real change within the CRNC. Anyone can make off-hand promises and it's not enough to offer vague posturing on reform--we need Real Reform at the CRNC to make our organization strong and united. We need leadership that shows our federations and our party that CRs are to be valued and trusted. Brian and Brent offer that leadership and change that we need."
"I understand the need for real change within the CRNC. Anyone can make off-hand promises and it's not enough to offer vague posturing on reform--we need Real Reform at the CRNC to make our organization strong and united. We need leadership that shows our federations and our party that CRs are to be valued and trusted. Brian and Brent offer that leadership and change that we need."
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Kentucky CRs in the News: Weber joins Real Reform; Draft Derek Hall?
Kentucky's Brian Weber today became the latest state chairmen to announce his public support for Real Reform, saying that " [these] principles of reform...are crucial to the success of the CRNC." While Weber does not hold Kentucky's vote on the National Board at this point, he may well hold that vote following Kentucky Federation of College Republicans elections in the spring of 2007. Currently, the National Committeeman from Kentucky is Derek Hall, who retained that post upon his resignation from his office of Chairman earlier this year. Weber, who was the second-in-command under Hall, is serving the rest of the term.
Derek Hall is making other CRNC news as well, after a blog popped up earlier this evening urging College Republicans to "Draft Derek Hall" to run for National Chairman. Hall was considered a front-runner for the nod heading during the summer of 2006, and still would be a very viable candidate. At this point, though, it appears he is already backing someone, although we cannot say who until it becomes public. You certainly could do much worse than a Chairman Hall, in our opinion. We will keep an eye on this blog, and any other developments related to this story.
Derek Hall is making other CRNC news as well, after a blog popped up earlier this evening urging College Republicans to "Draft Derek Hall" to run for National Chairman. Hall was considered a front-runner for the nod heading during the summer of 2006, and still would be a very viable candidate. At this point, though, it appears he is already backing someone, although we cannot say who until it becomes public. You certainly could do much worse than a Chairman Hall, in our opinion. We will keep an eye on this blog, and any other developments related to this story.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
New Mexico's Marshall signs on to Real Reform
New Mexico's Dusty Marshall can be added to the growing list of people endorsing Real Reform, as he is now listed on the website as a supporter of Real Reform. It appears that Blake Harris of Alabama and Charlie Smith of Colorado have now joined the Support Real Reform Facebook group, as well, but there is no word on whether the two will be making any move further than this purely ceremonial gesture. Also, in a related development, it appears that the idea of a Unity platform is dead in the water, so you can scratch the two websites I told you about yesterday. It appears that this race will now be one run on records, since everyone is supporting reform like it is going out of style. Just my opinion, but it is tough to see Brian Siler losing a race purely on record (although a pure race is impossible to imagine).
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
BREAKING: Charlie Smith buys Unite The CRNC Domain
UPDATED 12.19.06 @ 11:30 PM)
(Note: I keep hearing that this was up on Truth Caucus a month ago, and it was not. No one has talked about him buying a domain for his campaign website, or linked to it. Yes, the worst kept secret was that Smith is running on a Unite the CRNC platform, but no one has said a thing about the website yet until today. Read the linked Truth Caucus post all you want; the fact is that this has not been covered. Get over it!)
Colorado's Charlie Smith has purchased two domains for his campaign, now in disarray following the recent endorsement of Real Reform by Michael Davidson. Both are displaying page holders for Unite the CRNC, and the domains are www.unitethecrnc.com and www.unitethecrnc.com, both of which direct to Unite the CRNC. We will continue to follow this developing story, as well as the apparent endorsement of Real Reform by Michael Davidson. Details will be posted as they become available.
UPDATED (12.19.06 @ 4:30 PM)
A few observations about Charlie Smith, that I have posted before or alluded to, but not all in one place. This is not a hit job, but simply a few observations I have made over the course of the past few months.
-The letter that Charlie released with 20 supporters signed on stated that he, "thanked Brian and Brent for joining the conversation." No one really talked about this wording, and while smart on his end, it is entirely false. Brent and Brian have been involved in the Reform movement for much longer than Charlie has been. Just the facts.
-A few weeks removed from the CRNC Board Meeting, a few things are more clear. Charlie Smith was clearly gearing up to make his campaign announcement, and then he stopped short of making it formal. What happened in Denver? Well, if you connect a few dots, like CRNC officials being none too pleased with Mr. Smith, Dan Schuberth not seeking re-election as Vice-Chairman of the Maine GOP, and only four reform states joining his Unity platform, one thing is clear. His support has been in a great deal of flux, and his establishment backing is not as solid as it was just one month ago.
(Note: I keep hearing that this was up on Truth Caucus a month ago, and it was not. No one has talked about him buying a domain for his campaign website, or linked to it. Yes, the worst kept secret was that Smith is running on a Unite the CRNC platform, but no one has said a thing about the website yet until today. Read the linked Truth Caucus post all you want; the fact is that this has not been covered. Get over it!)
Colorado's Charlie Smith has purchased two domains for his campaign, now in disarray following the recent endorsement of Real Reform by Michael Davidson. Both are displaying page holders for Unite the CRNC, and the domains are www.unitethecrnc.com and www.unitethecrnc.com, both of which direct to Unite the CRNC. We will continue to follow this developing story, as well as the apparent endorsement of Real Reform by Michael Davidson. Details will be posted as they become available.
UPDATED (12.19.06 @ 4:30 PM)
A few observations about Charlie Smith, that I have posted before or alluded to, but not all in one place. This is not a hit job, but simply a few observations I have made over the course of the past few months.
-The letter that Charlie released with 20 supporters signed on stated that he, "thanked Brian and Brent for joining the conversation." No one really talked about this wording, and while smart on his end, it is entirely false. Brent and Brian have been involved in the Reform movement for much longer than Charlie has been. Just the facts.
-A few weeks removed from the CRNC Board Meeting, a few things are more clear. Charlie Smith was clearly gearing up to make his campaign announcement, and then he stopped short of making it formal. What happened in Denver? Well, if you connect a few dots, like CRNC officials being none too pleased with Mr. Smith, Dan Schuberth not seeking re-election as Vice-Chairman of the Maine GOP, and only four reform states joining his Unity platform, one thing is clear. His support has been in a great deal of flux, and his establishment backing is not as solid as it was just one month ago.
BREAKING: Davidson Joins Up with Real Reform; Moffett Follows
Michael Davidson, unofficial leader of the CRNC, has joined the Support Real Reform group on Facebook. Lindsay Moffett, Tennessee CR Chairman and Maryville College student, has also signed on to the Facebook group. Developing...
Friday, December 15, 2006
Decisions, Decisions
As everyone is heading home to spend Christmas break with family and catch up with friends unseen in months, a few things are becoming more clear in the horseless race that is the CRNC election. First of all, I have surely focused on College Republicans all too much. An interesting topic it may be, and I will still cover it thoroughly, but broader discussion will once again rule the day, after the holidays. I also apologize for the utter neglect I have shown Red State Rampage over the past weekend, but sometimes family and their well-being simply must come before all else. Anyhow, without further bullshit, here are a few observations on the state of the CRNC:
-Nothing is certain. Nothing at all. Remember this, above all, in the coming weeks. Those who you think may be running for higher office may not be doing so at all in the end, and those who you thought were sitting this one out may wind up on a ticket after all. There is much fluidity in this race right now.
-No one is talking about Charlie Smith's meeting with Michael Davidson, at least publicly or on the record. Just my own observation here: if the meeting had went extremely well (i.e. an endorsement or an agreement of any nature at all) you would be hearing about it. It is very funny to me, though, that two years removed from the last National Chairman campaign, it is the defeated candidate who means more to this race than the one who got elected. This may go a long way toward my personal theory that the past election was not actually won, but Paul Gourley merely survived it.
-No one is releasing any new supporters at this point, but this does not mean there are no discussions taking place. The 15 odd chairmen who have not chosen sides are all holding out, and all are doing so for their own separate reasons.
-Neither of the sides in this fight will keep all of the states who have endorsed them. There will be battles to succeed a great many state chairmen, and there will surely be casualties. Do not be surprised at all to see a couple of sitting state chairs knocked off in re-election bids, but it will not be related to the national campaign. When you do not do the job you were elected to do, people will look elsewhere for leadership.
-There is a growing list of state chairmen not seeking re-election, and a couple of chairmen who are already stepping aside. Aside from Andrew Lamar (Virginia) recently completing his term, Missouri's Justin Smith has resigned due to graduation. Michigan's Dan Carlson, Arkansas' John Burris, and Colorado's Charlie Smith are all planning to call this term their last as well. At least one state chairman whom is definitely running for re-election is Florida's Scott Wacholtz, and many others will definitely be making decisions on that matter at hand very soon.
-There is a growing realization by the CRNC Executive Board that a mistake was made last spring in not recruiting friendly candidates in enough states. Do not be surprised if there is a complete reversal of this strategy come 2007. For the record, outside meddling in states is completely uncalled for, but it happens. Some may even deem it necessary. Be assured, that if Gourley and Co. come knocking in your state, the opposition will follow along like a pack of hungry dogs, and vice versa.
-From talking to all parties involved, there is a consensus that people want to see a clean campaign this time around. Everyone also agrees, generally speaking, that the moment someone fires the first salvo of grapeshot, the race will get very nasty in a hurry. Let us hope this does not come to fruition.
-CPAC will be back and better than ever, no doubt with many an open bar (this is a CRNC election year after all). Besides the three-ring circus that is the CRNC, there is another important race: the one to be the GOP candidate for President in 2008. There will be no shortage of fireworks, and if we at Red State Rampage see checks being tossed about in turn for support, we may just incite a riot or three.
-Campus activists everywhere are salivating at the prospects of the incoming Donkey-dominated Congress. As the Clinton's were to high comedy, so shall this Congress be to galvanizing conservative activists.
There will be plenty more news and commentary posted in the coming week, as well as our interview with incoming Virginia CR Chairman Jarrett Ray, so be sure to stay tuned. And whether it offends you or not, please consider this my personal wish to you to have a Merry Christmas!
-Nothing is certain. Nothing at all. Remember this, above all, in the coming weeks. Those who you think may be running for higher office may not be doing so at all in the end, and those who you thought were sitting this one out may wind up on a ticket after all. There is much fluidity in this race right now.
-No one is talking about Charlie Smith's meeting with Michael Davidson, at least publicly or on the record. Just my own observation here: if the meeting had went extremely well (i.e. an endorsement or an agreement of any nature at all) you would be hearing about it. It is very funny to me, though, that two years removed from the last National Chairman campaign, it is the defeated candidate who means more to this race than the one who got elected. This may go a long way toward my personal theory that the past election was not actually won, but Paul Gourley merely survived it.
-No one is releasing any new supporters at this point, but this does not mean there are no discussions taking place. The 15 odd chairmen who have not chosen sides are all holding out, and all are doing so for their own separate reasons.
-Neither of the sides in this fight will keep all of the states who have endorsed them. There will be battles to succeed a great many state chairmen, and there will surely be casualties. Do not be surprised at all to see a couple of sitting state chairs knocked off in re-election bids, but it will not be related to the national campaign. When you do not do the job you were elected to do, people will look elsewhere for leadership.
-There is a growing list of state chairmen not seeking re-election, and a couple of chairmen who are already stepping aside. Aside from Andrew Lamar (Virginia) recently completing his term, Missouri's Justin Smith has resigned due to graduation. Michigan's Dan Carlson, Arkansas' John Burris, and Colorado's Charlie Smith are all planning to call this term their last as well. At least one state chairman whom is definitely running for re-election is Florida's Scott Wacholtz, and many others will definitely be making decisions on that matter at hand very soon.
-There is a growing realization by the CRNC Executive Board that a mistake was made last spring in not recruiting friendly candidates in enough states. Do not be surprised if there is a complete reversal of this strategy come 2007. For the record, outside meddling in states is completely uncalled for, but it happens. Some may even deem it necessary. Be assured, that if Gourley and Co. come knocking in your state, the opposition will follow along like a pack of hungry dogs, and vice versa.
-From talking to all parties involved, there is a consensus that people want to see a clean campaign this time around. Everyone also agrees, generally speaking, that the moment someone fires the first salvo of grapeshot, the race will get very nasty in a hurry. Let us hope this does not come to fruition.
-CPAC will be back and better than ever, no doubt with many an open bar (this is a CRNC election year after all). Besides the three-ring circus that is the CRNC, there is another important race: the one to be the GOP candidate for President in 2008. There will be no shortage of fireworks, and if we at Red State Rampage see checks being tossed about in turn for support, we may just incite a riot or three.
-Campus activists everywhere are salivating at the prospects of the incoming Donkey-dominated Congress. As the Clinton's were to high comedy, so shall this Congress be to galvanizing conservative activists.
There will be plenty more news and commentary posted in the coming week, as well as our interview with incoming Virginia CR Chairman Jarrett Ray, so be sure to stay tuned. And whether it offends you or not, please consider this my personal wish to you to have a Merry Christmas!
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