Jan 21, 2021

Part One - Now What?

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After four years of controlling the White House and the Senate, Republicans are now left with little to no control in Washington...so now what?  Regardless of whether you believe the election was stolen, you believe President Trump hurt himself with comments, or you believe that McConnell sunk two Georgia races by not backing the $2000 stimulus, the fact is Republicans are on the out in Washington.  Across the country, Republicans are scratching their heads and wondering why.  Well, I could spend an entire article, possibly an entire thesis telling you why - at least my opinion as to why - but that does us little good now.  Now the party must consider what to do next. 

To simplify things, the party needs to enact a three-part plan.  If a plan is put in place, the party will have a chance of slowing down the Democrat machine, challenging it, and teaching the public about the Republican party.    

First, those Republicans in all states must maintain contact with federal representatives.  Even if your representative is a Democrat, you must let them know how you feel about issues, potential laws, changes, and especially the plans of President Biden.  This means you have to call, mail, and email your representative.  This is not the time to be running around going "Not my representative" or "Not my president."  Forget that- it looks great on a bumper sticker or as a campaign slogan, but sorry, no matter how much you chant it, say it, or show it, the bottom line is your representative may be a Democrat and your president certainly is a Democrat...get over it and get to work.  

When you call, email or mail your representatives, do not say such things as "I'm a Republican and I don't like 'XYZ'."   You need to stay completely out of party issues with your Democrat representatives.  If you start out with how you're such a "Fantastic Republican," your input will be regulated to the disgruntled constitute pile.  In other words, they will figure you're already set in your voting mindset, so why should they help you?  

Now, once you're past the "Proud Republican" moment, you need to be respectful and express your opinion or view on the matter.  Perhaps you can start out with something like, "Representative or Senator John, thank you for your service and dedication to our country.  I would like to discuss my views as your constitute on the issue..." By setting a respectful tone, you move your communication up the chain a bit - everyone likes to have their egos elevated and representatives and senators are no different.  

In the core of your communication, be direct and clear.   Let us say that the issue is gun control and they are considering a bill to raise taxes on ammunition from a federal point-of-view.  For this purpose, you need sound logic.  In your address, point out your concerns and make them the concerns of several people.  You might do something like this following the word "issue":

As you know bill 'XYZ' would raise taxes on ammunition across the board.  This increase in tax would be in addition to state and local taxes already in place.  By raising this tax, it will hurt local business leaders in pawn shops, sporting goods store, and even the local chain retailers.  While I understand the need to work and ensure these ammunitions do not fall into the hands of those intending to do illegal actions, this tax will ultimately hurt hunters, sportsmen, target ranges, high school shooting teams, and business owners all located in your district.  This issue certainly goes beyond the concepts of ensuring safe schools and public places.  If enacted, it will hurt your district from business, down to the regular consumer.  I would ask that you encourage debate, discussion, and if this bill goes through in its current form, then I would ask that you cast a vote on behalf of your district, your constituents and say "No".  

 While the letter above is just an example, please keep in mind that old saying - "You get more with sugar than you do spice."  At no point did I say, "You're hurting Republicans."  I kept it non-partisan in my approach and I was respectful.  Most importantly, I showed the representative that if he votes for this bill, he is not just hurting me, he is hurting a lot of other people.  Finally, I clearly showed him exactly who he will be hurting...his or her voters.  

Contact and active involvement, regardless of party, is the first step of the "Now What?" concept we are facing.  Look for Part Two coming soon and I will discuss "Challenging" the Democrat machine in Washington.  

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