Ripon Forum
Articles in this issue
A Note from the Chairman Emeritus
by BILL FRENZEL
Branding is one of the hottest buzzwords in advertising circles. It’s catching on in political circles, as well. It’s easy to understand why.
The Republican Party and the Black Vote – A Q&A with J.C. Watts
The former Oklahoma Congressman and Chairman of the House Republican Conference has some strong words for his party over its efforts - or lack thereof - to win support among African American voters.
“Why I Am A Republican”
by ORRIN HATCH, JO ANN EMRSON, CHUCK NORRIS, LYNN SWANN, HEIDI GANSERT, &FRANK GUINTA
Amidst efforts to rebuild the GOP brand, the FORUM asked prominent Republicans to discuss why they joined the party and the issues they believe will be critical to its success in 2008.
Why Lincoln was a Republican
by FRANK J. WILLIAMS
Abraham Lincoln's decision to become a Republican had a greater impact on the GOP than any other decision in the party's history. Why did he do it, and what does it mean to the party today?
Running on Iraq
by JOHN MCLAUGHLIN
All during the 2006 campaign, our Republican candidates for U.S. Senate, Congress and local offices knew that they were headed for the worst election for Republicans since Watergate.
The Youth Vote in 2008
by GARY L. ROSE
Fact of the matter is that the voting behavior of young persons between the ages of 18-30 will likely decide the outcome of the 2008 election.
It’s More Than Just Words
by LANDON PARVIN
The current problem is that many Republicans have chained themselves to a number of words that they use as incantations, somehow believing their repetition will guarantee them victory or protect them from defeat.
Why Silence can be Golden
by JOHN FEEHERY
In a campaign atmosphere like this, it may seem ridiculous to preach to the candidates the virtues of virtual silence.
Real Barometers of Success in Congress
by WILLIAM CONNELLY
Congress has been called the “broken branch” of our government. But is it still broken now that Democrats hold the majority on Capitol Hill?
Done on the Cheap
by DAN RATHER
It must be recognized that the idea of 24/7 news coverage counts for little without the will to make meaningful use of of all that time and, significantly the resources to make that will a reality.
Economic Diversification
by MAYA MACGUINEAS
We need to acknowledge that many families that play by the rules still run the risk of economic ruin.
Ripon Profile of Charlie Crist
We must govern with common sense, understanding that we are here to make a difference, not to mark time.
The Walls Have Fallen, but the Pillars Remain
by LOU ZICKAR
The mood is indeed grim inside the Republican Party. It’s grim because the party is living in the house that Reagan built, but it’s trashed the place and the walls have fallen down. And now the house needs to be rebuilt. It needs to be restored. It needs to be renovated.