“Ideas that matter,
since 1965.”

Edition
Vol. 41, No. 6

A Note from the Chairman Emeritus

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.

By Ripon Society

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.

By Ripon Society

“Why I Am A Republican”

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.

By Ripon Society

Why Lincoln was a Republican

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?

By Ripon Society

Running on Iraq

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.

By Ripon Society

The Youth Vote in 2008

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.

By Ripon Society

It’s More Than Just Words

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.

By Ripon Society

Why Silence can be Golden

In a campaign atmosphere like this, it may seem ridiculous to preach to the candidates the virtues of virtual silence.

By Ripon Society

Real Barometers of Success in Congress

Congress has been called the “broken branch” of our government. But is it still broken now that Democrats hold the majority on Capitol Hill?

By Ripon Society

Done on the Cheap

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.

By Ripon Society

Economic Diversification

We need to acknowledge that many families that play by the rules still run the risk of economic ruin.

By Ripon Society

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.

By Ripon Society

The Ripon Profile of Charlie Crist

We must govern with common sense, understanding that we are here to make a difference, not to mark time.

By Ripon Society

The Ripon Profile of Charlie Crist

Name: Charlie Crist

Hometown: St. Petersburg, Florida

Occupation: Governor, State of Florida

Previous Jobs: Attorney General, State of Florida 2002-2007; Commissioner of Education, Florida Department of Education 2000-2002; Senator, Florida Senate 1992-1998

Individual(s) who inspired me as a child: I am inspired by my grandfather Adam Christodoulos, who came to this country in 1914 from the island of Cyprus. He arrived nearly penniless at Ellis Island in New York City and worked hard as a shoeshine boy in Altoona, Pennsylvania. My grandfather’s legacy and love of freedom remind me that future generations in Florida will be shaped and inspired by decisions made today by state and community leaders.

Historical figure(s) I would most like to meet: Abraham Lincoln. He understood leaders must stay focused on serving the boss – the people. His words, “government of the people, by the people, for the people,” have timeless purpose for all who serve in a position of public trust.

Issue facing America that no one is talking about: While some are calling for action on climate change, I believe we must focus more on renewable sources of energy. During a recent trade mission to Brazil, I learned about the ways the country has reduced their reliance on other nations through ethanol production. Ethanol is cheaper and cleaner and can be produced in Florida from sugar or citrus waste. We can do more with less if we place more emphasis on alternative fuels.

What the GOP must do to reclaim its congressional majority: We must govern with common sense, understanding that we are here to make a difference, not to mark time. If we listen to the people who have given us their trust, we can do good rather than divide, and we can restore confidence in our party and the path we believe is best for America.

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