President’s Message: The Tide is Turning
The tide is turning. We’ve had solid victories electing 2 Republican governors (Virginia and New Jersey) and the new REPUBLICAN senator from Massachusetts, Scott Brown. However, we must not be cocky or complacent. As I said in a recent email: “It ain’t over until the fat lady sings, and she’s not singing until November 2010; and she’ll still have one more high note in November 2012.” Once the primary is over, the push to November begins and our job as Republican Women is to continue to educate and reach out to those who are unhappy with the Democrat policies and the direction of the country and bring them into the Republican Party. I am encouraged that so many who have never taken a real interest in politics have found their voices. An engaged, EDUCATED electorate is what we need. When you educate yourself as to the issues and where the parties and the various candidates stand on those issues, you are empowered. Each of us influences a group of people who ask our opinions and advice. And if you are able to influence how those people vote because of your knowledge, you can make a difference because you not only influence their vote, they will also pass that information along to their friends. This is how elections are won. Think of how the Mighty Texas Strike Force has been able to help Republican candidates in other states in past general elections.
During this primary season, I encourage everyone to support the candidates they believe are the best candidates and are the best voice for and representative of the Republican Party’s positions. But please do so in a positive manner. We damage the Party when we slam other Republicans. We should be able to articulate why our candidate is the best choice without resorting to smearing their opponents. And smearing another Republican certainly gives ammunition to the Democrats who are circling like sharks these days here in Collin County. You can rest assured that this kind of negativity can come back to haunt us in the fall. My personal opinion is that if you can’t win on your own merits, you aren’t going to get my vote.
On another note, I just returned from the first quarter meeting of the TFRW board in my capacity as the District Director for SD 8. We elected 3 Members-At-Large to serve on the TFRW Executive Board: Sylvia Manley, Jeannee O’Neill and Judy Prada. And we approved the TFRW budget, among other business matters. I will be sharing additional information regarding their board positions with our board members The highlight of the trip, however, was getting to hear Dana Perino from Fox News and former press secretary for George W. Bush speak and she was introduced by Karen Hughes. She regaled us with some great stories about President Bush as well her colleagues at Fox News.
Early voting starts February 16th and Tuesday, March 2, 2010 is primary day. Cast your vote wisely!
Catherine Gibb