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The Republican Gazette 
"The WVGOP -- Say What You Want, But We're Never Boring!"
MONDAY JANUARY 12, 2009
Berkeley GOP
commends
McKinney in
proclamation
The Berkeley County Republican Executive Committee on Saturday unanimously passed a resolution commending state GOP Chairman Doug McKinney, and also authorized a contribution of $1,000 to the state party. Read more here.
Center-Right Coalition meeting tonight
(From the Center-Right Coalition) The next meeting of the WV Center-Right Coalition will be held Monday, January 12, at 7:30 p.m. at the Kanawha City Shoney’s (3600 MacCorkle Ave. near the 36th St. Bridge 304-925-2127). “Social Hour" and/or dinner will start at 6:30 p.m. Gary Abernathy, returning Executive Director for the West Virginia Republican Party, will be providing an update on the GOP, where we are, the challenges we face, where we are going. If you are representing a group or organization, you are welcome to give a brief update on your group's activities. You are also encouraged to bring any hand-outs you would like to share with the coalition. You will need approximately 25 copies.The best TV on television
'24' comes back, but will it get soft on us?
After missing a season primarily due to the writere's strike, "24" returned to television Sunday and will continue its four-hour premier with two more hours tonight. The Fox drama has long been one of the best and most exciting shows on television. Its portrait of counter-terrorism agent Jack Bauer has often included a "whatever it takes" attitude in keeping the nation safe from those who would attack us. Bauer's tactics have often included torture, much to the chagrin of liberals.What will be interesting will be to watch whether Barack Obama's presidency will lead "24" to get soft on us, with Jack Bauer beginning to question his own methods. We shall see. Looking forward to Jerry West's autobiography
Jerry West is one of my sports idols, so it's with great anticipation that I look forward to a new autobiography he says he is writing.West told a Los Angeles Times sports blogger late last year that, "It's going to include the things that made me borderline insane at times. It will be honest. I'm a complex person. Nothing has ever satisfied me. That's just who I am."What will make West's bio particularly anticipated will be that he has been a reticent interviewee throughout his life and career. If he decides to open up in his own words, it should be a treat for sports fans in general and especially West Virginians.County chairs asked to share activities
The Republican Gazette is owned, operated, written and edited by Gary Abernathy, and does not represent the views of any other person or organization, except for guest commentary signed by other contributors.
Republican county chairs from across West Virginia are being invited to share their activities over the past campaign cycle for a report at the West Virginia Republican State Executive Committee meeting on February 21st in Charleston.Summers County Chairman Joe Garcia, who is chairman of the county chairs, is asking other chairs to share their activities, whether they range from contributions to candidates to door-to-door canvassing to get-out-the-vote efforts or local or regional advertising on behalf of candidates. The reports will be shared with other chairs and committee members from across the state. Chairman Doug McKinney will also be sharing a detailed report on his own activities over the past campaign cycle. Stuart Smalley joining the U.S. Senate
Al Franken as
Stuart Smalley
A sure sign that the end times are upon us is the election of Al Franken to the United States Senate. Franken, a longtime comedy writer for "Saturday Night Live," is probably most famous for portraying insecure self-help guru Stuart Smalley. By a margin of about 200 votes, Minnesotans have determined that he's good enough, smart enough, and doggonit, people like him. God help us. WEDNESDAY JANUARY 14, 2009
Delegates Craig Blair, left, and John Overington chat after the meeting Monday of the Center-Right Coalition.
As GOP finds its way, it will continue to be the 'right' party
It was my pleasure to speak on Monday evening to a meeting of the local Center-Right Coalition in Charleston.Delegate John Overington is the current leader of the group, and seven other current GOP lawmakers also attended. The rest of the group was comprised of an interesting mix of area Republicans and independents, as the coalition is officially a non-partisan organization.
My topic, of course, was the West Virginia Republican Party, and when the floor was opened for discussion, a lively and productive conversation ensued. Since the rule of the coalition is that its meetings are off the record, I have to decline sharing specifics of what others had to say, but suffice to say the Republicans who were present are anxious to get on with the business of growing the party and putting into place the mechanisms necessary for future victories. The lessons of the 2008 campaign are not lost on anyone, and the need for a strong and vibrant GOP to assist candidates in future elections is paramount.As I shared with those in attendance Monday, rebuilding a state party does not require any particularly new or flashy innovations. A party doing its job is a party dedicated to basic nuts and bolts -- raising the funds it needs, creating a ground game in every county, developing a get-out-the-vote army of volunteers, recruiting candidates, making good use of voter files, and working with officeholders, county chairs, candidates and activists to develop and effectively deliver a consistent and winning message to voters and the media. There are any number of ways to get there, but they all depend on a daily dedication to the cause and a steady diligence in the often tedious work required to make it happen. Simply put, no matter what the specific plan might be, the most important key to success is hard work on the part of dedicated people all over the state -- people who are young, old, and in between, but all motivated by something in which they fervently believe.Right now, the Republican Party is in the midst of defining its future. At the national level, the current battle to see who will be chairman of the Republican National Committee is being waged by candidates for the office all presenting their vision for the party and their plans for carrying out the mission. But virtually all the candidates find themselves in agreement on one important point -- the party must stay true to its conservative core, and find new ways to make that conservatism relevant to a changing world.Later today, the WVGOP is unveiling a new website called the WVGOP Think Tank. The new website will be a forum for the marketplace of ideas to compete, with contributors sharing their thoughts on the challenges we face and their vision for the future of the party. The Think Tank concept will be taken directly to Republicans around the state via a series of regional roundtable discussions open to everyone who wants a voice in shaping the party.On Sunday, Charleston Gazette political columnist Phil Kabler wrote about the GOP, and unintentionally (I think) lobbed one of the biggest insults my way that anyone could level -- he insinuated that I was a moderate. Anyone who knows me or has read the pages of this website for the past three and a half years could hardly reach that conclusion, I think. But I will say that while I'm about as right-wing as you can get on the social and economic issues, I may be more moderate than some in my approach. In other words, I don't despise those who disagree with me on those issues, or consider them evil for having a different point of view. I just consider them wrong.But I am in the camp of those who believe that one of the most important things we must do as a party is rededicate ourselves to being the conservative party, clearly differentiating ourselves from the increasingly liberal Democrat Party. Even in West Virginia, where many consider the Democrats to be rather conservative, their leadership is increasingly being taken over by the Big Labor and liberal elements of their party. I was never a big fan of the term "compassionate conservative." Such a label insinuates that plain old conservatism is somehow too mean or nasty, when in fact it is liberalism that lacks compassion because it attempts to convince people that there is no need for personal accountability and that it is better to look for Big Brother for the answer to their problems than to their own initiative. What could be more cruelly misleading?President Bush has been spending his final days in office warning his party not to retreat within itself, and to try instead to build a bigger tent. I plan to write more at length about the president and his legacy in a few days, but it is safe to say that conservatives feel let down by him in many areas, not the least of which is in regard to the various government financial bail-outs, as well as his take on immigration. (However, Fred Barnes offers an excellent article on ten things Bush did well, and you can read it here.)The Republican Party has always succeeded best when it has devoted itself most to its core conservative principles. Being Democrat-lite is seen for what it is -- a pale imitation of the real thing, and a false choice. Only when we define ourselves and our philosophy clearly and unapologetically will voters rally to our side. WV Dems pushing for bill that will lead to voter fraud
Democrats in the West Virginia legislature are crafting a bill designed to allow for "same day" voter registration, which would allow unregistered voters to show up on (or near) Election Day, register, and cast their votes.Such an effort is a favorite goal of Democrats across the country, who typically fight against any plan that requires voters to prove they are who they claim to be, either by producing a driver's license or other form of identification. Requiring that those who would cast a vote in a U.S. election demonstrate they are legally situated to do so seems a strange idea to oppose, but Democrats find ways of justifying exactly that.One of the main problems with the plan, aside from the obvious, is that county clerks have no way to conduct on-the-scene cross-checks to make sure voters who register and vote on the same day are legal residents, or have not already voted elsewhere. Reportedly, Democrats are moderating their original plan to allow people to "register" on Election Day itself, and are "compromising" by backing up same-day registration to three or four days before the actual election, but still during "early voting." Either way, its a recipe for fraud, confusion and controversy -- in other words, Democrat Heaven.It will be interesting to hear what incoming Secretary of State Natalie Tennant thinks about the new bill. Will she side with her party, or protect the integrity of elections? Alexander finding NBA difficult change
As an NBA fan, I've followed Joe Alexander's entry into the play-for-pay league with interest.I wrote last June, "The difference between college basketball and the NBA is the difference between paintball and the war in Iraq. Players who think they are ready to make the jump before completing their senior year almost always spend the first two or three years riding the end of the bench, and often failing to ever develop their full potential."After playing good minutes for the first month or so, Joe has lately found his court time diminished and his name in trade rumors. Another year at WVU could have made a big difference.THURSDAY JANUARY 15, 2009
(Press Release) The West Virginia Republican Party on Wednesday unveiled a new website featuring commentary from Republicans around the state offering their perspectives on the future of the Republican Party.
DOUG McKINNEY
WVGOP unveils new 'Think Tank' forum for input
Www.wvgopthinktank.org, kicks off with articles from Republicans ranging from state lawmakers to county chairs to state committee members and activists. Also featured is a WVGOP Speakers Bureau.Dr. Doug McKinney, chairman of the WVGOP, said the new site will be an evolving entity updated frequently with new columns and other information. “This is a starting point for the conversation about our purpose and our future,” said McKinney. “The Republican Party is having similar discussions all across the country. By creating new ways for their voices to be heard, we’ll make sure that Republicans everywhere will be able to offer their thoughts and advice on the direction of our party, and how best to achieve victory in future elections.”McKinney said the state party will also initiate a series of regional roundtable discussions across West Virginia seeking input from Republicans in all parts of the state.“We know Republicans face different challenges in different regions,” said McKinney. “By encouraging input and holding face to face roundtable meetings, we’ll determine how the state party can best meet the needs of our GOP officeholders, officials, candidates and activists. Communication is the first key toward building a roadmap for victory.”Why do Republicans keep trying to win in WV against all odds?
Frustration is easy to give into, but the reasons to keep fighting on are many
I always enjoy it when the Republican lawmakers come into Charleston from all over the state, whether for interims, which concluded for January on Wednesday, or for the regular session. Their presence energizes me and helps remind me why we keep fighting on against all odds, and even sometimes against a few negative forces within our own party.I love Charleston, and the people here. But it's easy to fall into a "Charleston mindset" and forget that the rest of the state is not so inwardly focused.I've always admired the GOP legislators from the Eastern Panhandle. First, they are among the best fighters in the caucus. Second, traveling to Charleston is a major journey, so choosing to serve is a major commitment of time and resources. You really have to be devoted to what you believe to take on that responsibility.They get frustrated. I've heard more than one of them question whether it's worth it, and threaten not to run for reelection anymore. When they say getting defeated could be the best thing that could happen to them, they're not just blowing smoke. They mean it.I know how they feel. But the fact, is, it's worth putting up with a lot to keep fighting to win in West Virginia. Here are five reasons why.1. The people of West Virginia deserve a strong two-party system. Without it, the Democrats will not be held accountable. Power corrupts. Absolute power corrupts absolutely.The state cannot afford to let the Democrats have absolute power.2. West Virginia wants to vote Republican. They keep flirting with it every election. Registered Democrats are increasingly casting their votes for the Republican for president, and even for Congress in the 2nd District,, but then they get nervous and switch back to the D side. They're still fickle, but they're being tempted. If the GOP keeps wooing them, they'll cave eventually.3. The GOP keeps winning on the issues, if not at the ballot box. Every year, legislative ideas that originate with Republicans are co-opted by the Dems and claimed as their own. From tax cuts to crime bills, the GOP influence is carrying the day. Without a strong Republican presence, Big Labor and the wacky left would exert its influence even more and enjoy much more legislative success. 4. When we field candidates, voters elect them. In 2002 and 2004, when the GOP made its best gains in recent history, it came about after a concerted effort to fill, or almost fill, the ballot with Republican candidates. When candidate recruitment was less in 2006 and 2008, it showed in the results. Voters can't vote for a candidate who is not on the ballot. The GOP must remain dedicated to performing one of its most fundamental duties and give voters the chance to vote for change when they're finally ready for it.5. A national GOP resurgence is almost a given, and in West Virginia, the Republican Party must be prepared to take advantage of it. The total Democrat control by Barack Obama, Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid is almost certain to lead to the quick enactment of a far left agenda, which will be particularly insulting to coal-friendly, God-fearing West Virginia and other states with traditional conservative leanings. The voter backlash will be just as quick and sure, and will filter down ticket. When voters in West Virginia send an even stronger anti-Obama message in 2012 than they did in 2008, a strong ticket of Republicans will be the beneficiaries, in every race from governor to dogcatcher. We must be ready.I do not believe West Virginia will always be held in the grip of the status quo. The GOP's day is coming, and when it does, those who have persevered will finally see their patience rewarded.Giving up, and giving in, is easy, and it's always tempting. But the best things in life are usually those which are the most difficult to achieve. Fight on. Being in the majority will even make that five-hour drive from Martinsburg seem short.Osama bin Laden, political commentator, weighs in
He may never have been captured, but one-time terrorist turned political commentator Osama bin Laden said this week that "the new U.S. president would inherit the 'heavy legacy' of a long guerrilla war that would widen to more fronts."Virtually none of bin Laden's utterances have come to fruition, giving him roughly the same accuracy rate of most political commentators. Bin Laden has been reduced to issuing his statements from a hiding place -- his reportedly somewhere in a cave along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. Like a malfunctioning cuckoo clock, he emerges semi-regularly to stick his head outside, say something mean or threatening about the United States, then duck back inside for cover.White House spokesman Gordon Johndroe (how close are we to the end of President Bush's term when the White House spokesman is Gordon Johndroe, God love him whoever he is) said of bin Laden, "It appears this tape demonstrates his isolation and continued attempts to remain relevant at a time when al Qaeda's ideology, mission, and agenda are being questioned and challenged throughout the world." According to news reports, "Intelligence agencies believe al Qaeda has been trying to establish a presence in Gaza, but has met resistance from the ruling Hamas Islamist group. 'Other players are more relevant to what is happening in Gaza,' a U.S. counterterrorism official said."Bin Laden may be at large, but he has lost even the appearance of importance, and his pronouncements barely warrant more than a few paragraphs on the back pages of most newspapers. The once powerful terrorist is slowly fading into oblivion, reduced to begging for attention with outrageous claims and predictions, but no ability to carry them out. He would be an object of pity were he not so malevolent in his intent and his history.
The Hillary Plan
The next Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, said this week she wants to reach out to Iran, create new contacts with Syria, and pull out of Iraq -- or, as it's also known, cater to our enemies. God help us.
FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2009
Gazing into the crystal ball for when Supreme Court rules on Benjamin case
Some in the media are breathlessly awaiting the ruling by the United States Supreme Court on Harman Mining's appeal of a case against Massey Energy where Harman is asking the high court to overturn a decision by the West Virginia Supreme Court because Justice Brent Benjamin did not recuse himself.
Here's a look at how the court's eventual decision will likely be covered.If the court sides with Harman:Charleston Daily Mail, page one, 36-point headline, middle of page across three columns: "Court says Benjamin erred." Subhead: "Harman wins appeal of Massey case." State Journal, page three, 26-point headline: "Massey stock drops as court sides with Harman."Charleston Gazette:, page one, 72-point headline, top of page across all columns: "Court slaps down Benjamin!" Subhead: "Impeachment proceedings likely in House of Delegates." Lead editorial: "Benjamin must go!"If the court sides with Massey:Charleston Daily Mail, page one, 36-point headline, middle of page across three columns: "Court says Benjamin right." Subhead: "Massey verdict upheld."State Journal, page three, 26-point headline: "Massey stock rises as court upholds verdict."Charleston Gazette, page six, 18-point headline under "News In Brief" column: "GOP court sides with Blankenship." Lead paragraph: "The U.S. Supreme Court, made up primarily of justices appointed by Republican presidents, yesterday upheld a verdict favoring Massey Energy despite Justice Brent Benjamin's refusal to recuse himself in the wake of Massey CEO Don Blankenship's $10 trillion donation to his campaign." Lead editorial: "Court says corruption OK! Bush still sucks!"BRENT BENJAMIN
President Bush during a campaign stop in Martinsburg, with Delegate Jonathan Miller behind him.
Bush's tenure ends with a whimper, luckily for all of us, not a bang
There is no need to write a lengthy treatise on the presidency of George W. Bush. That America has not suffered a terrorist attack since Sept. 11, 2001, is the reason President Bush's tenure in the White House should be regarded as a resounding success.The economy's in the tank? It will recover. Needed reforms on Social Security and immigration failed? They'll happen someday, out of sheer necessity. His low approval ratings, Wall Street collapse and the war in Iraq led directly to the Democrat takeover of Congress and the presidency of Barack Obama? Republicans will be back on top soon.After the terrorist attacks of 911, virtually no one believed we would not be similarly -- even more horrifically -- attacked again. That it has not happened is a direct result of the dedication of President Bush to making sure it did not happen.Quibble with his methods if you want. Decry wiretaps, eavesdropping and torture of suspected terrorists if you so choose. There is only one thing that matters -- we're still here. The economy, the myriad social issues we do battle over daily -- none of it matters at all if our major cities or regions are decimated or destroyed by terrorists, with millions dead. Whether Barack Obama can do the same if he follows through on promises to roll back Bush-style methods will be the only test of his presidency that really matters at the end of the day. It is doubtful. But let's hope. 
