The Standard Examiner had a very interesting Op-Ed piece from Steve Olsen, the new Weber County Democratic Chairman and former Republican.
(See Here) Mr. Olsen mentioned a number of things that have been on my mind as of late with regards to the GOP. I didn't agree with all of Mr. Olsen's opinions but I did agree with his feelings the party has moved towards outrage and hate. I attended the Weber County GOP convention and chose to get involved in my Legislative District. But I have chosen not to post (until now) regarding my experience because of some inner feelings regarding what I experienced.
One constant theme of the meeting was of hate and outrage because of the Democratic majority in congress and our current president. Though I may disagree with the Democratic philosophy, I do respect the fact they won their elections. During Republican control we often played the part of the martyr. Every time we were attacked, we responded "typical Democratic move to attack the other side." We hinted to the idea we would never drop to their level. Now the tables have turned and so has our attitudes. This is part of Mr. Olsen argument, the party has begun changing for the worst.
I do not know Steve Olsen nor do presume to do so. But I agree the outrage and hate I am hearing from my own party has made it frustrating. Why does hate need to be theme of every meeting I attend or conversation I have? Why can't it be messages of optimism or strategy to improve the Grand Old Party.
Outrage has become the mother’s milk of movement conservatism. True believers can’t survive without their weekly dose of indignation.
Mr. Olsen sentences above are something that has really jumped out at me, for it is something I run into daily. Why is this hate so prevalent? I am reminded of what writer George Bernard Shaw said once, "Hatred is the cowards revenge for being intimidated." Is the reason for such hatred because of intimidation from the other side?
Don't get me wrong. I know vocal and forceful opposition is needed to help our cause grow. I am the first to criticize my leaders and say what I don't like, just read my blog. But there is a big difference between this and what I have seen as of late. I have seen people yell and scream about evil and Satan in government. How does this advance the party? How does this advance our cause? I love the party and am happy to be apart of it. Through college I considered myself a Democrat and moved more towards the middle as I moved to Ogden and a great man named Nolan Karras inspired me to full Republican membership. His spirit of working together and analyzing the situation for a better party and government is what has kept me going.
Our party needs to rise higher than before and stop hating if we are to succeed. Saying this is easier said then done. We may be losing great Republicans and even some soon to be Republicans because of our hate and outrage. Hate only spells failure in my book and I hope we are fighting for success.