I find myself often torn between wanting to work within the Party apparatus or to rebel as an outside critic of it. As tempting and self-righteous as working as an outsider may be, to truly create positive change, one must get involved in their local party structure.
As a moderate, I know the challenges involved in many local GOP precincts. Many of these precincts are run and dominated by hard core right-wing activists bent on advocating for a very narrow and exclusive party doctrine. It's not unusual to be shouted down or ignored for having dissenting views as well.
Although intimidating as this can be, becoming part of the process has never been more important. Glancing at the many local BPOU websites throughout Minnesota, some contain language so extremely to the right it doesn't allow for open dialogue and has the ability to turn many moderate and open-minded Republicans away. Our fellow Republicans on the far right need to understand that we in the sensible center not only have a right to be heard, but by embracing us we become a stronger party. A stronger GOP is a stronger country.
So I encourage all of you that wish to see a Republican Party return to its core fundamentals of individual responsiblity and personal freedom to become an intregal part of your local GOP precinct. It starts at the grassroots level with you. We matter, so get out there and let your voice be heard!