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Jan. 29, 2009--At the Republican
National Committee's Winter Meeting, RNC Chairman Mike Duncan is
seeking to continue leading the party. He faces four challengers:
Michigan GOP chair Saul Anuzis, former Ohio Secretary of State Ken
Blackwell, South Carolina GOP chair Katon Dawson, and former Maryland
Lt. Gov. Michael Steele.
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| Senate Minority Leader Mitch
McConnell (KY) warned that Republicans are in danger of becoming a
regional party. However, pointing to the election of Joseph Cao
to Congress from New Orleans, McConnell said "there are signs that a
revival is beginning to take place." Earlier members heard from
WSJ.com columnist John Fund. Fund said that, "It is only after
the Republicans lose a presidential election that the RNC becomes truly
relevant." Fund also signed copies of his book Stealing Elections: How Voter Fraud
Threatens Our Democracy. |
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The 168-member committee heard
reports from its officers. Members adopted two resolutions, one
honoring President George W. Bush and Vice President Richard Cheney,
and one opposing federal government bailouts. Chairman Mike
Duncan presented his report. Acknowledging that Republicans "took
a beating" in 2008, Duncan stated that "since then we've won
elections." He also pointed to the party's challenge of the
Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA) and to its new Center for
Republican Renewal. "The Republican Party is off the mat," Duncan
stated. He noted that the RNC has $13.8 million in cash on hand
and no debt, and he predicted that "the Democratic Party will choke on
the bone of responsibility." The five candidates for chairman
will participate in a forum this evening, and officer elections occur
tomorrow.
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