1976 to 2008 - The Rise & Fall of the Republican Brand

We always prefer the long view of data here at BRD. This latest summary of long term trends, by NYT/CBS News, tells the statistical story of the steady demise of Nixon's cynical Southern Strategy and Reagan's anything goes, unfettered greed - free-market, don't need no stinking federal government credo.

America has changed, perhaps a little bit older and wiser, after the last 8 years without adult supervision. The tarnished Republican brand is now owned and managed by CorpNews minions and sycophants: WSJ, Fox News, O'Reilly and Limbaugh, et. al. It is a dying brand. A death-spiral has already begun.

The party of Lincoln, Eisenhower, and Teddy Roosevelt has lost it's way.

We need a viable two-party system. Let's hope some intelligent and rational leaders step forward, and re-design and re-build the conservative movement. One based on shared American values, instead of cowardly "nihilists" , wishing for the failure of our country to achieve their political goals... or merely audience share points.

Marrow, Hart to Challenge Entrenched R's in 25th & 26th HD

cross-posted: Blue Commonwealth

From We Will Rock Dem

Troubles Brewing in the Red Zone More Valley Dems Join Attack on Republican Strongholds in 24th, 25th and 26th HD seats.

Dr. Greg Marrow, 44, of McGaheysville, said this week that he plans to challenge Del. Steve Landes, R-Weyers Cave, in the 25th District. Marrow, an optometrist in Harrisonburg, will seek the Democratic Party nomination.

Harrisonburg lawyer Gene Hart is a candidate for the Democratic nomination in the 26th House District now held by Del. Matt Lohr, R-Broadway.

Marrow, who spent 12 years in the Navy including the Reserves, said he plans to run on environmental responsibility and supporting "green" job initiatives.

Our economy has evolved to one dependent on services, Marrow said, but he favors a return to manufacturing by encouraging companies that take advantage of emerging alternative energy applications. "We do have the capacity to fill these empty warehouses with green technology," he said.

Gene Hart said he is running because he thinks the area can do better. "The Valley, especially our region, has not been well served by Republican control in the General Assembly". Hart chided local lawmakers, saying they appear more concerned about state politics than what is best for the region they represent.

Full story of announcements at DNR Online

Marrow and Hart join Jeff Price who is already underway in going after the 24th HD seat. There is talk of more Democrats entering the race for the 25th and possibly for the 20th HD seats.

Full disclosure - the author is the Democratic Nomination Committee chairman for the 25th HD.