Posted on 09/01/2007 11:18:33 PM PDT by anymouse
The Texas Straw Poll is one for the history books. The failure of the legislature to move up the Texas primary date, the scheduling of the event on Labor Day weekend and the first day of dove-hunting season, the limiting of participants to past convention delegates rather than Republican primary voters, and the lack of participation by the leading candidates all contributed to an extremely low turnout.
The event ended up being a showcase for Texas Congressman Ron Paul and California Congressman Duncan Hunter. Expectations were high for Ron Paul, and no doubt his supporters are disappointed by his third place showing. But Duncan Hunter, despite his lack of standing in the polls, gave an inspiring speech. And the fact that he took on the border problem in San Diego, got a wall built on the border to stem the tide of illegal immigrants, and was instrumental in the Secure Fence Border Act (which has yet to be implemented) made him a favorite with the grassroots of Texas. Here in Texas, the immigration issue rules. Memo to the other candidates: If you want to fire up the base, commit to securing our borders and our ports. Ordinary Americans are concerned about our national security. Congressman Hunter is right on this issue, and if he had the funding and the organization, he would go far. He also focused on the war on terror and the trade imbalance with China. The fact that China continues to capitalize on the trade imbalance and invests so heavily in military buildup is another national security issue, and one that needs to be addressed.
It is always good theater to attend a political event such as this, and the speeches of all five of the candidates were interesting. The fact that Senator Fred Thompson came in second and, since he is not yet an official candidate, did absolutely nothing to try to win this straw poll, demonstrates his undeniable appeal to the party faithful. And I would recommend that, as he officially launches his candidacy, he follow the example of Congressman Duncan Hunter and be a strong proponent of the Secure Fence Act. Those who say it will only be climbed over or tunneled under are missing the point. We have to close our borders, and a wall is the starting point. No system is perfect, but we must do something. It has helped curb terrorism in Israel, and it will help slow the illegal traffic of both humans, drugs, and terrorists into the United States. Just ask Duncan Hunter. It has worked in San Diego. And if you build it, Republicans will turn out to vote..
Denise McNamara Republican National Committee Texas
It’s over twice the size of a typical polling sample, so no, I wouldn’t say it’s a small number at all.
McCain’s explosion IS the story of the campaign so far.
So for our 'beloved' media the discussion propounds disenfranchisement. Which as most (or at least me believes, not anyone else I know) realize is the objective.
“Twice the size of a poling sample” doesn’t mean much. You know that the straw poll outcome doesn’t indicate Hunter’s statewide standing in the polls.
As I thought. You don't have it.
I provided sources, you didn't. You have nothing.
Keep telling yourself that over and over. It won’t make what you said true, but you’ll feel better, anyway.
It gives a very good understanding of who the active Republicans in the state are supporting. The sample was huge in polling terms and solely from Republicans active in prior elections. Duncan Hunter won.
With all due respect to a Hunter supporter who doesn’t badmouth the opposition, I believe that you are misinterpreting the outcome and attaching too much significance to it. We shall see.
As a matter of fact, Numbers USA had Hunter rated lower than he should have been when you look at the record. Thompson voted how he voted, Clara Lou, he was never strong on securing the border or other immigration issues. Now, if you got something else to prove otherwise, lets see it. If you’re happy that Thompson never saw securing the borders as that important, fine, you’re entitled to your choice for whatever reason.
Do you have a link to the article with that quote in it? I have searched my comments, keywords, etc., and I just don’t seem to be able to locate it. I want to post the context of the comment.
OK—thanks! 8-)
Support your posts with sources or accept the consequences. The reason Thompson hasn't come out is that his supporters can go on assuming that what's behind his fan dance is what they want to see. Once they get past denial and disillusionment, it will be too late for a true champion of national sovereignty to catch on. That's the real damage Thompson is doing.
I don't deny Thompson's communications skills, presence, and charisma. If he is the nominee, I will support him. However, besides his commitment to border integrity, what I question is his fortitude under pressure, which he failed to show when Chinagate landed in his lap. I think you're falling for another "conservative" illusion in the mold of George Bush. I think we can do better as long as we live up to the courage of our convictions.
Why should her remark reflect badly on Hunter? He didn’t say it.
It’s over twice the size of a typical polling sample, so no, I wouldn’t say it’s a small number at all.
Can anyone of you explain to me why a candidate for POTUS has an amateur in such an important position? This is the guy who said, "“The chances of Hunter winning the candidacy are about as good as pushing a string through a maze.”
Pissant, if you think that comment is out of context, please post it in context for us. Since you made that comment, I would think that you would want us to see the context.
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