[kabar]

I am an active member of the Rep party and a Tea Party member who participated in a number of events including the 912 march in DC as well as the subsequent rallies on the Hill. There are many Libertarians in the Tea Party movmement as well as independents.

The biggest divide I have personally seen between Conservative Reps and some Tea Party members is on social issues such as abortion, legalization of drugs, etc. The common ground is on reducing the size and scope of government, curtailing spending, lowering taxes, and a return to the vision of our Founders and the Constitution.

The GOP must adapt to the Tea Party movement on the core issues and not demand any kind of litmus test outside of that if we want to limit the possibility of a third party movement forming. The GOP must tap into the energy and organization of the Tea Party movment, which really has no hierarchical leadership structure, just a shared vision animated by an anti-incumbent fervor.

[rodguy911]

My guess is that we are not looking at a third party play right now. What do you think?

[ROCKLOBSTER]

The GOP must tap into the energy and organization of the Tea Party movment, which really has no hierarchical leadership structure, just a shared vision animated by an anti-incumbent fervor.

And they don't need them to register R, just their vote. Whether the GOP can retain their loyalty is up to them.

I'd think their success would promote it.