[Consort]

And the "perception" that democrats and the left in general will support and defend them.

Yes, it's the same reason why African Americans support the party of slavery. Besides, the GOP does not effectively communicate across social, religious, cultural, etc lines. Bush is a rare exception, but one person alone can't do it all and a segment of the GOP doesn't want to do it. There is a strong negative perception that GOP is for bigots and religious zealots only.

[Valin]

Besides, the GOP does not effectively communicate across social, religious, cultural, etc lines.

Sometimes I think it's hardwired in. :-)
It's amazing when you talk to people about individual issues they agree with the consevative position. I don't know how many times I've had to break the bad news to someone that they are if fact an evil ultra-extremist right-wing republican.

[Arpege92]

I would like to think that black Americans are now beginning to see the BS coming from the Democrats. It's a slow process for a couple of reasons. Blacks who are Republicans tend to be outcasted by other blacks. Uncle Tom's, sell outs and every other nasty name in between is what is thrown at them.

I believe that black republicans are the only ones who can reach other blacks.