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For me and for many Conservatives, the GOP has crossed a line on many crucial issues and is wandering further beyond the point which we are willing to follow. We call to them, write to them, email and FAX them. We implore them to return to our core beliefs.

And when they fall on their swords for you...you don't turn out to vote. And you haven't since 1992. Everything you've gotten--and you've gotten a LOT, whether or not you're willing to admit it--is a gift. And as for calling, writing, and faxing--if you actually DID do that, you are the extreme exception.

I was a conservative GOP activist from 1994 to early 1996. My experience with "the base" was that they didn't want to be bothered with actually doing any heavy lifting between elections, but they wanted every single one of THEIR pet issues taken care of, and then they MIGHT bother to show up on Election Day, if it was personally convenient. In the wake of the 1995 budget deadlock and how the never-to-be-sufficiently-damned "conservative base" were complete no-shows, leaving Newt and company with zero support against a coordinated and effective Democrat attack, I was the lightning rod for the local GOP's frustration with their "base." The favorite quote about the "base" was Thomas Paine's famous quip about "Summer soldiers and sunshine patriots."

Either start showing up to vote, show up in between elections for the hard work, and generally act like adults--or get used to being ignored.

Poobah, I need the experienced advice only you can give:

If you get 7 Private messages in about 15 minutes ... is that a good thing? Context: I received 4 in the last 3 weeks.

I'm kinda new here, but somethings up. I'm going to the Canteen ... I need to be held! ;^)

And when they fall on their swords for you...you don't turn out to vote.

No one has fallen on their sword for me. Nor would I want them to. I want candidates who will stand on principle and thrust their swords through the heart of liberalism.

Further, I have voted in every election since I was 18 - my tubby little cubby all stuffed with fluff.

Everything you've gotten--and you've gotten a LOT, whether or not you're willing to admit it--is a gift.

I don’t consider “good government” to be a gift or entitlement bestowed upon me. I consider it a right. I right that I fight hard for.

My experience with "the base" was that they didn't want to be bothered with actually doing any heavy lifting between elections…

I regret to say this was my experience in the recent Illinois primary. I did the work of ten because nine could not be bothered.

"Summer soldiers and sunshine patriots."

Approriate quote.

Either start showing up to vote, show up in between elections for the hard work, and generally act like adults--or get used to being ignored.

Agreed. We have some common ground after all - my furry little friend.