Vice Chairman, Washington State Republican Party (WSRP). Director, RLC/WA.
I’ve been active in Washington politics for over a decade. For most of that time, my goal has been to help reform the Republican Party from within—to bring it back to its traditions of valuing individual liberty and free-market economics. This has meant staying true to RLC principles, openly and honestly, while earning the trust of all Republicans that I’ll help the Party expand its reach and win elections.
It’s been difficult at times. I was first elected Vice Chairman of the WSRP in 2014, during a hotly-contested special election. Then, I had to stand again a few months later during the Party’s regular organizational meeting. That election was even more hotly contested. I ended up being re-elected on the third ballot. By one vote.
So, the support of the great people of the RLC/WA has been essential. They’ve built the Caucus into an influential part of the WSRP.
Along the way, two important things have happened. First, RLC/WA members have seen first-hand that we can thrive in GOP leadership positions; this makes dealing with the chaff of Party politics easier. Second, Republicans who aren’t “liberty people” have learned that the RLC is an effective unit. We can form alliances without compromising our core values. And, when we make a deal, we usually win.
Which brings me to my last point: In Party politics—like all politics—success breeds more success. It’s remarkable how much more often we hear “I’m with you on this one,” now that people have started to realize that RLC positions win. Within the GOP…and among voters.