Much of the criticism is justified, but this may be the time to spread a word or two of praise toward both the Republicans and the Democrats in Moore County. The two parties recently held their county conventions, and on each occasion there was a changing of the guard.
GOP activists scold anyone who dares to suggest there is discord in their party. They rightly commend the party for allowing dissenters to express themselves. But after the Republican convention, one party leader was heard to wail that the party now suffers not only from a split but also from a split within a split.
The situation seemed considerably mellower at the Democratic convention. If there was dissension, it was not vocal, and there was only a sprinkling of “no” votes when it came time to elect new officers. Some abstentions were also noticeable. But, for the most part, the convention was almost a social event, albeit minus refreshments. (The Republicans did not serve snacks either).
More Alike Than Different
Party rhetoric aside, the two parties share almost as many similarities as differences — although their traditionalists would call that apostasy.
The similarities, despite denials from both sides of the aisle, include love of country and fervent desire for fair government. Ideology is not always such a big deal, despite the speeches, exhortations, accusations and name-calling. When you talk to individuals in the parties, you often find that there is not as much ideological difference as one might expect.
Supporters of third and fourth parties are quick to jump on that observation. Critics of both major parties lose no time charging that the Democrats and the Republicans long ago lost their basic ideals in an effort to reach out and embrace the views of a more diverse population. And the population is growing more diverse every day.
What many of us fail to recognize is the value of party leadership. Leadership comes with perks, but it comes with expenses in time and resources. Not only must party chairmen devote huge blocks of time, but it also falls their lot to soothe wounded feelings, stir up excitement about party candidates and platforms where there may be little, and raise money. And that’s money for which there is no tax deduction.
Combat Pay in Order?
The territory also comes with a heap of bureaucratic headaches. Party leaders face legal obligations unknown to the rank and file. Forms must be filled out for the state parties. Rules and regulations must be followed, and the parties are obligated to turn in detailed and accurate financial reports to comply with state election laws.
Congratulations go to Katharine McLeod, the new Democratic leader, and to John Owen, the new Republican leader. Grateful party followers should express thanks to the outgoing chairmen as well. Democrat Bill Newton was all smiles when he stepped down. Republican Elizabeth Kelly wanted to keep the chairmanship and lost by a handful of votes, but she worked hard and voter turnout reached its highest point during her tenure.
Though local party leaders receive no remuneration, both Newton and Kelly probably deserve combat pay. The work is almost full-time, and it’s not easy. Local party leaders have to satisfy their superiors at the state and national levels and follow a lot of rules, all the while endeavoring to keep the folks at home happy.
And in a county that claims almost 23,000 Republicans and about 17,000 Democrats, that’s a tall order.
