Dispatches from San Juan

Advice to the Tea Party

We have talked about what the Tea party is and what it means for NJ Republicans.

Since many Tea Party people are new to politics and as I admire the core principle that the Tea Party stands for, smaller government I wanted to leave the Tea Party with some words of wisdom gained through over 25 years of experience in politics, running campaigns, raising money, holding elected office and studying politics and the lives of famous politicians. For purposes of this piece when I refer to “Republicans” I am referring to those Republicans who have not affiliated with a Tea Party Group.

1. Know this going in. Many Politicians will cynically use your group. Not all of them will be Republicans. Some will be members of your own group or people you think are your friends.

2. If you want a friend in politics get a dog.

3. Its OK to be used if you realize it. That’s because if you realize it you are probably getting something out of it in return. This means you are really using the person who is using you.

4. MANY Republicans who do not belong to your group sympathize with its goals. Do not automatically treat all Republican Party members and elected officials as the enemy.

5. There are a lot of empty county Committee seats. Volunteer to fill them. Most Municipal Chairman will be thrilled to get enthusiastic people.

6. Pick your Battles. Don’t try to take out every elected Republican in the next primary. Choose the worst ones and don’t spread yourself too thin. Patience is a virtue, especially in politics.

7. Realize there is no perfect candidate. I believe Ronald Reagan had an 80% rule. If you agreed with him 80% of the time that was good enough. That seems to me to be a pretty fair bench mark.

8. Anger and passion are not the same thing. Anger will alienate people and kill you. Passion will inspire people and enrich your life. Try to be passionate about your beliefs more than you are angry about your opponent’s.

9. Power does strange things to people. People you thought you could trust will betray you. It is inevitable. When it happens put it behind you and get back to work. Keep this in mind though; it’s OK to forgive but never forget.

10. Don’t let success go to your head. It will be your downfall if you do.