I have recently come across a website for Michael Starkman. He is running for Congress for the 4th District.
The 4th District... hmm....where is that exactly? Let's look at our handy map.
Damn! That has to be a tough district for a traditional Republican (ones not following EMT principles).
But at least we have someone running. A lot of times theGOP doesn't even have a warm body occupying a space in the election.
Then again this doesn't look very encouraging (from the FAQ on Starkman's website):
Didn't you run in 2006? What is different now?
In 2006 I was the campaign manager for someone running in Maryland's 8th district. Meanwhile, because no candidate had filed in the fourth district, Montgomery and Prince George's County Central Committees asked me to be their nominee for the upcoming election.
I was neither prepared or ready to run a competitive campaign but accepted the nomination to give voters a choice and begin the long fight to keep what is working in place and bring meaningful changes where we can do better.
Wait, what the hell? "I was neither prepared or ready to run a competitive campaign"?
Now look, this isn't Starkman's fault. He was... in essence, drafted by the GOP to fill that district spot.
But the fact that Starkman is running does point to the fact that the GOP in Maryland is completely leaderless and without a game plan.
I wish Mr. Starkman the best and I am impressed by his guts. However, real change in Maryland won't occur until the GOP leadership gets a clue.
3 comments:
James, in 2006 this point was mine to be made, and a I did.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3aclbrSE4Y
In 2008, however, things are different. Through my leadership we are building a strong organization that is recognized by the party leadership. If there is going to be change in the Black community, it is going to come in stages.
Currently, I am working with members of all communities to identify what is best for Maryland's working families and how we can bring those needs to the forefront of political consideration.
Finally, I do not understand why you left off the last line (the answer) to the "What is different?" question. The answer, for those that are not aware, is "Now, with a growing coalition of Republicans and conservative Democrats, I am ready and prepared to run a competitive campaign."
Starkman, thank you for replying.
Let me be clear. My post was not critical of you. In fact, I admire your guts for going head first into the race and saying what you believe.
My problem is with the state party as a whole. The fact that we need heroes like you to step up and represent the party shows the lack of organization the state leaders have to plan for upcoming races.
You are prepared now. But it seems to be me that you took it upon yourself to get prepared. From your blog it seems like the party didn't help you get prepared.
Good luck to you! Keep us updated here! We will be cheering for you!
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