M-O-T-I-V-A-T-E
Jonathan Pait
October 28, 2002
There are two sides to every story. Last week this space dealt with a perception that there is a lack of motivation among some Greenville County Republicans. It was pointed out that part of the responsibility for firing up these troops belongs with Mark Sanford.
Well, he's coming. The bus will roll on Upstate roads today. Now the question becomes what will the Greenville County Republican Party do to capitalize on Sanford's upcoming visit?
Every candidate has his style. Every local party organization has its culture. Sometimes these two may not mesh. It doesn't mean they are incompatible. It simply means that both may need to make some adjustments in order to get the job done.
One of the advantages that Mark Sanford has is his one-on-one charisma. Let the man loose in a crowd on a busy street and he'll have votes by the bushels. So, it is not without good reason that his campaign wants him in situations where he is "meeting the masses."
Could events be scheduled to create these kinds of situations? Not a coffee (he doesn't like coffee), not an executive committee meeting, not a power luncheon or members only meeting--but an invite the masses, meet the man, short speech event. Everyone leaves with a sign, a bumper sticker, and some phone numbers to call.
Well, Greenville Republicans will have that chance today. Mark Sanford and Lindsey Graham will be arriving in Greenville today at 2:30 p.m. You can be there to greet them at the Piazza Bergamo located at North Main and Coffee Street. Sure, its raining, but there will be some room in the Victory2002 headquarters. Hereís hoping the rain will stop pouring and the crowd will pour in. Either way, having an overflow crowd doesnít hurt!
Nine days. That is all we have to turn out the vote. Everything will go into high gear with 72 hours to go, but letís start picking up steam now. It is a close race and turn out is important. Clear your time for voting November 5th and encourage at least five of your friends to do the same. Have some fun. Get five of your Republican friends together for lunch or dinner, go vote and then celebrate. Help decide the future for South Carolina and help the local economy while youíre at it!
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