| The fact that the Republican National Committee is facing sharp criticism and tough financial times has been all over the news lately. But the problems don't appear to be particular to the national level. Republicans here in Montana are in a similar predicament, and that could pose some serious problems for them as they try to recruit candidates for the legislature. Problems of the "Hey, we really want you to run, but we don't have the resources to give you any help" variety.
RNC Chair Michael Steele has been criticized for depleting RNC coffers by two-thirds in a non-election year. Here in Montana, we find the same problem: the party had only $14k in the bank according to its last FEC report.
Michael Steele has been publicly wondering if Republicans were able to win or lead. Montana Republicans have also been publicly wondering about their leadership abilities.
In addition, Montana's GOP is facing massive turnover. They've had four different directors in a period of a little over a year. Between Oct 2008 and December 2009 Jake Eaton, Larry Grinde, Max Hunsaker, and now Gary Carlson have all (briefly) held the post. Not much seems to be going on. The most recent "news" listed on their website was from June 25, 2009
The lack of direction is also due to the fact that Republicans lack any statewide elected leaders beyond Rehberg, who isn't the type that can inspire others to get involved.
No doubt any potential candidates with half a brain will see this situation and think, "No thanks, not this year." |
