Dakota Beacon

A quote attributed to Mark Twain in a New York Journal about his death, (which hadn’t happened) said, “The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated”.  This quote applies to the current perception of the NDGOP.   

While some of the establishment are crying that the party is falling apart, I believe Republicans are poised to sweep all seats in the 2024 election cycle.   Some would also have you believe that a small group of conservatives have taken control of the state GOP and don’t represent the majority of Republicans.  

I believe that is a false narrative, because Donald Trump will likely be the GOP nominee and will carry North Dakota with a 60% majority.  Why is this an important data point?  Because the majority of North Dakotans are fed up with the way Washington is operating and concerned the Republicans won’t speak or stand up.

Some of the concerns are out of control spending, high property taxes, protecting individual rights and giving in to the far-left agenda on social issues.  These issues have been in the GOP platform for decades.  

This is why conservative district chairman in the GOP were elected by a majority of Republicans in a majority of districts across the state.  Sandi Sanford was elected along with the entire party officer slate to represent those conservative values.  

I applaud that this past week the GOP rescinded the silly Code of Conduct implemented by the previous administration.  It is wokeness to the fullest.  The Code of Conduct also included reporting bad behavior to the state chairman.  It reminded me of the hall monitor in elementary school tattle tailing on something that happened in the hallway.  

The party is alive and well because many people across this state got off the couch and got involved in the political process.  

Why Republican party?  

Because the Democrats are irrelevant and out of touch in North Dakota.  The next point of frustration for conservatives.  Since Democrats can’t elect anyone in the state; many liberals or moderates run as Republicans.  

While I think it is important accommodate differing views, it is important to understand a political party has platforms and resolutions to define what they believe and stand for.  

Hence, why you choose which party to join. The previous administration has watered down the platform and resolutions so it doesn’t stand for much.  The rules and process have been changed so the establishment can better control the outcome.  It doesn’t include a broad enough base of grassroots input. They have become afraid of debate.  

As Senator Cramer has reminded me many times, politics is a contact sport.  If they can’t stand the heat get out of the kitchen.  

I applaud Sandi Sanford leading the charge at the GOP.  She is doing a great job!  

While some will try to persuade you, people are leaving the party; what's really happening is really a broad base of people wanting to give power back to the people.  

The establishments cry for unity is really a demand for conformity.

Gary Emineth is the former NDGOP state chairman and host of "Open Range" on BEK TV.