The Key To 2016
By Dom Giordano
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- There is no magic formula for Republicans to win the White House in 2016. However, every time I have RNC Chairman Reince Priebus on my show we agree a key word is outreach. Outreach right now, every day in minority neighborhoods, college campuses and everywhere Republicans are not usually seen or welcomed.
The Republican who does this best is Senator Rand Paul. Paul spoke last Friday at predominantly African American attended Bowie State. He received several standing ovations. He did not compromise conservative principles but talked movingly about government intrusion in the lives of Americans.
He focused a lot on issues like civil forfeiture. He talked about Northeast Philly resident Chris Sourovelis who lost his home due to his son selling a small amount of marijuana off the back porch. He is doing a good job of linking issues like this to issues of liberty.
Paul did not attack the police and blame them for the criminal justice system. He also talked about the system needing to preserve families in order to stop more crime.
This approach by Paul really contrasts with the rest of the Republican leadership, which is reluctant to attend the activities remembering the heroism of African Americans who faced down racists on the Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama in order to win voting rights. Selma is exactly where Republicans should be.
I would argue that Philadelphia is also where Republicans must be. If Republicans can cut the Democratic wave in Philadelphia, we can win Pennsylvania. Winning Pennsylvania wins the White House.