Royal Oak Republican Women's Club - JANUARY 29, 2008 - with featured speaker:
DENNIS COWAN - Chairman of the Oakland County Republican Party
Former Mayor of Royal Oak Dennis Cowan addressed the Royal Oak Republican Woman's Club about the importance of Oakland County in the upcoming annual elections:
Dennis Cowan talked about the 2008 ElectionChanging demographics make it necessary for Oakland County Republicans "to play offense and defense" and "to take no precinct or office for granted."
That was the core message presented to the Royal Oak Republican Women's Club by Dennis Cowan, Chairman of the Oakland County Republican Party and former Royal Oak Mayor. Speaking to the audience gathered at Jimi's Restaurant, Cowan briefly described the political picture and the tactics and strategy needed to maintain Republican control of county offices.
Republicans lost two County Commission seats by a total of only 700 votes. "Get out and vote. Get your friends out to vote."
Don't think any district is "safe." Over several decades, Oakland County has gone from 70-30 Republican through 60-40, to 50-50.
Volunteer time or money or both.
The Party is working to establish a "brand," including a leadership-focused slogan and logo.
The defensive strategy calls for building firewalls to protect; the offensive strategy calls for selectively challenging what are considered Democrat strongholds.
Among the ground rules is "Thou shalt not speak ill of any Republican" because of disagreement over this or that issue or over several issues.
When the discussion turned to national politics (the Republican Women's Club does not endorse any candidate), Cowan shuddered when he relayed the speculation that if John Edwards endorses the winning Democrat candidate, Edwards will be named Attorney General. "That would be like having Geoffrey Feiger."
Before and after his presentation, Cowan reminisced and exchanged personal/family developments with many in the audience who have known him for a long time, including former City Commissioner Ilene Lanfear, who served while Cowan was mayor.
Club president Helen Cost opened the meeting with a little formal business like approving the minutes and the club's updated bylaws.--Jan 2008
This report was written and provided by Frank Versagi. The original notes and much more can be found at his website Versagi Voice (An excellent site for Royal Oak news information and commentary)