Another example of what's wrong with politics

Three Republicans in Tennessee chose to attend a fundraiser for the Democratic Lt. Governor of the state. Check out the state TeamGOP's response:

TeamGOP Board members Jeff Ward and Reuben Watkins today called for a public apology from Republican State Senators Curtis Person of Memphis, Mike Williams of Maynardville and Tim Burchett of Knoxville for "working against the interests of the Tennessee Republican Party and thousands of Republicans across the state."

Jeff Ward said, "This past Thursday while many Republicans were working the polls trying to elect Republicans to office, these three State Senators were helping Governor McWherter and Speaker Naifeh raise money at a $1,000 per plate for the re-election of Democrat Lt. Governor John Wilder. This is a slap in the face to grassroots Republicans."

He said, "Perhaps the worse kept secret in state politics these days is the significant investment in time, money and support of Ron Stallings to defeat Wilder. The state party, Tennessee Right to Life, TeamGOP and several Republican groups led by local County Republican Parties have greatly invested in defeating John Wilder.

"With the concerted effort by Republicans to take control of the State Senate these three Senators, Person, Williams and Burchett, are putting their own selfish interests ahead of the Republican Party and its principles."

(snip)

Mr. Ward said, "Republicans do not tolerate other Republicans who play for the opposing team. The good people of East Tennessee rewarded Senator Clabough for his actions over the last four years by voting him into obscurity. Sens. Person, Williams and Burchett should endorse Ron Stallings and apologize to Republicans across the state. If they choose instead to stand with the Democrats...perhaps they await their own fate of being 'Claboughed.'"

You will notice nothing in their remarks about what is best for the people of Tennessee. There is nothing that celebrates the three state Senators ability to think on their own and make their own decisions. According to Tennessee Republicans, it is all about kowtowing to the party line and doing what the party thinks one should do. Apparently you can not have Republican ideas and support a Democrat in Tennessee without being threatened by your own party.

It boggles my mind.