Editor, Gazette-Journal:

Unfortunately, many within the ranks of the Republican Party appear unable to shake the malaise of lethargy of the Republican Party’s nonchalance. I frequently hear Republicans lament the Tea Party and act as if the Tea Party is usurping the Republican issues, when in fact, the Tea Party could have formed a third party and possibly left the Republican Party irrelevant.

What many Republicans fail to understand and accept is the Tea Party has breathed new life into the Republican Party. The Tea Party movement is a direct result of a grassroots movement to restore American exceptionalism and values to the political process. Further, if the Republican Party fails to recognize the Tea Party as a legitimate grassroots movement, the Tea Party may well form a separate party where Republicans may well be the third party. I firmly believe that should the Republican Party rank and file continue its malaise of mediocrity towards American values and continues with business as usual when they regain power, a backlash will occur that may well sweep the current Republican Party into obscurity similar to the long-defunct Whig Party.

Should the Republicans follow the path of the 1994 Contract With America and its failed promise, rest assured they will hasten their demise. I continue to believe that a third political party is a spoiler and should be avoided. However, should the concerns of a large part of the electorate fail to be addressed by the current Republican organization, rest assured, the Republican Party may face a serious challenge.

I urge all Republicans to pay attention—the ‘Democrat’ Party has managed to alienate many within their ranks, and I cite those who categorize themselves as Byrd Democrats.

America is awakening to the new political reality; it would behoove the current Republican leadership to acknowledge the wellspring of American exceptionalism that is clearly awakening grassroots America. If the Republican majority in the House fails to recognize this, be assured the people stand ready to exert a simple reminder, a swift kick out of the halls of Congress. Pay attention, business as usual will not be tolerated.

Andrew Maggard

Port Haywood, Va.