Today, we close ranks

"Let's grow up Conservatives. If we want to take this party back, and I think we can, let's get to work." - Barry Goldwater, 1960 Republican National Convention

OK folks, the primary here in Maryland is over. The two most contested races that we have seen are over.

John McCain will be the Republican standard bearer for President in the 2008 Election.

Andy Harris is the Republican nominee for Congress in the 1st Congressional District.

We have seen a lot of fur fly over the past year, particularly between the warring factions in the 1st District Scrum. But if we are serious about being a viable party in Maryland, if we are serious about preserving the voice of conservatism for the long haul, and if we as Republicans in the state of Maryland are in it to win it, today we close ranks around John McCain, Andy Harris, and our other Republican candidates. Starting today, we must stand united behind the nominees of our party and start working together towards the 2008 General Election.

Some may not be happy with the nominees. Some people may have had their feelings hurt. But like they say, politics 'aint beanbag. Today, we invoke one of Ronald Reagan's other famous sayings:

The person who agrees with you 80 percent of the time is a friend and an ally — not a 20 percent traitor.

Maryland....let's get to work.