Writer says North Carolina
Republican Party softens its stance on gaming at convention, which took place at the casino owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee
Indians:
Many pundits did not miss the irony that the NCGOP Convention was held at the casino in Cherokee as the GOP platform opposes gambling. However, this past weekend delegates did approve an amendment recognizing the right of individuals to pursue such activities.
The GOP brand historically has struggled with such ironies. The party of individual freedom and less government intrusion paradoxically supports intrusion on certain moral issues. The GOP simply believes that a strong nation cannot exist without acknowledging God’s law as its foundation.
So unlike the attempt by Democrats to remove God from their platform, the GOP is not about to attempt removing God from its platform anytime soon. But such individual freedom amendments may lighten the party image a bit. Being a guardian of individual freedom means you may be forced to defend freedoms with which some disagree. So while Democrats may have a point that certain Republican platform planks seem hypocritical, it’s now less an issue.
Democrats must give nods to very liberal groups within their ranks. The list is long and some border on communist. Republicans embrace Tea Party and Libertarians within theirs. Republicans will take Tea Party and Libertarians any day.
The Cherokee chief was a gracious host. He is an ardent Republican. The casino is a showpiece for the Tribe of which they are proud, nestled within beautiful mountainous views
Get the Story:
Phillip Stephens: NC GOP lightens stance on gambling
(The St. Pauls Review 6/10)
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Blog: GOP softens view on gaming at
Eastern Cherokee casino (6/9)