Notorious

The Canadian blog AWMusic has a great review of the new movie about Notorious Bigs ; the reviewer explores the life of the artist and the movies portrayal of his ultimate demise.

AW Music: Christopher Wallace, a.k.a the Notorious B.I.G – is arguably the epitome of hip-hop’s “American Dream”. Emerging from the drug infested streets of Brooklyn, his story was centered around dreaming the unfathomable and accomplishing the unachievable. In other words, Big was all about going from “ashy to classy”.

With the huge success of semi-biographical hip-hop films such as, 8 Mile and the mild success of Get Rich Or Die Tryin’, the film world was due for another hip-hop flick, which came in the colossal form of one of the greatest MC’s to touch the microphone. Notorious is an attempt to encompass the short-lived life of the late rapper, as his life was tragically cut short before the release of his sophomore album. The film follows Big’s rise from nothing and his unprecedented fall from fame.

The Writer Continues: I’ve heard and read the mediocre and unflattering reviews about the film prior to viewing. The trailer didn’t look enticing either. But, as the hip-hop superfan that I’d like to think I am, I shelled out the twelve bucks to watch a Biggie impersonator in all his glory. This Biggie impersonator is played by first-time actor, Jamal Woolard. Yeah I know, who the hell? Let’s all just be thankful the role wasn’t given to Sean Kingston (reportedly considered for the role). The supporting cast is just as obscure, playing the roles of Puff Daddy, Lil’ Kim, Faith Evans, Tupac and many more. The only recognizable name is Angela Bassett, who plays Voletta Wallace (Big’s mother). She does a damn good job too.

READ ENTIRE ARTICLE: http://awmusic.ca/2009/01/22/notorious-movie-review/

"We Are Republican"

Last night, many young Republicans had a fantastic turnout at the Google headquarters in DC. In attendance were many RNC members, GOP bloggers, party leaders and grassroots activists. At the event there was launched a video, "We Are Republican" and the crowd loved it.

The Man of Steele

"We got the power of Steele behind us."

Michael Steele has been elected chairman of the Republican National Committee. Today history was made and the Republican Party is better off because of it. Congratulations Steele! ....... Now, we wait for the "naysayers" and all those who will try to "explain" his win.

RNC Chairman Michael Steele Remarks to RNC Winter Meeting

CHAIRMAN STEELE: Thank you very much. As a little boy growing up in this town, this is awesome. [applause]

It is with a great deal of humility and a sense of service that I accept and appreciate and thank all of you for the opportunity to serve as the next national chairman of our very proud, our very strong, and our very, very hard-working Republican National Committee. [applause]

Thank you. To our friends, to those who support us, to those who believe in the ideals, those conservative principles that made us the strong and proud party that we are, to Americans who believe in the future of this country, to those who stand in difference with us, it is time for something completely different. And we're going to bring it to them. [applause]

We're going to bring, we're going to bring this party to every corner, every boardroom, every neighborhood, every community, and we're going to say to friend and foe alike, we want you to be a part of us, we want you to work with us, and for those of you who wish to obstruct, get ready to get knocked over. [applause]

So, I want to thank all of you especially. I remember sitting on his body in 2000 and in 2002, and I never thought this day would come. I want to thank especially my friends in the territories who, I can assure you as I assure all of you; you will be a part of helping us build and grow this party in a way we have never seen before. [applause]
To my friends in the Northeast, get ready, baby, it is time to turn it on and work, and work to do what we always do well - and that is win. We are going to win again in the Northeast. We're going to continue to win in the South. We are going to win with a new storm in the Midwest. And we're going to get to the West, we're going to lock it down, and we're going to win there too. [applause]

This is our opportunity. This is our opportunity. I cannot do this by myself. As I said to so many of you when we met, this is about empowering you, our chairman, the national committeemen, the national committeewomen, to lead this party, to grow this party, to strengthen this party, we stand proud as the conservative party of the United States. And we will make sure that we work hard to make sure those principles, those values that have made us the party of Lincoln are part of the issues, are part of the policies, are part of helping set a new direction for this country. We will cede no ground to anyone on matters of principle, on matters that matter to the people of this country. So my first official act as your new chairman is to end this speech right now. [applause]

Because we have a few more races to do. To fill out the leadership team that you will select to lead you the next two years. I look forward to visiting all of you in your neighborhoods, in your backyards, as we grow and build the republican party of this country. Thank you, again, for this honor. God bless you, god bless our party. [applause]

And the Winner Is: RNC Chairman to Be Decided Today

Pictures on todays event as they happen from Rebuild The Party http://twitpic.com/1955a

HipHopRepublican.com at The RNC 2009 Winter Meeting

By Marcus Skelton

The night before the meeting begins RNC candidates and their campaign teams are out in force convincing last minute undecideds they can move the Republican Party forward.

Earlier in the evening, Executive Directors from around the country held a meeting to discuss best/ worst practices and what’s needed to strengthen their state and local political organizations.Finally, most people took Wednesday night to catch up with old friends to exchange campaign stories and speculate about upcoming elections.

Economics: The New Slavery in Black America

By Brandon Brice

Last Sunday as I sat in the congregation of one of the most prestigious churches in Harlem, it mesmerized me to hear the praises, chats and applauses for President Barack H. Obama, as our nation’s 44th President of the United States. As a black man, it was an incredible moment in history to see someone who shared my same features, living on 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Interestingly, statistics show that a large majority of Americans feel that racism no longer exist, but fail to realize that the real culprit may be economics, not racism. Economics is the study of scarce or limited resources, allowing individuals that understand this study to prosper in this capitalist society.

The problem is that economic practices have not been presented in a positive manner towards the black community, but has been shielded by overtones of racism and bigotry. For example, the concept of statistical discrimination means that a group is being “discriminated” against based on circumstance, not prejudices. In the case of African Americans, or Hispanics not being able to qualify for a loan, this may not just be about race but external factors; for example employment, education, or marital status. In 1996, millions of Americans wanted the opportunity to own a home for the first time, by protesting against unequal practices towards owning a home. Unfortunately, as we witness a financial meltdown, the question regarding America’s creditworthiness was simply avoided, which has directly come back to haunt our financial markets.


Historically, the civil rights era, under activist like; Dr. King, Bayard Rustin, Stokley Carmichael, Malcolm X, Marcus Garvey, Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Dubois spanned over forty years of fighting for equal opportunity, including economic empowerment, equality and justice. Unfortunately, one of the few tenants that seeped through the cracks of the 1964 civil rights act was the system of Debt. Statistics show that 71% American population have succumbed to debt, which is nothing more than enslavement without the chains. The best practiced solution against debt is to be pro-active in learning about financial literacy and not living above one’s means. In the civil right era, the concept of “the man” dominated the notion that all of black America was constrained by wealthy, white business men, which was simply not true.

On a brighter note, the application of Economics can work for us and historically has worked for us. As African American scholars travel back to the Harlem Renaissance, it’s suggested that 89% of Harlem was owned by African-Americans in the 1930’s; businesses, laundry mats, dry cleaners, banks, churches, real estate, commercial revenue, school buildings, cinema’s, grocery stores and brownstones. What’s interesting about the history’s presentation on the Harlem Renaissance is the lack of discussion on economic empowerment, in comparison to the arts and literature of black poets, artist and musicians.


As a moderate Republican that supports the election of our first African-American Commander in Chief, I caution the average black voter to not just accept President Obama’s victory as being the end of racism. Instead, I challenge African Americans nationwide to recognize that Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream will only be fulfilled when economics works in our favor; granting the ability to obtain loans, an increase in rising credit scores nationwide and re-establishment of credit worthiness for all. It’s time for Black America to start singing a new tune, not one related to race relations but one of “economics freedom.”


Brandon Brice is a graduate of Howard University and is a former graduate of the New Jersey Eagleton Institute of Politics fellow at Rutgers University. As a long time member of Republicans for Black Empowerment, Brandon is an active contributor to HipHopRepublicans.com. Brandon Brice has worked as a policy intern for the former House Speaker Honorable J. Dennis Hastert and has served as a fellow at the United Nations. He has been featured on C-SPAN’s Road to the White House, BET’s What’s At Stake and Hot97 with Lisa Evers. Brandon is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc, and attends the Greater Abyssinia Baptist Church in Harlem.

"Presidential Potential"

Just as athletes hit the pros with a dual reality of potential and inexperience, our 44th president moves into the White House with similar traits but with a lot more on the line.

By Lenny McAllister

In the top round of last year's draft, the United States of America selected talented Barack Obama. The former senator from Illinois used the last 2 months to prepare to quarterback the most prestigious franchise on the globe. Last Tuesday, the overall number one pick stood center stage as he began leading his team to the Promised Land.

Sounds like your favorite sports team? Just as athletes hit the pros with a dual reality of potential and inexperience, our 44th president moves into the White House with similar traits but with a lot more on the line.

Franchise picks are expected to reverse the fortunes of struggling organizations with their unique talents and charisma. We expect them to sell out stadiums and instill confidence into the fan base. Most importantly, we need them to create wins - early, often, and consistently. Politically speaking, Obama must do the same for our country.


However, Barry Franchise has already made rookie mistakes since moving into the White House. He became the first Black president of the United States at noon on January 20th, and by 1 PM, he became the third president that decided to redo his presidential oath because of stumbling while on the world stage. He signed an executive order to fund international abortion services with federal tax dollars at a time when America is in deep economic crisis, only to rescind his executive order when soundly criticized for the move. And then there's the order to close Guantanamo Bay within a year amid speculation that solid plans on what to do with the detainees are far from complete.

To paraphrase Peyton Manning, even top-flight quarterbacks with laser, rocket arms - or, in politics, eloquence and charisma - still fumble the ball, misread defenses, and throw interceptions as rookies. President Obama is no different, except for one point. There is not a 2 year plan to slowly acclimate this new leader. We have a critical need for change right now. That change we can believe in must now involve less talk of hope and more actual wins because January 20th signaled "game on" for us all.

Lenny McAllister-lives in the Charlotte, North Carolina metropolitan area. Before graduating from prestigious Davidson College (NC), Lenny played a role in aiding the long process of procuring nationally- renowned Alpha Phi Alpha as the first historically Black fraternity established on the College’s campus. McAllister was featured as a political commentator and writer during the Republican National Convention for several national and international outlets including CNN, CNN International, BBC World News, and Black Entertainment Television. In addition, McAllister was a guest host on the Fox News primetime webcast with Shepard Smith before Gov. Sarah Palin’s acceptance speech and a featured guest on “ABC News NOW” with Sam Donaldson in primetime before Senator John McCain’s acceptance speech.

Lt.C. Allen West.....Heading to New York

Allen West the black Republican canidate who in 2008 ran as a Republican candidate for Florida's 22nd congressional district against incumbent democrat Ron Klein is heading to NYC. Lt.C.Allen West lost in an extremly tight race. So tight that Lt.C.Allen West has announced that he is running in 2010 for the seat. This is a seat that a Republican could easily pick up.

The district was created after the 1990 Census. Republican E. Clay Shaw, Jr. was elected in the first election for the district in 1992 and was subsequently reelected for six terms until he lost to Democrat Ron Klein in the 2006 election.In the total tally Democratic Ron Klein (incumbent) got 169,041 54.7% while Republican Allen West got,104 45.3% Lt.C. West will be in Manhattan for the 134th Anniversary – Lincoln Bicentennial Dinner. It is the official New York Bicentennial event endorsed by the US Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission (ALBC.

The celebration will be in honor of Lt. Col. Allen West, where the Decorated War Hero will recive the Lincoln Bicentennial Award with a special introduction by Jed Babbin,

Other featured speakers and honorees include:

Hon. Herman Badillo, former Bronx Boro President and former Chair of CUNY Trustees, recipient of the Educator of the Year Award, presented byHon. Barbara Clark, NYS Assembly Education Committee Member;

Special Guest Speakers:

Herbert London, former Republican NYS gubernatorial candidate, delivering the Lincoln Bicentennial Address

Prof. Gerald Matacotta and the Hon. Barbara Clark presenting the Lincoln Bicentennial Essay Contest Awards

The actual event wil be on Sunday, February 8, 2009 at 3 P.M. at Antun’s
96-43 Springfield Blvd., Queens Village, NY 11429

Tickets: $100.00 per person paid in advance

Cocktails at 3 P.M. - Open Bar

Music, Dinner and Festivities at 4 P.M.

Reservations are available from

QVRC Club Chairman, James Trent.

Make checks payable to:
“Queens Village Republican Club”

For information call James Trent:
jtrent8830@aol.com

Dedicated to the Democrat$

What could be more appropriate? "I want money" The Flying Lizards (heh)



$646,214 Per Government Job
Spending where unemployment is already low. (Wall Street Journal)hat tip Atlas Shrugs

REFORMING OUR PRISONS WILL REDUCE CRIME

By Richard Ivory

The New Majority's Jamie Boulding has a very persuasive piece out today dealing with the reforming of US prisons. In the article Mr. Boulding compares the success of reforms policies under David Cameron’s British Conservative Party with those of the GOP. The article systematically explains the cultural challenges the GOP will have should it seek to push similar reforms here in the United States.

He stresses that "with the notable exception of Sam Brownback, the Republican Party’s silence on the issue is not just morally problematic, but electorally catastrophic. If you pass tough-on-crime laws which disproportionately incarcerate the very constituencies you are already badly losing, and then refuse to ensure basic decency in prisons, don’t be surprised to lose elections again and again. And no, the belated signing into law of the Second Chance Act, which lavishes more federal money on failing prisons, will not be sufficient".

Please Read Entire

NM Exclusive--Rudy Giuliani On the Economy

#1 This Week: Lady GaGa Featuring Colby O'Donis

Lady GaGa - Just Dance
Uploaded by LadyGaga

HipHopRepublican.com to Cover RNC 2009 Winter Meeting

HipHopRepublican.com has been credentialed to cover the 2009 RNC Winter Meeting. Marcus Skelton and Brandon Andrews will be providing a summary of the week’s events. The Republican National Committee’s 2009 Winter Meeting, themed “Republican For a Reason,” will take place Wednesday, January 28 through Saturday, January 31 at the Capital Hilton. Press credentials can be obtained by contacting the RNC Press Office.

WHAT: RNC 2009 Winter Meeting

WHEN: Wednesday, January 28 – Saturday, January 31, 2009

WHERE: Capital Hilton

1001 16th Street, NW

Washington, DC 20036

OPEN PRESS EVENTS

Thursday, January 29, 2009

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. EST Working Luncheon

Speaker: John Fund, Author: “Stealing Elections”

2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. EST General Session, Part I

Speaker: Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell

Friday, January 30, 2009

10:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. EST General Session, Part II

HHR on Patriot Games Radio Show Tonight at 9PM

HHR political contributor Lenny Mcallister will be doing an interview on Patriot Games Radio Show tonight between 9:05-10:00 PM EST.

Topic-Hip Hop Republicans

Agricultural Subsidies: Corporate Welfare for Farmers"

"Agricultural Subsidies: Corporate Welfare for Farmers" is hosted by Reason.tv's Nick Gillespie and is approximately 8.30 minutes long. The producer-writer is Paul Feine and the producer-editor is Roger Richards.

For an audio podcast version, go here.

Black Republican Resigns from DC Black Republican Counsil

Jabriel Ballentine a board member of the DC Black Republican Council has resigned saying in a letter :

The DC Republican Committee (DCRC) has proven itself not only ineffective but also apathetic to the needs of an inner-city, predominantly Black community. Through my own rebuffed efforts and from knowledge of similar expressions of others, these sentiments have been confirmed. The DCRC remains more of a “members-only” city club that seems to prefer its exclusivity to actual political organizing.

The Letter goes on to say:

I am leaving the party, but not the Party. I am and will remain true to the principles of Frederick Douglass, Charles Sumner and others. And should the DCGOP come to remember those principles, commit to their application, and refrain from exclusivity I will eagerly work to be of use to the party. In the meantime, I must seek out and join with those who are serious about the work of political organizing and upliftment to more than just a chosen few. As such, I am resigning my membership in the DC Republican Committee effective immediately.

To read the entire letter please go here: http://chocolatecitydefender.com/

How to Fix America's Health Insurance Crisis?

Reason.tvs Nick Gillespie knows how to get coverage to at least half of the 45 million Americans who need it. Call it the Gillespie Plan: If you want health insurance, get some.

A Dream Deferred

Black people voted for him because he was black.White people voted for him because a brilliant marketing strategy convinced them that they were voting to end racism.The most despicable part of their strategy was dragging in a great man who is not alive to defend himself.

By Andre' Antwan


With the inauguration coming the day after Martin Luther King jr. day many comparisons have been made between president-elect Obama and Dr.King.Even in the months leading up to the election there was talk of Obama being the fulfillment of the dream which King spoke of.This inspired many Americans and perhaps even influenced their vote.Though the Obama camp would tell you that they have done their best to keep race out of the equation and Obama won because he was judged "by the content of his character",the subtext of his whole campign was this:

If he wins,America has evolved and overcome racial prejudices and is headed in the right direction.If he loses,America is a terrible racist nation and has not changed at all since 1950 or so.

It was quite shocking to see how many people were swayed by this emotional manipulation. Black pride and white guilt had taken the American psyche and put it in a chokehold. One of the worst developments has been the tarnishment of the reputation of a great American hero.For selfish political gain, time and time again his name was invoked and his dream associated with a person who has a radically different vision and history. You have heard the comparisons. Lets contrast,just for kicks and giggles.

Dr.King - rose out of the segregated south in a country where he was not welcome to become a leader in the fight against racism and inequality.

Obama - grew up in an integrated society and diverse family yet willingly chose to attend a segregated church with a racist,separatist,ant-America preacher.

Dr.King -had to endure constant threats,ridicule,and being hit with rocks or as Martin Lawrence once joked "half a boulder" in order to see legislation passed that would secure rights for those who were oppressed.

Obama - Has no respect for the rights of the unborn and seeks to suppress the free speech rights of his critics.

Dr.King - was seen as a threat by the federal government.Was followed,investigated and recorded by the FBI in attempts to discredit and/or incriminate him.They even went as far as spreading rumors about him being an adulterer.

Obama - has the supreme court and the electorate comfortably in his pocket,shirking their responsiblilties to uphold the constitution by ignoring legitimate concerns about his citizenship and eligibility to hold the office of president.

Dr.King - confronted the moral issues of his time head on.

Obama - says they are above his pay grade.

Dr.King - dreamed of a world where his children were judged by "the content of their character" not the color of their skin.

Obama - won because he was black


There, I said it. I know someone is sitting at their computer right now about to burst a vein right now but its true.There is no way Obama,with his lack of experience,and shabby resume' beats Hillary Clinton in the primary as a white man.There is no way a white man overcomes his shameful political affiliations to win the presidency.A white man who sat under the white equivalent of a rev.Wright for 20 years and attended the white equivalent of Obama's church would have had to drop out of the race and apologize to clowns like Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton on tv and radio for a year.Black people voted for him because he was black.

White people voted for him because a brilliant marketing strategy convinced them that they were voting to end racism.The most despicable part of their strategy was dragging in a great man who is not alive to defend himself.Ironically,Dr. King's own family members say he was a Republican and therefore would've been political rivals with Obama.Yet I saw a repulsive commercial on BET where Dr.King is seen holding a small child at an Obama speech smiling as if to imply that what he had worked for had suddenly came to pass.

Using the name of Martin Luther King jr. to promote Obama is kind of like when rappers that 2pac had feuds with make songs with him after he is dead.It is truly abominable.Now I admit I went to public school so perhaps I just dont get it.But the way I see it,to claim that Obama's victory fulfilled Dr. Kings dream would be like saying that someone who went to hell fulfilled Jesus'.He is the antithesis of what MLK stood for.

Americans have become not blind to but obsessed with race all over again.Anyone who has been paying attention knows that.So to quote Langston Hughes famous poem:

What happens to a dream deferred?

Does it dry up
like a raisin in the sun?
Or fester like a sore--
And then run?
Does it stink like rotten meat?
Or crust and sugar over--
like a syrupy sweet?
Maybe it just sags
like a heavy load.
Or does it explode?
I believe this is all going to blow up right in our faces.

~Andre' Antwan is a black conservative writer an rap/soul artist that is happily married with kids."

Sarah's Got PAC: The latest on Sarah Palin

Well, folks it would seem that Sarah Palin has decided she is not going anywhere and has decided to create a Political Action Committee.

According to the blog RedState.com Gov. Sarah Palin now has a political action committee. It’s called, naturally enough, SarahPAC.

The PAC’s website, SarahPAC.com, just went up on the web. It would seem that Sarah is building an army to run for President.

http://www.sarahpac.com/

Cholera Deaths in Zimbabwe Near 3,000

The United Nations is reporting today that approximately 2,971 people in Zimbabwe have now died from a cholera outbreak that has afflicted the country. We’ll keep you posted on this and other developments in Zimbabwe here.

Excerpts below, full report here

The U.N. humanitarian office said 2,817 new cases were reported Monday, taking the cumulative number of infections since the outbreak began to 56,123.The global body said more than one person in every 20 who contract cholera in Zimbabwe is dying of the disease. The usual mortality rate for large-scale outbreaks is 1 in 100.

The outbreak began in August and spread rapidly because of Zimbabwe’s poorly maintained infrastructure and crumbling health care system.

H/T The One Campaign

Geraldo gets Crunk w/ Illinois State Rep about Blago

Troy Rolling For Vice-Chair of Grassroots for Michigan Republican Party

Troy Rolling is a native of Southwest Michigan and a lifelong Republican he is currently serving on the MIGOP’s State Committee. Troy Rolling is currently running for Vice- Chair of Grassroots for the Michigan Republican Party.

Watch the announcement video!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=419evSVLdKI

Let Troy know your supporting him, by sending him an email to:
votetroyrolling@gmail.com

My Question for the RNC Chair Candidates (RebuildTheParty.com)

HHR's Ali Akbar asking questions about the future of the GOP

The Support Michael Steele Coalition

Baltimore Sun: Steele has a shot at the GOP Chairmanship

We learned this weekend that a number of RNC delegates are uncommitted and leaning toward Michael Steele. I am asking you to take 3 minutes to find your state in the list below, click the link and write a quick message to encourage support for Michael.

Alaska - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/alaska

District of Columbia - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/dc

Hawaii - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/hawaii

Kansas - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/kansas

Massachusetts - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/massachusetts

Missouri - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/missouri

Nebraska - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/nebraska

Nevada - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/nevada

New Mexico - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/new_mexico

North Dakota - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/north_dakota

Ohio - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/ohio

Oklahoma - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/oklahoma

South Dakota - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/south_dakota

Wyoming - http://www.draftmichaelsteele.com/contact/wyoming

Please keep these points in mind when you write your message:

Emphasize that you are a Republican in the delegate's home state
Be courteous and respectful
Provide your name and e-mail address so delegates can respond
Be courteous and respectful
Advocate for support for Michael Steele - not against other candidates for RNC Chair
Be courteous and respectful

Thank you,

The Support Michael Steele Coalition

A FEW GOOD MEN: America’s Call to Action

By Brandon Brice

In this year’s past election, the Republican’s nominee Sen. John S. McCain and the GOP portrayed him as a true American hero; being shot down and captured by the enemy, surviving five years into captivity and being beaten to the point of having life sustaining fractured limbs. Unfortunately, the Grand Old Party still couldn’t defeat the Democratic nominee, losing to a message of hope, change, and a financial rescue plan. Last Sunday morning, as I walked down 125th street in Harlem, I noticed a man around the age of 50 years of age asking people for change. The man who obviously was homeless was wearing a military jacket draped with medals and insignia. America’s commitment to its armed forces and veterans is dwindling, as our soldiers should be one of our nations top priorities pre-and post service.

Military duty throughout America’s history has always exemplified courage and honor, until the 1960’s where the introduction to the television revolutionized the American perception towards the atrocity’s of war. In 1941, the attack on Pearl Harbor, a U.S. naval base in Hawaii, resulted in the lives of hundreds of innocent soldiers. As a result we bombed Hiroshima and Nagasaki under President Harry S. Truman’s orders. Historian’s challenge the idea that if every American family had access to a television versus a common AM/FM radio at the time then WWII would be observed in a different way perhaps unfavorable. In the end, a strong military force, intense agriculture and smart diplomacy are the only options to having a dominant and sustainable presence in the world.

As a grandson and cousin of two former United States Naval Officers, I had the pleasure of asking both veterans pertinent questions about the military from a perspective of a recent soldier in the Iraq War to a veteran of 56 years in the Korean War conflict. As a nation we generally do not pay full homage to our troops, whether they’re returning from conflict, seeking employment or general benefits that should be granted to veterans. As I walked the streets of New York in Times Square the numerous amounts of homeless veterans, usually from the Vietnam War or Desert Storm, living in cardboard boxes under the Port Authority overpass is quite shameful. Military service is an honor and we as American’s must cherish the idea of those men and women putting their lives on the line to keep this nation safe. The opposing views suggest that we spend too much on the military, but we must remember much of the funding is generated towards the families left behind, the ability to feed our troops and the capability to simply provide our troops with the best firearm, weaponry and protection needed to secure our boarders and fight against the opposing force. The military is an important portion of what makes America free, and we should pay full homage to those that commit to the idea of protecting that god given right.

Recent military enrollment numbers, through public opinion show a slight decline in the number of American’s who desire to serve. Young American’s view military service as a last minute means for college money or an alternative to avoiding the correctional facility. The Honorable Congressman Charles Rangel, Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee and a former veteran, has called for every American to serve, as a means to possibly reinstate the draft. Let’s think for a moment of the benefits of passing a bill to push for a mandatory military service of two years. What if American’s honored our troops by granting those men and women, who serve for10 years a tax exempt status? Should the government’s Committee on Veteran Affairs fight to assure that if we can take care of AIG and Lehman brothers, then we can take care of the many men and women that put their lives on the line to protect us at night? America has it’s priorities in the wrong direction when recent studies show that educators, police officers, fire-fighters and military veterans are living on food stamps and barely making a means to an end.

Brandon Brice is a graduate of Howard University and is a former graduate of the New Jersey Eagleton Institute of Politics fellow at Rutgers University. As a long time member of Republicans for Black Empowerment, Brandon is an active contributor to HipHopRepublican.com. Brandon is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc, and attends the Greater Abyssinia Baptist Church in Harlem.

Degrassi and Republicans

By De’Von Weatherspoon

If there is one show that I would recommend people to watch it would be Degrassi: The Next Generation. This is a show that attempts to show the trials and tribulations of the modern teenager and of the modern family, and in its attempts the show succeeds. You may ask why on earth I would bring up a show geared towards teenager and young adults, but I have good reason. Ultimately the GOP must attract the young if it wants to succeed in the future.

At the moment, the GOP does not need to change at all, it doesn’t need to reach out for votes, or reach out for minorities. However, if the GOP wants to win anywhere but the South then it will have to take a new route. Especially now, the GOP must tread carefully. The fight to change the perception of the GOP from a white, evangelical, and out of touch party will be even harder now that the south and the voters attached to the south were virtually the only ones to vote for McCain or the GOP. All that said, lets get back to Degrassi.

I personally love Degrassi. Every character has a story and a history. Many of my generation grew up with Degrassi, and we remember it. From the Time Marco came out the closet, to when Jimmy was shot. I am sure that the main reason why Degrassi is so popular is that it does not offer any generalizations. Every episode is complex and complicated which reflects the complex and complicated lives of the young characters. So once again we are at “Why are we talking about Degrassi?” We are talking about it because the GOP’s effort to attract youth and minority voters has been a policy of over-generalization and lackluster effort. All the GOP has to do is reach out in a significant way and connect with youth and minority voters for victories.

While it is true that most blacks are at least somewhat socially conservative, they often fail to vote so, well with the exception of the blacks in California who teamed up with the Mormons, simply because the most important things to blacks are economic empowerment and urban issues. Most blacks live in urban or close to urban areas that come with a whole different set of problems than the suburbia and rural areas that republicans put most of their resources. Also, the fact that republicans tend to severely punish those in the party that do not share the exact same sentiments on certain issues has led to a brain and talent drain on the party which does not allow the GOP to come up with new ideas for new solutions for new problems. It is quite obvious that the same solutions for problems in the countryside will not work in the city.

So with all of this said and known, what exactly is the problem? Well I read recently somewhere that when the problem is always the rats and not the ship, something has gone horribly wrong. I have a question to ask, If rats are leaving your ship for another ship how can you still think that it is purely the rat’s fault? The GOP has a long way to go to attract new urban voters, but my first suggestion would be to not necessarily always be anti-government, but promise more efficient government. My second suggestion would be to focus back on the city; no civilization can survive if it has given up on its cities. My third suggestion would be for a more inclusive party, if by having moderates in the party you can regain the Northeast and have the uber conservatives hold the south, then you’re building coalitions and victories.

My fourth suggestion would be to reach out to minority youth. When I say minorities, I mean Latinos and Blacks as the GOP tends to just focus on Latinos. My fifth suggestion is for the party to be consistent. If you are for the government getting out of private lives then have that view all the time. Do not believe in it when it comes to taxes and government, but not believe in it when it comes to gay marriage and abortion rights. My last suggestion is simply for the party to tone down on the semi-revolutionist rhetoric; many blacks would happily join the GOP, but every now and then one of the Republican Congressmen or Senators slips.If the GOP does this, it will be able to function, just like Degrassi as one unit of people with different views and tastes, but still in it together.

De’Von “Van” Weatherspoon is a high school student and contributor to HipHopRepublican.com. He is from the great state of Michigan and describes himself as a "Hamilton-Rockefeller Republican".

Redevelopment: A Tale Of Two Cities

The latest Reason.tv video hosted by Drew Carey shows the government stealing land in Hollywood to give to wealthy developers, and explains how Anaheim Mayor Curt Pringle has a better approach to redevelopment

Black Republican runs for Virginia's 2nd Congressional District

Chuck Smith is running for Congress to offer a new path to rebuild and strengthen our community through conservative principles. Born on the 4th of July, Chuck Smith is a Red, White and Blue American, with a record of strength and leadership. As a former Marine and Retired Navy JAG, Chuck has put country first.

And, as a longstanding resident of Virginia Beach, Chuck has ties to all parts of the community and can effectively bring change to Washington by representing the 2nd District. Having lived in Virginia for 30 years, Chuck Smith is proud to have raised five children. With Degrees in Political Science and Law, Chuck has practiced law for nearly 30 years and, during that time, has also studied International Law and Military Law.

http://www.chucksmith2010.com/

Lenny McAllister to appear on “The Tavis Smiley Show”

HHR Political commentator and columnist Lenny McAllister will appear on the weekly broadcast of “The Tavis Smiley Show” starting Friday, January 23.The PRI broadcast is hosted by best-selling author and social commentator Tavis Smiley. McAllister is slated to speak with Smiley about the Inauguration and next steps for politicos and everyday Americans post-Inauguration.

The interview can also be heard at http://www.tavissmileyradio.com/

Please check your local radio listings for air time for “The Tavis Smiley Show” (as listed below.) McAllister is currently slated to participate as a featured guest at the 2009 State of the Black Union. The 10th anniversary of the event will be held in Los Angeles, California.

Hosted by popular talk show host, best-selling author, and news commentator Tavis Smiley, the State of the Black Union is an event where “...(s)ome of the most influential thinkers, entertainers, and political leaders of our time gather each year to discuss the State of the Black Union during Black History Month...to educate, enlighten and empower America by bringing people together and engaging them in thoughtful dialogue, leading the way to constructive action...”

Education Revolt in Watts

Drew Carey goes to Locke High School in Watts to examine the charter school education revolt that's erupting across the nation.

“Urban Conservatism”: The New Agenda for the Republican Party

By Brandon Brice

In my recent article, “Jobs, Baby, Jobs”, the idea of job creation and common sense dominated the main theme. As conservatives, libertarians or moderates we realize that now President Barack H. Obama is our new Commander and Chief, but we can always look towards the future. Vice Presidential candidate, Gov. Sarah Palin of Alaska, during the debates, once suggested that America return back to basics. Gov. Palin was absolutely correct, but the audience she missed are the millions of low income families nationwide. In the next three to four years, the GOP should adopt the agenda of “urban conservatism”, a movement that targets low income families and stresses common sense, towards financial literacy, education enhancement and self sufficiency. Skeptics suggest that urban areas do not usually vote conservative, but they’re wrong.

Imagine a Republican Party that stresses common sense and educates people on credit, financial literacy and the importance of investments. Let’s think for a moment, as our grandmothers and grandfathers once said, if we can’t afford it then we simply don’t need it. The common practices of our relative’s years ago to spend frugally and save for a rainy day are essential to our own personal economic development. This agenda concentrates of helping people to help themselves, via self sufficiency. Republicans in the past have told people not to depend on the federal government, yet haven’t showed people how to get off of federal programs. Urban Conservatism does just that, it targets low income neighborhoods and helps people understand how to start a business or the tools and skills needed to interview, hence getting people off of welfare. The agenda translates into action, social action that reflects showing folks how to refrain from the government. GOP leaders and politicians have a history of telling and talking about self sufficiency, but the party until now hasn’t given any solutions. For example, former President George W. Bush was on target with the No Child Left Behind Act, which sought out the real problems in education, corruption, unqualified teachers.

Killer Chic: Hollywood's Sick Love Affair with Che Guevara

"Killer Chic" tours the hellholes of totalitarianism through the eyes of Paquito D'Rivera, who left Cuba for artistic freedom and ended up becoming a Grammy Award-winning jazz player, and Kai Chen, a former member of the Chinese national basketball team whose relatives were hauled off under Mao Zedong's Cultural Revolution. "Killer Chic" is a fascinating and troubling foray into Hollywood's shallow--and callow--appropriation of murderous thugs.

Howard University Republican Club Kick-Start the New Year

Howard University (HUCR) kicked of the new year with a panel discussion speaking about the Republican Party. The panelist included many prominet black Republicans including the President of Republicans for Black Empowerment Don Scoggins and political consultant and fundrasier CJ Jordan and Sean Connor of the RNC.

The Howard University College Republicans (HUCRs) is an organization of students who identify with the ideals of conservatism. We provide an intellectual space where Howard students can exchange ideas about the current state of the Party in relation to the African-American community. We are also an educational vehicle, providing a conservative political perspective to the Howard campus.

http://hucollegerepublicans.blogspot.com/

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=6287541260

My Greatest Confession, Is Barack Obama My President?

The Supreme Court made the final decision on which the President was….. George W. Bush was declared the winner and so he moved into the White House. As he moved in half the country checked out. They proclaimed ‘He is not my President.’ And hatred against the man has ensued ever since and call me a skeptic but I doubt it will end. It was this discourse that I believe more than anything else hurt this country

By Leette Eaton- White

First I must give my confession. I cried watching Barack Obama during the DNC. I wept. I saw my country change in way that I could not have really grasped before. I saw a relatively young man of color accept his party’s nomination to run on the head of the ticket for President of the United States. And it touched my heart. Now I would love to tell you I became happy and hopeful for B.H.O’s brand of change and decided to vote for him because he is black and I am black and for emotional reasons I choose to support him. But that crazy business just didn’t happen. My cries and tears increased. New emotions of fear and despair for what awaited this nation took over now that I knew in my heart, even then, that he would win the election. I suddenly became despondent and angry that we had let this happen. And I said I wouldn’t accept him.

So the time has now past and Barack Obama is President of the United States. Now stands a man, leader of the free world, whose politics I have disdain for, and who I do not trust. So the question remains: Is Barack Obama my President? To answer that question I have to look back. Back to a time when I was still no more than a child. Barely a teenager. The year 2000. The Supreme Court made the final decision on who the President was"….. George W. Bush was declared the winner and so he moved into the White House. As he moved in half the country checked out. They proclaimed ‘He is not my President.’ And hatred against the man has ensued ever since and call me a skeptic but I doubt it will end.

It was this discourse that I believe more than anything else hurt this country. My country was hurt. My country which I love, which I have always loved and been proud of. But on this Inauguration Day for the first time in my life I was truly disappointed with, not my country, but with the choice so many within it made. And with every media outlet for their blind devotion in supporting such a choice. I was not only disappointed, I was angry, yet again. But even with my anger I love my country. I love my country more than I hate the politics of anyone leading it.

So is Barack Obama my President…. He was elected by the people who make this nation so, regrettably, yes. He is my President. Do I support my President…. I support my country, so yes, by extension of supporting my country, I support my President. Am I rooting for my President? NO. I am not. I will not give Barack anymore than this county needs me to. I will not be enthusiastic about anything he does, and readers, you can bet I will be the first to sound the alarm and complain the second he places a toe out of line. Remember, he works for us, not the other way around. So America be the boss…. Don’t give your employees too much power, or you shall find yourself out of it.

Leette Eaton- White is a native New Yorker and college student seeking an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Psychology and has been a Republican since the age of 15.”

The First Dance

The blog Booker Rising ask the question....Did President Obama look like he wanted to bust out a few steppers' set moves, but caught himself? The blog also ask Why was Beyonce chosen to sing "At Last" when Etta James is still alive?!

By Lenny McAllister

Around this time every year, I find myself reflecting on past accomplishments, events, and resolutions. And although I will not smash my face into a cake on live TV like one of your favorite Fox News Rising personalities

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sEAJUA7dbnU), I will discuss something that many people find more delightful.

January 12th started the last business week under the leadership of President George W. Bush. He provides a powerful presidential contrast, symbolizing the political apathy, military controversies, and economic crisis of the last 8 years just as this generation's most exciting politician is set to replace him in office.

Many will point to different breakdowns within the Bush Administration. However, the principle failure - in my humble opinion - is the crumbling of confidence in the White House as a source of leadership.

From jokes about his public speaking skills to his way of "cowboying" issues, Bush endeared himself to some Americans as the meat-and-potatoes Commander-in-Chief, but more embraced Bush as the politician they love to hate. Some presidents have had confetti tossed at them. All presidents have insults hurled at them. Only 1 president has had 2 shoes thrown at him.

Encumbered with high disapproval ratings, Mr. Bush now sees his legacy dovetail with the promise of a man that many claim can be one of the best presidents in history.

Even the expression, "one man's trash is another man's treasure," applies to W. After economic uncertainty due to 9/11, Bush introduced tax cuts as a business stimulus and was criticized for simply pandering to the rich. When he increased government spending, his party said he betrayed their values and withdrew support. Now with President-elect Obama proposing a stimulus package that includes both $300 billion in tax cuts and billions more in spending, many commend the need for such a package during these trying economic times. Huh?

It points to this: national leadership is more than legislative logic or policy. It's about presidential confidence, a resource currently in deep recession - one that Mr. Obama must improve once Mr. Bush completes his final week in office. I'm Lenny McAllister...working with FOX Charlotte to help bring politics back to the people.


Lenny McAllister is a political contributor to hiphoprepublican.com and writes for AOL Black Voices and The Root.com and appears on "Fox News Rising" every Monday in Charlotte, NC.

Change has come to America…For Now!

By Richard Ivory

The year was 1990 and “change” had come to the southern State of Virginia , a place steeped in a history of racial divisions. It had come in the form of a charismatic young black lawyer named Lawrence Douglas Wilder. I was a child at the time, but nevertheless understood the importance of the racial barrier that had just been broken. There was a deep sense of pride and amazement within the entire black community. Similarly as I saw President Obama speak at his historic inaugural, those feelings of overwhelming pride and joy came back to me.

Martin Luther King when speaking of change said, “it does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle”. The President correctly outlined the many struggles we as a nation face. He hinted to our economic woes and our problems internationally. He spoke of our shared destiny and wanting to protect Liberty for our children. He spoke of our nations great immigrant past and present diversity and how despite our past problems we always manage to do great things. He used language geared to bring unity over partisanship and practicality over dogma. In his speech it seemed to me as if he were saying that if change is to come, it must first come from the people.

Despite being Republican, I concede that many of the things mentioned in his speech were right and it is indeed a wonderful vision of where the new President wants to take this nation. The problem of course is whether or not the nation is ready to take such a journey. The French explorer Alexis de Tocqueville once observed that America ’s greatness lie not in being more enlightened than any other nation, but rather in her ability to repair her faults. If we are to change as a nation, then we must come together and seek ways to begin to fix many of our nations ailing problems.

Real change is only as good as it is going in the right direction. Real change will mean fixing the crisis in Social Security; a system that in only a few years time will began to pay more out in benefits than it actually collects in revenues. Real Change will mean finding consumer driven alternatives to health care not simply letting a federal bureaucracy run it. Real Change also means continuing the reforms of the 1996 Welfare Reform Act and seeking ways to fix the system while empowering its recipients. Real Change will mean providing real and effective Immigration Reform that respects the dignity of undocumented workers while providing security at our boarders.

And finally but not least change means confronting the failures in our educational systems. The school systems that Obama spoke of in his speech that fail our children should not be given annual bailouts for failing our kids but reform mechanism to show that they are learning and thriving. While seemingly insurmountable these things are not impossible the responsibility of all of us is to leave this nation better than we found it. Despite the ideological differences I have with the new President- and they are many- I wish him much success. In other words, I would love to be “wrong” about you Mr. President.

Good luck President Obama!

Worst President Ever? Maybe...Maybe Not.

By Dennis Sanders

It has become pretty fashionable not only among liberals, but even conservatives to see the Bush years as a big failure. On the other side, there are Bush partisans who believe that the former President will be vindicated, just give it time.

Now I have been one of many who think that George Bush was not a good executive. I think he was not up to the task of the many tests that came his way from 9/11 to Katrina. But that said, I think it is too early to say the 43rd President was the worst ever or even that he will be vindicated in time. We just don't know.

I don't know if it is central to our times, but we want to make our historic judgements as soon as possible. But the fact is, history takes time and history is something that is ongoing and is an unknown. Bush has made many mistakes and cheif among them was his willingness to take the nation to war against Iraq. President Bush set several bad things in motion because of what he did and we know that. But we don't know the future. We have no idea how something like Iraq will play out over the years. Maybe Iraq will descend into a civil war as the US starts to leave. Maybe it will become a thriving democracy and an example to the rest of the Middle East, we just don't know.

It goes without saying that Bush had made mistakes that have cost the GOP and the nation as a whole. But it might be too soon to say he is the worst president, or to vindicate him because it is just too soon and some of things started under Bush are still taking place.

Decades from now, historians might look back and say that Bush was a horrible President, look at how the world was impacted by his years. But they may also say he did his best under the circumstances or things like that.

But until then, I will withhold my ultimate judgement on Bush. Let history play itself out and be the proper judge.


Dennis Sanders a pastor living in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He has worked on centrist Republican issues for years, including stints as President of the Minnesota chapter of Log Cabin Republicans (a gay/lesbian advocacy group) and Republicans for Environmental Protection. Dennis blogs at NeoMugwump and happily lives with his partner Daniel and serves two cats, Morris and Felix.

Pictures of HHR at Inagural Event

These are pictures of HHR's Marcus Skelton with the Mayor of  Newark, NJ Corey Booker and The Daily Voices Keith Boykin. The other pictures are a few of us waiting out in the cold waiting to hear the Inaugural Speech.

HipHopRepublican.com mentioned in Telegraph.co.uk, United Kingdom

HipHopRepublican.com's Editor Tiffany Shorter was mentioned in todays Telegraph.co.uk, a poular News Paper in the United Kingdom

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/barackobama/4300294/Barack-Obama-inauguration-The-new-family-in-the-Whitehouse.html

HipHopRepublican.com on NPR

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News & Notes , January 14, 2009 · On today's bloggers' roundtable: The Congressional Black Caucus is considering how its role will change in an Obama administration.

Meanwhile, President-elect Obama's paternal grandmother brings White House warming gifts all the way from Kenya.

Plus, some experts are warning the bad economy may fuel the growth of more hate groups.

Farai Chideya speaks with Wayne Hicks of Electronic Village; Amani Channel of My Urban Report; and Lenny McAllister of Hip Hop Republican.

Supporting My President For A Better America : A Black Republican Perspective

Barack Obama’s inaugural speech inspired a united America. As a black Republican, I along with other blacks, whites, Latinos, liberals and conservatives am ready to take the journey with the new president to fulfill our national aspirations.

By Tiffany Shorter

Yesterday Barack Obama became the first African American president of the United States of America, and months ago I supported Senator John McCain for president. Today President Obama addressed the nation to clearly state his vision and goals that he can move our nation forward, and months ago I was skeptical of vague policy positions. Today President Barack Obama won my support because his work, determination and fortitude months ago, earned him the Oval Office.

I am an American before I am a Republican, so today I have put aside partisan differences to be proud of my nation and my president. He has earned my vote of confidence that America is on its journey to becoming an even better country. Tomorrow, I can continue my civil duties of promoting self - empowerment and limited government to contribute to America’s prosperity.

In the meanwhile, I am grateful to witness the dream of Martin Luther King realized.

God Bless America.