Fisher was a Republican of convenience. If it were up to most Republicans, everybody in the County Executive's office would change enrollment and become a Democrat.

Republicans are not free to ignore the anti-war constituency either. Not only do more that 25 percent of Republican voters oppose candidates who support the war, but the fastest growing group of voters -- independents -- overwhelmingly support the pledge. So, that all important swing voter can cause Republicans to lose elections - and could become a new source of support for Democrats -- or if both parties fail to support voters wishes then candidates running independent of the two parties may find a new foundation on which to build an independent political movement.

Whoever gets elected, Democrat or Republican, it's the institution of the office of mayor that tends to dictate what I see as a lack of priorities.

The Republican Medicare drug plan is complicated and confusing because Republicans wrote it to meet the needs of drug companies and private insurers, not the needs of Medicare beneficiaries.

The Republicans are desperate to hold on to power, ... And we all know that when it comes to the Republican Party, desperation is usually followed by distortion and distraction.

As Republican chairman, I am proud of my party and loyal to our members. But if Republicans are guilty of illegal or inappropriate behavior, they should pay the price and suffer the consequences.