I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been told by Republican campaign strategists that it is impossible to “move the needle” when it comes to the Black vote. They believe emphatically that “going after the Black vote is a complete waste of time and money.” Well, I have news for them, that becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Reason #2: No Sincere Effort
Most political operatives refer to a quote by the former Arizona senator and 1964 Republican presidential candidate Barry Goldwater to validate their way of thinking. Goldwater told Republican campaigners to stop wasting time going after the declining Black vote. He advised them to, “Go hunting where the ducks are.” This meant campaigning to white voters. And, here lies the problem: Instead, of “hunting for ducks”, they have to become “fishers of men.”
The phrase “fishers of men” was spoken by Jesus when He called two of His disciples, Simon Peter and Andrew, to follow Him. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” The thought behind “fishing” is to know something about the fish you want to catch. You must know what fishing gear to use and about water conditions, as well as the type of bait that will attract the fish.
Just as you need to know what it takes to be fishermen; you also need to know what it takes to be “fishers of men”. You must take the time to understand the people you are engaging─the deep perceptions that motivate African-Americans. You must know exactly what to say and how to say it to win the narrative battle. Most importantly, you must know how to handle the push-back.
TO BE CONTINUED
