Posted on 10/25/2002 7:37:36 AM PDT by dittomom
Woods may switch from GOP to Dems
He's co-chairman of Salmon's campaign for governor
By Chip Scutari
The Arizona Republic
Oct. 25, 2002
Grant Woods, one of Arizona's most popular Republicans and co-chairman of Matt Salmon's gubernatorial campaign, is considering jumping to the Democratic Party after the Nov. 5 election.
The defection of the former state attorney general would be a coup for Arizona Democrats, who have been courting moderates. Chairman Jim Pederson said he'd be thrilled to have Woods join the party.
"He's a thoughtful, articulate person," said Pederson.
Republican Party Chairman Bob Fannin didn't want to comment.
Woods said he has become increasingly upset by the Republicans' lack of outreach to Hispanics and the conservative wing's domination of the GOP's agenda.
Earlier this year, he spoke out when the state GOP didn't endorse Arizona schools chief Jaime Molera in the primary, which he eventually lost.
"It's the party of Lincoln," Woods said. "But I don't know that Lincoln would recognize it. I'm trying to remember why I became a Republican in the first place."
Woods' public speculation could have a "chilling effect" on Salmon's campaign, Tempe-based pollster Bob Grossfield predicted.
"It provides a great reason for moderate Republicans, and especially moderate Republican women, to look away from Salmon," he said.
Woods said his possible bolt has nothing to do with Salmon, a close friend.
"He is the sort of Republican that I would support," Woods said. "He's a real human being that cares about people. If he's elected governor, that would be a real positive step for the Republican Party."
Salmon said Woods' party preference won't change their friendship.
"Grant has always been an independent thinker," Salmon said. "And if Grant decides to change his party affiliation, then I'll make him the chairman of Democrats for Salmon."
As for Woods' political ambitions, he said he's interested in running for the U.S. Senate, but only if Sen. John McCain, his political mentor, retires in 2004.
"Any opportunities I've had in politics have been because of him," Woods said.
This has been endorsed by Fannin. The problem is the media doesn't cover it.
If Grant doesn't know why he became a Republican, it's because he never was one !!! It was evident when he created his PC real estate listing no-nos!!!
The writing is on the wall concerning the Hispanics, he feels that he must switch to Dem or face an Hispanic Dem in the next election. Arizona is increasing their mexican population, and the Dems thank they have this minority in their back pocket...time will tell..
I have never had respect for him as a man since he shacked up with Marlene Galan (TV reporterette) while he was still married to another woman with small children in the home. He only cleaned up his act because he decided to run attorney general.
Now I understand he is trying to convert to Catholicism (now that he left his first wife and married Marlene). Needless to say, he is pro-abortion. What a loser.......
The same can certainly be said of current "Republican" candidate for State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne.
RINO ALERT!!!!!
RINO ALERT!!!
RINO ALERT!!!
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.