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Religious Right Plots Takeover of GOP

Moderates have pushed party out of power, some argue

By Ambreen Ali, Newser User

Posted Oct 28, 2008 3:06 PM CDT

(Newser) – Social conservatives are wrangling with moderates for control of the GOP, plotting a January takeover of the Republican National Committee even if John McCain wins, the Los Angeles Times reports. Moderates like Colin Powell say the party has alienated voters—especially minorities—by narrowing its focus, but “moderating our party is what caused us to lose power,” a state GOP chairman argues.

Conservatives may deny McCain the president’s traditional role of selecting the RNC’s leader. They have already scored committee seats for evangelicals and others looking to refocus the party on abortion, gay marriage, and illegal immigration. Some even prefer a Barack Obama victory to clear out Bush and McCain strategists in preparation for a party overhaul.

[Images (3)]

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Rush Limbaugh says the conservative movement will rebuild "especially if" McCain wins. (AP Photo/Gary He, file)

McCain has historically broken from the party's mainstream, alienating some conservatives who don't trust him to run the party. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)

Social conservatives want the party to refocus on abortion, gay marriage, and illegal immigration. (Getty Images)

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We're going to drag McCain across the finish line – then we start rebuilding the conservative movement.
- Rush Limbaugh

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Religious Right Plots Takeover of GOP