Juan Williams reports on efforts of Republicans to bypass the RNC and promote Republican candidates and ideas by other means. Karl Rove has set up independent groups that will take advantage of recent court decisions that allow unlimited spending on campaigns by third party groups, and of course Tea Party candidates are taking on the Republican establishment at least as much as they are taking on Obama and the Democrats.
Sp does this strenghten or weaken the party? While it may make the party more receptive to the various passionate viewpoints among its identifiers (which is essential if it to be effective electorally), it might also compromise the party's cohesiveness (its willingness to vote together as a solid block), which has been the source of its strength. Expect a power struggle within the party -- especially if it wins the House or Senate -- centered on what agenda it will pursue. Someone will win, someone will lose. Will the losers -- especially if it is the Tea Partiers -- follow the winners lockstep, or will internal rebellion ensue?
NYT: Karl Rove is building a "shadow" Republican Party.
