By Matt Hurley for the TIB Network:
As expected, Hugh Hewitt's new book was a delight to read. It is an outstanding compliment and reinforcement of Horowitz' How to Beat the Democrats and Smith's Vast Right Wing Conspiracy Handbook. As a guide for conservatives engaging in political activism, If It's Not Close... is a God-send.The book itself is divided into seven parts, each vitally important to the overall strategy Mr. Hewitt is promoting: The Stakes; A Brief History of Democratic Cheating; Parties; Money; Message Delivery; "Danger, Will Robinson, Danger!"; and Tone and Focus. The appendices include the full texts of several of President Bush's most important speeches; a list of the most crucial campaigns of 2004; insights into getting news from the Internet and blogs; and "The Ten Key Talking Points for 2004."
The Stakes. Mr. Hewitt provides a comprehensive analysis of what is at stake in this election. Best summed up by the title of the first chapter:
"I Don't Like You Because You're Going To Get Me Killed"THAT is what is at stake in this election. Hugh spotlights the blocs that compose both the Democratic and Republican parties and makes clear what each faction is all about. The point is driven home that to understand John Kerry, you must first understand Howard Dean; then comparisons with President Bush become that much more straightforward and luminous. Democrats have a long history of not being trustworthy with our national security; the author outlines this indictment with an abundance of clarity and conviction.
A Brief History of Democratic Cheating. This particular section of the book was the most riveting in that these are the tales that supply the overwhelming evidence that the book's title is indeed the only way to insure the absense of chicanery after this election. The Democrats have exhibited a desire to win no matter what the cost and they have demonstrated a lack of moral fiber in their methods. We have all heard that the Democrats do not care if the 527's activites are deemed illegal and that they will gladly pay the fine if they secure the White House. This sort of deviousness should be a concern for all law-abiding Americans.
Parties. Explaining the importance and construction of our political parties and the strategies involved in securing voters is the concept illuminated in this section of the book. The author's theme of interaction between the various members of the party consituency is well documented and reasonable. Those who seek to genuinely influence others should take special notice of this section as the message is factual and appropriate.
Money. Money is the least popular, yet the most crucial part of political activism. Hugh's views on contributions are thought-provoking and legitimate. As he says in the book, give, give some more, give until it hurts, and then give some more. The amount is not important, but rather your participation is vital because every little bit DOES help in challenging the Democrats, the lunacy of the Far Left, and the 527 groups.
Message Delivery. For those of us in the blogosphere, this section offers the most useful advice. We have to know our facts. We must be accurate. We must be mindful of our tone. And we must be aware of our audience. Hugh points out that we should be deliberate in who we do business with and should support organizations that promotes a kindred temperment as our own.
"Danger, Will Robinson, Danger!" Hugh contends that winning converts ought to be the goal and that certain topics are not conducive or fruitful in an election year. Those issues are abortion, guns, and the environment; Hewitt's rationale is that in these subjects, there are insufficient quantites of undecided voters. His argument is persuasive, which is not to say that these are topics that should be put in a box and left to collect dust; but rather, should not be the focal point of any discussion with a 9/11 Democrat or other recent convert. Hugh also indicates that Immigration, Judges, Gays and God are topics that we have to be thoughtful of while engaged in debate. His assertion is correct that these are issues that should be discussed but that we must be careful with the message. Again, the objective is increasing the majority.
Tone and Focus. Essentially the conclusion to this work, this chapter reinforces the qualities of George W. Bush and the importance of his re-election. The culmination of the book is a reminder of what is at stake.
Truly an outstanding read from cover to cover. Mr. Hewitt's clarity of thought and genuineness shined throughout. This book was witty, smart, and amiable while at the same time sharp, analytical and resolute. A triumph of wisdom and substance, If It's Not Close They Can't Cheat: Crushing the Democrats in Every Election And Why Your Life Depends On It receives the WMD seal of approval and my personal recommendation.
