In the wake of their loss yesterday to Wauwatosa Alderman Jim Sullivan, the Reynolds campaign has likely been wallowing in a healthy dose of hand-wringing, finger pointing and excuse-making.  The truth of the matter is that Tom Reynolds has nobody to blame but himself.  

There is a lesson to be learned from Tom’s short sojourn to Madison: If you follow an extremist and divisive personal agenda while ignoring the broader wishes of your constituents, your support will surely and continuously erode.  

There is also a lesson to be learned from Tom’s conduct during this campaign.  When you disappear from debates with lame excuses, you gain no respect.  When you stuff our mailboxes with lies and innuendo, you simply reinforce your lack of credibility.  Moreover, when you threaten constituents exercising their First Amendment rights with lawsuits, you strengthen their resolve.  

Finally, surround yourself with angry and unsavory advisors and you will reap derision, ridicule and scorn.  

The Reynolds campaign has become the play-book of every conceivable stunt capable of alienating the big fat middle.    

Jim Sullivan’s election to the 5th Senate District had everything to do with Sullivan cultivating his base while reaching out to moderate Republicans and independents.  

Sullivan demonstrated a reasoned and insightful interest in the views of the voters.  He showed strength of character when Reynolds could only demonstrate cowardice.  His campaign manager never called us names; instead he asked for our opinions.  
 
The extremists of the Republican Party need to know that moderates and independents are not going to sit back, shut-up and be taken for granted when ineffectual, unresponsive and insipid individuals are dressed-up and strutted-out as leaders.  It will never work.

Keep it up and keep losing elections.

###

Tom Gaertner is a contributing writer for Watchdog Milwaukee.  He lives in Wauwatosa.