The leadership has embraced the late Lee Atwater's vision of the party as a big tent where people of all races, ethnic groups and diverse opinions are welcome. The days of exclusivity, ideological intransigence and anti-abortion litmus tests are over.
Happy days are here again.
For proof, look no further than Colorado House District 37 in that Republican stronghold of Arapahoe County. Voters couldn't have a clearer choice among Republicans. The incumbent is Lauri Clapp, former Englewood City Council member. Hers is one of the few races in which Gov. Bill Owens has made an endorsement. Owens is supporting Clapp even though she was among the most strident opponents of his gun-control package.