In an odd way, the convention program was a version of affirmative action that is not reflected in the party's policies or its hierarchy. In rejecting Mfume's request to speak, Republican National Committee Chairman Jim Nicholson invited him to sit in his box instead. Mfume declined the offer. He believed that the Republicans were more interested in having him there symbolically than in dealing with the substance of his remarks. Mfume did, however, address a group of black Republicans privately.
Reality often follows perception.
So first, say GOP officials, the party must change the perception. Diversifying the state delegations, says Gillespie, requires a more diverse base of voters. I think Al Gore and the Democrats have been served notice. There is no precinct they should take for granted. Politics is a game of calculation.