Author Michael Zak is a frequent speaker at Republican events across the country and recognized for his book, Back to Basics for the Republican Party.  While he lives in Washington now, "In my heart, I'll always be a Chicagoan. Eamus Catuli!" he says.  He answered some questions via e-mail about the 2008 race.

 

Why did you want to write a book about the Republican Party?

I could not find a history of the Republican Party that did not make fun of it. It then occurred to me that Republican leaders did not know much about the history of their own party. How can people be effective "salesmen" for an organization they know little about?

 

What are some things you agree and disagree with going on now in the 2008 election?

I am pleased that the right wing of the Republican Party has united in support of John McCain for president. The media bias toward the Democrats has never been more blatant.

 

Why should people other than GOP officials read your book?

Back to Basics for the Republican Party covers the history of the United States, from 1774 to the Clinton administration. It also discusses such topics as the Constitution and economic policy. Even some Democrats and independents may like to read a history book from the Republican point of view.

 

What about the Democratic side? If you were giving them advice, what would you say to fix their party's issues and problems this year?

Think of the the good of their country before that of the Democratic Party.

 

Besides writing a book, you are a public speaker and often invited to address Republican groups, but you have never held elected office or worked with the party itself. What qualifies you to be an expert on the party?

I have never held elective office - and don't want to. My position as an outsider gives the perspective to see the big picture. As for expertise, Clarence Thomas cited Back to Basics for the Republican Party in a Supreme Court decision.

 

When did you start writing Grand Old Partisan? How often do you deal with negative feedback? How much of that comes from Republicans themselves?

Each day, the Grand Old Partisan Blog (http://grandoldpartisan.typepad.com) celebrates 154 years of Republican heroes and heroics. I began writing it a year ago. People find it a useful resource of information. Knowledge is power, and all that.

 

Going past 2008, is there anything you hope happens politically by the time we get to 2012?

With a Republican in the White House and at least a smaller Democrat majority in Congress, the United States can continue to best the greatest nation on earth.