In the past year and a half, we have seen a dramatic shift in voting patterns across the United States. In 2008, many voters embraced Obama's message of "Hope and Change," resulting in gains for the Democratic Party all across the country. Now that the country knows what "Hope and Change" really means, they are running from it as fast as they can. This political version of "buyer's remorse" became evident in 2009 when voters in New Jersey, Virginia, and Pennsylvania weighed in on the Obama "Big Government" agenda for our country. In Virginia, a state President Obama won 52.7% to 46.4%, Republicans enjoyed a clean sweep, winning the Governorship, Lieutenant Governor seat, and the Attorney General race by significant margins. Gov. Bob McDonnell defeated Democrat Creigh Deeds 58.6% to 41.3%. In New Jersey, a state where Obama defeated McCain 56.8% to 42.1%, Republican Chris Christie defeated well-funded incumbent Jon Corzine 48.8% to 44.5%. And in a statewide Supreme Court race in Pennsylvania, the Republican candidate defeated the Democrat 53.2% to 46.8%; a dramatic turnaround given that Obama won the state 54.7% to 44.3%.

In early 2010, the conservative trend continued in a special election in Mass. As most Republicans remember, and most Democrats are trying to forget, the seat held by Sen. Ted Kennedy was taken by Republican Scott Brown in a dramatic shift of voting patterns. Sen. Brown defeated Democrat Martha Coakley 49% to 47% in a state Obama won 56% to 43%. Sen. Brown ran against Obamacare, promising to be the 41st vote in opposition to the big government takeover of our healthcare system.

Just a few weeks ago, some states held primary and special elections. Not surprisingly, turncoat Arlen Specter was defeated in the Democrat primary by a candidate who was offered a federal position to bow out of the race. Additionally, there was a very interesting race for the 12th Congressional District in Pennsylvania, a seat formerly held by long time Democratic congressman and Pelosi loyalist, John Murtha. In the special election, Democrat Mark Critz defeated Republican Tim Burns. Because the special election was to fill an unexpired term, there will be a rematch in November. Democrats like to point to Pennsylvania Congressional District 12 as a win. What they don't tell you is that Pennsylvania 12 is a district that favors Democrats 2 to 1. What they chose to ignore is that Democrat Mark Critz ran from President Obama and the Democrat majority's liberal agenda. For example, Critz's television ad states: "I opposed the health care bill, I support tax breaks for creating jobs here, I'm pro-life and pro-gun." Each of these positions are inconsistent with the Democratic Party platform and the Obama, Pelosi, Reid agenda for our country. It isn't surprising that Democrats are running from this liberal agenda. Recent polling makes it very clear-the country has had enough of Obama, Reid, Pelosi, and, therefore, Democrats, like Critz are running for cover.

What do we do to make sure this translates into success in Harris County and across the state of Texas in November? First, it is all hands on deck; we cannot take this election for granted. Too much is at stake! As part of our efforts in Harris Country, no precinct will be left behind. Our voter registration and get out the vote efforts will touch every precinct and community in Harris County. However, for this to occur, it is important that every Republican and like-minded independent roll up their sleeves and join our grass-roots army. Our 2010 victory plan is only as good as the people behind it and requires each of us to engage. Our Senate District Chairs, Areas Leaders and Pct. Chairs need your help in their respective areas. To volunteer as a Pct. Captain or Block Captain please follow this link to signup: www.harriscountygop.com. As a member of this grass roots army, we need you to assist with our voter registration, voter identification and get out the vote projects.