Republican Party Fund Raising

I got a call yesterday from the Republican Party of Virginia. I should say, I got ANOTHER call from the Republican Party of Virginia because I get numerous calls from the party at both the state and national levels.

I always say, "I don't give to the party, I only support pro-life candidates."

But that doesn't keep the callers from going on and on and on trying to get my no to turn into yes. After several statements that I won't give to the party, I usually switch to the "marketing strategy" comment. "I realize your script tells you to make me say no five or six times before you give up, but I assure you I'm not going to change my mind."

The woman yesterday continued trying to convince me for at least five minutes and I said no at least five times. Even then she asked again saying, "Won't you give $35." At that point I paused for about three seconds and then said, "What do you think my answer is going to be? After all, you've heard it already - how many times?" She finally gave up. It was almost amusing. She kept asking and I kept refusing criticizing the way the party treats pro-lifers, talking about Michael Steele's cavalier dismissal of Republicans who defend the social issues. "I hope you'll pass on my comments," I said with little expectation that will happen.

"Why don't you just hang up?" you may be thinking. Well, actually, I find the marketing strategies interesting, which is why I engage. I'm always amazed at how long the caller (presumably a paid caller) will pursue an obviously futile call. It makes me wonder how she's paid. Obviously not by the number of calls she makes. She could have made three or four in the time she spoke to me. By the successful call? I told her I was a past precinct chairman and some other details and maybe she thought someone that involved could be convinced to change her mind. Whatever the reason, it never ceases to amaze me. I waste their time. I doubt if they care about my opinions. So what's the point from their point of view? They must think the next argument on their script sheet is the winner. Or maybe the're zapping me with a subliminal high frequency message. "You want to give...you want to give...you want to give...."

If you figure it out, let me know.