Lincoln Project co-founder Ron Steslow, at the historic Cooper Union in NYCoper Union

Lincoln Project cofounder Ron Steslow delivers remarks from Abraham Lincoln’s podium at Cooper Union in NYC to mark the 160th anniversary of Lincoln’s pivotal “Right Makes Might” speech.
On February 27, 2020, the founders of The Lincoln Project gathered at the historic Cooper Union to discuss what it means to put #CountryOverParty.
You can follow Ron on Twitter here: / ronsteslow
Donate to The Lincoln Project: secure.anedot....
The Lincoln Project website: lincolnproject.us
The Lincoln Project on Twitter: / projectlincoln
Ron Steslow: ronsteslow.com
FOUNDERS:
George Conway: / gtconway3d
Reed Galen: / reedgalen
Jennifer Horn: / nhjennifer
Mike Madrid: / madrid_mike
Steve Schmidt: / steveschmidtses
Ron Steslow: / ronsteslow
John Weaver: / jwgop
Rick Wilson: / therickwilson
FULL REMARKS:
Personal background
I am a millennial. It is well-understood that my generation entered adulthood not able to take for granted some things our parents were-economic stability, for example, and job opportunity.
Now, my generation is being forced to learn that democracy cannot be taken for granted either. That the balances and checks built into our system require enactment by public servants, and that such service can be costly.
The price of defending democratic ideals rises steeply when one’s political party persistently sacrifices its moral core in exchange for political advantage.
Ends Justifying Means vs. Lincoln’s “Right Makes Might”
As you may know, around the 1960s, the GOP realized it would be mathematically impossible for a Republican to win a national election again. Soon after came the “Southern Strategy,” which exploited racism in the South in order to convert white Democrats. Later on, the party co-opted the church, created the “moral majority,” and weaponized anti-gay sentiment-leaving a legacy of politically advantageous hate that I experienced personally, growing up gay in a conservative evangelical home, with pastors for parents, and going on to work in Republican politics for 17 years.
As a Republican strategist, I struggled to reconcile my hope for reclaiming the moral integrity of Lincoln’s party with the reality of a perverse yet ever-more-intrenched ideology born of a cynical electoral calculation-an ideology that twisted the teachings of my religious heritage and maligned my identity as a gay man.
So I didn’t suddenly become troubled by the GOP in 2016-but I did begin to despair of change from within. This modern Republican Party whose national influence had been built on exploiting minority groups had become unrecognizable from the one Abraham Lincoln catapulted into victory, from this podium, 160 years ago today, with a speech in which he meticulously laid out not only the wrongness of slavery but the moral imperative of standing against it.
Lincoln: there are moral truths
In his Cooper Union address, Lincoln affirmed that there are moral truths and it is our duty to articulate them and to create a country that reflects them.
Those moral truths certainly include that human lives are sacred, that children deserve protection, that people ought to treat one another with dignity. And there are fundamental, uncontroversial tenets of democracy: that power is not its own justification, that the rule of law must be sacrosanct, that lies corrupt trust.
Allowing Trump and Trumpism to prevail, then and now, amounts to abandoning such a moral foundation. To approving the exchange of what is right for what is expedient. To believing that there are no rules other than the ones you make or break or bend to win. That “winning” is the ultimate virtue. That might equals right.
Close
My generation started life as civics classes were dying, “dilemma ethics” were supplanting instruction in virtue, and moral relativism was blossoming. But this world we’ve inherited is shaking us. We are learning, in an era of “fake news,” the preciousness of truth and the labor involved in gathering it. Witnessing the court of public opinion so easily roused to sanction hatred, we are anxious for sturdier moral ground. And recognizing the threat of foreign interference in our democracy, we long for a leadership that, rather than gladly accept advantage, will rise to her defense.

[@Vandetta333]

As someone who considers himself a liberal, I’m proud to see my conservative brothers and sisters stand up for what’s right. We may disagree on policy, but we’re all Americans... And that’s all that matters.

[@robcochran6213]

Great, more Bushes in office to continue their dynasty

[@themythhunter9764]

Agreed, too much division

[@SuperSonofsatan]

Can someone forward this to trump...

[@maryannehorn2593]

My sentiments exactly.

[@nickiemcnichols5397]

Shootasaurus Rex he would just call them liberal scumbags.

[@MexiPanda]

I am a liberal and I also like what I am hearing here. I will be donating to the Lincoln Project.

[@richardmaclean7581]

TheRex Report be careful… Conservatives = con artists. Liberals = artists.

[@darthinvader2738]

@Nancy Martinelli agree with you and Richard. They brought the wacko, deplorable tea party ilk in their party out from the dark. Unfortunately, for Republicants, there is no going back to civility, honesty, morality, basically anything decent.

[@rosiegalvan5069]

I did donate recently, and I feel much better for having done so. The Lincoln Project's views are the same as mine.

[@andreaperry938]

I did when then established themselves, mostly because they are ruthless and that's what Trump is.

[@pops1507]

Go right ahead. Taxes cut - Onerous regulations reduced -Fastest economic growth -Lowest unemployment in 40 years -Wages rising -Out of Iran deal and phony Paris Climate Hoax -Embassy in Jerusalem -Hostages home from North Korea - Dumped NAFTA and got USMCA and CHINA deals -Justices Gorsuch and Kavanaugh -80+ judges confirmed. . Military build, braced NATO and now WHO, 2 very dead terrorists, renewed PRIDE in this magnificent experiment in governance.

[@merlinbrubaker1163]

I'm a Dem, and I applaud this group. Well done. There's hope for the U.S. if the Lincoln Project can bring sanity back to the GOP.

[@thornyturtleranch4u]

No it needs to be rebuilt. Those in it need to leave and be replaced with the lincoln party.

[@gundisrambo9054]

The party is the one thing. The voters are the other thing. If 40 percent of people support 45, the country is broken, and it is a tough task to fix that...

[@vibekecarstensen1331]

let's start by getting rid of the electoral ( privileged) college...... let's have paper ballots coast to coast, no voting machines ( therefore curbing Russian cheating, Dem leadership cheating, Repubs cheating)... Another big plus to paper ballots is the u.s. post office would benefit , as well!😂

[@biggwillnyc3775]

@@vibekecarstensen1331 I agree 100%. No more electoral college, no more election machines, paper ballots across the country.

[@judithsmith9582]

@@vibekecarstensen1331 Paper ballots at the ballot box doesn't need post office support

[@joenuno8071]

I am a Democratic, And I like what I am hearing here, this is the way we should be, Republicans and Democrats working together and not making a one way street for either parties. Thank you Lincoln Project 👍

[@silencedogood7297]

I disagree. I am a Democrat and liked everything this young man said - except his final words. He calls to "rise to her defense". To rise to the defense of "advantage". Although he speaks of Lincoln and moral imperatives, his last line leaves open the door for bigots to rise to the defense of being white. It leaves open the door for corrupt bankers to rise to the defense of being able to create fake bank accounts and charge unconscionable interest rates. It leaves open the door for employers to pay unlivable wages, corporations to pollute waters, and parents to bribe college admission officers. For all those who have advantages are being told by this young man to use those advantages. Be wary of a wolf in sheep's skin. The wolf has the advantage and other wolves will rise to help him maintain his advantage.

[@paddybrennan3644]

Silence DoGood I agree

[@onetrueslave]

​@@silencedogood7297 But, you would agree with what he DID actually say, though. Right? What I heard, regarding the recognition of foreign interference in our Democracy (paraphrasing here), was that we should long for leadership that will rise to the defense of that Democracy. Surely, there will forever be those who will twist and interpret most anything anyone says, as they wish...the way you _appear_ to have just done. Jus' sayin'.

[@themythhunter9764]

@@onetrueslave i agree with you, i think what he said at the end could easily get twisted and just did!!

[@pops1507]

As a matter of fact, the only "reaching across the aisle" I endorse is one in which we throttle the Left - good and hard.

[@edgarturner7032]

I am a life long Democrat and I have been donating small dollar amount to the Project. I encourage others to do as well.

[@erickoeman1]

I will too

[@onetrueslave]

@@erickoeman1 I'm in!

[@pops1507]

Porque? Oh, yes, you fear strong men.

[@jeffg1524]

I'm not registered with either party, but since Trump I have voted Dem every time. I will not vote Republican again until not only Trump is gone but the cancer he's spread within the party is eradicated. Btw, I donated, too.

[@jeffg1524]

@Mr Bond please troll somewhere else, comrade.

[@johns4440]

God bless the Patriots of the Lincoln Project and may God bless this country and that Love it.🙏🇺🇸

[@56cdross]

John S - there is no god. It is up to you and me; US.

[@francisdavis1271]

I have one absolute truth for you: Empires fall. They fall because they are built by men and suffer the flaws of Man. Stop invoking "god": We're not any more deserving nor are we the chosen.

[@claudiagaona4260]

‘We are learning in an era of fake news, the preciousness of truth and the labor required to gather it”

[@qphil66]

@bman Doh!!!

[@JEiowan]

bman - gaslighting seen and witnessed...✨ .....completely ignoring the depth and point of the comment. You’ve left yourself as just an emotional distraction.

[@theblade9024]

@bman And your post means you are the dumbest fucker in the world.

[@jhegre]

@bman FAIL

[@maryannehorn2593]

Excellent quote. I stopped the video to write that down!

[@imnot_givingmyname_2a_machine]

I'm a millennial from TX. I wasn’t political until 2016, when that cretin infested my life. My parent’s were west TX R's, that abandoned every lesson they insisted was important, just for Trump & “winning". I will never vote for a R that has enabled DJT. After this disease is eradicated, I will vote for a R platform that sounds like this. Thank you.

[@oliviastanley4783]

Millennial conservative from Texas here too, could take or leave Trump bc honestly I don't have positive expectations out of almost anyone in politics on either or no side. I stated having more of an issue with him ever since the Tomahawk missile let's risk more war move and while I have no personal feelings towards him like most- strongly - do, good or bad, I can't see voting for him when either he is under the radar doing things that make my blood boil or he's honestly simply not capable of getting the right people around him as advisers and getting the ego in check simply enough to not let it control his decision making (i don't care if he tweets). Oh and i recently had my first experience with the cultists hich was creepy beyond all belief. So I get here you're coming from in many ways which I guess is what made me comment this once. DON'T trust these people. When I first heard the name The Lincoln Project I thought it was going to be some kind of historical expose about the truth our schools didn't bother to teach us honestly. Lincoln was literally not just hypocritically against all these ideals this group is spouting he was for but he put the first real fissure in our constitutional republic. And I wish a hatred of slavery was at the very least a saving grace for him - it was not by a long shot. Now I thought these people appeared old enough and politically connected and experienced enough clearly to know these things. Therefore I was shocked at the lies they repeated in praise of him and then I looked into them...and it all made since. The name is perfect bc look into the self proclaimed histories of these people and you'll see they share all of Lincoln's characteristics - hypocritical, self-serving, power hungry, unprincipled liars through and though. Trump may not be the way but they are shockingly similar. Some even more so that the Republicans that now kiss Trumps ass. I hope you'll look into everything I said bc you a fellow American and fellow Texan and we're losing both. A new way does need to be forged but this group is not the answer.

[@fredjones9853]

@bman Troll🇷🇺👈😂

[@marylynne9104]

I’m an old boomer, but I must say it is so good to hear intelligent young people realising that they must take the steps necessary to make their world their way. Gives me great hope for a better world. My generation rebuilt countries after WW11, but too many politicians of my generation are still clinging on to power, with outdated and too often corrupt agendas. I’m rooting for the Millennials and their offspring.

[@JEiowan]

bman -gaslighting and venom seen and witnessed...✨

[@lydiabell6218]

You need to study history from before and after the NEW DEAL, and you'll find that Republicans have ALWAYs been representing the interests of the Rockefellers of this world and NOT MAINSTREAM AMERICA. This crisis has laid bare to the whole world ALL THE THINGS THAT ARE WRONG WITH THIS COUNTRY, and all the citizens of the industrial world, who enjoy a much better quality of life than the average American does, are aghast at the conditions that exist in the US, as you can read all over the message boards on KZbin.

[@notsofunnynowisit]

I'd rather have an adversary I can respect and shake hands with at the end of the day than one I loathe to even encounter.

[@louskunt8074]

@Brian Dumas nevermind the broad meaning of the word or the context it was used, now is your chance to sound like a tough guy.

[@erickoeman1]

I am a Canadian liberal and i want to thank you so much for giving me faith in humanity. Trumpism is evil and wrong in so many ways but it has to be stopped from within and only people like you can do it for us to have any chance at a constructive dialogue. But I know how difficult it must be for you and the resistance you must be faced with. Please persevere. We need this type of voice more than ever. Another 4 years of that madman would be a total disaster. I hope to donate to your cause soon.

[@richardhoenich9338]

Donating from Canada (or anywhere outside the USA) is tricky. The donation page on the website needs a 5-digit zip code. I emailed LP about this and was told that a cheque can be mailed to their Washington address. It is: The Lincoln Project 201 Massachusetts Avenue, NE Suite C8 Washington, DC 20002

[@rolandebaker7530]

I am not nor have ever been a Republican. I am a retired 35 yrs. social studies/ U S Government teacher. This is not about being a Republican, it is about having a moral imperative deep within our bones. We must always fight to keep our democracy. This election is a test to prove how badly the citizens of this country want to keep our democracy! When asked by a woman as he was coming out of Independence Hall what he had voted on, Ben Franklin said, "A Democracy if you can keep it, Madam"! Well, can we keep it?!? We had better!!!✊✊✊

[@cyninbend]

"A republic, mam, if you can keep it." A democratic republic for those Republican dolts who try to argue that we are not a democracy. But Franklin was proud to have created a republic, because a pure democracy is subject to dangerous emotional abuse of a minority by a majority...a republic is thought to possess the best elements of democracy but with the rough edges smoothed over by elected representatives who are more thoughtful, less subject to the type of pandering, emotional stirring that our current idiot-in-chief has mastered.

[@simonemarie545]

Lincoln Project thank you for speaking truth to trump's malignant administration.

[@kellynewell5500]

It's about time that the Republicans have the courage to Stand-up against Trump.

[@kremove]

and make money off it ... true GOP

[@jcsrst]

Not many but I applaud those that do.

[@drscouting6804]

Kelly, this was more than standing up to Trump, this was making the case for immutable principles over relativism. He made the case eloquently.

[@SG-tf1fx]

Evil prevails when good people sit back and do nothing...good to see decent human being are now standing up...May god be with you.

[@SG-tf1fx]

@Spok just a question. Are you familiar with the new testament? When christ preached did he preach that we are to love our neighbors as ourself? Love god with you heart and soul..now I am sure you have seen Trumps rallies and all the name calling, belittling..threatening and inciting violence...he claims to be christian. Does his speeches bring glory to christ and is his speeches align with what christ teaches? Just a yes or no answer will do..what do you say. Our words determine where our hearts are. Jesus also said, “What you say flows from what is in your heart” (Luke 6:45). If your heart is hard, then it will show by what you say

[@AlanHirschenhoferII]

Boy, all these negative comments, seems like the so called GOP and their supporters had a nerve touched ever so gently lol's. I think the Lincoln project is on to something here....but I'll never vote GOP again, not after they're responsible for all the unnecessary deaths we're now suffering. I wish y'all luck though, keep after this POS of an administration....Hell, I'll even donate to your cause.

[@wnica1]

As a Democrat I miss the days when I had a choice to vote my interests even if it meant voting republican. Those days died with McCan. Now I have to vote in the best interest of my country. I appreciate the Lincoln Project for working to bring dignity back to the Republican Party. Lord knows you have a lot of work to do.

[@Yo_Gma]

More of this, rouse the troops! I'm with you!

[@lindascott3973]

@Spok 👈 do not engage with this demon.

[@PianoUniverse]

I hope there are a lot in the GOP that can see what he is saying.

[@peachion2]

There are not a lot left in the GOP that see what he is saying. Reasonable Republicans have been identifying as independent.

[@peachion2]

Far Out Man I remember. At the time we thought he was delusional. Nixon imagined that everyone who wasn’t protesting against him was automatically for him. We saw how things worked out for Nixon.

[@JEiowan]

Spok - gaslighting (distracting from the topic at hand coupled with “hidden” toxic emotional insults) are seen, witnessed. Again...✨

[@cyninbend]

@Human Being Trump clearly has studied Hitler's game plan from the 1930s. He began by saying we are number 1...Exceptional. Then added, "Exceptional, number 1, BUT FOR THOSE OTHERS." And he worked throughout the campaign to creat venom toward those "others"--blaming them for every inadequacy. Then he began complaining about how we can't easily identify those "others." How can we tell someone's religion? We need to put their religion on their travel documents...just like old Adolph demanded in 1934. Trump has said he wished we could tattoo Muslims. He's portrayed Hispanikcs as criminals, demonized them as wanting everything he says rightfully belong to Americans--straight from Nazi propaganda of the 1930s. He's even spoken of banning people from teaching positions, govt jobs, keeping children out of school--all in the Nazi Handbook. I hate the next part most of all...After assuming power, Hitler immediately began constructing the labor camps that became concentration and death camps. Trump began constructing tent camps in the deserts here, even separating families upon taking them into custody. All of it reeks of what Hitler did, just applied to the US, things he could talk enough Americans into allowing. He never even had his people create a tracking system to return children--babies--to their parents! What did he plan to do to or with these kids? We can track your $2.00 purchase from QVC or Amazon across the country, library books, anything you can imagine, but these Trumpers took screaming children from their mother's arms without even writing a name or number on their back with one of his sharpies! We have had hospital bracelets for 100 yrs, but never thought about a toddler who had no idea what mommy's name is or where they were born being reunited? Never thought about vaccinations? Allergies? Did they ever plan to reunite parents with children? There is no evidence that they ever planned to reunite them. NONE. (Trump projected everything he did on to Hillary thru his campaign--There were shows devoted to his projections. And since then, he's projected everything on to Dems, to Pelosi, to Obama...often bizarre. So what happened with PizzaGate? He engineered an insane conspiracy theory that had his supporters accusing a grandmother of being a pedophile and child trafficker. Never an arrest for anything in her life, despite 28 hearings and investigations launched into every part of her life. Why would this not be projection as well? 900 children are still missing acc to something I read a few days ago. It's just too shocking to contemplate a US President doing this--but he had no issues with slurring the leading Dem and former 1st Lady, Senator, Sec/State of these heinous crimes. I think it's 50/50 he was at least contemplating this himself...for cold hard cash while telling those around him it was to discourage parents from immigrating with their kids...Kelly's announced reason for the 1st part of separation back in 2017. Anyway, all of this is Hitler's game plan from back in the 1930s. Trump not only adopted everystep of Hitler's strategy, but he did them all in the exact same order. I followed a timeline of his behavior/policies/undertakings, and each new Trump policy through the campaign followed that timeline. Right to the adoption of violence at campaign events...he encouraged the attacks on lone protesters just as Adolph had done, encouraging attacks on young and elderly Jewish men German women who were romantically involved with Jewish men...it made Germans become toughened to the violence they would soon see as Jews, gypsies, etc were purged from Germany. Trump used violence at rallies to toughen his supporters so they stopped having empathy with or sympathy for the lone men he encouraged crowds to attack. Then he sent out ICE agents after assuming office, to pick-up dads dropping kids at school...but his supporters cheered on these beginning police state tactics, they were wanting more! Just as in Germany. It all followed a plan, tho that has been dispensed with now as far as I can see. Judges prevented him taking more children, tho his workers lied every time judges demanded accountings. Judges have stood up to him throughout--we will see if they go all the way, making him subject to the subpoenas for his taxes, as the S.Ct. rules, and whether the federal ct judge continues the case against Flynn in the face of DOJ dropping charges, will Trump's admin be above the law as Nazis were, or will our Constitution survive?

[@aloggins69]

Get that orange cheeto out of office.

[@julietirado5605]

Well said Ron Steslow kudos to you a real American 😍💪

[@brendagnader6734]

Wonderful. Thank you for having the courage to care more about "We The People" than greed and power.

[@eleanordixon9678]

Hello from Holland and God bless the Lincoln Project. I bet people all over the world are sending them money.

[@rosiegalvan5069]

I hope so.

[@sageoftruth]

Seriously, Lincoln Project, shut up and take my money!

[@lauragn4300]

Dear Lincoln Project, I am 55 years old. It has only been the last 15 years that I became more aware of the USGovt. I am a Democrat. My mother taught me. In my lifetime I have never seen the pure vile evil that a person can create based on money. The gall of breaking the law in plain sight because chump is the all powerful seems insane to me. Thank you for gathering your coalition during these very scary times to protect the Americans that are told there is nothing we can do to stop this for another 6 months. The deaths and blood on this administration's hands needs to be stopped immediately. They lack the judgement to make decisions for a rock garden much less peoples' lives.

[@jshir17]

*Right Makes Right: "Power is not it's own justification," There are Rules beyond those which we bend or break to win, Human lives are Sacred, Children should be Protected, We should Treat each other with Dignity.*

[@savagetwin52]

Is that Rick Wilson I see seating up there? Love that man❤. Well, I donated to The Lincoln Project, cuz I'm gonna see what the will bring. I hope it will bring about the end of The GOP that I have known all my life. BTW, many Black people were Republicans until there was a turn against Civil Rights Movement and Black people in general. You got a long wave to ride. But I support and join u in the defeat of #NotMyPresident.

[@hankchinaski4651]

What a bunch of stone cold losers.

[@kchasehenson57]

@Rosetta Jenkins if you will dare to go to the Walk Away Campaign channel you will see that is not the truth and that many democrats,black and white, have left the democratic party because they learned the truth. If you want to know the real truth go to that channel and watch a few videos.

[@richiejohnson]

@@hankchinaski4651 goodbye, Sheila

[@sagarwadgaonkar7580]

@Morenita De Oro hows the weather is Moscow this morning?

[@RJCHOICE]

@Morenita De Oro What have conservative judges done to improve America, and or help you live your best life? Conservative judges gave us the Dred Scott decision, Allowed Japenese American internment, Blocked Woman's sufferage, Targeted Black men with the Maan act, Upheld Segregation, and Jim Crow laws, Child labor exploitation, and Continue to side with their Corporate overlords over working class Americans. A few Republicans recognize their party has been taken over by a white nationalist based fear of America's inevitable rejection of it's past injustices as it's demographics become more and more diverse, and they somehow become the enemy? Party's over Eva Braun. Join us real Americans in the 21st century or go hide in the bunker with your dear leader.

[@aloggins69]

Y'all need to start the Lincoln Party. Y'all already have the logo.

[@dantaylor2086]

democrat or Republican, when a elected official votes the way his constituents want they can truly be called Public Servants. when a elected official votes solely to support his party rather than his constituents he should be called a convict. We truly need to get back to a country By the people and for the people

[@lydiabell6218]

WELL SAID!!!

[@jillrocs]

Thank you

[@barbmoody4892]

Thank you all for your courage and most importantly for having and demonstrating a high ethical and moral standard. I just made a donation to the Lincoln Project and while these days I don’t believe either party deserves much loyalty I have always been a democrat.

[@johnhumphries505]

Watching Steve Schmidt's seriousness I'm entranced with hope that I haven't felt for a long time.

[@robertalker652]

The Man and the Cause Absolutely Rocks! Well done to you, Ron Steslow and all your co-founders and believers.

[@MrBubyV]

You organized, collectively, intelligent Republi-cans are seriously,...AWESOME. 🥳 The indifferent Name-Caller is going to have an immature, temper tantrum, hissy-fit, Twitter-Attack about this. 🤫

[@severelychanged3679]

The Lincoln Project is the only reason why i have not left the Republican Party.

[@lydiabell6218]

We need to remember that the LP is made up of the same people that for years and years defended the Rep ideology and policy against the welfare of Americans. While we all are glad for what they are doing right now, fact is they helped to create George W. Bush and Comrade Trump.

[@robertk2007]

Good to see real Republicans for a change. Not sure I'd ever say that

[@jmartinez27671]

I will agree that they are real Republicans.

[@jmartinez27671]

@Spok Don't worry Republicans even when pretending to be independents out of a momentary sense of shame...still come back home every time. For example you don't hear them call out or attack the most dangerous players in this whole drama...the "base"...dangerously dim witted so therefore easily manipulated and reliably receptive to hate mongering and demagoguery. you're good worry not....

[@jmartinez27671]

@Spok I am trying to tell you that the Republican Party you are NOT DEFENDING is very much intact. Kids are still in cages, Earth is still warming, LOCK HER UP is still the rallying call for the Republican Base, and in exchange for distributing more and more wealth to the those that already have most of it...the Republican Party is still agreeing to go without healthcare, education, and clean air and water. All is well....nothing has changed....it is only that Trump is a little...unseemly.

[@koosemar]

S Black don’t waste your time. Spok is some kind of fascist religious lunatic based on his comments here. He’d be more at home in Gilead from The Handmaid’s Tale...

[@fredjones9853]

@Spok Spok the Troll!! 🇷🇺👈😂

[@SarcasmGuy091]

Yaaasssss! I am progressive Queer Republican that believes in Abraham Lincoln. This Project can bring back the liberal side of the GOP. 💟

[@peachion2]

Nice to see millennials realizing that they need to take democracy seriously. I am a boomer, voted as soon as I could and continued to vote for life. Young people as a group don’t turn out. Time to step up.

[@CorinnaD]

peachion2 i hear ya i voted as soon as i was able to i also did my research of the candidates still do.

[@enrigor8253]

I am an independent voter, it doesn’t matter what party you’re belong as long as you have the righteousness in your heart and that’s matter most.

[@kimarmstrong2613]

This gives my heart hope

[@jeffwhitney3369]

As a Democrat I say we all need a strong DESCENT Republican party

[@nonewherelistens1906]

And decent, too.

[@BonerMaroner]

In this world of fake news we recognise how precious the truth is, and the labor we have to do to obtain it.

[@GrotrianSeiler]

This is awesome.

[@pitti-sing1203]

Thank heavens for this site. It’s helping to save my soul for the GOP party.

[@noelhoffmann6057]

Independent here. I love this guy!!!

[@roberthboyd6073]

I love it 😻 this is the Real Republican Party talking I’m really proud Please come back reset our country

[@Washadamoak]

Why is there not a third, centrist party in the USA? It seems the right and left are so extreme now that a third party could come up the middle and find ample support to be competive.

[@sandyhagen9155]

Washademoak While I agree that there should be a ‘Centrist’ party in the USA, where is this ‘Left’ that you’re talking about? Watching this from Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 I don’t really see a real left wing party in your country, I see far right Republicans and (not so) far right Democrats. The Democratic Party leaders don’t want Bernie Sanders because his ‘radical’ views (e.g. free health care for all) are too ‘socialist’ for them. I really hope that for the good of your country Trump is voted out in November. Hope that you’re staying safe and well. 😊

[@mypillowguy445]

Can you tell me what Liberal policies you find extreme?

[@Washadamoak]

@@mypillowguy445 personally, I don't think they are too extreme,,but a lot of their policies such as a living wage, free education etc. are too radical for many people at this point in time. They will never vote for it because they think it is "crazy" and not sustainable. A more moderate stance would be more acceptable to some people on the right and allow more social policies to be gradually implemented over time. The way it is now, if you try these things all at once you are branded as revolutionary and a lot of people are frightened by that.

[@benniecrawford6876]

Washademoak absolutely correct, that’s why we chose a more moderate candidate like Biden. Bernie could never have won and at this point in time the most important thing is to defeat Trump.

[@BrianCollinsonPsych]

Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower, George H.W. Bush...

[@ruthiemonroig1614]

Much respect for the Patriots of the Lincoln Project 💯 these are the true Republicans..there is still hope 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@parrisprice5892]

The Lincoln project,is spot on

[@jmartinez27671]

It is confounding...and the analysis I think is often tricky...indeed I think this Lincoln Project group continues to rely on the "special skills" that the GOP has used for decades now. The old switcheroo....should someone (at the wrong time) not support our efforts for justice in the middle east...then they were said to be against the Troops...not the war. If someone, as some misguided liberals are apt to be, out of a desire to demonstrate sensitivity for the vast diversity that we used to be proud of...should opt for a Happy Holidays, instead of Merry Christmas, they are enlisted in the war against Christmas...So when the Lincoln Project says this is not the Party of Lincoln...they will not get an argument from me....Agreed...it is not. But to say that this is not the Party of Reagan and Bush and Trump and McCarthy and Buchanan and Gingrich and Atwater and Rove and Luntz and Norquist and McConnell....and others. Well that is simply not true...the President against all manner of evidence and the laws of logic if not nature...was found not guilty by a GOP lead senate while enjoying still today approval in the high 90's among Republicans. So if the Senate demonstrates an understanding of the President's popularity by acquitting him...again...incredulously ....and in the last election he received 62 Million votes....I'd say...that this party...the Party of Trump....is the Republican Party....Trump is merely the inevitable eventuality of the policies, strategies and tactics that started with Reagan. This is not something Trump did to the Party....the Party held the door open for Trump and bowed as he entered.

[@markshaw431]

That was beautifully written

[@jmartinez27671]

@@markshaw431 thanks Mark!!!

[@MsThebeMoon]

That is true. Trump was created and given life by the Republicans. I remember when CPAC started courting white Nationalist and no longer had a place at their conference for the Log Cabin Republicans. With that said, something or someone needs to reel trump in. If they can get to some who are in his base that would be welcomed. And if they can somehow lesson the hateful divide, I'm for it. We're going to wind up in a full tilt civil war if something doesn't give.

[@jmartinez27671]

@@MsThebeMoon Thanks very much for your comment....Go back to the 1950 and 1960's and tell me that the critical issues of the time (social justice, cold war) were of the type that could take a long time to solve because while progress was slow...whether or not that progress was too slow was at least arguable...The same cannot be said for climate, health, income inequality....as you said, something has to give or something....will. There is no question I think that progress on too many issues in 2020 are now beyond urgent as they are very quickly becoming beyond solvable. I say we cannot afford another GOP President...regardless of whether or not that President is Trump....

[@jamesblanshard9468]

S. Black, absolutely brilliant!

[@craftgunner]

To have a logical debate with a republican, seems as if that might be a fantasy right now, but there are always exceptions. I hope that this project and these true republicans build on their platform to show what realistic and fruitful debate can do for ALL Americans. As a non-republican, It makes me happy to see so much support for them. It will be good to see a republican party with intelligence, empathy and compassion instead of the cunning, obfuscation and indifference that we see now. Please, continue on your path, for every American's sake.

[@cheriecullum9489]

Thanks for all you do for America's freedom

[@janetlewis2911]

Just what need now, Just what this country needs now. Thanks Lincoln Project. 🌐

[@Frenchylikeshikes]

I remember back when being a democrat or republican did not matter, and people would not be so divided. It feels like people today just can't talk in a civil and respectful way. Hopefully organisations like this one will help restore that "civilness" we so much lack.

[@judynorfleet4835]

Well addressed young man. Yes the highschool education has shut down true history and civics and instead has pushed for money based futures instead of intellectual enlightenment . .

[@GourmetGilda]

Hey Ron !the world needs to move forward we all have to learn new ways but not deprive and insult hard working peoples !adapt or die! Thanks for all your hard work!

[@earlconley9654]

We can disagree on policy, but not on facts!

[@evolvedape9171]

As a moderate Democrat, I give the Lincoln Project two thumbs up.

[@ralphgirard6091]

Can the Republican party redeem itself? I don't know but I sure hope so.

[@melissalayson7275]

Just because one stumbles doesn't their lost forever.

[@genomitchalinni8106]

Mr. Conway. Keep the chronological facts rolling.....🚗 ⛵ 🔥 🔥 🔥

[@CJDe-kx8of]

Well said, well done, Mr. Steslow. You have my upmost respect. I am a registered Democrat, but I have always tried to vote for the right person not the party. With the exception of former President Nixon, I’ve voted for Presidents who happened to be Democrats. Voting has become choosing between the perceived lessor of two evils. This is wrong, plain and simple. It is my hope and prayer that The Lincoln Project is completely successful in its endeavor to work with all to re-establish a fair, impartial, working Democracy we can once again enjoy and depend upon without worry of what we are passing on to our future generations. 👏👏👏👏👏Thank you, Sir.

[@myrnajay2785]

Yup, would be lovely to have bipartisanship again.

[@margaretesquibel3396]

Yay, millennials! Yay democracy!

[@biffjohnson7891]

In the name of saving democracy Keep up the great work I’m proud of your patriotism God bless America 🙏🏻🌈

[@richardalexander5758]

There is no Republican party, it has become Cult tRump.

[@rebeccayoung6505]

Another lifetime Democrat who for the first time in ages feels hope for the future. I will give to this glorious new source of integrity and truth.

[@nicolebrown1927]

The Lincoln Project is a blessing. I love them.☺🇺🇸

[@skaggle1]

This is a speech I wish I'd heard 45 years ago from a republican strategist.

[@crustycobs2669]

Great job. Please push for Trump's resignation so that we can legally deal with him and his cronies and start to heal America

[@timeenuf4200]

Will the real republican party please stand up? Will the Trumpian party ever go away or will it just hide?

[@koosemar]

Spok gimme a break..

[@tonyfarebrother6404]

Time Enuf the right right wing took over the party to get their hands on power and then to do whatever they want. There whole campaign is about getting their hands on power. This happened before Trump and he helped them continue to maintain power. There only interest is money and power and looking after their major donors. To keep the money coming in, they have to do what their donors want, reduce regulation, reduce taxes, privatize services, increase military spending on hugely wasteful initiatives including wars. They do not care what a happens to the people. It is both sad and dangerous.

[@Alif.Laam.Meem.]

Modern day heros, of the nation for the nation. Thank you, please fighting the good fight by choosing COUNTRY over politics.

[@fendr1962]

I am a life long Democrat and yes we need a Republican Party that values country over party. The give and take between the two parties will more often then not bring forth the best ideas. A Republican Party that shows respect for rule of law. One that is respectful to those who may not necessarily agree with their opinions. I am actually proud of all those who started the Lincoln Project. We need this so badly to show that all is not lost. There are still Republicans with a sense of moral value and respect for all people. Especially not believing in winning at all cost. I pray for your success.

[@MrRainrunner]

I am also a dem, contributing monthly to this group. I don't mind that we disagree on some things, I just want a republican party that believes in science and reason....which is sorely lacking now.

[@paxundpeace9970]

Not an ordinary speach. A honest patriot.

[@confusiondelusion4569]

Listening to him talk reminds me why I'm an independent, I am leaning left while Trump runs the right, I don't like the hate his administration is bringing

[@billdunn8542]

This is something to be built upon. If we can do that we can save America, the idea.

[@billdunn8542]

Spok, utter fucking ignorant bullshit. Your delusional like your god donny. Probably just as stupid. Take your fucking hate for America, freedom, intellect, and humanity and go troll someone else. Plenty of channels out there were you can chubby with your own kind.

[@chadwiley6917]

I didn't know this was founded by Republicans.

[@AngelaH2222]

Yep, they use fine words, but they lack a radical agenda.

[@ObamAmerican48]

Where have you guys been the past 40 years?! #BetterLateThanNever #TheKindOfRepublicansICanBelieveIn

[@surrendertoreasonagain5143]

Thank you Lincoln Project... thank you

[@FlockofAngels]

Bravo! Abraham Lincoln would be proud of this stand by courageous Republicans who still exhibit a conscience!

[@imugibyam]

Enjoy your podcast " Republicans Defeating Trump " .... keep the virtuous works. Save the country, the nation, the people

[@tomnicol2252]

You are what I used to believe in and would love to believe in again

[@JoTravelTheWorld]

Bravo! Gods bless America!

[@koosemar]

Spok Your Jesus was a money grubbing capitalist was he? 😂 You have lost the plot...

[@kchasehenson57]

@@koosemar and I hope you see the truth and repent before it's too late. Eternity is FOREVER AND EVER AND EVER....... and spending it in hell will ......

[@koosemar]

Kathy, do you believe Jesus is/ was a Republican? Just answer yes or no please. Regards.

[@caroleboots7591]

Ron steslow why are you not the president! Brilliantly said, I think you are an amazing person and great American . Your neighbour 🇱🇷🇨🇦 Vote 2020 please

[@jamessears1000]

I had been a Republican for 29 years. Halfway through 2017, I could not stay in the Republican Party any more. I changed my Republican Party to Democrat Party. I got my official notice in the mail. The day after, I saw the appalling march into Charlottesville. I never looked back. When I joined the Republican Party, there were tensions but good tensions for the most part. Each one was the *_loyal_* opposite of the other. We were Americans. We could be better tomorrow. Now? Not so much. We have to remember, all are Americans. We have to fight the good fight. Never easy. But better in the long run.

[@cashew515]

How tall are you?

[@cherylfuller-hughes3155]

That was my first thought too, lol!

[@RT-tn3pu]

A hurricane of fresh air! Real Republicans love their COUNTRY before any man or woman. The time for trump honoring himself is coming to an end in Nov 2020.

[@jltrem]

I admire these people and all they are doing now and wish them success. But the Republican Party didn't start to stink only under Trump. It stunk under Reagan, it stunk under H.W., it stunk under W. Most of these guys were around then. I wish they'd spoken up then, too.

[@barryscott7175]

What fun, I graduated from Cooper Union in that very room, the Great Hall. Thank you Lincoln Project for taking on the task of righting wrongs.

[@heavierthanlight7173]

You guys should ask global aid for backing your cause and broading your platform. I'm pretty sure many will agree who follow American politics from abroad.

[@dragonstaye4557]

Those Who Lord Are Earthlings Are Now Returned To Empower The Moral. Yes indeed, They Are.

[@brianburns5335]

If I were a Republican, this would be the kind of integrity I would insist on.

[@usergmview]

I never thought America could have a worst president then George Bush.

[@mrsleal2685]

Thank you brave man and woman for defending democracy 👏👏👏

[@tomlehr861]

I am a democrat and am glad to see this we need to reclaim the principles that our country was built upon, then give both parties a crash course in ther duties to their constituents.

[@michaelyoung6318]

You are the only reason we are going to beat trump keep up the good work Lincoln Project

[@marirodriguez8828]

Keep up with the good work. By the way the ad that started with President Reagan was a homerun

[@jcsrst]

This was so well said! Ron is a shining example of what it means to stand up for what is right.

[@JaceHarnage]

Thank you Lincoln Project!

[@dawnmasters3246]

@Ron Steslow, yes you are and that is the problem.

[@minierillinoiswatchdog7056]

Enjoyed it very much