Tumultuous Petition Period Concludes with many Republican District Leaders challenged and contested.
By Al Villate
Before proceeding, I trust I’m not alone in appreciating the recent contributions from our esteemed Yonkers Republican colleagues, Debbie Kozak and Ron Matten. Their willingness to engage in meaningful public discourse is refreshing—and very much needed. It’s heartening to see them share their perspectives in community forums like the Yonkers Times website and Yonkers Rising publication. Kudos to them both.
It’s an important step forward. While I may not agree with every opinion expressed, I respect their thoughtful efforts to be part of a broader, civil conversation.
The Elephant’s Tusk – In what some have dubbed the “civil war” within the Yonkers GOP, there are undeniably three—or perhaps more—factions vying for leadership. Most Yonkers Republicans intuitively understand that they can’t all be right… just as they can’t all be entirely wrong. But the lines of disagreement have too often blurred into personal acrimony. This Hatfield vs. McCoy-style adversity stands in the way of productive dialogue and undermines the spirit of collaboration we desperately need to make sound, strategic decisions.
Those stepping forward to lead must proceed with care. Before grabbing the reins, one must be sure the cart isn’t being placed before the horse. Does the Yonkers GOP have a codified platform? A clear mission statement? A workable plan of action? Are we in any way near registering the 5,000 new Republicans needed. How many hearts and minds have come in to the Grand Old Party Tent?
Rhetorical questions, perhaps—but their silence speaks volumes.
Some may buy into the idea that any change is better than no change. That may appeal to those watching and waiting from the sidelines. But the truth is, no meaningful resurgence of the Yonkers GOP can occur without first establishing the foundational building blocks.
In a recent social media exchange, one aspiring leader took exception to my earlier critique—specifically, of those who presume to define who qualifies as a “True Republican,” and who believe they alone can determine the correct Republican doctrine. But without a shared and formalized platform, without rules of conduct, updated bylaws, and a mission defined by consensus, there is no credible benchmark for that kind of gatekeeping.
Pointing that out shouldn’t be controversial. And yet, the entrenched divisions within our party have made such discussions increasingly personal and polarized.
To illustrate my point—and in the spirit of transparency—I’m sharing the relevant social media thread below. It was intended as a light-hearted chiding, with no ill will. I remain committed, both in principle and in practice, to Ronald Reagan’s Eleventh Commandment:
Thou shalt not speak ill of another Republican
Social Media Snapshot – A Thread Worth Sharing
In keeping with the conversation and as a light-hearted yet pointed exchange, here’s a recent interaction I had on Facebook that I think encapsulates some of the ongoing tension within the Yonkers GOP:
Right you are! I do find it curious that so many “Republicans” who call others RINO, are in fact “Never Trumpers” Some have changed their affiliation so often it’s dizzying. Will the real Republican please stand up, please stand up, please stand up? Really, I would encourage all involved to question who and what they are loyal to before taking their “Oath of Omertà”. Maybe they should read from the oracle: https://yonkerstimes.com/a-call-to-action-restoring…/ Lol
Al Villate If your considering people who changed to Democrat for a year registration wise for political strategy aren’t real Republicans versus people who happen to be registered republican but donate 10:1 to Democrats over Republicans or stonewall the party from nominating candidates are some how actual Republicans your fooling yourself
RESPONDENT- I wouldn’t dare repeat an old cliché… but if the shoe fits, maybe you’ve already walked a mile in their moccasins. Yes, it’s trite to state the obvious—but sometimes it still needs to be said.
We’re witnessing a growing crowd of self-appointed gatekeepers, each eager to declare who is—and who isn’t—a “Real Republican.” That alone should give everyone pause. Be cautious. Leadership may change, but the issues won’t magically disappear. The next captain of the Ty-D-Bol (and their loyal crew) will still be navigating the same old mess.
What’s that definition of insanity again?
Simply recognizing the obvious doesn’t make you a genius—but ignoring it doesn’t make you wise. As far as I know, only one person has publicly and consistently called for a return to common-sense conservatism—what were once considered the long-held ideals of the Republican Party. Someone advocating for a collaborative effort to define those true Republican values, build a broadly appealing platform, and take the fight to the “woke ruling elites” who’ve hijacked the electorate.
That person isn’t pretending. He’s no fool—and he certainly doesn’t suffer those who try to fool good Republicans!
This thread, while light in tone, reflects a serious issue: the need for shared purpose and principled unity. Without that, the only thing we’ll succeed at is continuing to talk past one another.
It’s time to course-correct—together.
The Elephant’s Trumpet – A United Front for Change
This is not about blind party loyalty; it’s about restoring integrity to our governance and ensuring our voices are heard. We are building a movement founded on core values that resonate with all New Yorkers.
We reject the notion that the Republican Party is an exclusive club. We are a diverse coalition, united in our commitment to revitalizing Yonkers and New York.
Community engagement is vital. Let’s enthusiastically reach out to all residents—legal immigrants, Latinos, African Americans, and every demographic—proving how our policies benefit all. Adopting inclusivity, we’ll disprove the deceitful narratives of our adversaries and build a coalition reflecting our state’s true diversity.
We must prioritize our shared mission over any individual differences. Our pursuit of “Common Sense Sanity” demands respect, collaboration and mutual support, plus putting the common good above personal agendas.
Complacency is no longer an option. Let’s engage, inform, and mobilize our base. Ensure that principled Republicans emerge as the authentic voice of our communities.
Support candidates who embody our values and commit to concrete action.
