Rankin's brand-new (R) power

Memo: To Sen. Luke Rankin (R-Horry County)

Subject: That new (R)

Dear Sen. Rankin, Congratulations on becoming an (R) after all these years as a (D).

It should certainly serve you well as you pursue your political career in Horry County and South Carolina.

Indeed, as we scan the national horizon, where every institution under the sun is run by an (R), your new status suggests the sky's the limit. Go for it.

No one understands your decision better than I. You may remember that just last year, in this column, I considered running for office.

Like you, I determined that I would first have to place an (R) behind my name; unlike you, I could not do it.

It wasn't just the (R) thing. I also knew I could never take seriously any endeavor where success is determined by the letter one places behind one's name.

But that's what it's about, isn't it, Senator?

Do you think an (R) Congress would let a (D) president run up, almost overnight, a $500 billion deficit, however worthy his intentions? But an (R) president? Hey, no prob.

I am trusting that your new (R) does not mean you have changed your entire political philosophy. I trust you will vote (and think) pretty much as you did as a (D). If that (R) on your resume keeps your constituents happy, so be it.

Sleeping with the enemy will not always be easy, of course.

Let me remind you of the experience of former Gov. David Beasley, who also exchanged his (D) for an (R).

Remember how he once suggested, in a moment of clarity, that South Carolina ought to do the right thing and remove the Confederate flag from the Statehouse dome?

Remember how it offended his (R) base, which turned him into toast next election?

My advice, Senator, is that you stay on course. Never reveal your true (D) principles except in the privacy of your mind.

Never mention Horry County's seven Democrats publicly, except to tell voters how wicked they are. Just follow the precedent set by your (R) leader.

Never, ever question a politician who wears an (R) on his sleeve - and never, ever yield a silly millimeter to a (D).

Never let reason be your guide as you vote on important matters of state. Knowing an (R) from a (D) is enough.

Remember these few pointers, and you should fare quite well in the party of Harding, Hoover and Nixon.

So good luck, Senator. And be sure to smile at the next George W. Bush rally.