B²: “Establishment” vs. “Outsider”
Much has been made of the split in the Republican party – articles written, talking points crafted, dinner conversations consumed, debates held hostage.
It seems you’re either “establishment” or “antiestablishment.” The first is the kiss of death; the second is ill-defined and provides a complicated way forward. There is no middle ground.
No matter the outcome on November 8th, this conversation will continue. And the media is all too happy to have it, which means you have to be prepared for a question (or 3) about the existence of the split and whether you think it’s good for the party. Are you ready?
Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.
Here is this week’s likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:
Q: “Isn’t it good that outsiders are destroying the establishment?”
B²: “It’s clear people are upset, and they have every right to be since DC hasn’t been working for them. But regardless of who wins the White House in November, he/she will have to <insert talking point>.”
Wherever you take the conversation next, refrain from analyzing the split. So many (too many?) already have and will continue to. Instead, you can be that voice to elevate the conversation and not add fuel to the fire. Unity begins with agreement on policy and a coherent way forward, not who is the true “outsider.” But first, someone has to stop analyzing the split and start blocking and bridging to talking points that focus on policy.
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