Joshua Kocses
Business Representative at the New Jersey Department of Labor
Have you always been a McCain supporter?
Yes, ma’am. I was in the Marines. Within the Republican party, you have Army doctrine and you have Navy/Marine-corps doctrine. President Bush is a very clear example of Army doctrine, John McCain has a Naval doctrine.
How does that translate to governing style?
Naval officers are capable of thinking independently. That’s why I’ve always been behind John McCain, because I believe the Navy way of doing things is the best way.
Do you speak out about your views?
You’re talking to a United States Marine. I hope to run for president some day. I take pleasure in the fact that people persecute me for being a Republican, because I know that ultimately, anyone who would persecute someone for their belief is just being un-American.
Brett Joshpe
Co-author of Why You’re Wrong About the Right
What is the biggest misconception about Republicans?
That we’re racist. I find that to be the most egregious, offensive, incorrect myth out there. Also, New York tends to be a lot more secular than other places. I think the mistaken idea that anybody who’s Republican is some sort of religious fanatic is a big one in New York.
How does Sarah Palin play into that?
Sarah Palin is not well-liked by most New Yorkers. A lot of people think, “Oh, Republicans are all falling in line with Sarah Palin.” And that’s not true. There’s a lot of diversity in the party, and there are plenty of secular conservatives. I don’t think that’s what defines the party.
How’s your social life, living among the liberals?
I enjoy being outspoken. I’m glad that I’m in the minority in New York, because I think it makes my life interesting.
Catherine Bew
Sales
Why are you a Republican?
People forget that capitalism made us one of the most powerful countries in the world. And I just don’t want America to become a second-class country.
Brian Leidy
Development Officer at Manhattan Institute
Is your entire family Republican?
I grew up in a union household, so when I told my family about my choice, they were a little dismayed and a little surprised.
Ryan James Girdusky
Student
You’re a Ron Paul supporter?
I’m a true conservative. I don’t want public education. I think we should get rid of the Department of Energy and Homeland Security.
Karyn Plonsky
Actress
Is it hard being a Republican in the arts?
Yes. I once overheard this: Being Republican is the new gay, especially in New York. Sometimes I feel like coming out of the closet, but then I resist.
David Plonsky
Senior Internet Marketing Consultant
Have you had problems dating because of your political views?
When I meet girls in bars or on a date, their knee-jerk reaction is to assume a lot of stuff about me. And so on that level, I’m not wearing my McCain pin down in the East Village.