(PV Note: The following was sent by Mr. Russo to the RNC and we have received permission to print it here)

MEMORANDUM

To: Republican National Committee

From: Roder Russo

Date: December 19, 2002

Re: FYI


I'm a life long conservative Republican, and over the years have not only been a regular financial contributor, but also been active in promoting, local, state and National Republican candidates.

I have a large data base of conservatives that I communicate with on a regular basis. Having said that, I would like to put you on notice that if Trent Lott stays as the leader, you can take my name off of your various solicitations lists, and as a party member.

While his statements were stupid and untimely, I find his subsequent actions appalling. His performance on BET was disgusting. He seems to have found a new ideology, which is certainly his right, but in my humble opinion it does not coincide with Republican core principles.

I also disagree with his characterization of the South. Yes, slavery and discrimination is wrong, but I don't see a lot of either in the past 30 years, and affirmative action (which he now favors) is divisive and won't solve any problems.

Again in my view, based on what I saw on the BET interview, Lott is now beholden and catering to the NAACP, Jessie Jackson, Al Sharpton etc. If he truly believes what he stated, he should change parties, as those are Democratic party platform issues.

Unlike liberal Democrats, most Republicans have principles, something which this man seems to lack.

I don't know what role the RNC can play in this, but you should know that you are about to lose a lot of core supporters if Lott stays in power. His actions have been a disgrace and unacceptable. This is an opinion I've heard from a lot of other loyal Republicans in the past few days. I'm sure that my one voice does not mean much, but I believe I speak for a big percentage of party loyalist.

Finally I want to reiterate, if Lott stays as Majority Leader, I will leave the party.

Roder Russo
Lafayette Louisiana