What a week it has been for the Republican Party. Last night they wrapped up what could most assuredly be described as an unconventional convention. The clearest message it sent – and in the most in-your-face way possible – is that the party is Trump’s to control. It was evident before the convention that this was the case, but four consecutive days in Milwaukee was the thread that stitched the MAGA flag together.

At least for the time being.

It is clear that the so-called Patriot wing of the local party has grown alongside their national movement. The purpose of my series of articles regarding the local party and its shift was to highlight the differences between what it was and what it now is by sending identical questions to both sides. By doing so, readers could directly see the differences and the similarities of thought within its members.

The questions were developed and sent to the respective sides on July 10 with a deadline for submission late in the day on July 12. The deadline passed. Participants were reminded. I understand and accepted the reasons for delays – work, busy week, etc. Life is that way. No problem. Contact with both sides continued through the weekend. Communications continued back and forth. Additional persons were suggested to contact for comment, but the contacts involved felt the originals were sufficient. I was good with that. Monday came and a notice of final deadline of Wednesday, July 17 was set. By the end of that evening, final submissions were received.

Our agreement had been that all questions and all answers would be posted verbatim. This approach would eliminate any suggested or implied bias of anyone involved, but especially this writer.

Were all the questions answered? No, and that is what you see in the articles.

Why weren’t the omissions addressed? I believe as much can be learned from what isn’t said, than what is.

Would I do it differently, given the results? No. If it had been a face-to-face interview, yes. But that wasn’t the goal. I wanted the reader to decide for themselves.

So, now the party is Trump’s to lead and members to follow. From all indications, the national convention was a huge success. Will the unity shown onscreen trickle down to grassroots? That remains to be seen.

But one thing is for certain. It’s easier to get the power than it is to hold it.