Abernathy leaving as executive director of the West Virginia GOP

by: Carnacki

Wed Jun 03, 2009 at 16:21:16 PM EDT

Abernathy's hiring was controversial at the time; some within the party objected for a variety of reasons.  But he weathered the initial storm and the controversy eventually died down.

Abernathy will also give up his popular political blog, The Republican Gazette, where he posted a video farewell message Wednesday.  

"I need to make a clean break and let the Republican Party be on their way without me," Abernathy said.  "That will be sad for some, and a celebration for others."  

I must say it's sad for me as well. I've butted heads with Abernathy and I've learned from him. I've criticized him on policies he supports and I've defended him from scurrilous charges from within his own ranks. On Memorial Day we even posted a tribute on each of our respective blogs to our honored dead in a show of unity for the true meaning of the day.

Abernathy had an impossible task trying to rebuild a state party with a dearth of viable candidates. He also was constrained by the most radical rightwing core of the party from reaching out to moderates and independents to grow the ranks.

I wish Abernathy well in his future endeavors.