By Tief Gibbs

Conservative policies deliver results. On the economy, education, crime and national security, Republican-led solutions consistently produce measurable, positive outcomes. When presented clearly — without spin — they resonate with voters who may not be tied to a political party but care deeply about what works.

I think this strong track record helps explain why some political opponents appear to rely on mischaracterizations or extreme rhetoric. As secretary of the Marin County Republican Central Committee, I think the American people are smarter than that — they can see the difference between spin and substance.

It’s why President Donald Trump earned an Electoral College and popular vote victory. It is a testament to the broad appeal of conservative, “America first” values.

What we at Marin GOP stand for — individual responsibility, safe communities, strong families, secure borders, economic opportunity and respect for tradition and the rule of law — isn’t radical. It’s common sense. And despite the noise, many independents — and even some Democrats — recognize these values as the foundation of a strong, stable society.

In Marin County, however, Republican representation has been on the decline. As of Feb. 10, Republican registration had fallen to 12.72%, one of the lowest rates in the state — down from 28.13% in 1999 and 18.23% in 2013. This reflects years of leadership that failed to effectively communicate conservative values and inspire confidence.

Republican leadership in Marin has often lacked the clarity, consistency and conviction needed to represent our values. Many Republican voters felt unheard, and independents seeking an alternative were left with no clear choice. That’s changing in 2025.

Our new leadership is committed to restoring energy, integrity and trust within the Marin GOP. We’ve taken necessary steps to uphold transparency and accountability. Resignations from past members followed serious concerns about conduct and governance. Moving forward, we are focused on respectful discourse, open debate and honest service to the Republican base.

We invite all Republicans — whether lifelong members or newly registered — to join us at our monthly meetings and social events. This is your party, and your voice matters.

Some have called our new direction a “hard right turn.” We disagree. What we’re building is a principled, transparent and results-oriented organization that welcomes dialogue and promotes unity around shared values. We believe in limited, accountable government. We support legal immigration that benefits America and oppose endless foreign wars and failed policies that weaken our sovereignty.

We are committed to defending the rights and well-being of children — both born and unborn.

Our “America first” platform is built on abundance. We support property rights, local agriculture and Marin’s ranching heritage. We promote reliable, affordable energy that serves people — not political agendas. Science should inform policy, not be manipulated to fit ideological narratives, whether in health or environmental issues.

We also support secure, in-person voting and accurate, up-to-date voter rolls. We advocate for transparent and verifiable elections, where every legal vote counts and every voter can trust the process.

Locally, we oppose top-down mandates that ignore Marin’s unique character. We support development that respects the small-town charm residents cherish, while addressing housing and infrastructure needs with local solutions — not state overreach.

This movement isn’t slowing down — it’s gaining momentum. I was one of many supporters who recently attended an event at San Francisco State University to hear conservative commentator Charlie Kirk speak. In one of the most progressive cities in the country, it was inspiring to witness so many — especially young people — stand up for conservative principles.

Kirk takes on tough conversations, even with those who disagree. He does it because he believes, like we do, that conservative values are not only defensible — they’re essential to preserving our future.

Now is the time for conservatives in Marin to do the same. Speak up, show up and lead. We’re ready to rebuild the Marin Republican Committee into a dynamic organization that recruits strong candidates, empowers volunteers and connects with voters.

Let’s be bold. Let’s take a stand — for Marin, for California and for the country we love.

Tief Gibbs, of Novato, is secretary of the Marin County Republican Central Committee (MarinGOP.com).