The Republicans are at it again.

Alumnus Ty Palmer is back.

What in the name of all things red, white, and blue is going on?

Meeting for the first time this year in September, Mountain View’s Young Republicans Club has reconvened and is going strong, or is it?

For something to ponder, take out your copy of last year’s yearbook, flip to page 184 and have a look. Out of the 11 students pictured, 10 of them were seniors last year and have since graduated.

Could this mean the death of the Young Republicans? Surely there’s enough younger conservative students to carry on the legacy right?

Err… maybe. Out of curiosity and for the sake of this column, I attended their first meeting, and I must admit I was a bit surprised by what I saw. Have no fear Mavericks, I can assure you there’s still plenty of Patriot Act supporting, Fox News viewing, Bush-loving, liberal bashing, America-adoring students to keep the club alive.

But while the club’s minions are plentiful, its leaders are harder to come by. Out of the lack of new students to step up to the plate and take charge, last year graduates Ty Palmer and Sara Jones have been coming back to recruit members and lead and organize meetings.

I guess it’s a plus that those two are dedicated to the club as I was quite disappointed by the general lack of interest displayed by the rest of the group. After taking their seats, on the right side of the room of course (I’m not kidding), the members became so quickly engaged in their own side conversations, I don’t know how any of them could have heard a single word of the meeting. They did, however, remain quiet for long enough to hear and then communally scoff at the announcement for the Student Civil Activists meeting scheduled to take place later that lunch period. By the end, I couldn’t help but wonder whether the Young Republicans Club was a serious forum for political activism or merely a social assembly.

So, are the Young Republicans numerous? Yes. Productive and promising? Perhaps not so much.

The main goals of the club, as stated at the meeting are to promote interest and involvement in politics, as well as register as many students as possible to vote. Although it’s obvious they would prefer to recruit Republican voters, Palmer asserts that the main objective is to emphasize the importance of voting in general, whether Republican or not. The club also helps out at the Governor’s Ball and assists in campaigning for local politicians. Some members even work at Republican headquarters.

“Young Republicans gives you the opportunity to meet with those people who will be our future leaders of the state and city,” senior Jessica Aiello said.

Considering the opportunities it holds, you’d think at least its members would take the club more seriously.

Whether you love ‘em or hate ‘em, Idaho is a red state, therefore, the right-wing enthusiasts are not in short supply, so if you are one, embrace it. Bear the elephant tag proudly. Live with conviction. Take some initiative. Become an officer of the club and let Sara get on with her life. Allow Ty some time to update his beloved website.

If you’re in the club, make sure you’re there for the right reasons. I often hear my peers proclaim their loyalty to the Republican party, when in fact they know nothing about politics or current affairs. Learn about the issues for yourselves, instead of living in the shadow of your parents’ or your peers’ views.

I think these things need to be said, and I’m glad that I said them. Disagree with me if you must.

It’s time to take an educated stand, not just show up for the party.