Politics

Will Conservatives Bolt GOP?

May 19, 1999 / 3:13 PM EDT / AP

Conservative Republicans may move to start a third party because they believe too many Republicans are abandoning the conservative planks of the party's platform, GOP presidential candidate Bob Smith says.

Smith, a conservative senator from New Hampshire, says he does not advocate a split. But in interviews with The Washington Times and New Hampshire newspapers this week he said frustrated conservatives are seriously considering forming a third party centered on gun rights, national defense, school prayer, low taxes and opposition to abortion.

"I believe you may well have seen the beginnings of a third-party movement in this country, which will spell the end of the Republican Party," Smith said.

"If it happens, I'm not leaving my party. My party is leaving me," he said.

Smith said he had not ruled out a presidential run on the new party's ticket.

He would not say whether he would actively try to organize another party if a conservative fails to win the GOP presidential nomination.

Republican National Committee spokesman Michael Collins said Smith had legitimate concerns, but the party is unified on core principles.

"All of us believe in smaller government, the enormous potential for the individual, and that the individual should be empowered to the maximum extent possible, consistent with an orderly and lawful society," Collins said.

He said conservatives were the foundation of the party and its most loyal supporters.

Steve Duprey, chairman of the state party, said he was adamantly opposed to a third party formed by Republicans.

"I am confident that Republicans will rally and unite behind whomever is our nominee," Duprey said.