Northeast GOP meets in Newport on its future

NEWPORT, R.I. - The chief of the staff for the Republican National Committee said the local party faces a “real slog” while rebuilding in New England.
   
Ken McKay described political conditions Saturday during a meeting of Republican officials in Newport, a region where the party’s support has plummeted.
   
He said worries over the national recession, President Obama’s health care proposals and the expanding national deficit could benefit the party.
   
But during a question-and-answer session, McKay acknowledged that local parties in New England are underfunded.
   
He said the GOP probably won’t be able to fund much television advertising to support its Congressional candidates in New England in 2010.