Evers alleges GOP presidential candidates snubbed black voters - MSNewsNow.com - Jackson, MS

Evers alleges GOP presidential candidates snubbed black voters

Charles Evers, an African American on the state Republican Executive Committee, feels the GOP is turning its back on a large segment of voters.

The radio station owner is outraged over what he sees as blacks being snubbed by the presidential contenders.

The political activist said African Americans, roughly 45% of the state's population, were ignored by the Republican candidates who visited stomping for votes.

"At this day and time for them to do that to us is a slap in the face," said Evers.

Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum made several stops from north Mississippi to the coast, but Evers said they omitted the delta and Vicksburg.

"They came to Mississippi all three of them all this weekend and haven't gone to one town that I know of in district two which is the predominately black district," added the former Fayette mayor.

The 89 year old said the candidates are showing that they are not inclusive party he joined when Richard Nixon was president.

His wall of fame includes pictures with Republican leaders like Presidents Nixon, Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush.

"When they didn't go into any of the black's districts and asked people for their vote then they're saying we don't care nothing about black folks, and I've got a problem with that," said the civil rights activist and older brother of slain civil rights activist Medgar Evers.

Some Republican supporters pointed out that stops in Jackson were indeed in the second congressional district.

"The campaign had volunteers who attended events in the second district and in all of the campaign districts in Mississippi; however, due to time constraints we were not able to get the senator into the second district for an event," said Santorum State Political Director Chris Godbey.

"Considering, limited time and a considerable amount of geography to cover, the campaign decided it was most effective to perhaps go to where the most republican votes are traditionally cast. We then simply listed the top 10 areas and tried to get Newt to those area. we were thrilled with the reception from Mississippi and anticipate a great election day. Thank you for the incredible hospitality," said Gingrich Mississippi Chairman Scott Brewster.

While Evers admits he has wavered between being a Republican and Independent he vows to now step down from the state's executive committee and become an Independent.

"I can no longer continue to support a party that's this divisive, added Evers.

The Romney campaign did not provide a statement as of news time.

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