Former Bush strategist Karl Rove speaks in Niles, drawing protests

NILES

Why did Karl Rove, a nationally known Republican strategist, come to the Democratic-dominated Mahoning Valley?

“You can’t win an argument unless you make an argument,” Rove said Tuesday before his keynote speech at the 96th annual Mahoning Valley McKinley Club dinner in Niles.

“I’m happy to come to a blue part of the state to make the argument,” he said.

Rove met some opposition before and during his speech at the McKinley Club, which consists of Republicans in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties.

A group of about 20 anti-war protesters shouted and hurled insults at those lined up to enter the $35-a-person dinner in the McKinley Memorial Auditorium.

The protesters attempted to disrupt Rove’s speech and get inside the auditorium, but eventually left.

Rove also joked about former Vice President Al Gore, criticized President Barack Obama and commented on the recent public worker protesters in Ohio and Wisconsin, saying, “Public employee unions are a problem.”

For the full story, read Wednesday's Vindicator or Vindy.com.