On Saturday night, a crowd of 400 or so GOP stalwarts gathered in Atherton at "The Rising Tide" to see Meg Whitman, Carly Fiorina, Damon Dunn and Abram Wilson.  This event, an annual ritual for many years, brings together GOP stalwarts and elite for a fun night of barbecue, dancing, and fun.  For years, the event has been short on real politics and long on fun, largely due to a lack of serious, viable candidates for key positions.

This year was different.  Republicans have two women business icons in Silicon Valley running as heads of their ticket.  Adding flair and common sense were are two amazingly competent African Americans running for Secretary of State and Assembly in the 15th District.  For once, this event wasn’t about a bunch of white guy career politicians – instead it focused on achievers who are different, who have solved problems, and who can win.

I know it sounds weird to most progressive Democrats.  It’s not like Republicans have shined in California elections with women and minorities.  But – here’s the thing.  It’s a new California and Republicans somehow seem ready to embrace this change:

Meg Whitman is a real business icon who created jobs.  Unlike her opponent, a 40 year career politician, she has a plan.  You can view her vision for job creation here.

Carly Fiorina is ready to solve problems in Washington.  She is energetic and poised to be our next United States Senator.  Unlike her opponent, she’s not a career politician. She’s a businesswoman.  And she gets it.  View her vision here.

Damon Dunn is a California party favorite.  While he has some obstacles to overcome in his race to unseat Democrat Secretary of State Deborah Bowen, he continues to be a favorite among donors and grassroots activists. View his plan and his remarkable story here.  Damon is one to watch.

And, last but not least, take a look at Abram Wilson who is hosting two MLB All Stars this week supporting his run for Assembly here.  Wilson continues to get better and better.  He has a great record and has run his city well.  He has developed into a great candidate. He is ready.  (Full disclosure – Wilson is my client).

Lieutenant Governor Abel Maldonado was not on site – but he was among the "buzz" as donors and friends who talked about a real Republican party – young, innovative, diverse, and ready to lead.

You never know, but the "Rising Tide" might just become a "Tsunami" as the team begins to take its message across California.  Republican and Independent voters have a chance to make a difference if they can rally to elect this team that looks like California and focus like a laser beam on creating jobs and restoring confidence…stay tuned….