I have been counting the number of black people I see at the Republican National Convention. Today I came across Paris Dennard, former director of African-American outreach for President George W. Bush. He seemed genuinely amused by #negrospotting, so we talked. I wanted to find someone with whom to discuss the GOP's challenge in recruiting black members when considered in the context of birtherism, voter ID/suppression and other we-don't-really-want-you signals sent by the party. I would welcome an expanded political debate that engaged with black voters, but believe the GOP doubling down on race-baiting prevents any meaningful engagement. Did black Republicans share this frustration at all? Paris, and I discussed. (Hint: the short answer is "yes," but you should listen to the entire interview for full context).