GOP adopts platform test for Republican candidates

(AP) — The Republican National Committee has adopted a rule that requires GOP candidates to support the party's platform to obtain its financial support.

The resolution was enacted Friday by a voice vote at the party's winter meeting in Hawaii. It is an alternative to a more stringent proposal that would have required GOP candidates to support 10 specific policy positions if they wanted party help.

That proposal was sponsored by Indiana RNC member James Bopp. It was strongly opposed by party Chairman Michael Steele and a group of state party chairpersons.

The alternative does not contain a litmus test and grants party officials more flexibility in vetting GOP candidates seeking party support.