Clinton Tarver is normally working his hot dog cart in downtown Lansing, Michigan; but this past week, he was in Cleveland for the Republican National Convention promoting something much more controversial than one of America’s favorite foods. USA’s Russ Jones explains.

Tarver is black; he’s a conservative Republican. He owns and operates Clint’s Hot Dog Cart and Casual Catering. He contends his fellow African Americans often embrace traditions without knowing why.

"My grandmother, grandfather and father were Democrats," he explains. "But do you know why you're a Democrat?" he asks.

He’s encouraging people of his race to reconsider their party affiliation.

"The Republican party helps everyone. We don't stay on welfare like most of the Democrats in Detroit."

His wife Linda Lee Tarver is president of the Republican Women’s Federation in Michigan.

"Barack Obama is keeping them on welfare - they don't have to work. They get paid, but they don't have to work. You can make $4,000 - $5,000 per month just sitting on your butt," said Tarver.