I'm just talking about the way most Americans define it. You don't have to agree, but from a political science perspective, you're playing a losing game if you stick to that definition. The majority of Californians don't even agree with it, so imagine how much worse it polls in the rest of the country...
Now you're twisting my words. I'm not trying to defend Republicans. I'm trying to help you understand the nature and intent behind their words so you realize they aren't as dumb as you think. Respect thy enemy and all that.
Most Californians think hiring based on race is wrong, and racist. Across the country, the margins on that get even better.
Republicans are just playing into that. You can downvote me all you want, but it doesn't change the political reality of the situation.
Edit: I just checked - 7 in 10 Americans oppose affirmative action (reverse racism). To quote Biden, "It's a fact, Jack!" You may support it, but that doesn't make it a winning campaign strategy.