Articles

A Way Out of the Wilderness

November 14, 2008

Yes, we lost the election. But in a year when all currents were running against Republicans and our campaign was lackluster and erratic, Barack Obama received only 3.1 points more than Al Gore in 2000 and only 4.6 points more than John Kerry in 2004. The Democratic victory becomes durable only if Republicans make it so with the wrong moves.

Losing the election has led to a debate about whether the GOP should return to its Reaganite tradition or embark on a new reform course. This pundit-driven shoutfest presents a sterile, unnecessary choice. The party should embrace both tradition and reform; grass-roots Republicans want to apply timeless conservative principles to the new circumstances facing America.

In the coming year, we will be defined more by what we oppose than what we are for; the president-elect and the Democrats in Congress will control the agenda. We must pick fights carefully and center them around principle. The goal is to have the sharp differences that emerge make the GOP look like the more reasonable, hopeful and inviting party—which is easier said than done. A road map:

1. Avoid mindless opposition. We should support President Obama when he is right (Afghanistan), persuade him when his mind appears open (trade) and oppose him when he is wrong (taxes). It is the Republican Party's job to hold him accountable on the merits only.

READ FULL ARTICLE: http://www.newsweek.com/id/169173

Related Article

7743a94c9027dc2a95548509e2a2d0ee
October 31, 2024 |
Article
One of the more unusual aspects of this presidential election is how remarkably stable it’s been. ...
Ed61eba52a34c3035179f75e8f0cc11c
October 24, 2024 |
Article
This race is tight. Every day, 538, the Silver Bulletin and RealClearPolitics report their averages of recent polls nationally and in the seven battleground states.  ...
54363192aef2789acaf9755b8a112607
October 17, 2024 |
Article
The 2024 election will be one of America’s most consequential. ...
1f288ad3abf621d679f43fc2dd7028b6
October 10, 2024 |
Article
Donald Trump calls himself a “tariff man.” And when he talks about “making America great again,” he praises President William McKinley for his advocacy of protective tariffs. ...
Button karlsbooks
Button readinglist
Button nextapperance