Recent congressional primaries across the country have caused me to think about the direction that the Republican Party is taking and what the consequences may be. I have been a registered Republican since I turned 18 and have been active in Republican politics at multiple levels. However the recent tea party movement has me worried. In order for parties to be successful (especially in a two party system) it is critical that the party expand its base. It seems however that as the GOP moves to the right) (and to a lesser extent the Democratic party shifts to the left), the party is leaving more moderate members behind.
Two events have especially concerned me. The first is the dumping of Senator Bob Bennett from Utah at the convention. I feel that the party has done itself and the state a disservice by not nominating Senator Bennett. I believe he cast many votes such as TARP and immigration reform that were very unpopular but in the end were right. I dislike the philosophy behind TARP, but we could not watch our nation's money supply (and individual consumers' deposits) vanish overnight. What was truly his major crime, however: working across the aisle with Democrats.
The second event was the nomination of Rand Paul (son of Ron Paul) in Kentucky for the Senate. After being nominated, Paul has said a number of controversial things including how he is against certain aspects of the Civil Rights Act stating he does not feel that government should dictate to private business who they can or cannot serve.
It is looking like an interesting election year; to say the least.
I am excited to see what comments are left so this can be a great spot for political discussions. I do think it is a shame Senator Bennett will not be re-elected. That is why I like the idea of being more of a moderate so more can be accomplished for the better of our states and nation as a whole with reaching across the aisle.
I am excited to see what comments are left so this can be a great spot for political discussions. I do think it is a shame Senator Bennett will not be re-elected. That is why I like the idea of being more of a moderate so more can be accomplished for the better of our states and nation as a whole with reaching across the aisle.
ReplyDeleteBennett should consider running the same. It will be harder for him but hopefully some sense is stirred up with the winds of change
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