Thoughts on the Republican Party
Today I was listening to NPR on the way to work. I know, I’m not supposed to tune in to tainted liberal news sources but what can I say? I happen to like the wide variety of content that is featured on their programs and with my keen senses and discernment, I think I am capable of protecting my conservative values from impairment. Regardless, as I listened there was a story about how the Republican Governors Association is meeting in Las Vegas. Apparently they have had a number of forums discussing the health of the party to see if any deductions can be made for the loss in 2012. NPR reported that there was much optimism and that many of the representatives were convinced that the lack of enthusiasm for Republicans is simply due to the tone of the party. “Tone?” you ask with incredulity. I share your skepticism.
Here’s the issue; Republicans have given the Democrats the following issues to control: Women’s rights, the environment, healthcare, immigration reform, welfare, food stamps, economic reform, love and kindness. Republicans with their generosity have allowed themselves to be portrayed as protecting the following issues: the rights of white people, the rights of rich people, moral issues, and big business. Granted, this is a narrow view of the issue and perhaps I will have the opportunity in the future to elaborate, but many Americans have this view of the party ideology.
My solution is simple: Republicans need to be outspoken on every issue. I don’t believe they should sacrifice our values, I think they need to better articulate how a conservative view does have solutions to every problem. Healthcare? Provide a clear, concise plan for how every American can become covered under a conservative healthcare system. The environment? Demonstrate how conservation of our resources is critical for the sustainability of the earth. Crack down on industries and impacts that are not achieving an appropriate balance of impacts and benefits. Women’s rights? Reveal to women across this great country that their lives are about more than birth control and abortion and demonstrate a true heart-felt concern for their well-being. Welfare and social programs? Show the poor and downtrodden that this great America provides incredible opportunity and provide a “hand-up” process whereby generous assistance is provided if appropriate efforts are being made to better themselves.
I could go on all day. Each one of these needs significant thought and careful articulation but the answer is not simply in tone. Tone=pandering. Americans want answers. My solution to this electoral crisis? The Republican Party can remain silent on no issues for the Democrats to monopolize. We must provide real solutions the problems that plague our nation. I mean real solutions. Yes, I know it’s a breathtaking idea and perhaps in fifty years we will look in the Yale Book of Quotations and find the following entry:
“My solution to this electoral crisis? The Republican Party can remain silent on no issues for the Democrats to monopolize. We must provide real solutions the problems that plague our nation.” ~O’Dowd, November 15, 2012
Just remember you read it here first.
Give me a comment or a like people!
O’Dowd
O'Dowd Politics 