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Some of the material in the January 21, 1997 Congressional Record is flat out stunning. Gingrich is lambasted then for trying to change an ultimate goal of Congress from making the US into an opportunity society, rather than a welfare state.

Mr. CARDIN (of Maryland): [Gingrich] had a vision to launch a political movement to change the country, in his words, from a welfare state to an opportunity society. ...
When GOPAC ran short of funds, Mr. Gingrich sought contributions from several tax exempt entities in order to continue his partisan political crusade.

. . .

Looking toward the 21st Century, Respondent developed an approach which he referred to as the `five pillars' of renewing American civilization: (1) quality; (2) technological advancement; (3) entrepreneurial free enterprise; (4) principles of American civilization; and (5) psychological strength. Based on these principles, Respondent sought to initiate a movement to replace the welfare state and renew American civilization to occur at every level of American society. Renewal would require the accomplishment of various goals including the education of the general population and creation of a majority of citizens committed to reform, thereby spawning activism; education of business leaders; and education of the media as to the ideals and concepts of renewal. In effect, Respondent sought to create a national dialogue for reform and a methodology by which citizen activists could accomplish the stated goals of the movement.

This is what the Democrats, and Romney, are against. They appear to reject the goals that Gingrich articulated and aimed to make part of the public dialog. And for articulating these principles, Gingrich was forced to resign in disgrace? Perhaps current events are more illuminating of Congress's and the GOP's goals than Congress and the GOP would like.

Perhaps Mr. Romney would explain what is disgraceful about using taxpayer funds to advocate for an opportunity society.