>>I think Reagan set a fine example of how to score points and win. The GOP needs to follow his example.<<
While I agree that it would be nice to win a few in the House, playing the “power of the purse” game seemed to backfire on the GOP. Recall the beating the party took in polling during the last shutdown, even as Obama kept people out of national parks. The media is a tough opponent when it’s so soundly on the side of the opposition.
I think the game changes completely if Reid no longer controls the Senate’s agenda in 2015. The GOP will be able to send up individual funding bills that are overwhelmingly approved by the voters and it will be almost impossible for Obama to veto them and still claim it’s the GOP shutting down the government. And even if he does, Dem Senators up for re-election will almost be forced to vote to override early vetoes.
As for Reagan, I think there are some parallels to the current situation. Reagan wasn’t loved by the establishment; he had to fight for the nomination and he based his fight on conservative (actually, old-time liberal) principles of individual freedoms and responsibilities, coupled with a warning about big government run amuck. Once he secured the nomination he didn’t have to change his message (unlike Romney, for example, who first felt he had to tack right, then back left during the general election). Reagan just kept campaigning on the same principles because they resonate with all but devout leftists and he won.
I think that’s what’s now happening with respectable tea party supported candidates finally rising to the top of the candidate pool. If one of them wins the nominations he or she will be able to campaign in the general on the same principles. And if successful, a lot will begin to happen, starting with reversing most of Obama’s inane policies and replacing them with policies that emphasize personal responsibility and individual liberty while warning about the dangers of big government.
The recent poll (Pew, I believe) was illuminating in that regard. Younger voters are now primed for just such an appeal by the GOP, whether they realize it yet or not.
Reagan stood for things, and we all had a clear understanding of what they were. Not so much with today’s Republican Party. What do they really stand for? What convictions are they not willing to compromise on? Nobody expects them to fight every battle, but they do have to fight those that are winnable.
I sincerely hope the GOP takes back the senate; and I hope they press that advantage. Unfortunately, there’s precious little evidence to indicate that a victorious GOP will reduce the size of government or cut back on spending. Just my take on their recent history.
Frankly, I think Reagan would be disappointed in the GOP in its current incarnation. The GOP needs to show some heart. People respect the courage of convictions and dedication to your principles.
Regards and it was enjoyable exchanging “thoughtful thoughts” with you. Lets hope the GOP gets back to its Reagan roots.