As much as I’m going to enjoy the already-in-progress battle between the Far Right and “RINO” wings of the Republican Party I have to admit that I’m rooting for the RINOs. Sarah Palin got a little to close to the White House for my peace of mind. Oh yeah, it was all fun and games until the possibility of a President Palin hit home.
McCain’s VP choice of desperation has only succeeded in validating a group that should have never been let out of the lab. And for every David Anderson and Frank Knotts (Republicans who wear their extremism on their sleeve) there’s three Regent graduates who, while sharing their views, understand that in order to win, the packaging must be changed. Dealing with openly Far Right Republicans is easy because… well… they’re scary. Recognizing a wolf in sheep’s clothing could prove far more difficult.
Bobby Jindel is headed for Iowa. There’s been talk that Huckabee’s heading there as well. What does it say when the first Republicans out of the gate are renowned for their Christian faith? What it says to me is, rather than being discouraged by the November 4th results, the base has convinced itself that in order to win they need more purity of message. Huh?
Now I’m not convinced the Republican 2012 nominee will be a name any of us recognize. My guess is that the mover and shakers of the Far Right are searching for an unknown, someone who stridently holds their beliefs and isn’t featured on You Tube. Someone who will spend the next few years in the laboratory before being released on the country as a moderate who’s message is the Birth of the New Conservatism. To create this person they’ll steal parts from others, just like the “good” Doctor: Huckabee’s charm. Romney’s economics. Rudy’s grit. Thompson’s stature. Gingrich’s vision. McCain’s honor. Brownback’s heart. But the soul of this person, while not on display, will belong to the Christian Right.
But there is hope, and I counting on the “RINOS”. Take back your party. You’ve already taken the first step. The tearing down of Sarah Palin isn’t coming from the Democrats. We’re merely spectators. It’s Republicans who are ripping her apart. To which I say, Bravo! But your work doesn’t end with Palin. You’ve let this monster grow too big. You’ve fed it with your silence, and unfortunately you’re on your own in destroying it. Liberals can’t help. Our criticism only feeds the beast.
But we will be watching, and hoping for your success. Good luck.