"The real problem" with the GOP...
tpmcafe.com
Re: Step up (5.00 / 2) (#30)
by Mimikatz on Nov 19, 2005 -- 09:15:07 PM EST
The real problem is that the GOP has imported the tactics and strategy of campaigning into what should be a policy debate. The GOP obviously wants power, but they have shown precious liitle interest in actually governing. Distributing spoils to their patrons, yes, but governing? Not a flicker of interest.
In campaigns the only thing that matters is winning, The body count doesn't matter. But governing requires an interest in policy, building coalitions, nuance, and an appreciation for the consequences of policy, intended and unintended but foreseeable. The GOP not only has no interest in this, their take-no-prisoners style of campaigning makes cooperation almost impossible.
The Dems, for some time, were simply playing a different game--pre-Gingrich/Rove politics and governing, if you will. They also do use risk-averse consultants and are loathe to just think, develop a policy and then defend it against critics. That, by the way, is what gives an aura of strength. Not supporting war, but supporting a policy one believes in and standing up for it. Too few Dems are willing to do that.
And the public concludes that if the Dems won't stand up to the GOP, how could they stand up to Osama or Saddam or whoever.
Harry Reid understands this doesn't work. Nancy Pelosi understands that the House isn't based on cooperation any more. They are leading their respective caucuses in the right direction.
Meanwhile, the country is going to hell in a handbasket because the GOP has power but no desire or ability to govern. Iraq, katrina, bird flu, you name it, they screw it up. |
