Over the next several weeks, months and/or years we plan on running a series of posts, each focusing on a particular Republican presidential candidate. Each one will be examined according to his or her elect-ability and stance on various issues. Hopefully, we will have completed this by the time the first primaries have rolled around and things start heating up.
The issues that are certainly going to dominate the election are:
-The economy, stupid
-Immigration
-National Security
-Overall constitutionality of the government
First, the economy. Not a whole lot needs to be said about this, obviously. However, it needs to be pointed out that government cannot create jobs, and those candidates claiming much experience in that area are going to find said experience next to useless. As has been said by some, government can merely create the conditions businesses to succeed. When candidates cite being able to run growing businesses, this means being able to adapt quickly to changing market conditions, keeping costs down and revenues high. Not a whole lot of this has to do with creating a business-friendly domestic economy. Sorry, Mitt.
Immigration reform has been badly needed for many years now. The nation is caught wondering what to do with tens of millions of illegals, most of whom mean no harm. Is it just to grant them all amnesty and basically undermine immigration law? Would it be better to deport all illegals, ripping apart families and wiping out a large part of the workforce? Let's hope this issue is decided more out of a concern for constitutionality than keeping votes.
National security will play a large role in the primaries, with battle lines being drawn quickly. Republicans need to find a solution that doesn't look like flip-flopping, since most of them supported both of the wars currently being waged at one time or another. If they decide to continue them, they need to prove they can win. If they choose to end them, they must prove they can continue to protect the country.
With the advent of the Tea Party, the national conversation about the Constitution has thankfully picked up speed. The goal should not be to elect whoever can make the most kitschy comments about the Founders and their great love for the Constitution. Rather, it should be focused on a radical reevaluation of the Federal Government, and how much of it should be dismantled and when.
Its shaping up to be an interesting race, guys, and we are really excited to further explore the field. Remember, the important thing is BTHO of BHO!
