#26 Joe C – I think you are absolutely right on the wedge issues, but that points the party needing to focus on fiscal conservativism rather than social conservatism. The social issues get folks wound up, but it doesn’t bring in the votes like money does. The problem is the past 8 years doesn’t give solid ground for making an argument of “we are better with money”. And the republicans have essentially given up the field of battle politically and are just hoping the dems fail so they may look better by comparison.
The republican party is looking for all party members to agree on every issue. They need to determine which issues are critical and work on those first. (i.e. I’d love to help you fix this economy and massive debt but I think civil unions are just fine, so no one wants me in the party).
Jack
