Why Can't Republicans find their Way?

It has been six months since the ill fated election that swept the Democrats into power of both houses of Congress. Since then not much has happened to believe that will turn around in the next election. Since Presidential elections are more about individuals than party and the fact that it is very early we can't say much yet about that.

I think in fairness this is too broad of a question to have a single answer, but here are a few of my thoughts:

1. There is no one speaking authoritatively for the movement. President Bush is not an effective speaker, never has been and never will be. This is known. Given that the President tends to be the mouthpiece of a party, this is a liability.

2. The war in Iraq works against them. This cannot be debated. It is turning out to be very difficult and time consuming. It is also not easy to identify the improvements because of the insurgent nature of what is going on. There are not large battles that can be won or lost. It is a process and a long one. Certain people are talking about this, but too many are just running from the subject.

3. The lack of an energetic dynamic communicator has allowed the media to keep dogging them with the idiotic comparisons of each one to Reagan. Reagan was a great president and leader. It is nearly twenty years since he left office. We live in a different world though. No one asks who is the next Roosevelt or Kennedy. The candidates simply need to finally give an answer. Once more with feeling "I am not Ronald Reagan and am not trying to be. I will be the next President and this is what I will do to improve ..."

4. Someone needs to enunciate a big vision. President Bush for all of his faults had and has big visions. He has not been able to carry lot of them to law, but he has vision. Will someone please have a plan for Medicare, or Social Security, or taxes? We cannot assume everyone knows why limited government, low taxes and strong defense is good for the country and the world. Tell the voters and show them.

5. Be a leader!! Some times leaders have to offend some people. This should not be intentional or irresponsible, but leaders sometimes need to say things that are not universally popular. Explanations are needed to make the case but fear of criticism should not stop a true leader. Take any true leader from history and you will find statements and actions that were well criticized at the time. This goes along with vision. Warning: you must be able to support your vision and explain why you believe.

6. Will someone please tell the media that religion is actually legal. OK a little sarcastic here, but I am getting a little weary of the "Oh my gosh he is a Mormon" tirade. I have many problems with the theology of LDS faith, but I am not electing a church leader, I am electing a President. They did the same kind of thing in regards to Bush also, but my goodness liberals, peak in a church one time. There are no secret meetings or handshakes. It is all done in the open. There are no human sacrifices.

Politics is cyclical. Leaders define how long cycles last. This present tide of Democratic dominance does not have to last. Only the candidates can change it.