Saturday, July 21, 2007

GOP comeback? Come back when you can be specific

Did you catch this article by long-time Republican pollster Frank Luntz last Sunday? He's asking how the Republicans can win in 2008. He says it will be a tough road, but says there's a "glimmer of hope" yet, that the GOP must focus on a message that appeals to independents, one of hope and economic opportunity, etc etc etc. Well...duh! But what specific fundamentals and specific policy options does he recommend? He doesn't mention any. To be fair, he's not a policy analyst. But if Republicans are going to get anywhere, they've gotta make it clear just what principles and ideas for which they're going to stand. Luntz is right, Republican candidates today can't be Reagan; but everyone knew where Reagan stood, and that's a good touchstone for Republicans to grab onto--and fast.