Who Will Become the Future Face of the Republican Party?
by While there has been much speculation, there are only a few reasonable figures capable of leading the GOP.
But that doesn’t make him a Democrat.
Despite claims to the contrary by Dick Cheney, former Secretary of State Colin Powell is still a Republican, albeit more moderate. But maybe that is the face of the new Republican Party. And maybe it’s a good thing for the Republicans if it attracts independents and younger voters.
As a moderate Republican, Powell would likely support more “liberal” social policies like gun control or gay marriage but would likely favor more Republican economic and political ideology. And he’s not alone in his views.
Prominent Republicans like Newt Gingrich have supported Powell in the idea that the party needs to extend its base to attract more independents and to retain many on-the-edge-of-the-party Republicans. Recently on “Meet the Press,” Gingrich commented “I don’t want to pick a fight with Dick Cheney, but the fact is, the Republican party has to be a broad party that appeals across the country.”
He later added, “To be a national party, you have to have a big enough tent that you inevitably have fights inside the tent.” And that tent includes not only moderates but also neo-conservatives, libertarians, and social conservatives like Sarah Palin.
Sarah Palin
Once a formerly little known governor of Alaska, Sarah Palin raised to national prominence following her surprise pick as the Republican Vice-Presidential nominee in the 2008 election. Because of her “dark horse” status, gender and general “freshness,” Palin’s appointment was meant to reinvigorate the party’s various groups and strengthen its conservative base.
While it may have invigorated many conservatives, her nomination also alienated many moderates as they felt the ticket had shifted to far right to be taken seriously.
But, despite her loss, she was still able to rally vast crowds of conservative support and even played a large part in blocking a Democratic super majority by helping re-elect Sen. Chambliss of Georgia to block the Democrat’s potential agenda.
Therefore, Sarah Palin represents the future of the “religious right” aspect of the GOP. Her support of anti-abortion measures and of teaching creationism alongside evolution has clearly gained her support among many in the religious circles.
This has prompted many to speculate on her potential eligibility for president in 2012, although she denies she will push for it. Even if she doesn’t run for office, she will likely play a large role in shaping public opinion.
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