The Moderate Republican

Hezballah, American-style

Andrew Sullivan makes an interesting observation of the increasing sectarianism that is taking place in the GOP. In my own experience, I can remember recently attending a district convention that was opened up with a pledge of allegiance....and a prayer.

This use of faith for political ends is rather unsettling and I wonder if it will spell the end decline of the GOP. We Americans are by nature a very religious people, but we cringe at the heavy-handed style of religion that is coming from the fundy Protestants and very orthodox Catholics. I think when it comes down to it, people are more concerned about jobs and education than they are about two men wanting to tie the knot.

If the Democrats were smart, they could use this as an opening. They could present an agenda that would boldy address these issues and stress issues that are important to independents and moderates, like controlling the deficit and taking on the terrorists, they could have a majority that could last a long time. I don't know if they are up to challenge.

As for the Republicans? As long as the far right is in power, I don't see it going anywhere. You can't build a party on just the far right. Bush has alienated the moderates and independents that he needs to win the election with some his moves to placate the far right, aka: the Federal Marriage Amendment.

One more thing: the Democrats have to learn to find a way to portray faith in a more positive light. There are many evangelicals who are up for grabs. If they can honor their faith and make the links to policies like concern for the poor (which the Bible talks loads about) then they might vote for them. That goes for moderate Republicans as well.