One of the reasons this GOP primary cycle has gotten so out of hand SO QUICKLY, Save Jerseyans, is the fact that the contenders are virtually indistinguishable on the key points of policy. Not the only reason. But a main one. And it’s a damn shame in my humble opinion.
Newt Gingrich’s latest Florida attack TV ad buoys this thesis:
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pSkLw6UvpaM
“Where’s the meat?” you may ask. Criticizing Romneycare may be a legitimate inquiry. Running ads attacking who someone voted for 20 years ago or the amount of money they earn is much less compelling, don’t you think? It would be superiorly helpful to learn what each man believes today and which policies they would pursue upon taking office.
In reality, each contender would follow a similar course. Mitt Romney. Newt Gingrich. Rick Santorum. They’re all on record supporting the repeal of ObamaCare, favoring a lower and flatter federal tax rate, opposing abortion, favoring expanded exploration of domestic energy, backing judges who adopt an originalist approach to constitution interpretation, aiding our ally Israel, strengthening our defense capabilities and, above all else, significantly reducing the size and scope of the federal government.
Ron Paul is the only candidate with a platform that presents a real contrast to his fellow Republican candidates. But even then, the only “big” differences are in the area of foreign policy.
So in an effort to distinguish themselves from virtually indistinguishable opponents, the Republican candidates have regrettably begun to savage each other over de minimis issues, i.e. whether Newt was a “real Reaganite” or if Mitt ever voted for a Democrat.
I maintain that this circular firing squad and endless RINO hunt isn’t helping Republican voters decide. These tactics are, however, making Obama’s opposition research team’s job much easier.
