GOP shifting platform

[Simfan34]

The idea that the GOP must mirror the anarcho-objectivist views of libertarians and Paulites to become viable is ludicrous. Following such policies would only deepen the problem, for while it's fashionable to think of the libertarians as a group of civil rights and social progressivism, it really is one of even more economic regressivism, Confederate apologism, pro-inequality thought, and even the demonization of Abraham Lincoln, with a few token gestures towards pot and other issues that appeal to the young. Following such a path would strip the Republican party of any remaining electability.

What I think the GOP should do is return to its ideals of fiscal responsibility- both in terms of revenues and spending. The wealthy are not serving the Republican Party by voting democrat, so why should the GOP feel beholden to them. One of the first moves of a Republican President should be to endorse the closing of loopholes that favor the wealthy- raising the capital gains tax on high earners to meet the normal rate, ending deductions for yachts and private jets, perhaps endorsing the 'Buffett Plan' even- whilst reiterating the fact that the rich want this done to them with high profile appearances and the like. The Republican Party should stand by a pro-business ethic, whilst ensuring companies like GE don't pay nothing (ooh I hate double negatives) in taxes while middle sized, small, and tech businesses don't get soaked by the world's second highest tax rate. There are other things, but the main theme should be pro-business, but fair.

The GOP should not be anti-government but for efficient government, one there when it should be, not a nonexistent one. The fastest growing group in America are Asian Americans, and while generally socially and fiscally conservative, are turned off by racist and antigovernment messaging. This to an extent applies to Hispanics as well. By supporting pro-growth policies like immigration reform to allow more skilled workers, education reform that is not just anti-union, investment in renewable energy, infranstructural investment (particularly high speed rail), and more workers rights (thus undermining unions as well), the GOP can put forth a platform that is not predicated on just hoping the rich invest in the US.

Socially the GOP should concede on some issues like immigration and gay marriage that polarize minorities and alienate the youth, whilst focusing on winning issues like abortion and the family. These could help gain minority support, which would be crucial. Also the GOP should use the media to try to make certain non-issues such as euthanasia, social housing, and the death penalty into major points of contention with the goal of forcing liberals to "bite the bait" by supporting these unpopular initiatives, thus earning the GOP political capital.

The GOP will need to strengthen its leadership to force a quick and universial acceptance of these goals, gaining the ability to force out uncompliant candidates and members (wouldn't it be nice to simply eject Todd Akin from the GOP?). Also, a concerted effort should be made to have a more diverse slate of candidates.

By changing its platform in these ways the GOP could lay the foundations for a diverse base, one that could be used for long term electoral success.

Good God, that post was long.