I think Gingrich is right. The Dems are clearly motivated. Clearly. What happened in the VA House of Delegates and in ruby red Alabama should be a wake-up call for Republicans. I think it’s time for the President to lead the party and to start doing things to energize the entire party and not just his base. I think he needs to stop the petty squabbles, the name-calling, and start acting Presidential. McConnell and Ryan need to take the time to develop well thought-out legislation rather than rushing something through that is difficult or just can't get through a bifurcated Republican Party, and a bifurcated Republican Party is exactly what we have.
If the President truly “alone can fix it†(as he claimed), it’s time for him to demonstrate his self-described great negotiating and deal-making skills by leveraging members of the majority to get some legislative achievements done. Not just one but many. If he decides to try and appeal to the entire Republican Party (and to some Independents), I think he can energize an electorate. He is a great marketer and promoter, but if he insists on just appealing to his base, I think his approval ratings will continue to hover in the 30’s, the Dems will continue to be highly motivated, and Republicans not in his base will continue to be frustrated and will look elsewhere (like write ins) or just stay home.
I think the Senate is probably safe, but I'm afraid the House could be in jeopardy. Now's the time for leadership. I sure hope someone provides it.
