Should Republicans compromise on their principles?
Each of us has principles but in the political world principles seem to sometimes go by the wayside. The economic environment and the current culture in Congress raise questions as to whether politicians care about their principles or their party policy. The results of the November 2014 mid-term election find the Republicans in control of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The sweeping result of the Republicans winning across the country not only in national elections but also in state elections is what some has stated to be a mandate for the Republicans. It is not only a mandate for the Republicans it is a mandate for Congress to get their act together to solve the many problems facing our country today.
As an individual our principles defines the character of who we are and the principles embodied in the Constitution is a reflection of who we are or should be as a country. Principles should never be compromised in any environment much less the political environment. The question is whether principles can be left in place while meeting the needs of the country. The answer to that question is yes. The problems now facing our country is a matter of the principles which our elected politicians embody in their respective decisions. Much legislation in the past have not seen much if any support for the actions taken not the least of which is the affordable care act.
There has been some discussion about executive orders in relation to actions taken by the President. Executive orders can be cancelled by the next President they are not cast in stone. President O’Bama reviewed executive orders which President Bush initiated and some he left in place while others he cancelled.
The key thing about principles for our elected politicians is the need for principles to match what is best for our country. This should not be an opinion but based on the facts surrounding decisions made and their impact. Principles are great but if they are the principles of political parties and not the principles embodied in the Constitution political parties need to rethink their principles and their actions. The decisions of voters in this election sent a strong message they are not satisfied with the actions/inactions of both political parties. It is evident that in overwhelming numbers voters were dissatisfied with the path and policies now in place within the federal government. States also saw some significant changes with the number of Republican Governors being elected or reelected.
The principles of the federal government needs take a lesson from several states which have turned their state around and are now flourishing in a revitalization of the individual states. Several have instituted a limited government philosophy and have made decisions which benefitted their citizens. Individual freedom is alive and well within many states and the principles of the federal government needs to instill the principle of individual freedom within the framework of the federal government. The means less regulation should be in place and that the principles within the Constitution should be honored by not imposing their will on the people who sent them to do the country’s business.
In summary principles in most cases should never be compromised and when they are or have been by political parties it has been met with disapproval by the voters in subsequent elections. Each political party has established principles but it does not mean principles should be thrown out to establish agreement on issues of the day. It may be difficult at times but principles can still be left intact while meeting the needs of the country through bi-partisan agreement on the issues needing to be addressed.
