GOP can still lead

OPINION:

The most amazing thing about the recent midterm elections was the fact that so many people seemed to vote against their own best interests.

It’s obvious that the current administration is responsible for fuel prices, inflation and both the border and fentanyl crises. But let’s face it: Numerous things went wrong in these elections, from early voting before debates, to a lack of fair coverage of Republican candidates, to lots of money getting thrown at state races by nonresidents. Also, we had some less-than-stellar candidates for office, such as Mehmet Oz. He was not impressive early on and didn’t become a polished and well-spoken candidate until well into the race. (But is an ex-football player really senator material?)

The messaging in these elections was simple: Fix the problems created by President Biden and the Democrats in Congress. Show up and debate and don’t allow the media to pick winners and losers. Republicans need to go into cities such as Atlanta to challenge the voters in those “Democratic strongholds,” asking why they continue to vote for the same failed policies every election cycle. The GOP must not concede those places, because it only takes a small percentage to change the outcome.

What’s more, Mitch McConnell shouldn’t be picking the candidates who get party support. In these recent elections there were races that even a little funding could have turned. Establishment Republicans can’t have it all their way, or they will not be the majority for long. New blood is coming into both parties, and the party that embraces them is going to be the leader in the long term. Change is constant and resistance to it futile. 

PAT HAMP
Oak Hill, Virginia