Before we get wrapped up in the next fiscal fights, it’s time to step back and give House Republicans a bit of love and affection.
While I criticize them for some tactical blunders and needless compromises, the most important thing is whether they are willing – when it counts – to vote for smaller government.
This is why the successful votes for the Ryan budget and the cut-cap-balance plan are very encouraging. Neither plan was perfect, but they both took big steps in the right direction.
And if there is a new Senate and new president after the 2012 elections, it is distinctly possible that GOPers might be willing to actually enact the policies needed to save America from becoming another failed, European-style welfare state.
I wrote a few months ago that all politicians are a combination of good and evil. During the Bush years, the devil on one shoulder completely dominated and Republicans unambiguously became part of the problem.
Now the angel on the other shoulder is having some success.
I’m sure I’ll be whining about GOP mistakes in the coming months, but the most important thing we need to focus on is whether they will take principled stands in 2013. So far, the answer is yes.
