Republican's Gather in Memphis for 2008 Straw Poll

It is March 2006 and observers of American politics are witnessing the first shots of the 2008 Presidential campaign. Between ACC Basketball this past weekend, my TV set was tuned to MSNBC's coverage of the Southern Republican Leadership Conference Straw Poll of likely Republican candidates for President held in Memphis, Tennessee.

The Republican gathering produced an early look at issues likely to be seen in the 2006 and 2008 elections. I was intrigued at the number of Republican activists who listed traditional family issues, anti-abortion, immigration, and tax cuts as key litmus provisions of any future Republican nominee. It is safe to believe that Republicans will test these issues in 2006 and that any possible nominee in 2008 will have to placate the base of cultural values voters.

Democrats must take serious notes on the issues raised by Republicans. The 2002 and 2004 elections were fought on terms of national security defined by Karl Rove and the Bush Spin Machine. If Republicans want to fight the 2006 and 2008 elections on cultural issues, the Democratic Party must stake a moderate course to win back swing voters who have voted national security in the post 9-11 elections to our party.

Previously, I have posted the need for Democrats to reshape our image seen on TV. If Republicans are going to stake their hopes on cultural issues, we must present moderate candidates who can offer new sollutions to the issues facing our country in the 21st century.

The other surprising event of the weekend in Memphis was the lack of enthusiasm towards President Bush. I heard more candidates speak of President Reagan than of current President Bush.

2006 and 2008 present a golden opportunity for Democrats to win back offices held by Republicans. We do not need to get into a pissing contest with the Republicans over who can be the most ideological. Rather, we need to outflank the Republicans by offering a prgamatic platform that shows voters we can be trusted to create responsible policies to help Americans.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3036697/