Occupy Wall Street and the Tea Party followed similar trajectories. Both grew, seemingly as grassroots movements, enjoyed brief popularity and are now widely disliked by the electorate. But the two movements bequeath different legacies. While Tea Party power may have ebbed somewhat, there is no doubt the movement achieved real […] Read more »
The GOP’s Primal Fear of Primaries
More than a few people are scratching their heads over what would seem to be a reversal by Speaker John Boehner on immigration. It’s been no secret that he has long wanted and thought it was important for the Republican Party to do something to address the immigration issue, and […] Read more »
Chastened G.O.P. Tries to Foil Insurgents at Primary Level
… The Republican Party establishment, chastened by the realization that a string of unpredictable and unseasoned candidates cost them seats in Congress two elections in a row, is trying to head off potential political hazards wherever it can this year. In House and Senate races across the country, many of […] Read more »
What unites Democrats? Republicans!
Back in 1901, Finley Peter Dunne’s character Mr. Dooley said, “The Dimmycratic Party ain’t on speakin’ terms with itsilf.” Is that happening again now? You might think so, given the talk about a populist revolt on the left. But Democrats are in fact remarkably united on most issues. They agree […] Read more »
Government Shutdown Best Thing to Happen to Boehner & GOP
Not so long ago, Speaker John Boehner was the leader of an undisciplined, deeply divided majority that seemed bent on self-destruction. Now, just three months after the disastrous GOP-led government shutdown, Boehner looks like a man in control of his party and his own legislative destiny. … After digging themselves […] Read more »
Republicans face 2016 turmoil
As Republicans look ahead to the 2016 presidential race, they are hoping to avoid the kind of chaotic and protracted nominating battle that dismayed party elders and damaged the eventual candidacy of Mitt Romney. That, however, could be a hard thing to prevent. The party is divided and in turmoil, […] Read more »