Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts from April, 2018

The Conservative GOP isn't Dead Yet

Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) made waves April 11 when he announced he will not run for reelection in 2018. A reluctant participant in recent Trump-dominated party politics, Ryan was known to embrace a Jack Kemp-esque “big tent” conservatism, characterized by tolerance, opportunity, and inclusiveness. His departure has left many political commentators concerned that the Republican party is further doomed to disarray. While this high-profile retirement does illuminate how Trump’s presidency is dividing the Republican party, it does not spell the end of the GOP as we know it. In fact, it is a sign that some political leaders are committed to preserving conservatism in the political arena. Although GOP Congressmen seem to believe loyalty to the current president is necessary for maintaining their own electoral support, some, like Senators Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) and Bob Corker (R-Tenn.) have decided retirement is a better outcome than embracing such a platform. Recent moves from the GOP e