Britney Ryan (‘13)
The battle of the political parties defines American democracy. Especially in recent years, the trend of greater partisanship at all levels of government has become an extremely prevalent force that permeates into an increasing number of groups. As the fight between Republicans and Democrats intensifies, so does the struggle between members of the same party for the right to represent their constituents. Nowhere has this been better displayed than in the campaigning for the 2012 Republican nomination.
Democrats have the luxury of sitting back and watching as members of the same party exploit the weaknesses of their fellow Republicans. Two candidates stand out from the rest in the media headlines: Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich. These two men have extremely different backgrounds and histories, and each are willing to expose the skeletons of their opponents closet, all in the name of “good for Republicans.” Although the two are fairly close in the race, it seems to be evident for most Republicans that Mitt Romney is the best choice to oppose Barack Obama in the upcoming election.
Romney presents a multiplicity of desirable traits that make for a strong nominee. His history as an extremely successful businessman is desirable in an age when the economy is still struggling and the disgustingly high budget deficit continues to plague America. The ability to turn a struggling business into a successful, profitable company demonstrates an understanding of the principles underlying America’s economy.
Business is not the only advantage Romney brings to the table. He also has shown considerable disposition to compromise, which is an area that has been lacking for a majority of the Obama term. It is important to have a president who will stand firm for his beliefs, but is also willing to overcome partisan roadblocks and compromise with the other side.
Romney’s top competitor, Newt Gingrich, has a political history that does not inspire much confidence among Republican voters. During his time in Congress, Gingrich spent much of his time in the Senate working to exploit what he viewed as corruptions. While he did work with Clinton on some policies, he spearheaded the motion to impeach the President during the Monica Lewinsky trial. As a result of his turbulent record, Gingrich has been painted as someone prone to allowing personal vendettas to cloud his vision. Additionally, Gingrich’s ethics also come into question, as many Americans believe that his past infidelities implicate an inability to be an honest leader.
Romney has the best chance of facing Barack Obama and coming out the victor, and the Republican Party would do better to place their support, faith, and votes behind the Massachusetts candidate. This year, the Republican party needs a leader who will stand beside his convictions and commit himself to building a better America. Romney, who has not only proven to be an extremely intelligent business man, but a hardworking and dedicated candidate, is the best chance the Republican Party has of standing up against President Obama and winning the 2012 election.