Identity, the Republicans, and You

First. You. Nearly 40% of America no longer identifies as belonging to the Republican party. You call yourself independent. Maybe you are.

Then. Identity. It's part of who you are. You don't like to pay taxes. Who does? You're not into bigger, or less effecient bureaucracy. Who would be? This isn't the plot to a bad science fiction movie. This is your identity, you - your life. You need to be known for what you've accomplished. Whom you love. Where your loyalties lie. You're wearing the shirt. You are someone, and that person has beliefs, values - and allegience. You identify yourself carefully.

The Republican party cannot identify itself. Bush was not a conservative. The increase in spending , under his watch - was astronomical. The Bush Republicans held on firmly to their power base. As a result, there are factions within the party that hold allegiance far away from you , and more and more towards the special interest. Admitting non conservative, evangelical, or non-realist - has caused the party to move into three separate directions. A direction that cannot be reconciled.

And that is why, the identity of the man who will be the next Republican candidate for president - is such a vexing issue to the Republican party. How do you find a man , who can represent something that is coming apart?

And that is why you are no longer Republican.