Cantor’s Defeat—What It Does Not Mean

Shocked by House Majority Leader Eric Cantor’s defeat in last week’s Virginia primary, many in the media have decided that this “earthquake” has re-shaped the political landscape. Immigration reform is dead, they say, and tea party radicals are far stronger than many suspected. Meanwhile, the alarmists warn, political polarization has divided the country, poisoning our democracy. On that last point they are half-right; Republican voters have moved to the far right, while politically active Democrats are beginning to shift toward the left. But polarization is not a threat to the Republic. Debate can clarify the issues– and underline what is at stake. Conservatives are making it clear what they are willing to sacrifice for the sake of their ideology, and mainstream Americans are becoming alarmed. The nomination of someone like Brat—who would like to slash Social Security by 2/3—could bring them out to vote in  mid-term elections. As I will argue in part 2 of this post, a national debate on what are, ultimately, extraordinarily important issues, could  strengthen the nation. In Congress, Republicans and Democrats remain gridlocked. In  mainstream America many citizens are disengaged. “I’m just not interested in politics,” they say. Or, “I’ve given up on politicians.”‘ A democracy needs a passionate, engaged electorate. Indifference is what will poison the Republic. Cantor’s Loss Does Not mean that “Immigration ...
Source: Health Beat - Category: American Health Authors: Tags: Central America and children Eric Cantor Immigration Reform polarization Tea Party Virginia Primary David Brag Hunduras polarizaiton unaccompanied chidren Source Type: blogs