The number of Republicans that recently filed to run for state office in Arkansas was twice the number of Democrats.
After 138 years of Democrat rule, it’s funny how things have changed so dramatically in just a few short years. With control and majorities at all levels of government in Arkansas, the hands of Republicans now have the opportunity to lead the state in a direction based on conservative principles. It has become the dominant party by far.
The Democratic Party and it’s leadership would have you believe that the “only reason” the Republican Party has come to power in Arkansas is President Barack Obama. The fact that he has led the Democratic ticket the last couple of cycles automatically gets you elected if you are a Republican. I’m sure Hillary Clinton can salvage the political future of the state.
Could it possibly be that the people of Arkansas are actually becoming more conservative in their values and beliefs? It just may be possible that is a factor.
As I’ve traveled and talked to people across the state, more and more, you hear the conservative values associated with the Republicans. They have invested in those values and believe the left is not the answer. I’ve also talked to many Democrats who are aligned perfectly with Republicans’ principles on fiscal issues, gun laws and abortion.
Could it be the Republican Party has recruited and attracted more qualified candidates that are closely aligned with the desires of our citizens in their choice of political representation? It’s interesting some of the more innovative ideas lately have come from the Republican side of the house (think: private option). So while I agree Obama has been a shot in the arm for the Republican Party, I’m not ready to give him all the credit and make him an honorary member.
I’m also taken aback by this notion that Republicans will not be effective leaders because there are some factions within the party that do not agree on every issue. The chairman of the Democratic Party of Arkansas recently stated his party was united, but he couldn’t say the same for the Republican Party. OK, seriously, after winning every major office at the state and federal level, taken majorities in both the House and Senate, and winning countless races at the local level, I think it’s time for a reality check.
My prediction is the Republican Party will be united to the tune of maintaining every state and federal office, 70 plus members in the House, a couple new Senate seats and the continued aggressive growth of the farm team at the local level. We may be able to do this just with the number of Democrats switching over to the Republican Party.
Yes, not all Republicans agree with each other on all policy issues. I believe the best policy is crafted when there is a willingness to debate, challenge and, at times, disagree. Many times I have seen politicians go against their core beliefs to fall in line with their party. Mr. Chairman, in that case, I do believe the Democrat Party has been more united than the Republican Party.