Is the Republican Reform Beginning?

Bobby Jindal (R-LA), Governor of Louisiana


John McCain's selection of Sarah Palin as his running mate was a bold and risky move, which may yet backfire on him as the Alaska Governor moves into the national spotlight. It does however, signal one encouraging development if the party is, in fact, beginning to turn to a younger cadre of up and coming conservative figures.

Palin seems on the surface to fit that bill. She is, of course, young, attractive and charismatic. She is conservative (pro-life, pro-gun) She also shot down that infamous "Bridge to Nowhere" that was propagated by old-time Republican hacks, Ted Stevens and Don Young (the former under indictment, the latter under investigation). She is also considered a reformer resisting the questionable practices of people within in her own party like the above two. Now, we will see and learn all we need to make a judgement of her on the national level. Whether she is ready for the VP slot or not, she represents the kind of figures that the party needs to produce and groom.

There are others. Michael Steele of Maryland, who was defeated in his run for the Senate in an ugly campaign (opponents threw oreo cookies at his feet, implying he was an "Uncle Tom" because he was a black conservative Republican), represents a growing conservative force with the African-American community. If McCain wins, look for him to find a place for Steele in his administration.

Another rising star in Republican politics is Lynn Swann, former Pittsburgh Steeler wide receiver who continued to make his home in Pittsburgh after retiring from the NFL. He was defeated in his run for governor of Pennsylvania by Ed Rendell. He also brings a conservative message to black America.

Then there is Bobby Jindal, the Governor of Louisiana, who has brought a message of reform to a state that badly needs it. He was mentioned as a possible VP pick for McCain. As we speak, he is being tested by the looming Hurricane Gustav, that will probably crash into his state and most likely hit New Orleans hard tomorrow. If he performs well, his ascent is assured. First impressions are that he is moving fast and decisively to prevent a repeat of what Katrina brought.

(Notice that I did not mention Arnold Schwarzenegger. I can't believe they are giving this guy a major speaking slot. He defines the term RINO.)

Those are just a few of what I perceive as the hope of the Republican party to remake itself and return to its conservative base.

In that regard, I think another group bears mentioning. That would be the College Republicans on college campuses all over the country. These young men and women are standing up for conservative principles in a decidedly hostile environment. They have to bear the vocal opposition, disruption and ridicule of left-wing students whose only theme is that the US is evil, radical professors, who see their mission as to indoctrinate students, Muslim Student Associations, who align themselves with America/Israel-hating, Jew-bashing speakers and other left-wing anarchists. They (the College Republicans) are the best hope for a rejuvenated Republican Party.

In the midst of Hurricane Gustav, it appears the Republicans will hold a subdued convention, which could be shortened or even cancelled at this point. They would be wise to hold down the confetti, balloons and gasbag speeches. Bush, Cheney and the Gulf state governors and senators would be wise to stay away from St Paul and attend to the hurricane. Hopefully, the Republicans can show a better example than the masked ball we witnessed in Denver.