The 52nd State
America / Politics

The 52nd State

Now that Puerto Rico might break our 53-year streak of a 50-state Union, who should bear the torch as the proverbial 52nd state? I suggest the Mariana Islands. Most of you are asking, “But James, where is that?” This is an island chain in the Pacific currently made up of two political entities you may … Continue reading →

What’s Left of What’s Right: New Conservatism and the Future of the G.O.P.
America / Constitution / Politics / Presidential Race 2012

What’s Left of What’s Right: New Conservatism and the Future of the G.O.P.

The resounding defeat for the Republican Party in the presidential election beckons a pause from my usual focus on foreign policy. Instead I want to look at the future of the G.O.P. because the situation is critical. Mitt Romney lost by the greatest margin in a presidential election since, well, last election. The Republican Party … Continue reading →

Election Postmortem: Where and Why did Romney Lose?
America / Politics / Presidential Race 2012

Election Postmortem: Where and Why did Romney Lose?

The 2012 Republican Primary season is remembered for its buffoonery: Rick Perry’s ‘oops’ moment, Newt Gingrich’ moon colony, Rick Santorum’s seemingly endless discussion of what should and should not be happening in the bedroom.  Mitt Romney, from the beginning, was the only sober and serious candidate in the field (save brief and uninspired runs by … Continue reading →

The Minority Report: Rectifying the GOP’s Struggles with Minorities
America / Culture / Politics / Presidential Race 2012 / U.S. Domestic Policy

The Minority Report: Rectifying the GOP’s Struggles with Minorities

 “When Newt dropped out of the race and Mitt Romney became the nominee, we decided to support Mitt Romney,” said a statement by Café Con Leche, a Republican organization that favors comprehensive immigration reform. “Numerous attempts to connect with the Romney campaign’s Hispanic outreach proved fruitless. In our one year of existence, we’ve also had … Continue reading →