the Republicans are most likely done as a political force in America.
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I think this is true unless we can replace large numbers of Bush League Republicans.
They are still hell bent on turning the USA into North Mexico.
“People respect strength and are famished for politicians who deliver on what their voters want.” <<THIS!!!
We have had career politicians for the last four decades, at least, in both parties, who promise one thing in order to get elected and then, instead, pass legislation to benefit themselves and their lobbyist “owners”
This all traces back, IMHO, to the Federal Election Campaign Acts of 1971 & 1974, which basically created the huge influx of professional lobbyists and removed bans on government contractors. Once that flood gate was opened, politicians were for sale to the highest bidder, and our vote became mostly meaningless. The PACs and SuperPACs followed and now shadow entities make all the decisions.
I, personally, would like to see all the “rules” lifted on individual contributions but make instant reporting mandatory so that if one person is financing a specific politician, it is obvious to everyone. Also, disband all PACs and bundlers (including unions, who are often interjecting vast sums of money taken from their members on positions that have nothing to do with their careers). Finally, no out of state or out of area money. The people who will be voting for the Representative/Senator should be the only ones allowed to contribute to the race.
I know none of these proposals will ever be adopted because Congress would never willingly give up their power but a girl can dream, right?!
I don't agree with that. I don't think the building of the wall has any significant impact on Trump's approval ratings. You are either with Trump or against Trump. Those who are with him know he is doing all he can to get it built and that the House is the real roadblock.
Also, not everybody supporting Trump are "wall-heads". Most people who support Trump appreciate all the things he has accomplished and can see the big picture without getting hung up on one component of his agenda. They aren't going to bail on him just because he couldn't get one of his promises accomplished in a timely manner (as he was getting 99 others done in record time).
Finally, 82%? No way does he ever get that. I'll be happy if he can stay in the mid 50s. That will be enough to get him a second term.
Build the border wall and Trump will be at 82%...I doubt that. However, if he keeps framing it the way he is currently, staying resolute but above the fray, giving Congress every opportunity to do the right thing, then he can win this issue easily. The perception among those whose minds can be changed will be favorable, and he will tick up into the mid-50s on Rasmussen.
He needs to keep positioning himself as the only adult on this issue, and not tweet or say something petty or offensive about this issue. Just keep the discipline he has shown thus far this year and continue to call for unity, and he will win it going away.
Sadly, the Republicans wouldn't know what to do with both houses of Congress. They will just continue to do the Democrats bidding. It's ironic that the GOP would benefit from Trump. It's unfortunate that there is not a worthy party out there.