That is lame. We are in a primary season and the last two election cycles Republicans have followed Walker’s advice. They went on to lose. So perhaps this time they should try Santorum. I bet he would do better than either McCain or Romney did.
Imho, Santorum can’t win. He’s just not presidential.
McCain didn't really have a shot after the economy tanked. Romney did try that "economic issues" approach and it didn't work. Many voters saw him as just another rich guy and didn't bother with him. But he did lead in the polls over candidates who emphasized social issues.
Generally speaking elections are won or lost on economics. Reagan won because of the economy. In those days, there were a lot of Democrats who were conservative on social issues. Either they came to Reagan because of economics and stayed because of social issues or they came because of social issues and stayed because of economics, but there isn't that large pool of socially conservative Democrats to poach from anymore, so you may not hear as much about those issues next year.
Walker's comments are kind of superfluous, though. Whoever gets nominated is going to have to win over people who only vote because of the economy. That means downplaying other issues. Maybe his remarks are a sign to the other contenders not to tear each other apart because of small differences in positions.
Look, I wish it were otherwise.
But I go back to my original point... To make social changes you have I get into office first... and the general electorate in this country is moony leftward. So you’re left with accentuating other issues that voters will respond to.