McHugh and the new GOP

I took part in last night’s debate between Rep. John McHugh (R) and challenger Mike Oot (D), hosted by Mountain Lake PBS. (Broadcast scheduled for Oct. 30, 8pm).

I asked McHugh to comment on the future of the GOP, which took a drubbing in 2006 and faces the likelihood of more setbacks in November — particularly here in New York state.

McHugh essentially passed on the question, suggesting that the picture would be clearer after November 4th.

He was careful to distance himself from President George Bush and spoke frequently about his independence.

However, the Congressman offered no new ideas for his party’s future policies or directions.

Assuming he’s re-elected (a strong likelihood) it will be interesting to see if he takes a more pro-active leadership role.

McHugh is one of the most senior members of his party and has spent nearly two decades in Washington.

Americans seem open to the more centrist brand of Republicanism that he represents. But it’s open to question whether moderates of his stripe will fight to reshape their party.