For the Republican Party, 2010 could be the beginning of the end, or the beginning of a new, more engaged and complex political movement.<\/p>\n
After two vicious political cycles — in 06 and 08 — there are signs that the GOP might just compete effectively next year. <\/p>\n
Democratic governors are stumbling in places like New Jersey, New York and Virginia that have been Dem strongholds in recent contests.<\/p>\n
The musical chairs that followed President Barack Obama’s election also left a number of Democratic US Senators vulnerable, in Illinois, Maryland and New York.<\/p>\n
Added to these tactical openings, Democrats are confronting new public animosity over their deficit spending and their handling of the economy.<\/p>\n
Good times for Republicans?<\/p>\n
Maybe. The question now is whether the GOP can marshal its forces and present a new, more modern and inclusive platform.<\/p>\n
Not just a P-R message. <\/p>\n
That old gambit — hiding the hard-line conservative agenda behind a few moderate talking points — won’t play anymore.<\/p>\n
Republicans need some real ideas about healthcare, climate change, job creation and the economy.<\/p>\n
They also need to figure out what to do with all their baggage. From the Obama Birthers to Sarah Palin. From scandal-icons like Sen. John Ensign and Gov. Mark Sanford<\/p>\n
Republicans understand that their brand needs an overhaul, in ways that just opposing Barack Obama can’t touch.<\/p>\n