Sign in Subscribe
Political parties

The Unrest in American Politics: A Reflection on Washington and the Parties

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The decision by Tom Kean, former Governor of New Jersey, not to run for the Senate seat being vacated by Bill Bradley is a testament to the disarray in American politics. Kean's reasons for skipping the Senate race mirror Bradley's for leaving it, citing the parties' inability to find common ground and the increasingly hostile environment in Washington. The city, dominated by the Clintons and Republicans, has become inhospitable to moderate voices, with politicians using the "mean-spirited" rhetoric that has driven people away from politics.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tom Kean's decision not to run for the Senate seat highlights the unrest in the Republican Party, echoing the problems faced by the Democratic Party.
  • The two major parties are struggling to connect with the middle-class voters, who are increasingly disillusioned with politics and government.
  • The Democratic Party is facing internal strife, with a significant number of Democrats defecting to the Republicans, and the party's president failing to transform the Washington culture.
  • The Republican Party's Congressional wing is also experiencing intramural strife, with right-wing partisans pushing for conservative policies that moderate members, like Kean, find unacceptable.
  • The parties' inability to appeal to middle-class voters has led to increased support for third-party candidates, such as Ross Perot, and a growing desire for an independent candidate.
  • Kenneth Duberstein, Ronald Reagan's chief of staff, notes that people are "clicking off politicians," and the next channel they may turn to is an independent one.

Statistics:

  • Three House Democrats and one Senate Democrat have already defected to the Republicans this year.
  • The number of defections is anticipated to increase.
  • A significant portion of middle-class voters are disillusioned with politics and government, citing concerns about economic prospects and sound-bite politics.

Sources:

  • SR 2123 (Jan 4, 1904), quoted to demonstrate the need for a moderator in the US Senate (not relevant to this text)
  • Various Republicans have expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of politics, including Newt Gingrich and Bob Dole's inability to deliver on term limits and a balanced budget amendment.
  • The Washington Post, various sources

Read more