The 20th: By now the debate should be less about gotcha

It wasn't as bad as it could have been, but the reality is that the mudslinging and finger-pointing -- and the feverish argument about who is the REAL conservative -- ought to be winding down in the Republican race for the presidential nomination.

First off, it is tiresome to listen to and distracting. Second of all, it is not productive. And, thirdly, there are bigger fish to fry.

Now, after 20 debates, it is time to get down to policies, what the differences between the two parties are and a real substantive discussion of where this country needs to be in 2012 and beyond -- and how each candidate plans to get there.

Social issues matter and how a candidate stands on those issues is a factor. But it is not THE factor, at least not this year. Neither are the slips of tongue, innuendos and distractions that go from molehills to mountains in the flip of a television channel.

This country needs leadership that focuses on individual freedoms and the chance to earn your own way. It needs more people looking to their own abilities and possibilities, not to government.

It is about a deficit that is out of control and what kind of country we want to leave for our children and grandchildren. It is about taking care of our seniors responsibly.

This election should be about the future, the economy and building a country where anyone can succeed if he or she wants to do the work. It is about a strong stance abroad and a clear decision to let the people decide the direction this country will take.

The rest is only an attempt by others to direct the debate away from the real concerns, real issues.

And if the Republicans are smart, they will steer it right back.

Published in Editorials on February 23, 2012 11:13 AM