At least since the 2008 Republican National Convention, where I had the good fortune to be present, when the then-Governor of Alaska, our party’s nominee for Vice President gave a stem-winder of a speech, I have compared that good woman to the Gipper.
Like that great man, she has a natural stage presence, a certain dynamism, an appreciation and affection for the ideas which define our nation, and a heart-felt optimism about its future.
Unlike Reagan, however, she lacks an education in the depth and breadth of conservative political philosophy. �Before his famous speech on behalf of then-GOP presidential nominee Barry Goldwater in 1964, he had spent years reading widely and reflecting on what he was learning. �Only after he had educated himself did he launch himself onto the political scene.
And now Palin, with great energy and incredible effect, is so launching herself. �She is doing a lot of good for the GOP, but she is also delaying her own return to a position of leadership. �She inspires us, she motivates us, but she needs better educate herself before she can lead us.
But, maybe that’s not her goal. �Maybe she relishes her role as the Reaganite rallying the rank and file around his ideas and vision. �Commenting on her appeal in his list of influential Republicans, Chris Cillizza writes, “There simply is no bigger figure in the Republican party than Palin.�Where she goes, crowds and enthusiasm follow. But, there is a difference between enthusiasm and influence.”
I’m glad she’s out there, stumping for our team. �She is helping promote the ideas of Ronald Reagan. �But, if she wants to follow in his footsteps, she’s got some larnin’ to do.
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