“I am staying a Republican because I think I have an important role — a more important role — to play there. I think the United States desperately needs a two party system. It is the basis of politics in America.” (Then GOP Sen. Arlen Specter)
As a pragmatic conservative, I applaud Sen. Specter for standing up for his constituents and the issues that matter to them.
As a Republican, I am worried about his decision. In a time when the GOP needs moderate voices and the need for reform is great, the loss of Sen. Specter is a heavy blow to the already psychologically battered party.
Sen. Specter's move is cowardly. He abandons the party at a crucial moment; his move could be politically motivated since he is up for re-election in 2010. Perhaps Sen. Specter should have consulted with two other famous free-spirit Senators: Sen. McCain and Sen. Lieberman.
Putting personal popularity and gain before principle is reprehensible. The Democrats are nearing a super-majority in the Senate. The country cannot afford more partisanship. We need healthy, productive dialogue about the serious challenges before us.
I wish Sen. Specter well. The GOP will come back -- without him.
