The 1993 movie, Groundhog Day, tells the story of a lovelorn reporter sent to cover Groundhog Day festivities. Something happens to him and he keeps repeating the day until he gets things right and becomes a better person.
Last week, at a lumber company in Virginia, it felt a little like Groundhog Day, the movie. House Republicans led by Rep. John Boehner (R.-Ohio), the presumptive speaker of the House if Republicans take over, flanked by those who would be speaker if Boehner stumbles, rolled out the "Pledge to America."
This was their generation's version of the "Contract with America." At first glance, it is a little wordy. I was looking for big bullet points that everyone could buy into. It's not a philosophical document; it's a document for right now.
The overwhelming question voters want answered is, "If we (the voters) give you the power back, will you do what you've promised?"
The Republicans were pretty good at keeping their promises until 9/11/2001. Then we ushered in the age of Big Government Republicanism with increased spending on wars without appropriate cuts in discretionary spending.
In another direction, John Boehner, the man who would be the next Speaker of the House if the Republicans take control, gave some common sense advice on how the House should be reformed. Before the speech was delivered, Speaker Pelosi condemned it. This is part of the problem. Comment after you've heard or read for yourself. A novel idea.
David Broder comments on the speech, after he's heard it here:
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