Ripon Forum


Vol. 42, No. 4

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A Note From the Chairman Emeritus

When it comes to the media’s reporting of political conventions, a favorite storyline has emerged in recent years. It goes something like this:

An Enduring Peace

As he prepares to accept the Republican nomination for President, the FORUM asked John McCain what foreign policy would look like in his administration.

Rebel with a Cause

Despite his reputation as a maverick, the hallmark of John McCain’s career has been a devotion to the security. of America

Why I am a Republican

Amidst efforts to rebuild the GOP brand, the FORUM asked prominent Republicans to discuss why they joined the party and the issues they believe will be critical to its success in 2008.

Why Ideas Matter

The Governor of Mississippi says good policy, not politics, is the key to the GOP’s future.

Limiting Spending: We’ve done it before; we can — and must — do it again

We’ve done it before; we can – and must – do it again.

Fanning the Flames of Change

South Carolina’s Governor outlines his plan for changing the tax system and giving people a choice in his state.

What Trade Means to My State

The Governor of Minnesota discusses his efforts to strengthen his state’s position with regard to global trade.

Health Care Reality Check

The goal of any reform should be the same as the Hippocratic Oath: First, do no harm.

The Search for Common Ground A Q&A with Howard Baker

The former Tennessee Senator discusses a bipartisan effort he is leading to break the political logjam in Washington.

It’s More Than Just Words

The veteran speechwriter discusses the importance of tone in politics and the GOP’s message this fall.

Reagan in Youngstown

There aren’t many Republicans in this rust-belt city. But that didn’t stop Ronald Reagan from campaigning there in 1980.

The Ripon Profile of Tim Pawlenty

Republicans must present ideas and solutions that address the concerns of Americans in a positive, hopeful and pragmatic manner, while remaining faithful to our principles.

The Ripon Profile of Tim Pawlenty

Name: Tim Pawlenty

Hometown: South Saint Paul, Minnesota

Occupation: Governor of Minnesota

Previous Jobs: Attorney; Majority Leader, Minnesota House of Representatives.

Individual(s) who inspired me as a child: My parents. My Mom was a strong believer in the value of education while my Dad taught us the importance of hard work.

Historical figure(s) I would most like to meet: Abraham Lincoln. He successfully led our country through an epic challenge with great courage, foresight and skill. His will, wisdom, communication skills, and trust in the goodness of people made him one of the most impactful leaders ever. His commitment to liberty, prosperity and equality was world changing and remains incredibly inspiring today.

Issue facing America that no one is talking about: Education. The improvement and reform of our system of education must be addressed with the sense of urgency and boldness that it deserves as a key factor to our nation’s continued success. The current system is outdated and it does not produce the

results needed for far too many of our children, particularly the disadvantaged. Changes to the system must include increased parental involvement and school choice, higher academic standards, greater decision making at the school and classroom level, performance pay for teachers and staff, greatly enhanced teacher training, better use of technology, high school redesign, better alignment between our K-12 and higher education systems, more rigorous and relevant class offerings and more. Successfully improving our system of education is strategically, economically, socially and morally critical to America’s future success.

What the Republican Party must do to be successful in the elections this year: Republicans must present ideas and solutions that address the concerns of Americans in a positive, hopeful and pragmatic manner, while remaining faithful to our principles.