Ripon Forum


Vol. 44, No. 4

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Editor’s Note: In This Edition

by LOU ZICKAR

Ripon Society Holds Post-Election Briefing to Review Mid-Term Results

WASHINGTON, DC — The Ripon Society hosted a breakfast briefing on Thursday, November 4th to review the results of the mid-term elections and discuss the reasons Republicans had, electorally speaking, one of the most successful years in the history of the GOP. The breakfast featured some of the leading political minds in Washington, including: Congressman […]

“What Do We Do Now?”

“Simple, unadorned ‘opposition’ is mistaken, from both the policy and political perspectives.”

“What Do We Do Now?”

“Stop this spending spree.”

“What Do We Do Now?”

“Extending tax cuts isn’t a political slogan – it’s an economic necessity to our country.”

“What Do We Do Now?”

“We expect Republicans to be focused on the People’s agenda, not the party’s agenda.”

“What Do We Do Now?”

“Be Brave.”

“What Do We Do Now?”

“This is the moment for Republicans to define our party once again…”

On This, We Can Agree

After a divisive election, the Maine Senator argues that Republicans must focus on the many issues that unite the party.

Working Together in a Partisan World

With Washington divided by the political extremes, the former New Jersey Governor makes the case for across-the-isle problem-solving.

A Recovery Shipwreck: Can it be avoided?

At one level, the politics and the economics of 2010 appear daunting. Pundits claim that the recent election will only divide government, the two major political parties can’t get along, and government shutdown will be the only real issue discussed.

Divorce and the Deficit Commission

Stacy relates the reasoning behind why voters divorced from the Democratic party to that of a marriage; “They divorced the Democratic Party over more than money. It was also the uncertainty caused by intrusive, coercive fiscal policies.”

The Case for Michigan

Sandy discusses the underrated importance of the state of Michigan, pointing out a correlation between the state and the country as a whole saying, ” The challenges faced by this great American city and this storied state are the precursor to the challenges of our nation. As goes Michigan goes America.”

A Lesson in Job Creation from the Hoosier State

Jay discusses the success of Governor Daniels, and brings up the question of whether or not he will throw his hat in the ring of the 2012 Presidential elections. “During the last decade, Tommy Thompson and a crop of innovative GOP governors proved that some of the nation’s best policy innovation comes from the states.”

Republican Heart and Soul: The Definitional Battle for the 2012 Presidential Nomination

“In recent history, presidential aspirants win by leading ideological factions to dominate their party, while simultaneously attracting independents to their candidacies.”

The Coming Generational Shift on Capitol Hill

“When Republicans won control of the House of Representatives on November 2nd, it represented not just a partisan shift on Capitol Hill, but a generational shift, as well.”

Ripon Profile of Tim Scott

“I believe that the people should control their own destinies, not the federal government, and I will fight for the fundamental values and rights on which our country was founded.”

Ripon Profile of Tim Scott


Name: Timothy E. Scott, Congressman-elect, South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District

Hometown: Charleston, SC

Professional Experience: Tim Scott and Associates (Allstate Insurance Agency); Pathway Real Estate Group (Partner)

Past Political Activities: Charleston County Council 1995-2008 (Chairman for 4 years); SC State House of Representatives 2009-Present

Why did you run for Congress in the first place? I believe that South Carolina and Washington need a conservative voice in the House of Representatives. My commitment to cut spending, reduce taxes, fight against nationalized health care, reduce government bureaucracy, and grow our economy compelled me to run for Congress.

In the last 225 years, who is the Member of Congress you admire the most?
Jack Kemp

What was the most unexpected question you heard on the campaign trail (and what was your answer?) “Why are you a conservative?” My answer to those who inquire is that I firmly believe in the conservative values of hard work, religious faith, limited government, and giving back to the community. I believe that the people should control their own destinies, not the federal government, and I will fight for the fundamental values and rights on which our country was founded.

What are your top three legislative priorities looking ahead to next year? The top three legislative priorities for me as I look ahead into the next year are cutting spending, reducing taxes, and fighting against nationalized health care for a more sensible approach to our nation’s health care system.

If you ever get a day off, what are you going to do? Take my mother to dinner after working out