“Ideas that matter,
since 1965.”

Ripon Forum
Vol. 44, No. 3

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Editor’s Note: In This Edition

For years, fiscal gurus and budgetary experts have been warning us about the long term implications of spending more than we take in. The economy will collapse, they warned. Social Security and other important programs will become unaffordable. The standard of living that millions of people had grown accustomed to will no longer exist. For […]

By Ripon Society

After the Revolution

U.S. Senator John Thune (R-SD) speaks on America’s dissatisfaction with Obama’s promised revolution of hope and change and what must now be done. “They have learned that change isn’t always for the better. Sometimes it is a return to the failed policies and discredited ideas of the past.”

By Ripon Society

A Recipe for Economic Disaster

“In order to help keep small businesses on the forefront of the markets, it is critical that leaders in Washington foster an environment that encourages creativity and promotes free enterprise.”

By Ripon Society

In Memoriam- Art Lifson

By Ripon Society

Medicare’s Crisis of Accountablility

Accountability seems to be a watchword in Washington these days. It is preached by the President, spoken by the Speaker, and has become a standard component of Democratic rhetoric this year.

By Ripon Society

Advice for My Party As I Head for the Door

BOB BENNETT“As I look out at the political landscape now, I find plenty of slogans on the Republican side, but not very many ideas.” The concern I have is that ideology and a demand for absolute party purity endangers our ability to govern once we get into office. A personal story – back in 1976, […]

By Ripon Society

Why Missile Defense Is Still Needed

Some arguments are worth repeating. “Take missile defense. The basic justification for developing this weapon system has not changed much since President Reagan proposed it in 1983. But the threats have changed.”

By Ripon Society

The Perfect Storm, Part I:

“Congress and the Administration must rein in spending and stabilize federal debt relative to GDP.”

By Ripon Society

The Perfect Storm, Part II: What the Crisis will Look Like When it Hits

Maya MacGuineas makes predictions about the path our nation is headed and presents an argument on what should be done: “To get out of this mess, and we would ultimately have to do what politicians were trying to avoid—raise taxes and cut spending – but to a much greater degree than we ever would have […]

By Ripon Society

The Perfect Storm, Part III: While Congress Slept

U.S. Senator Mike Enzi discusses how the failure of Congress to pass the budget is to neglect their duty and responsibility. “The majority leadership of this Congress is not doing something, and it’s running our country’s financial future into the ground.”

By Ripon Society

The Most Important Governor to Watch

“Voters aren’t stupid. But they often don’t pay attention to the details of public policy, especially at the state level. That’s why, when a forceful political leader comes along and points out the obvious, big things can happen fast.”

By Ripon Society

Moderates and the Wimp Factor

Lou Zickar, the Ripon Forum’s Editor, challenges moderate Republicans to be tough rather than live up to their reputation of being soft. “To counter this perception, moderate Republicans need to find the fiscal equivalent of a pork rind – something that will let them demonstrate their fiscal resolve and commitment to reducing the national debt.”

By Ripon Society

The Ripon Profile of Charlie Dent

“As Republicans, we must present a concise and understandable agenda that speaks to the economic and fiscal issues that are currently the greatest concern to the American public. “

By Ripon Society

The Ripon Profile of Charlie Dent

Name: Charlie Dent

Hometown: Allentown, Pennsylvania

Occupation: Member, U.S. House of Representatives

Previous Jobs: Pennsylvania State Senator; Pennsylvania State Representative; Development Officer, Lehigh University; Industrial Electronics Salesman

Individual(s) who inspired me as a child: Growing up in a traditional Pennsylvania home, I was inspired by the honesty, compassion, work ethic and thrift of my parents and extended family. My hope is that in embracing these values, I have inspired my own children to live productive and compassionate lives.

Historical figure(s) I would most like to meet: Abraham Lincoln and Winston Churchill. Both Lincoln and Churchill guided their countries through supreme national emergencies with courage and conviction. Had they not played pivotal roles in determining the outcome of the American Civil War and World War II, today’s world would be dramatically different. Defined by their outstanding judgment and unparalleled communication skills, both Lincoln and Churchill provided future generations with extraordinary and timeless insights. Their commitment to the rights of the individual, free enterprise and democracy has certainly shaped my approach to serving the people.

Issue facing America no one is talking about: As a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, I have heard the troubling predictions of many counterterrorism and intelligence experts that future terrorist attacks against our nation are probable and imminent. Because of these sobering assessments and an increase in domestic, homegrown radicalization, the American public must remain vigilant that the threat of terrorism on our shores remains very real. While we certainly do not want Americans to live in fear of potential attacks, we must not allow the nation to become complacent, because this will simply enhance our vulnerability.

What the Republican Party must do to be successful in the elections this year: As Republicans, we must present a concise and understandable agenda that speaks to the economic and fiscal issues that are currently the greatest concern to the American public. The core values of the Republican Party – fiscal discipline and limited government – still resonate with the people of this nation. If we are able to demonstrate to voters that our principles will reinvigorate the economy and restore their confidence in government, I’m confident we’ll experience great success this November.

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