Our government's makeup could change drastically in 12 days. However, the ownership of the House and Senate will change hands to the Democrats, not by their success in elections, but rather by conservative Christians handing it to them.
The Democrats running on the state and national level have not gained voters. Due to recent disagreements between Republicans, the average GOP voter feels left behind in politicians' pursuit of the conservative Christian vote.
Even with all the pandering, Dr. James Dobson, founder of the Focus on the Family Institute, believes conservative Christians should teach the Republican party a lesson by not voting in the upcoming elections.
Dobson was quoted at the recent Values Voters Summit saying, "In 2004, we really did break our necks to turn out the vote. For the two years since then, I have been extremely disappointed with what the Republicans have done with the power they were given."
Since 2004, conservative Christian ideals have been central in the country's domestic policy. No other group in America has seen more victories, like the appointments of Justices John G. Roberts and Samuel Alito to the Supreme Court, than the religious right.
The social issues that motivate folks like Dobson are important but are not the issues that need to be at the forefront of Congressional debate. Their ideals and beliefs should be argued in the marketplace of ideas. It is their job to change the hearts and minds of Americans.
Conservative Christians need to remember that they should not cut off their nose to spite their face. If they were to follow Dobson's request and stay home on Nov. 7, conservative Christians would do a larger disservice to their own cause.
Dick Armey, former House Republican leader, said it best: "Dobson and his gang of thugs are real nasty bullies. I pray devoutly every day, but being a Christian is no excuse for being stupid."
The easiest way to lose is to not show up.
A loss for the GOP would be a serious blow to our country, but it might be just what the Republicans need. Losing the House or Senate would force Republicans to remember how they gained control back in 1994.
Republicans need to formulate a new contract with the nation for today's situation. A contract that stresses lower taxes, fiscal responsibility, privatization of Social Security, protection of our borders, and a decrease in government bureaucracy - the issues that truly affect the American people.
Brett King is a junior in political science. Please send comments to opinion@spub.ksu.edu.
