In politics, just as in our personal lives, fundamental change only occurs when that change is less painful than the status quo. We've seen this principle in action in the last two presidential elections. Bill Clinton's behavior in office elicited a visceral feeling about right and wrong in many people. A lot of Republicans got real serious about change. Democrats had an emotional response too, but it wasn't felt until they actually lost the 2000 election and suddenly realized that the status quo was now Republican power.

The Democrats are very motivated because they don't like the status quo of somebody else in charge, but 9/11 gave the Republicans yet another painful status quo; that of the United State's vulnerability to terrorism. Both parties are motivated but since Bill Clinton disgusted even some Democrats, the party has been in such disarray that they ceded control to a lunatic fringe that may have done irreparable damage. They can hold on for a while, but if they don't win some major elections fairly soon, their philosophical bankruptcy may become a financial bankruptcy.

What would happen if the Democrats really succeed in self-destruction? Then our 2 party system would have only 1 party. Dynamic political systems can not tolerate such a vacuum. Another party would suddenly be thrust into the limelight. Of all the “other” parties out there, the Libertarian Party may be the one best positioned to jump into fray. In such a case, the national debate would then be about the difference in Republican philosophy and Libertarian philosophy. We would actually have choices about size of government, amount of freedom, commitment to ideas put forth in the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. Whether you like everything the Libertarians stand for or not, such a debate would help Republicans find their philosophical base again.

This kind of change is good. In fact, this is so good, that we should be working hard to help it come about. Today, in 2006, what is the best way to help the Democrats destroy themselves? Is it to vote Democratic because we are unhappy with the abysmal job the Republicans have done on things like immigration? Talk about cutting off your nose to spite your face.

At this moment in time, a stronger Republican Party is equivalent to a weaker Democratic Party.

Let’s look at the big picture. This election matters, but where the country goes long term and the choice that we have to make in future elections may be much more important.