Politician Deathmatch 2010

Vying for the title Heavyweight Populist Nutball of the World, we have in the red corner, weighing in at 125 lbs, Ron Paul representing the libertarian/Tea Party movement bent on dismantling every government program ever created including the nation’s central bank. And in the blue corner, at 4’ 7”, we have Robert Reich representing the socialist movement, intent on nationalizing just about everything with profit motive including BP.

Let’s get ready to ruuuummmmbbbblle!

Ah, yes. There’s nothing like extremism begetting extremism. Triggered by Obama’s successful socialization of healthcare and overregulation of financial services, the political parties have further polarized, especially in their responses to the variety of recent crises (and perceived crises). Ironically, both movements appeal to populist sentiment. Feeding that populist beast, though, is just wrong regardless of which party serves up the red meat.

We need reasoned responses that take into account political and economic realities, and, hence, we keep the Fed just like we keep privately held oil companies. We also need to let the free market work as much as possible, which is why I support the Republican platform. But when Republican candidates like Catherine Crabhill (not that she has any chance, but it underscores my point) support the abolition of the nation’s central bank, I get concerned that conservatives will fumble the golden opportunity presented by the extremists on the left.

In other words, my fellow Republicans, be conservative, but don’t be crazy.