While the nation stands transfixed by the likely pending partial shutdown of the Federal Government, the 2014 campaign is already underway. Democrats are using the occasion to attack their GOP opponents and the Republican establishment is moving to declare total war against Conservatives like Ted Cruz who made this principled stand possible.
In Michigan, Conservative Tea Party Congressmen Justin Amash and Kerry Bentivolio are facing challenges from well funded establishment moderates. The likes of John Boehner, Eric Cantor, and Karl Rove just cannot wait to get rid of these troublesome firebrands.
New York Congressman Peter King is playing the role of attack dog against Senator Ted Cruz on behalf of the D.C. Beltway Republicans. He is using the MSM as a platform to lambast the Texas freedom fighter, trying to diminish his stature.
Meanwhile, the Tea Party base has reawakened and is taking note of the Republican Senators who failed to “Stand With Cruz” during his 21+ hour speech. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is facing a tough primary challenge and South Carolina “Friend of John McCain” Lindsey Graham is looking very vulnerable.
In 2010 and 2012, the Tea Party and the GOP establishment faced off in numerous contests from dog-catcher to President. 2014 looks to be more of the same. Yes, some of the outcome will be determined by money, but ultimately, We the People will have the final say.
I’m gearing up for RINO Hunt 2014. Where will you stand?