The Republican Dispute in the US

After “Super Tuesday,” in which Republican primaries were held in 10 states, the outlook remains uncertain as to who will run against Barack Obama. Even though Mitt Romney was victorious in six states, the ex-governor of Massachusetts is still far from securing the 1,144 delegates needed to be nominated at the Republican National Convention.

The increasing numbers in economic growth and job creation seen by the United States in the last few months have strengthened Obama’s position. The likelihood of a president in office being defeated during an economic recovery is low. Without having to dole out resources or suffer attrition as have the Republican candidates, who are in the thick of their party’s most bitter primaries since 1976, it also counts in his favor to be the guaranteed Democratic nominee.

Though Obama is gaining momentum, the Republicans need to address some key issues before facing him in November. What seems to be at stake is not just the candidate, but also the balance of power within a group in which numerous interests coexist in an inharmonious way. In the last few years, after the disastrous end of George W. Bush’s term, traditional sectors have dominated the party. However, the Republican rebirth that swept the congressional elections of 2010 came at the hands of the tea party. With its mix of conservative values and fierce defense of the free market, it has a proven ability to organize its supporters. This dispute could end up being even more critical for North America’s political future than could the verdict on Obama’s opponent.