The Republicans Can Also Be Reasonable

In the second TV debate, Donald Trump played the role of statesman, and moderate Republicans protested. The conservatives presented themselves as more optimistic and hopeful.

At some points, it was necessary to check whether one had accidentally tuned in to the Democrats’ TV debate. Jeb Bush revealed that he smoked marijuana 40 years ago. John Kasich said that Mother Teresa should be on the $10 note. Ben Carson said that one should occasionally use intelligence instead of military power. Trump called for higher taxes for hedge fund managers. And there was even a woman on the stage, Carly Fiorina.

But no, this was indeed the Republican Party, which, until recently, was best known for the negativity and alarmism of old white men and Trump’s loutish remarks. Perhaps it was the Californian sun or the plane of the old optimist and ex-President Ronald Reagan, which glinted in the background. Whatever the cause, the Republicans seemed altogether more nuanced, more constructive and more hopeful than usual.

There was a quiet uprising of the moderates against the radicals. Trump appeared simply too tame for the conditions, perhaps because he has been attacked so often or perhaps because he already prefers to play the emerging statesman.

A Headwind for the Party Extremists

Above all, the more measured and quiet candidates like Bush or Ohio Gov. Kasich were able to put themselves forward convincingly. They urged America to show its heart to immigrants, to stay on speaking terms with countries like Iran and China and to not bring the government to a standstill with every fight over the budget. In doing so, they confidently countered the views of the party extremist, Ted Cruz.

Naturally, there was also the usual hard-line talk about illegal immigration, loosely defined “military strengths” and how climate protection is destroying jobs. These topics belong to the conservative repertoire of the Republicans, and they will never change.

However, this second TV debate has proven that some in the party can credibly stand up for empathy with the weakest and for moderation in America’s dealings with the rest of the world. The party’s image is benefiting from the protests of the reasonable candidates. Trump is becoming quieter, and Bush is showing noticeably more energy and engagement. There is still a long time left in this competition.