Wilson Perkins Allen Opinion Research

A recent survey indicates that Republicans are less enthusiastic about their representation in Congress (read: Republicans in Congress) than Democrats are about Democratic members.

Republicans in Congress
Very Fav among Republicans: 26%
Smwt Fav among Republican: 36%

Democrats in Congress
Very Fav among Democrats: 41%
Smwt Fav among Democrats: 40%

This shows that the base is likely still struggling with how our leadership is dealing with Obama and minority status.  Another survey gives us a sense of which Congressional Republicans’ responses are resonating and which are hurting the party image:

Now, I’d like to read you a list of things people say are encouraging about how the Republican Party has acted during President Obama’s first 100 days in office.  After I read this list I’d like you to tell me, in your opinion, which two are the MOST ENCOURAGING ABOUT THE REPUBLICAN PARTY:

21%  Opposed Obama’s budget and offered an alternative with less government spending
20%  Working to keep taxes low
19%  Protecting defense spending and weapons systems that Obama and Democrats are trying to cut
18%  Providing checks and balances to a Democratic president and Congress
13%  Opposing Democratic efforts to increase the size of government

Now, I’d like to read you a list of things people say are encouraging about how the Republican Party has acted during President Obama’s first 100 days in office.  After I read this list I’d like you to tell me, in your opinion, which two  WORRY YOU THE MOST ABOUT THE REPUBLICAN PARTY:

22%  Instead of working with Obama, obstructing his agenda
22%  Lack of leadership and direction
19%  After promising bi-partisanship, voted unanimously against Obama’s economic recovery plan and budget
19%  Not offering alternative ideas and solutions
19%  Already gearing up to defeat Obama’s health care and energy reform plans
13%  Leadership follows the most conservative voices in their party

There is a clear message here.  Voters are attracted to Republicans when they offer alternatives that seek to keep spending down, taxes low, and government in check.  Voters are upset that there seems to be no clear party leadership and direction perpetuating the “party of no” theme by not offering an alternative to Democratic proposals.

Americans like a two party system, believing that it strikes a balance, but they have a hard time with Republicans when no alternatives are produced.  This data proves, again, that we cannot survive by just being loyal opposition.  We have to offer smart, new ideas on how to address the issues facing the country.  This will help us with the image among our own base, as well as the voter population at-large.