Guy Collins (SD-45A) has been posting his thoughts on the '06 elections: national, state, and local, (with more of a tilt toward the local) This is a multi-part series with the theme of Pride, Perspective, and Perseverance. He concludes the series with:

Pride Perspective Perseverance (Part V - Perseverance)
 
Based on the election results a week ago Tuesday, where do we go from here?  The consensus  is that conservatism won last Tuesday, while Republicans - fat and happy, drifted from the platform, and snubbed the constituents - lost.  So its easy, and obvious to state that the party has to return to its conservative roots and conservative platform. 
 
But I also agree with Michael Barone that a "return to conservatism" has to be more than pining for the Reagan Revolution or hoping for another Contract with America.  As Mr. Barone has pointed out, many of the problems outlined during these lionized eras have been solved for the most part.  Michael stated that there currently is a vacuum of ideas, and the winners will be people who articulate and promote new ideas that resonate to voters across party lines. 
 
I agree with Michael Barone.  We need a return to conservatism, but conservatism strongly influenced by new ideas on topics such as:

•  Significant tax system  alternatives
•  A comprehensive immigration policy (no, border enforcement alone won't fly with the majority of voters in this nation)
• Market-driven research and development of alternative energy sources
• Choice and freedom for individuals in their retirement savings plan 
• Parental choice and alternatives in education
• Hillary-care (just kidding)

In closing, I'd encourage people to get involved in the process, to increase awareness of communities and neighborhoods of issues that impact them.  We live in dangerous, serious times, and leadership at every level of government does matter.  I know I'm excited about the upcoming work to do, and I look forward to joining my friends in the effort.