Many republicans still feel the sting of the devastating defeats of GOP presidential candidates John McCain in 2008 and Mitt Romney in 2012. Even worse, they sense the real threat of Hillary Clinton moving into the White House in 2017.
If you’re conservative, you likely desire to do everything in your power to prevent this travesty from occurring. The best way to accomplish this monumental task is by nominating the most electable GOP presidential candidate in this year’s crowded field. Although he is certainly not without fault, Marco Rubio may be that person.
Here are the 7 most compelling reasons why…
Foreign Policy Chops
Since the senseless Paris terrorist attacks, conservatives and liberals alike have become increasingly concerned about foreign policy issues. Among all the GOP presidential hopefuls, Senator Rubio stands out in the crowd with regards to foreign affairs. Mr. Rubio possesses an uncanny ability to easily, and accurately, discuss complex foreign policy positions. During the second GOP presidential debate on September 16, 2015, the freshman senator smartly predicted Russian air strikes in Syria. Regardless of whether he is discussing ISIS, Israel, Russia, or China, Senator Rubio speaks authoritatively and knowledgeably.
Master Orator
Thus far, Mr. Rubio has shined at the GOP presidential debates. After each debate, he’s received sterling reviews from political analysts and commentators alike. In order to win back the White House in 2016, the republican nominee will need to hold his or her own in a one-to-one matchup with the presumptive democratic nominee, Hillary Clinton.
Establishment Backing
In this year of political outsiders, one might doubt the significance of the republican establishment’s backing. However, in some states, the ringing endorsement of an influential politician is still valuable. Many people in republican circles assumed the establishment would rally around former Florida governor Jeb Bush. But, his recent descent into the cellar of most national polls have sparked rumblings that a switch of allegiance to Senator Rubio may be imminent. In November, Mr. Rubio picked up endorsements from republican Senators Jim Risch (Ohio), Steve Daines (Montana), and Cory Gardner (Colorado).
Appeal to Minorities
John McCain and Mitt Romney failed miserably to rack up minority votes in 2008 and 2012 respectively. To regain the White House in 2016, republicans must do a better job attracting the country’s ever increasing minority population. Due to his Cuban descent, Senator Rubio might appeal to a larger percentage of the Hispanic vote than current GOP front runner Donald Trump. While Mr. Trump’s hard stance on illegal immigration is popular with some conservatives, it may alienate the very voting base the republicans need to grow this year.
Attractiveness to Younger Voters
Marco Rubio’s youthful appearance and message of generational change might endear him to younger voters. He often speaks about issues affecting younger voters such as higher education reform. For instance, Mr. Rubio wants students to have access to post-graduation earnings information before enrolling in college.
Compelling Personal Story
Marco Rubio’s personal story is compelling. Senator Rubio is the son of Cuban refugees who sought asylum in the United States in 1956. His father worked long hours as a bartender while his mother worked as a cashier, a maid, and a stock clerk. Mr. Rubio’s story is the epitome of the American dream. And, he conveys it eloquently whenever he’s given the opportunity to do so.
Positive Messaging
In today’s increasingly hostile political environment, Mr. Rubio’s positive messaging is refreshing. He routinely declines to attack his many GOP opponents when baited by reporters. Instead, he usually pivots to his policy positions on important issues. In a general election contest, attacks candidates make during the primary can come back to haunt them.
Due to the large 2016 GOP presidential field, you might have difficulty deciding who to vote for in the primary. With several acceptable alternatives, one thing should take precedence, electability. At this juncture in the race, Marco Rubio appears to have what it takes to be that candidate. Unfortunately for him, he may struggle mightily to succeed in the primary. Only time will tell.
