Future of the GOP

The immediate future appears promising for the Republican Party: It is in strong shape to reclaim the majority in the Senate in November, gaining control of both chambers of Congress, and it commands many state governments. But political observers say the GOP should be concerned about the longer term, developing policies that can entice greater numbers of women, minorities and young people. Analysts also say the party must resolve its internal battles between the moderate Republican establishment and more conservative tea party wing. At the same time, nonpartisan scholars say, Republicans must shed the identity they have acquired as the uncompromising and confrontational “party of no.” The party's growing conservative bent has driven away many independent voters, who are crucial to winning presidential elections. The 2016 contest for the White House is seen as critical in determining whether Republicans can assemble a diverse coalition beyond their traditional base of older whites.