3/4: GOP needs to get back on message

March 4, 2009
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Some Republican state lawmakers have colleagues cringing. Their words have sparked debate over the future of the party.

More on that in a moment on the Face The State Radio Minute.

This year's legislative session has been relatively quiet, which is just what we needed after last year's circus. Remember Doug Bruce kicking a photographer and Mike Garcia's explicit exposure?

But maybe I speak too soon. A pair of Republican lawmakers are in hot water recently over recent controversial statements.

State Sen. Scott Renfroe took heat for calling homosexuality immoral. And state Sen. Dave Schultheis was blasted for arguing against HIV testing for pregnant teens.

I don't personally really agree with them, and it's wholly appropriate their colleagues criticize their statements. Divisive rhetoric over social issues makes Republicans look extreme and out of touch. If the GOP wishes to regain legislative majorities, they should talk about jobs, not polarizing social issues.

For FaceTheState.com, I'm Brad Jones.