Civil war: Republicans involved in battle amongst themselves

The national Republican Party found itself unable to do away with the Affordable Care Act, or as it is commonly known, Obamacare, because a group of members of its own party would not go along with the consensus of the party.

This has opened civil war within the GOP and cast doubts on the party's ability to get things done after winning the White House in November along with holding majorities in both the House and Senate.

The far right group that is known as the Freedom Caucus represents a wing of the party that is staunchly opposed to all things Obama. Its members have a right to their opinions but they hamstrung the party at a crucial juncture by their refusal to compromise on the details of the Obamacare overhaul.

We understand their reluctance -- most did not believe the proposed overhaul went far enough in dismantling the health care program.

But unless the members of the Freedom Caucus find some common ground with members of their own party, they are in a position to derail more of the Republican agenda.

It is good to have principles and to be willing to stand up for them. But to be effective in politics you have to be willing to compromise sometimes. We hope the Freedom Caucus members learn that lesson.

Published in Editorials on April 3, 2017 9:41 AM