We heard more of the same from President Obama last night. The same empty rhetoric that bears little resemblance to the actions his administration actually takes and the same old-fashioned ideas that have kept us stagnant for the past four years.
But what a contrast Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Florida) presented! This was not the same old Republican response we have seen in the past. Sen. Rubio appeared personable and genuine. He set the tone early by standing proud of our American heritage, saying, “America is exceptional because we believe that every life, at every stage, is precious, and that everyone everywhere has a God-given right to go as far as their talents and hard work will take them.”
More importantly, here is a leader who is humble enough to recognize he does not have the answers to everything that ails our country. His most powerful line made that clear: “The truth is every problem can’t be solved by government. Many are caused by the moral breakdown in our society. And the answers to those challenges lie primarily in our families and our faiths, not our politicians.”
What a breath of fresh air.
While President Obama continues to assail the right of conscience of religious people in America, Sen. Rubio, himself a Catholic, shows complete sensitivity and an understanding of faith and respect for other beliefs that underscores the fact that there is no reason to encroach on religious liberties in order to cater to political supporters.
President Obama insists on dividing the country: rich vs. poor, white vs. minorities, man vs. woman, “gay” vs. straight. By contrast, Sen. Rubio is Hispanic and exposes the insidious nature of the constant labeling and posturing of Obama’s rhetoric every time the president doesn’t get his way.
“Mr. President, I don’t oppose your plans because I want to protect the rich. I oppose your plans because I want to protect my neighbors,” Rubio said. And again it felt real. His words did not feel like mere sound bites; instead, they were the thoughtful words of a man who doesn’t fit party stereotypes. And that is why Rubio represents a bright future for the Republican Party and, more importantly, for American politics. Let us hold him in our prayers as he increasingly becomes the target of the Obama media machine.