It’s my opinion that politics have steadily become less focused about political issues, and more about gaining the people’s loyalty (Could you imagine Teddy sidestepping an issue or seguing to another?).
Do you think we will ever live in a country where politicians stand up, take a bold stand on each issue and, in a sense, tell the public, “Here is what I believe to be best for the country. If you like this, vote for me and we will try and accomplish this. If not, vote for the other guy.”?
No. That’s what a leader would say, not a politician. We haven’t had leaders for quite some time.
Taking a hard stance is an anathema to politicians for several reasons. First, it tends to alienate those who have equally firm, but opposite opinions in a way that a both-sides-are-right answer does not. People can sometimes get a bit miffed if they’re told in no uncertain terms that their opinions are wrong.
Secondly, those who trumpet loudly and boldly about what needs to be done are expected to actually do it. Unless a politician is a starry-eyed idealist, s/he knows that the chances making a truly significant change by the time the next election rolls around is nigh on to impossible.
Thirdly, most Americans don’t want much change. They’re pretty happy with the way things are. They certainly don’t want to pay out more money in taxes, especially if they or their families won’t directly benefit from it. Add to this that some Americans don’t like to plan ahead, especially if it means paying now for something they won’t see until later.
Forthly, politicians are afraid of being “labled” by voicing an opinion. Words like “liberal”, or “soft on crime” can be very dangerous, and can be pinned on a candidate very quickly by the opposing side. Nor does a candidate generally want to take a hard stance which will offend the religious voter and be deemed anti-religious or immoral.
So, no, I don’t think politicians will ever change. It’s not the nature of the beast.
It is a simple fact that by being wishy-washy on many issues, a politician can gain more votes than by being very bold and up front about things. And in a democracy, getting the most votes is what matters.