Check ‘no’ to a litmus test

Check ‘no’ to a litmus test

Los Angeles Times: We’re not in the habit of telling Republicans — or Democrats — how to run their campaigns. But we’re making an exception to praise Republican National Committee Chairman Michael S. Steele’s opposition to a 10-point litmus test for his party’s candidates. Such a test would not just be bad for the party; it would undermine good governance.

Steele has criticized the resolution conservatives want to bring before the Republican National Committee’s meeting in Honolulu that would deny party endorsement and financial aid to any candidate who didn’t affirm at least eight of 10 principles. A sort of conservative greatest hits, they range from support for lower taxes and the Defense of Marriage Act to opposition to cap-and-trade legislation and amnesty for illegal immigrants.

Cs are better than Fs

Most Republican candidates probably would score at least 80 percent, but in some races for Congress or the governor’s mansion, a “gentleman’s C” might be better for the party’s chances of winning. Steele recognizes that reality, and the fact that prospective candidates might not appreciate being put to the test.

“Let me ask you,” Steele said in an interview with the New York Times. “Would you join an organization that stood at the doorstep with a clipboard and checked off to make sure you fit every criteria they had?”

It would be in the party’s interest to call off this political Inquisition. As Sen.-elect Scott Brown, R-Mass., demonstrated, Republicans sometimes must appeal to independents and Democrats to be elected.

The reason we hope Steele’s advice is heeded is because a more diverse Republican Party — like a more diverse Democratic Party — promotes pragmatism and consensus in governing.