A Stand for Genuine Republican Values

In today's political landscape, the term "Republican" often conjures images of election denial and vaccine skepticism. Amidst this, one voice stands out: Rusty Hills. He's been a beacon of fiscal responsibility, character, and upholding core American values. This year, he joined the Freep's team of columnists, offering a conservative perspective. The contrast between Gerald Ford and Donald Trump is stark. For over 20 years, Rusty Hills has been a professor at the University of Michigan's Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy. He recalls volunteering for Ford's 1976 presidential campaign. Ford's honesty, especially after Watergate, is a lesson he teaches. He emphasizes that honesty is the foundation of good governance.The Republican Party's future is uncertain. Can a non-Trump candidate win the 2028 presidential primaries? The party has shifted focus from ideas to loyalty to one individual. Trump's demands for absolute loyalty have sidelined many prominent Republicans. The holiday season brings memories of classic movies like "It's a Wonderful Life. " A brief scene shows the town transformed into Pottersville, a place of vice and greed. This reminded Rusty Hills of the changes made to the White House during Trump's presidency. The historic East Wing was demolished to make way for a larger, more ostentatious ballroom.