The Enthusiasm Gap: Conservatives and the 2012 presidential race

Social conservatives gathered in Washington over the weekend to get an up close look at Republican presidential candidates and to learn how to best organize for the 2012 presidential elections. The social conservative issue of the next election, apart from the economy, which is certainly every voter’s major concern, appears to be Israel. When speakers at the Faith and Freedom Coalition conference delivered the pro-Israel portions of their remarks, the attendees frequently responded with standing ovations. I talked about Israel as a top social conservative on Fox News a couple of weeks ago and my claim was vindicated throughout the first national social conservative conference with a focus on 2012.

Deputy Speaker of the Knesset Danny Danon, an Israeli elected official who we have worked with for a number of years, received some of the most enthusiastic support at the conference. Although not well known to the attendees before he was at the podium, when Danon said, “President Obama, take your hands from Jerusalem,” the dinner audience’s response was similar to the way Congress applauded the tough lines delivered by Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu at the joint session. Two days after his speech, Danon was on Fox News live from Jerusalem discussing his remarks. He is an Israeli leader that people need to start paying attention to.

When analyzing the 2012 candidate’s performances, minus Newt Gingrich who sent a video because he was out of the country, it all comes down to enthusiasm. The activists gathered appeared to be more concerned about picking the best person to run against Obama rather than blindly backing a candidate with a faith similar to their own. Issues and ideas have taken center stage.

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Please note that in discussing political issues, candidates’ positions and political party statements, Jordan Sekulow is offering analysis in his individual capacity as lawyer and commentator. He is not speaking on behalf of the American Center for Law & Justice. The ACLJ does not endorse or oppose candidates for public office. Nothing contained in this article should be construed as the position of the ACLJ.