Recently Congressman Mike Pence (R-IN) stated, “House Republicans are more united than they have ever been before in our commitment to fiscal discipline and limited government.” When I hear these quotes I am torn. Part of me wants to believe. I have twenty five years with the Republican part and want to see the GOP succeed. I don’t mean merely succeed at winning elections, but succeed at effective leadership. Unfortunately, I am skeptical. The most recent Republican majorities were committed to bigger budgets, bailouts and expansion of government. For too long the only difference between parties was one of honesty and hypocrisy. The Democrats at least admitted their plan to expand government power and increase taxes. They claimed these were needed for the good of America, but stupidity is not the same as dishonesty. The Republicans preached limited government and lower taxes while spending like sailor on shore leave and increasing entitlements.

If the Republican members of the House have come back to party principles then four years in the political desert is worth it. While stopping Obama and the Hip-pocket Congress, we must rebuild the party with honest committed conservatives and libertarians. The party faithful are loyal to the principles of the party more than to specific candidates or precious majorities. Start pitching for the other team and you too will get benched. Our principles are what will put you in office and return you to a majority, not good press or entitlement voters.

Mr. Pence, I hope what you say about the Republicans in the House is true. Forgive us if we don’t take your word for it. We will watch and see. As the old saying goes: “Fool me once shame on you; fool me twice shame on me.” Principled Republicans must not be fooled again.