Press the Advantage

IN the flush of victory, conservatives may be tempted to think that November 2 was a pivotal election in our nation’s history. But they should remember that they do not yet hold a majority in either house of Congress—or in the country. What they are is a majority of a majority. They are an extremely large minority, and one that the public prefers, slightly but decisively, to their rivals. The election will have been pivotal only if conservatives use their newfound power to consolidate their position.

Consolidating their position means, above all, proving themselves to be responsible stewards of the public interest. President Bush will have to deliver on his promises to make the country safer and more prosperous. The public does not yet trust conservatives on health care or the environment: To build a lasting majority, they will have to address those doubts. They will also have to put more effort into recruiting black and Hispanic allies.

About the Author

Ramesh Ponnuru

Ramesh Ponnuru is the editor of National Review, a columnist for the Washington Post, and a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute.

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IN the flush of victory, conservatives may be tempted to think that November 2 was a pivotal election in our nation’s history. But they should remember that they do not yet hold a majority in either house of Congress—or in the country. What they are is a majority of a majority. They are an extremely large minority, and one that the public prefers, slightly but decisively, to their rivals. The election will have been pivotal only if conservatives use their newfound power to consolidate their position.

Consolidating their position means, above all, proving themselves to be responsible stewards of the public interest. President Bush will have to deliver on his promises to make the country safer and more prosperous. The public does not yet trust conservatives on health care or the environment: To build a lasting majority, they will have to address those doubts. They will also have to put more effort into recruiting black and Hispanic allies.