Why Rick Santorum couldn't win the general election

In light of Rick Santorum’s rise in the Republic primaries it’s important to look forward to the next step: the general election. As a faithful liberal I would be thrilled to see Rick Santorum be the Republican nominee, as I believe it would certify President Barack Obama’s reelection.

When it comes to the general election many people will vote for those with moderate or centrist views. Many of our citizens that vote are registered as independents rather than the two national parties and thus are more likely to vote for a candidate that will best represent their ideals. Rick Santorum is not that guy. He is as far right as you could get out of the candidates we have seen this past year for the Republican nomination, and while that may work for him now come the general election he would falter.

Many primaries and caucuses are chosen by delegates and faithful Republican voters, yet those voters tend to be on the far side of their party (for both Democrats and Republicans) and will choose the candidate that best holds to their opinions and ideas. Normally once chosen for the general election the candidate will reverse gears and move more towards the center so as to appeal to swing voters. Yet Rick Santorum shows no indication of doing such a thing if chosen as the Republican candidate. I admire is honesty and brutal opinions that he stands to, yet those wont get him anywhere in the coming election. As a social conservative his issues deal with more of the family and religious matters while many Americans will rather the candidates focus on issues that matter to them like the economy, taxes, and healthcare.

So while conservative Republicans may swoon at the only other viable candidate then Mitt Romney, they should remember the next phase will be against President Obama and the person that can beat him will not be Rick Santorum.