House Republicans Search for a Positive Message

The Hill: “House Republicans are at a turning point. A majority of them, having spent five years in opposition to President Obama — inviting Democrats to tag them as obstructive — are now intent on shaping a positive identity as the “alternative party” for voters in November’s midterm elections.”

“A year ago, House Republicans were staggering after crushing defeats in fights over taxes and relief for victims of Hurricane Sandy. Now they are forging ahead on an alternative to ObamaCare and testing support for a move on immigration.”

Wall Street Journal: “As the focus in Washington turns to the debt-ceiling debate, the result of that standoff will go a long way to determine whether Republicans can avoid making themselves the story this fall and help ensure voters focus on Mr. Obama and his unpopular health law. The outcome will help decide whether Republicans will have the wind at their back or Democrats can break historic trends.”