Let's partake in a theoretical exercise: Do you believe that the majority of Americans would accept socialism or nationalization if it meant saving their homes? Would they surrender their constitutional rights to rescue their cars or 401(k)s or keep them safe from terror? Would Americans forfeit freedom for safety, liberty or "fairness"?

We do it all the time under all administrations. But today we are undergoing a radical change in the role of government. Do we want it?

According to a Rasmussen poll, 72 percent of voters say they believe that a free market economy is more advantageous than one managed by the government. So either these Americans have no clue what a free market economy means or they have no clue what sort of massive expansion of government control Washington has deployed.

Republicans can only make a comeback if they convince us, once again, that a vibrant free market, with all its risks and pitfalls, is preferable to the stagnation of a centrally controlled economy.

So it's ideas, rather than personality, that matter. The leader comes later. And if that day ever comes, perhaps the Republican Party actually will adhere to the principles it advocates.

But we'll focus on one miracle at a time.