What is the Republican message?

It’s pretty clear that Republicans are in deep trouble this year.  Gas prices are crushing the economy.  Housing prices are plummeting.  The stock market has lost 20% of its value.  Not surprisingly, Bush’s approval ratings drag along at record lows.  Most people are not self-identifying as Republicans.   The Democrats are energized behind an historic candidate.  Despite recent successes the Iraq War is not popular.  Not only are Republicans likely to lose the White House, they appear ready to lose many seats in the House and Senate.  And, of course, this has vast implications for the Supreme Court as well.  Picture Stevens and Kennedy or Ginsberg replaced by young, energetic liberals and imagine the decisions we’ll get.  The Court will be lost to conservatives for many, many years.

So, how do Republicans derail the Democrat freight train?  What issues will resonate with the American voters?  What solutions can Republicans offer that will so appeal to the middle-of-the-road voters that they will resist the temptation to make history by electing Obama and sweep in a Democrat Congress on his coattails?

I have a few ideas, but, I fear, not nearly enough to make the difference.  So let’s put our heads together and see what we can come up with.  By the way, I’d especially appreciate comments by non-Republicans as to what it would take to result in their voting for Republican candidates.