Cal Thomas: Republicans are failing to communicate
In a thought-provoking analysis, the article draws parallels between the famous line from the 1967 film “Cool Hand Luke” and the contemporary communication breakdown between the Trump administration, Republicans, and younger voters. The author suggests that while the GOP has notable achievements—such as stricter immigration policies, lower taxes, and a reduction in gas prices—these successes are largely unrecognized by a younger generation that seems increasingly attracted to socialist ideals. This disconnect is exemplified by the recent election of democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani in New York City and the economic struggles experienced in Oregon, where leftist policies have faltered. The generational divide is significant; younger individuals, particularly those born after 9/11, have not lived through critical historical events that shaped the perspectives of older generations, leading to a lack of understanding about the failures of socialism and an overwhelming focus on immediate affordability.
The article argues that despite a decrease in grocery prices and gas costs, younger voters are still swayed by narratives of economic hardship perpetuated by media outlets, which often place blame on Republican policies. The author highlights the importance of effective communication, suggesting that Republicans need to adopt a more relatable approach to convey their message. For instance, the proposed advertisement concept featuring everyday scenarios—like two women grocery shopping discussing price drops—aims to illustrate the tangible benefits of Republican policies in a way that resonates with younger audiences. The author emphasizes that the GOP should not only defend their record but actively promote the improvements in affordability and living conditions under their governance. By doing so, they can counteract the allure of liberal policies and demonstrate how past failures in states like Oregon and the potential for similar outcomes in New York serve as cautionary tales.
Ultimately, the article encapsulates a call to action for Republicans to bridge the communication gap with younger voters. It stresses the need for a strategic and relatable messaging campaign that highlights the successes of conservative policies while addressing the economic concerns of a generation that has grown up in a different context. By effectively communicating these truths, the GOP could potentially reshape perceptions and garner support from a demographic that remains skeptical of traditional economic narratives.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnPtDCSUf5o
In the 1967 film “Cool Hand Luke,” the “Captain” says to Luke (Paul Newman) “What we’ve got here is a failure to communicate.”
The same could be said of the Trump administration and Republicans in Congress. While they have much to brag about – from a closed border, the deportation of undocumented immigrants and
lower taxes
– it’s not getting through to especially a younger generation that seems enamored with socialism as we’ve recently seen with the election of democratic socialist Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani in New York City and the disastrous result of that economic philosophy in
Oregon
.
The generational divide means that younger people have not experienced what older generations have experienced. An example: My wife and I are the same age. We have family members who were in the military. We like the same music and recall the threat of nuclear war with the Soviet Union which was part of the Cold War. When we speak of such things we understand each other.
Younger people, especially those born after 9/11, know nothing of our experiences, nor have they similar experiences of their own. They have led what we used to call “sheltered lives,” which has created in them an entitlement mentality. When we try to tell them why socialism doesn’t work, they seem to care only about “affordability.”
Gas prices
are down since the Biden administration (now averaging
$3
per gallon, but
$4.73
on average in California as of April 2025). I went grocery shopping last week and found prices have dropped on such basics as eggs, milk and bread.
Since January 2021, overall prices rose $22.7 percent, but wages rose only $21.8 percent. Inflation hit a record high of
9.1 percent
in June, 2022. Inflation was
3 percent
for the 12 months ending in September 2025, according to the
Bureau of Labor Statistics
.
Why is this not getting through? Part of it has to do with the failure to acknowledge these facts by the media, which never hesitate to blame Republicans when prices go up and the government closes. But a lot of the failure by Republicans to get through to younger voters is because they are speaking a different language.
Were I a consultant for the GOP I would develop several ads. One would show two women grocery shopping with a list that has in one column the prices of food during the Biden administration and the prices now. One woman says to the other “Look how the price of eggs has dropped. That’s not what we are hearing on the news.” Another ad would feature a woman filling up her car and telling her liberal, college-age son, “$3 a gallon is cheaper than it was five years ago under Biden.”
People have more options than ever when it comes to where to live, work and what to buy. If the rent or housing prices are too high, one can always move to a place with no state taxes, cheaper food and gas and less expensive housing.
Republicans should get off defense (and the Epstein files ) and note how everything was more expensive under Biden. The cost of health insurance escalated because of subsidies created by “Obamacare.” Cheaper health insurance is available through independent organizations like Medi-Share and Samaritan’s Purse.
These and other truths that prove things are getting better because of Republican policies, should be hammered home every day. It should also be repeated that if Democrats return to power, the public can look to the recent past, the present in
Oregon
and the likely future in New York to see how liberal policies have failed.
It shouldn’t be that difficult to communicate.
Readers may email Cal Thomas at
tcaeditors@tribpub.com
. Look for Cal Thomas’ latest book “A Watchman in the Night: What I’ve Seen Over 50 Years Reporting on America” (HumanixBooks).
