Third Party Fever?

As usual, Peggy Noonan's latest piece is thoughtful and thought-provoking. She asks the question whether we are now entering a time when a Third Party can rise in American politics. She points to the fact that unlike past cases (Perot, Nader, etc.) it is not a case of a disconnect between the parties which is causing the current discontent, but a disconnect between the leadership and the grass roots within the parties. And I think she is right. How hard was it to move EITHER SIDE on immigration, despite the fact that most voters in BOTH PARTIES are for increased controls, better enforcement, and a stronger border? Why has it been impossible to control the spending increases proposed by BOTH PARTIES when there are strong fiscal conservatives on EITHER SIDE?

It appears that Washington has again grown far too insular and self-congratulating. We may be in for another "Revolution" like the one Newt Gingrich lead during the Clinton years. Unfortunately for Conservatives, it is the guys WE elected who would be swept out this time, simply because they are the ones in power. Here's hoping the GOP recognizes this disconnect and starts forcing their people back to their home states to reconnect with the base. If not, expect either major democratic gains or major third party gains in November.