July 23, 2012

This issue focused on Paul Ryan's ascendant role as the intellectual leader of the Republican party, with Stephen F. Hayes examining how the Wisconsin congressman had taken charge of GOP direction. The magazine also explored Romney's economic agenda through multiple perspectives from Matthew Continetti, Lewis E. Lehrman, and Irwin M. Stelzer, debating whether his proposals were sufficiently comprehensive. Additional coverage included pieces on banking regulation, Michigan congressman Justin Amash's independent streak within the GOP, and how opposition to Obamacare served as a unifying force for Republicans.