GOP Hopefuls Of One Mind On Education

By Mark Pitsch

Washington

As Republican voters begin the process of choosing a presidential nominee, the nine announced GOP candidates have squabbled over who has the strongest conservative credentials, superior leadership qualities, and the most appealing economic plan. But they have quietly come to near-unanimity on education issues.

As the primary season gets under way this week with the Louisiana caucuses, the GOP candidates seem to agree on what needs to be done to improve education. For example, they all support some form of prayer in public schools, and endorse programs that would use public funds to help parents send their children to the schools of their choice, including private and religious schools. Television commentator Patrick J. Buchanan has even suggested voluntary religious...