Editing Radical centrism (section)

=== Objections to strategies ===
[[File:Ramesh Ponnuru at U.S. embassy in Vienna.jpg|thumb|upright|Conservative journalist [[Ramesh Ponnuru]], who has criticized radical centrist strategy<ref name=Ponnuru/>]]
Some observers question the wisdom of seeking consensus, [[Postpartisan|post-partisanship]] or reconciliation in political life.<ref name=Marx/> Political scientist Jonathan Bernstein argues that American democratic theory from the time of [[James Madison]]'s [[Federalist No. 10]] (1787) has been based on the acknowledgement of faction and the airing of debate, and he sees no reason to change now.<ref name=Marx/>

Other observers feel radical centrists are misreading the political situation. For example, conservative journalist [[Ramesh Ponnuru]] says liberals and conservatives are not ideologically opposed to such radical centrist measures as limiting entitlements and raising taxes to cover national expenditures. Instead, voters are opposed to them and things will change when voters can be convinced otherwise.<ref name=Ponnuru>Ponnuru, Ramesh (24 March 2010). "[http://www.nationalreview.com/corner/196853/thomas-friedmans-radical-confusion-ramesh-ponnuru The Corner: Tom Friedman's Radical Confusion]". ''National Review Online''. Retrieved 18 January 2016.</ref>

The third-party strategy favored by many U.S. radical centrists has been criticized as impractical and diversionary. According to these critics, what is needed instead is (a) reform of the legislative process; and (b) candidates in existing political parties who will support radical centrist ideas.<ref name=Marx /> The specific third-party vehicle favored by many U.S. radical centrists in 2012 – [[Americans Elect]]<ref name=MacGillis>MacGillis, Alec (26 October 2011). "[https://newrepublic.com/article/politics/magazine/96730/third-party-americans-elect Third Wheel]". ''The New Republic'', vol. 242, no. 17, p.&nbsp;8. Print version d. 17 November 2011. Retrieved 7 February 2013.</ref> – was criticized as an "elite-driven party"<ref name=Marx /> supported by a "dubious group of Wall Street multi-millionaires".<ref name=Kuttner />

After spending time with a variety of radical centrists, Alec MacGillis of ''[[The New Republic]]'' concluded that their perspectives are so disparate that they could never come together to build a viable political organization.<ref>MacGillis, Alec (2 November 2011). "[https://newrepublic.com/blog/the-stump/96993/beware-radical-centrists-the-march Beware: 'Radical Centrists' On the March!]". ''The New Republic'' online. Retrieved 5 February 2011.</ref>