Note: This “Moore to the Point” commentary aired on NewsTalkSTL on Monday, November 14th. Audio included below.

I always thought the quote “Lead, follow, or get out of the way” was from General George S. Patton, but it turns out Patton’s was actually “Lead me, follow me, or get out of my way” — a take on Thomas Paine’s original. Either way, it’s a sentiment that’s been at the forefront of my mind the past few days.

As Tuesday’s midterms slowly recede in the rearview mirror (even as we await the final outcome of several House races and a key governor’s race), those on the right have had to grapple with the reality that the much hoped-for red wave did not materialize. There are, of course, many theories on why this election defied the conventional wisdom – and an analysis of what went wrong (and right) is critical.

First and foremost, though, a frank appraisal of GOP leadership is warranted – and overdue — after yet another golden opportunity seemingly slipped through their hands. Leaders don’t get to be leaders without learning to play the game. Yet, time and again, those who should be leading their party to victory seem to fall for Lucy’s yanking away of the proverbial football. Incompetence? Intentional? The answer may vary depending on the so-called leader.

Time for them – for all of us — to follow Patton’s and Paine’s command? Well past it.