Former Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels has been a prominent figure in conservative politics for decades. Known for his pragmatic, frugal, and respectful approach to governance, Daniels has been a respected voice in the Republican Party. As he nears the end of his tenure at Purdue University, where he served as president for nearly a decade, questions have arisen about whether his brand of conservatism can survive in today’s political landscape.
In a recent interview, Daniels was asked about the state of conservatism in the Republican Party. While initially dodging the question by stating that he had been in a political quarantine during his time at Purdue, Daniels eventually acknowledged that he had not been “infected by the viruses that are running around on both sides.” This statement reflects his desire to bring a sense of sanity and principled leadership back to Washington.
Despite considering a run for the Senate, Daniels ultimately decided against it. However, he remains highly regarded among conservative intellectuals for his thoughtful and principled approach to politics. Throughout his career, Daniels has worked in various roles in government, including serving as an aide to Indiana Senator Richard Lugar, working for Presidents Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush, and serving two terms as governor of Indiana.
In addition to his political career, Daniels is also a columnist for The Washington Post, where he often writes about higher education and government. In a recent interview with Deseret News executive editor Doug Wilks, Daniels discussed the challenges facing higher education today.
One of the key issues Daniels highlighted is the affordability and accessibility of higher education. He noted that the cost of college has become prohibitive for many American families, while the quality of education being delivered is often lacking. Daniels emphasized the importance of genuine free inquiry and free speech on college campuses, pointing out the dangers of ideological conformity among faculty members.
During his tenure as president of Purdue, Daniels took steps to promote free speech and academic rigor on campus. By focusing on STEM disciplines and encouraging serious academic engagement, he aimed to create an environment where diverse viewpoints could thrive. Daniels also addressed the issue of campus protests and the need for swift action to maintain order and protect the rights of all students.
When asked about the value of a college education, Daniels emphasized the importance of choosing the right institution and program that aligns with the student’s goals. He highlighted the need for students to actively engage in their education, maintain high academic standards, and seek out mentorship opportunities.
Looking ahead, Daniels sees a shakeout in higher education, with some institutions facing challenges due to demographic shifts and a loss of trust. He believes that greater competition will drive schools to reform and respond to the concerns of students and families. Ultimately, Daniels remains committed to the mission of spreading higher education as widely as possible and ensuring that students receive a valuable and meaningful educational experience.
In conclusion, Mitch Daniels’ insights on higher education offer valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing colleges and universities today. His commitment to free inquiry, academic rigor, and student success serves as a guiding principle for the future of higher education. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, Daniels’ thoughtful approach to governance and education will undoubtedly shape the conversation around the role of colleges and universities in society.
