When Maine Republicans begin caucusing Friday, they will have distinct choices to make. Many may argue that with the public, and the Republican Party, frustrated by the failures of the Bush administration, they should choose a candidate who stands in sharp contrast to President Bush. More important than their differences from or similarities to President Bush, are the candidates’ alignment with the party’s principles.

Fiscal responsibility has long been a cornerstone of the party. But how do promises to cut taxes comport with a rapidly growing budget deficit? Pledging to cut government spending is not enough, especially when the open-ended wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are adding to the deficit daily.

The situation in Iraq also demands more than rhetoric about finishing the job. The candidates must clearly articulate what it is the United States seeks to accomplish there and when it will be done. There must be a clear plan for the withdrawal of U.S. troops.

The party has also become bogged down in polarizing battles over social issues such as abortion and gay rights.

With Maine’s caucuses overshadowed by events in states with many more delegates to offer, the question for caucus-goers is which man will best bring the Republican Party back to its historic values while reaching out to Democrats to heal the rifts left by the current administration.

Here caucus-goers will find clear differences.

As governor of Massachusetts Mitt Romney pushed an innovative plan to increase health insurance coverage. He supported gay rights and abortion rights. Mr. Romney has since distanced himself from these stances to better appeal to the GOP’s core voters. Rather than constantly changing positions, Mr. Romney must do a much better job of explaining what his candidacy really represents to earn support.

Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee has brought life – and music – to the campaign trail, but it takes more than an “aw shucks” demeanor to be president. His lack of insight into international events and emphasis on Christianity as a political qualification severely diminish his candidacy.

Sen. John McCain, the unexpected front-runner, sticks to principles – from his troubling adherence to the president’s course in Iraq at one extreme to his sticking up for humane treatment of prisoners at the other. He also has a history of bipartisan compromise with his Senate colleagues on important issues such as climate change and immigration.

With 22 states holding caucuses and primaries next week, a clearer picture of the Republican nomination will soon appear. Before then, however, Maine Republicans have an opportunity to add their brush strokes to the picture.