The man who upended the Republican Party

The man who upended the Republican Party-politico: For Dave Brat, the newfound Republican sensation who is expected to breeze through the general election in this conservative district, the attention, scrutiny and interview requests will only intensify. In dozens of interviews with the 49-year-old’s colleagues, students and neighbors, and in an examination of his published writing, a portrait emerges of a popular local professor who’s well-liked by colleagues and students, always makes time for his students if they need it, and loves to talk about issues and ethics. His approach is far more theoretical than the practical, policy-oriented way favored by most Washington politicians.