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Some conservatives seem to think simply following the policies they advocate will result in winning. Libertarians and social conservatives both seem to believe that their ideas are popular enough to win elections if politicians would just have the guts to stand for something. Well, President Bush has certainly stuck to his guns on a number of issues (the war, immigration, tax cuts, education, etc.)but that hasn’t made him popular.
What makes it complicated is that “moderates” and “centrists” are different across the country and even within regions. Some moderates dislike overly-zealous conservatism both economic and social. Others tend toward cultural conservatism but have a strong tendency towards economic populism (minimum wage, more school funding, etc.) Establishment Republicans and grass roots conservatives seem to be at each other’s throats these days but both blocks are needed in many states to win elections.
Yes, small but effective government is something that can unify the GOP but agreement on individual policies are much more difficult. I also think it is significant that many economic conservatives are supply siders but the public at large is much more prone to economic populism and even protectionism. Economic libertarianism seems very rare in the public at large from my perspective but are populaar online.
Yes, we need to rededicate ourselves to our principles but we also need leaders who can effectively communicate why these ideas are best for all Americans. We also need better candidates and campaigns so that we strategically re-build a regionally diverse majority. Good policy isn’t always universally popular.
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[comment #14]
I think its somewhat of what Mary Matalin meant with "Dressing Conservatism Up Like Britney Spears" comment.