[Cyberman]

I think that they could easily compromise and integrate better with conservatism if they consistently said that the FEDERAL government has no place in people’s lives while allowing that LOCAL people do have a right to pass crazy laws to restrict drugs, porn, etc...

That "distinction" is just plain nonsensical.

"Which is better -- to be ruled by one tyrant three thousand miles away or by three thousand tyrants one mile away?"
  --Mather Byles

[GraceG]

[ “Which is better — to be ruled by one tyrant three thousand miles away or by three thousand tyrants one mile away?” ]

Three thousand local tyrants fear the retribution of angry citizens more than the one lone ruler from far away....

Especially if they start being picked off one at a time in order of Worst to least worst....