If one accepts that Conservative principles are smaller, less intrusive government, fiscal responsibility, and respect for states rights then there are no Southern conservatives today. Just Democrats with religion.
Where do the real conservatives hide out? The mountain states?
President Ronald W. Reagan was a democrat before changing parties. Be that as it may, I have yet to see one of the Wlat Brigade espousing 'smaller, less intrusive government, fiscal responsibility, and respect for states rights'. I have seen such comments by those on our side, and made such myself. I'm also religious, and place obedience to God first and foremost.