I don’t disagree with the dynamic you present, the headline bias. For me the biggest problem is that our most visible leaders don’t promote or even adhere to Conservatism.
Smaller Government? Medicare Part D
Sovereignty? Why round ‘em up and make ‘em citizens - Sign on to any multi-nation agreement, even if it infringes on self-determination - talk up the U. N. and or one world government - send your people to North American Union negotiations
Defense? We not only allow our Navy to remain at half the strength it had under Reagan, we formalize the one theater level of military preparedness
After this sort of thing, why of course, we go out and try to argue smaller government, sovereignty, and military issues against our opponent. Surprisingly (/s) it doesn’t work. Can’t for the life of me understand why. /s
Conservatism is not for cowards, but looks like we are getting Romney. The tradition continues...