[dirtboy]

Those that think they are the "true" conservatives had better figure out that they comprise about 1/5 of the electorate. They better enlarge the tent, unless they like being powerless.

Reagan enlarged the tent because of his conservatism, not in spite of it.

[SaxxonWoods]

"Reagan enlarged the tent because of his conservatism, not in spite of it."

No, with respect, I don't think that explains it.

Reagan enlarged the tent because of his Americanism, which took the edge off Democrat and Independent views of his conservatism.

He was conservative, but didn't use "Vote for me, you traitorous liberal morons!" as a campaign slogan.

That's the thing about politics, you must sugarcoat your message to win a national election. Reagan was a charmer, and could push his conservatism without turning off moderates. That is an art.

John Edwards is getting a similar lesson now, not that it will help him.