What evidence is there of that? If anything, religious conservatives were the ONLY winners in the last election, with marriage amendments passing in three states. Polls show a majority opposes abortion in cases except rape, incest and the mother's life being endangered. In fact, one of the few times McCain led in the last three months of the campaign was after the Saddleback forum where abortion was the prominent issue.
Conservatism is a three-legged stool. Sawing off any of the legs will make it impossible for Republicans to be a majority again.
well, what are the social conservative issues? Abortion, gay marriage, private school choice and that’s it.
Ballot initiatives voted by the people is a whole separate thing. I'm talking about Republicans like Huckabee who constantly make their faith the centerpiece of their campaign. There's a reason why Huckabee flamed out gradually and Brownback got completely dismantled. Being solely socon doesn't win you elections. Start talking about the other two legs of the stool, OK?
Being pro-life and pro-traditional marriage is enough to satisfy the socons. When you cut taxes and reduce government, charity groups will return and help those in need. That promotes a stronger community and faith among those who live in it. Just cut my taxes and leave me alone.