That's such a critical point. In my state (California) if you are a politician that espouses sound Conservative principles, the party leadership will have nothing to do with you.
So how does the state back away from the edge? Hell, it can't. Anything that would contribute to that is 'out of bounds' for (RP) leadership support. It's frustrating as can be.
>> So how does the state back away from the edge? Hell, it can’t.
Politicians without bedrock principles and a firm knowledge of right and wrong — and that’s MOST of ‘em — are simply no match for the seductive force of power and “other people’s money” to spend.