The question, as it has been for the past 20 years or so, is whether conservatives and libertarians can unite in a single movement, behind single candidates. So far, the only time that has ever happened was with Ronald Reagan.
If the fiscal, social, and religious conservatives cannot unite with those who value our liberty—and to me, all of these things add up to true conservatism—then those who abhor the current leadership will continue to split and divide and let the other guys win.
The Karl Roves of this world are very good at splitting what should be a conservative coalition. It remains to be seen if people can finally wake up and work together.
“If the fiscal, social, and religious conservatives cannot unite with those who value our liberty...then those who abhor the current leadership will continue to split and divide and let the other guys win.”
It’s strange how it’s always conservatives that have to compromise. When do the “libertarians” compromise and unite with conservatives? Until than, no thanks.
Libertarians asking conservatives to compromise is the same as Rove asking the same. Besides, in terms of social issues, libertarians have more in common with Rove, the GOPe and Democrats.
As it stands today:
I could get behind Cruz 100%— he’s my pick.
I *think* I could mostly get behind Rand Paul—he’s been a bit wish-washy lately.
Unless Rubio changes on immigration, he’s a no for me. There was something I didn’t like about him even before immigration—I just can’t put my finger on it.
No on Paul Ryan
Absolutely no on Chris Christie
No frickin’ way on Jeb Bush—NEVER.
Those are the only ones I can think of right now that may run.
“The question, as it has been for the past 20 years or so, is whether conservatives and libertarians can unite in a single movement, behind single candidates. So far, the only time that has ever happened was with Ronald Reagan.”
I seem to remember that conservatives initially were pretty uniformly behind GWB.
I agree with the rest of what you said.
I don’t see that trend changing so far though.
FReepers have been known to do the same.