[Texas Federalist]

Whenever I "meet" a naysayer, either in person or on FR, I ask them to consider the matter they are upset with the president about. And then to ask them if they truly believe a Democrat would handle things better. Chances are, in every instance, a Democrat would make worse policy changes, more liberal, and less protective of the nation's security.

I think most "naysayers" recognize that a Democrat would at least attempt more liberal policy changes and be less protective of security. I think the reasoning behind throwing their support to another candidate is twofold: (1) Republicans in Congress are better able to block liberal policy proposals with a Democrat in office and (2) a loss of the conservative vote will "whip" the party to the right like it did in 1994. The reasoning is that, in the long run, this will be better for conservatives, even though there is a risk of short term harm.

[Peach]

Very good points in your post.