Thompson voted in favor of S.1664, the biggest immigration enforcement bill that came up during his tenure in the Senate. It included provisions for hiring hundreds more investigators in the Labor Dept. to put a stop to employers hiring illegals.
As for conservatism, Hunter is more conservative than Thompson in some areas. Thompson is considerably more conservative than Hunter in others. They’re both good candidates — it just depends on how we each rank our priorities.
I do agree that it was wrong to exclude Hunter, Paul and Keyes from the debate.
The main reason that many "conservatives" and pundits don't consider Hunter conservative on "some issues" is that they don't deaire to hamper any imports/exports on China - free trade but not fair trade.
Hunter also objects to our tax laws as they now exist and many argue over best way to handle it - some like the income tax with all it's various exemptions, while others would scrap it entirely with a "consumption tax" which many don't think as fair (and certainly not some wealthier individuals, as they would pay more as their consumption is greater and with no exemptions, those would evaporate.)
Certainly arguments can be made on both sides and well worth a complete, honest and open airing.
How we each rank our priorities?
That’s indeed a great question! But does any candidate or supporters here explain how and why they rank their priorities?
In my mind the main isue which should be considered for itself is the CIVILISATIONAL/CULTURAL issue.
What civilisation values do we want for us and the next generation?What civilisation would we defend and eventually fight for?What is our legacy if we have some legacy?
All other issues depend on this one...