[BearArms]

When the PTBs of the GOP sit down, put together the math and realize "we can do it without the hardcore right anymore", the previous influence wielded will diminish drastically for certain politicians, voting blocs, organizations and pundits.

Good point. The social conservatives do themselves no good by constantly going down in blazes of glory for the sake of principle. Soon, it may become apparent that Republicans can win elections without them, at least in more liberal states. Nationally, however, I don't believe that will be the case for some time.

A more sophisticated approach for social conservatives would be to cut deals with moderate Republican candidates and move their agenda item by item. Arnold could give them several abortion restrictions, for example, but if he wins despite social conservative opposition, he may see no point in bothering.

They have a right to determine their own strategy, of course, but they shouldn't be surprized if their purist rigidity results in their being marginalized politically.

[GOP_1900AD]

"The Right is a fiction, everyone is on the Left." J.R. Nyquist.

[itsahoot]

A more sophisticated approach for social conservatives would be to cut deals with moderate Republican candidates and move their agenda item by item.

That has worked really well so far. Bear that is a real knee slapper.