Bill, the problem is that “conservative” has become a watered down term that gets applies to anyone in opposition of the left. Just because you are against the left though, you are not a conservative.

There are fiscal conservatives. People who want to operate the country within the confines of a reasonable and low budget. While every Republican will claim this type of conservatism, in reality they only differ from Democrats in WHERE they want to spend the money, not the amount. Very few Republicans are actually trying to cut any spending. Look at the current budget if you need evidence of that.

There are social conservatives. Most of the time, this title is tagged on anyone who claims a religious affiliation. Unfortunately, only about 26% of Americans are evangelical Christians. So when we talk about aligning with God’s will about issues (ex: marriage), we come across as being anti-freedom and limiting personal liberties. That’s hard to sell to the general (non-Christian) population.

I do not believe a strictly social conservative can be elected at this time. The media has done a good job of making us all look like bigots and racists… and we haven’t done ourselves any favors either. This leaves us with fiscal conservatives, but they will never be sent forth by the Republican Party. The reason? A REAL fiscal conservative would slash military budgets. Unfortunately, once you even mention that you are also tagged as “anti-American” and hung out to dry as well.

I think the only hope is a strong fiscal conservative who is relaxed on social issues. You have to make sure the mortgage is paid, or the argument over carpet color is moot. I’m holding hope that Rand Paul might be that guy.