October 28, 2009
A new Gallup poll finds more than 40 percent of the country describe themselves as conservative; fewer as moderates and fewer still as liberals. So why does liberalism seem in the ascendency?
I think it is because not enough conservative politicians have the courage to speak the truth. Can we continue the spending spree? Democrats used to be against it before they were for it. Can we continue killing so many babies while our enemies have them?
In New York next week, a special election will decide whether a liberal Democrat, a liberal Republican, or a conservative will win a congressional seat. Some Republicans, like Newt Gingrich, prefer a liberal who calls herself a Republican to a real conservative. Principles ought to trump party label. And, yes, I would rather see the Democrat win if the Republican is no better. Otherwise, why have a two-party system?
I suspect - I hope - a strong conservative leader will emerge from the pack before the next presidential election. He - or she - had better.
Cal Thomas is a nationally syndicated columnist based in Washington, D.C.
