House and Senate divided: social vs fiscal conservatives

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In summary: The GOP, once known for their fiscal responsibility, is now pushing through legislation that is causing the government to spend like drunken sailors. This is a major blow to social conservatives, who have been staunch supporters of the GOP in the past. The recent split on stem cell research by Frist and endorsements from prominent figures like Nancy Reagan and Arlen Specter show a shift towards the center for the 2008 election. However, the actions of the GOP in regards to issues like Terri Schiavo and the nuclear option may not be forgotten. Additionally, their lack of fiscal responsibility is causing a conflict between social and fiscal conservatives.
  • #1
Loren Booda
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Do you foresee an expanding and increasingly significant conflict between U.S. social and fiscal conservatives? In what regards?
 
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If so, then the social conservatives just took a blow.

They slammed Frist so hard on allowing McCain's group to head off the "Nuclear option/Constitutional option" that he decided he better not rely on them for help in 2008. He made his break from the social conservatives with endorsement of the Stem Cell Research Bill.

Frist was probably their best hope not only in the Senate, but for a 'friendly' presidential candidate. Now the biggest friend they're left with is Tom DeLay. That has to be pretty degrading. :rofl:
 
  • #3
BobG said:
If so, then the social conservatives just took a blow.

They slammed Frist so hard on allowing McCain's group to head off the "Nuclear option/Constitutional option" that he decided he better not rely on them for help in 2008. He made his break from the social conservatives with endorsement of the Stem Cell Research Bill.

Frist was probably their best hope not only in the Senate, but for a 'friendly' presidential candidate. Now the biggest friend they're left with is Tom DeLay. That has to be pretty degrading. :rofl:
There is a lot of speculation as to why Frist split on stem cell research. One theory is he that in view of his medical background, he was always in favor of scientific progress, but didn't want to split until the 2004 elections had concluded and a few GOP initiatives had gone through successfully. This still seems suspect to me. But I'm glad he has split, along with Nancy Reagan's endorsement, and of course Arlen Specter--in favor of scientific advancement.

So he's moving to the center for 2008...Still I'm not likely to forget Terri Schiavo, and that goes in the list of things against DeLay as well. And I'm not likely to forget the nuclear option. Santorum is struggling too. His arrogant, conceited manner is a real turn off as well as his views.

Regarding fiscal conservatism, well just look at the legislation the GOP is pushing through these days--still spending like drunken sailors. :eek:
 
  • #4
Regarding fiscal conservatism, well just look at the legislation the GOP is pushing through these days--still spending like drunken sailors.
Fiscal conservatism doesn't exist any more.
 

1. What is the difference between a social conservative and a fiscal conservative?

A social conservative is someone who holds traditional values and beliefs, particularly in regards to social issues such as abortion, same-sex marriage, and religion. A fiscal conservative, on the other hand, focuses on economic policies and advocates for smaller government, lower taxes, and reduced government spending.

2. How does the division between social and fiscal conservatives impact the House and Senate?

The division between social and fiscal conservatives can impact the House and Senate by creating a divide on certain policies and legislation. For example, social conservatives may oppose government funding for certain social programs, while fiscal conservatives may advocate for cutting taxes and reducing government spending. This can lead to gridlock and difficulty passing legislation.

3. Are there any political parties that align solely with social or fiscal conservatism?

While there are political parties that align with certain conservative ideologies, such as the Republican Party being associated with fiscal conservatism, there are no parties that solely align with either social or fiscal conservatism. Most political parties have a mix of social and fiscal conservative beliefs.

4. Can social and fiscal conservatives work together to pass legislation?

Yes, social and fiscal conservatives can work together to pass legislation, but it may require compromise and finding common ground on certain issues. For example, a social conservative may be more willing to support a fiscal conservative's proposed tax cuts if they also include provisions for funding for social programs.

5. How does the division between social and fiscal conservatives impact the overall political landscape?

The division between social and fiscal conservatives can impact the overall political landscape by creating a diverse range of political beliefs and parties. This can lead to a variety of policy proposals and debates, but it can also create difficulties in finding unity and passing legislation. It also allows for a diverse range of voices and perspectives within the political landscape.

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