Trump and "Conservatism"?

[Esaias]

Could someone please articulate what exactly "conservatism" means, what is a "genuine conservative", and what it is about Trump's policy proposals/goals that is definitely "not conservative"?

[aegsm76]

E - you must first understand that any conservative viewpoint is evil and bigoted.
Then to define a conservative, it is anyone who is opposed to any position put out by the Dems.
At least that seems to be the "new" definition of a conservative.
And by that reasoning, Trump is a conservative.
Got it?

[Esaias]

I'm being serious. I wonder how many "conservatives" can actually articulate what a "conservative" ideology or policy is...?

[Esaias]

Anyone? What exactly is meant by "conservative"? If you identify yourself as " conservative" what do you mean by that? How would you know if a candidate is a "conservative"?

[Jito463]

Originally Posted by Esaias

Anyone? What exactly is meant by "conservative"? If you identify yourself as " conservative" what do you mean by that? How would you know if a candidate is a "conservative"?

Here's my definition of conservatism.

1) Limited government.
Since our system of government was built on this from the beginning (federal government granted only limited authority, as opposed to it granting rights to us), this is the very cornerstone of what it means to be conservative.

2) Fiscal responsibility.
Going hand-in-hand with a limited government, is the desire for our representatives to be thrifty with our finances that we grant to them. A government that spends out of control, is a government that has no care for those it is supposed to represent.

3) Strict Constitutional adherence.
The Constitution is the basis of our entire nation. The authors of this document, while flawed men, were wise beyond their years. While I do *NOT* put the Constitution on the same level as the Bible (not even remotely close), I do believe God had His hand in guiding the direction of this document. A representative that does not adhere to this document, is not truly representing us.

I'll let you decide for yourself, where you think Trump aligns in those three areas.

[Esaias]

Originally Posted by Jito463

Here's my definition of conservatism.

1) Limited government.
Since our system of government was built on this from the beginning (federal government granted only limited authority, as opposed to it granting rights to us), this is the very cornerstone of what it means to be conservative.

2) Fiscal responsibility.
Going hand-in-hand with a limited government, is the desire for our representatives to be thrifty with our finances that we grant to them. A government that spends out of control, is a government that has no care for those it is supposed to represent.

3) Strict Constitutional adherence.
The Constitution is the basis of our entire nation. The authors of this document, while flawed men, were wise beyond their years. While I do *NOT* put the Constitution on the same level as the Bible (not even remotely close), I do believe God had His hand in guiding the direction of this document. A representative that does not adhere to this document, is not truly representing us.

I'll let you decide for yourself, where you think Trump aligns in those three areas.

I do not think any such thing about Trump. I am not a Trump supporter.

So, taking those three items you listed, which of Trump's stated policies/platform are not conservative?

And secondly, have conservatives in power actually done any of the three things you listed?

[Esaias]

Here's an article from last year attacking Trump and his supporters for not being "conservative" - https://www.commentarymagazine.com/p...-conservative/

Notice, no definition of conservative is given, and even though the author acknowledges a bit of truth about why Trump is popular "across ideological lines" they still glaringly miss the point. Instead, they whine about Trump not being conservative.

I don't know anyone claiming Trump is a "true conservative", although some have pointed out his policy proposals (his Plan) seems to be rather conservative compared to modern conservatism...

[Esaias]

Here's a more recent article addressing "Why Trump is not a conservative. - http://newsbusters.org/blogs/nb/davi...t-conservative

My question is, based on the article, who in politics is a conservative? The things said about Trump could be said about practically the entire gamut of GOP politicians...

[Michael The Disciple]

Also there are "fiscal" and "social" conservatives. Many fiscal conservatives are not "social" conservatives. They come across as being only for low taxes and very few regulations on business. They are mortified if someone brings up topics like abortion and gay agenda. They have always wanted Christians OUT of the Republican party.

[Jito463]

Originally Posted by Michael The Disciple

Also there are "fiscal" and "social" conservatives. Many fiscal conservatives are not "social" conservatives. They come across as being only for low taxes and very few regulations on business. They are mortified if someone brings up topics like abortion and gay agenda. They have always wanted Christians OUT of the Republican party.

I am both a fiscal and social conservative, but I think the term conservative (in the political sense of the word) does not inherently include social conservatism. I see that as more an extension of our Christian beliefs.