Can non Religious and Religious Conservatives Stick Together and Win

There is not universal consensus as to whether reversal of Roe was evidence of religious ascendency in U.S. politics or a last grasp at the golden ring which is moving away from the religious branch of conservative politics. If one looks at the polls and records of church membership and church attendance, the only conclusion available is the last grasp. Of course, if one listens to some leaders in the Southern Baptists and some Catholic Bishops it is they, not the low tax, less government secular and libertarian conservatives, who are driving the bus.  

The link discusses Albert Mohler's remarks at a Republican meeting. He explained the linear path of Christianity and anti-gay and anti-abortion politics. The U.S. was founded by evangelical Christians, he said. This means there was no doubt whatsoever they intended it to be a single religion (Christian) country. Than being the case, it follows, Mohler declared, the founders expected prayer in public schools, no gay marriage and no abortions. It is self-evident to Mohler the Republican Party must have these as its first priority. 

The small government part of the Republican Party, however, sees the political dilemma Mohler does not. The dilemma is it is impossible to advocate more government and less government at the same time. Government running down abortions is more government, not less. 

In addition to there being fewer religious voters, anti-abortion goes against the long-term successful theme of the Republican Party. It is the suspicion by voters over almost the entire history of the country in government. This suspicion is especially strong of the Federal Government and applies to state governments. To throw this very successful political theme under the bus in order to outlaw abortion seems like a terrible idea to the small government branch. 

The link speculates on how the Republican Party will resolve its differences. It may well never resolve them but simply go on as it has for decades saying it is both against larger government and for larger government when government is stopping abortion and gay marriage. 

Not resolving the dilemma has worked well for the Party for decades. The declining number of Christians and dying off of a generation may have been seen in the recent election. Younger members of the Party may sense the opportunity and the necessity of pushing the religion faction aside.