The Realignment 563 | Sam Tanenhaus: William F. Buckley Jr. and the Battle for Political Ideas
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Jul 29, 2025 
Sam Tanenhaus, an author and journalist known for his biography of William F. Buckley Jr., dives deep into Buckley’s lasting impact on American conservatism. He discusses how Buckley’s innovative debates and media presence shaped political discourse in the 1960s. Tanenhaus also explores the ideological clash surrounding race in America and the evolving political landscape post-2012. The conversation emphasizes the importance of developing coherent worldviews in today's complex political climate.
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Buckley's Role in Conservatism
- William F. Buckley Jr. was the intellectual godfather of modern conservatism, shaping the movement post-WWII.
- His ideas combined small government, individualism, and cultural pluralism for a relevant conservative vision.
Buckley's Populist NYC Campaign
- Buckley's 1965 NYC mayoral campaign resonated with white ethnic voters despite his elite background.
- His wit, style, and debate skills won support unlike the moderate Rockefeller-Lindsay Republican model.
Fusionism Shaped Conservatism
- Conservatism after Buckley fused Christian values with libertarianism and anti-communism, shaping the right-wing movement.
- Political rhetoric evolves, but core ideas about freedom and government remain consistent over time.
