In 'It Takes a Family: Conservatism and the Common Good', Rick Santorum presents a vision for public policy centered on the family. He critiques both liberal social policies and laissez-faire conservatism, advocating for a proactive government role in supporting family structures. The book explores social capital, cultural connections, and policy proposals for societal renewal.
In 'When Character Was King: A Story of Ronald Reagan', Peggy Noonan explores the life and legacy of Ronald Reagan, highlighting his character as the key to his success. The book provides insights into Reagan's formative years, professional career, and presidency, drawing from Noonan's personal experiences and interviews with those close to him. It is a semi-insider's review that emphasizes Reagan's courage, kindness, and persistence as pivotal elements in his political achievements.
In this influential book, Hayek argues that the abandonment of individualism and classical liberalism leads to a loss of freedom, the creation of an oppressive society, and ultimately, the tyranny of a dictator. He challenges the view that fascism and Nazism are capitalist reactions against socialism, instead positing that these ideologies share common roots in central economic planning and the empowerment of the state over the individual. The book emphasizes the dangers of collectivism and the importance of maintaining a free market system to preserve human freedom and dignity.
Edmund Burke's "Reflections on the Revolution in France" is a powerful critique of the French Revolution, arguing that it was based on abstract principles that ignored the complexities of human society and the importance of tradition. Burke's work is a classic statement of conservative political philosophy, emphasizing the importance of gradual change, respect for institutions, and the dangers of radicalism. The "Reflections" remains a relevant and insightful commentary on the challenges facing modern societies. Burke's emphasis on prudence, tradition, and the importance of preserving social order continues to resonate with conservatives today. The book is a cornerstone of conservative political thought.
Published in 1952, 'Witness' is a memoir that recounts Chambers' journey from being a dedicated Marxist-communist in the 1920s to his work as a courier in the Soviet underground during the 1930s. The book also details his defection from communism, his spiritual conversion to Christianity, and his pivotal role in the Alger Hiss trials. It is both a personal history and a philosophical treatise, offering insights into the dangers of communism and the importance of spiritual values in politics. The book was widely acclaimed and is considered one of the most significant American autobiographies of the 20th century.
A few weeks ago, at the much-anticipated Democratic National Convention, we witnessed the coronation of Kamala Harris. It was a star-studded event. We got the Obamas, the Clintons, Mindy Kaling, Kerry Washington, Kenan Thompson—and Oprah! Basically every Democratic A-lister you could think of came out in high fashion. (Kamala came out in a Chloé pantsuit.)
And then there were the Republicans: Mesa, Arizona mayor John Giles, former Trump White House staffer Olivia Troye, former Trump White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham, former Georgia lieutenant governor Geoff Duncan, and former U.S. representative from Illinois Adam Kinzinger.
The purpose of their speeches was not only to warn Americans about the dangers of Trump—a message we’ve heard over and over again since 2016—but to give other conservatives permission to do the same. To not just oppose Trump, but to vote for the Democrat.
Two of those conservatives are here with us today: David French and Sarah Longwell.
David is an evangelical, pro-life conservative. He’s a former attorney who has worked on high-profile religious liberty cases. He was a staff writer at National Review, a senior editor at The Dispatch, and now he’s an opinion columnist for The New York Times.
Sarah is a political strategist and founder of Republicans Against Trump (now called the Republican Accountability Project). She’s also the founder and publisher of the Never Trump opinion website, The Bulwark.
The policy positions Sarah and David hold are not in lockstep with Kamala’s, not even close. So I ask them: Why is Kamala worthy of their vote? What do they think about the chasm between their political positions and Kamala’s? And do they support Kamala because she’s not Trump, or do they actually see something in her?
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Honestly with Bari Weiss 
