Ep. 2585 Did Trump Kill Conservatism, Inc.? Should We Mourn or Rejoice?
Dec 21, 2024
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Dan McCarthy, a syndicated columnist and editor of Modern Age, discusses the seismic shifts in American conservatism over the last decade. He examines the fragmentation of conservative ideology post-2015, driven by nationalism and social media influence. The conversation delves into changing views on war, identity politics, and the evolving U.S.-Israel relationship, revealing deepening divides within both major parties. McCarthy also touches on the challenges of healthcare reforms and the implications of federal funding on academic freedom.
The rise of Trump has catalyzed a significant ideological shift in conservatism, moving away from past war-centric policies towards nationalism and a combative stance against progressivism.
Younger leaders within the Republican Party are gaining influence, reflecting a departure from traditional conservatism and promoting a blend of nationalist and libertarian ideas.
The decline of major conservative institutions has led to a more decentralized landscape of thought, allowing for diverse perspectives while risking fragmentation among conservatives.
Deep dives
Evolution of Conservatism Since 2015
The conservative movement has undergone significant changes from 2015 to 2024, particularly after the rise of Trump. Previously, the Republican Party clung to ideals from the George W. Bush era, focusing on foreign interventions and a limited government stance that belied their expansionist policies. By 2024, a shift towards nationalism and a rejection of the previous war-centric mindset became evident, with conservatives becoming more critical of mass immigration and less willing to compromise with pro-immigration Republicans. This ideological evolution reflects a broader recognition that conservatism now encompasses a more combative stance against progressive leftism, contrasting sharply with the earlier, more passive approach to social issues.
Changes in Republican Leadership
The influence of figures like Mitt Romney seems to be waning within the Republican Party, creating opportunities for younger, more dynamic leaders. The political landscape in the GOP is increasingly marked by new energy and evolving perspectives, particularly among younger senators, aligning more with a post-Romney mindset. The departure from traditional conservatism emphasizes a harmonization of different ideologies within the party, moving towards a mix of nationalist and libertarian sentiments. This shift could lead to a political landscape that is less ideologically rigid, encouraging a targeted approach to governance that addresses the needs of diverse constituencies.
Fragmentation of Conservative Institutions
The traditional dominance of major conservative institutions has diminished, giving way to a more decentralized landscape of opinion and influence. Historically, entities like National Review held significant sway, but the rise of individual voices and platforms has changed how conservatism engages the public. Younger conservatives increasingly seek specific viewpoints and niche communities through social media and other digital forums rather than established publications. This disaggregation of thought allows for a broader range of perspectives but also risks division among conservatives who once aligned under common institutions.
Identity Politics and Its Implications
Identity politics has become a contentious issue within American politics, often criticized for undermining social cohesion but also recognized as a fundamental aspect of human motivation. The discussion emphasizes that identity extends beyond race and ethnicity to include various facets of personal and collective experience. While critiques of identity politics highlight its superficiality, the framing questions the validity of a purely non-identity-based political approach in culturally diverse societies. This dynamic encourages a reevaluation of how identity shapes political allegiance and discourse, revealing the complexities of uniting diverse groups under a singular political banner.
Shifting Views on Israel
Israel's relationship with both major political parties in the U.S. is changing, as differing generations within those parties express varying levels of support or dissent. The Republican Party, historically aligned with pro-Israel sentiment, is beginning to see internal divisions, with younger members questioning the strength of this alliance. On the Democratic side, a growing portion of the base is providing room for critique of Israeli policies, revealing an evolution in party dynamics that could impact future positions on Middle Eastern affairs. As these shifts continue, the topic of Israel may cease to be a polarizing issue, allowing for more nuanced discussions that reflect changing political realities.
