The New Yorker Magazine On The Fall Of Conservatism

George Packer's piece in the new New Yorker is excellent (all snarking about how Manhattan considers itself the absolute center of the universe aside).

One of our favorite lines:

The fact that the least conservative, least divisive Republican in the 2008 race is the last one standing—despite being despised by significant voices on the right—shows how little life is left in the movement that Goldwater began, Nixon brought into power, Ronald Reagan gave mass appeal, Newt Gingrich radicalized, Tom DeLay criminalized, and Bush allowed to break into pieces.

However, we would note that John McCain's record on national security and fiscal issues is sterling (and he is legitimately pro-life, he just doesn't want to talk about it).

Which goes a long, looooooong way with real conservatives.

Which is also why, as the GOP thrashes out progressive ideas on new issues to stay relevant (= alternative energy), we think that wrapping those new ideas in the warm embrace of national/economic security will make the GOP old guard more receptive.

While at the same time bringing new-new and new-old voters into the Republican fold.

What's not to like?