How does Conservatism get votes today?
How does Conservatism get votes today?
If conservatism, or if any political philosophy seeking ascendancy in the United States, cannot be translated into votes, it is moribund.
So how does conservatism appeal to voters? Answering that question was the life’s work of William Allen Rusher.
Celebrating the centennial of his birth, July 19, 1923, The William A. Rusher Centennial Project was launched to honor his legacy and to continue to promote the values that he dedicated his life to.
Conservatism
Who We Are
Conservatives in America seek to preserve the Founders’ system of government: one that protects the God-given rights and equality of each individual. We believe that government exists to defend its citizens, maintain order, protect individual rights, and foster a free society.
Key views:
- Defending borders and enforcing laws are government’s primary role.
- Free markets best allocate resources because people differ in skills and ambitions.
- Strong nuclear families are foundational to raising children and a healthy society.
In Brief:
Conservatism analyzes social problems from the standpoint of a particular understanding of human nature—people pursue their own interests, and society should channel this for the common good.
Progressivism
Who We Are Not
Progressivism is the belief that government should drive ongoing social change, often prioritizing equality and improvement of society above other values. Progressives see human nature as changeable and look to government for solutions to social problems.
Key views:
- Government should reduce hardship and inequality through active intervention.
- Social programs and regulations can remake society for the better.
- Equality of outcomes (“equity”) is emphasized over tradition or individual choice.
In Brief:
Progressivism treats “progress” as the highest goal, putting social change ahead of competing values and seeking ever-greater government action.
The Project
Honoring the Vision and Extending
the Legacy of William A. Rusher
The William A. Rusher Centennial Project aims to produce substantive intellectual media that, rooted in Mr. Rusher’s work, pushes today’s conservative movement to adopt a more coherent philosophy, a stronger coalition, and a more effective set of political and legal strategies.
In short, the Project aims, as Mr. Rusher aimed, to communicate the appeal of conservatism to voters. And in so doing, it aims to inspire respect and enthusiasm the way Mr. Rusher did, while fighting effectively, confidently, and cheerfully for the conservative views he articulated.
Those views, rooted in Locke and Burke, and founded in the Declaration of Independence, are not necessarily those views often misidentified today as “conservative.” The Project seeks to advance and to adapt Mr. Rusher’s views — in line with his legacy — so that they have broad resonance and appeal in the current political environment.
Bill’s Body of Work
The legacy of Bill Rusher is extensive and his contributions to political thought are immense. Below you can explore some of his works, and learn more about the impact he made on our country as we know it today.
Bill's Books
Explore Bill Rusher’s Amazon collection for insights into his astute observations and impactful role in politics. His books provide a comprehensive journey into the rich legacy he left behind, offering a deeper understanding of both the individual and the enduring impact of his influence on the political landscape.
Columns by Bill
Mr. Rusher began his column, “The Conservative Advocate,” in 1973. Syndicated to hundreds of newspapers around the country, he wrote nearly 6,000 columns until his final column in 2009. The format gave rise to CNN’s “Crossfire” program that began in 1982 and continued for the better part of three decades.
Video Content
Explore Bill Rusher’s Amazon collection for insights into his astute observations and impactful role in politics. His books provide a comprehensive journey into the rich legacy he left behind, offering a deeper understanding of both the individual and the enduring impact of his influence on the political landscape.
Library of Congress
The Library of Congress houses extensive shelves dedicated to Bill Rusher’s work. You can explore his writings and delve into his collection to gain insights into his observations as an astute observer and his active role in politics. It’s a valuable resource for those interested in the multifaceted legacy of Bill Rusher.
About Bill Rusher
William A. Rusher, a significant figure in the conservative movement, made notable contributions as the publisher of National Review. He played a pivotal part in organizing conservatives and was instrumental in the founding of the Goldwater for President movement.
During the 1970s, Rusher was a central figure in bringing together conservative voters. Known for his unwavering advocacy of limited government and conservative values, Rusher’s strategic insight and steadfast commitment earned him profound respect.
His impact continued until his passing in 2011, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a trailblazer who played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of modern American conservatism.
Engaging Today’s Culture
The William A. Rusher Centennial Project aims to produce substantive intellectual media that, rooted in Mr. Rusher’s work, pushes today’s conservative movement to adopt a more coherent philosophy, a stronger coalition, and a more effective set of political and legal strategies.
No Results Found
The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.
“The Truth Shall Prevail”
Bill would often end his talks with this quote, which speaks to the strength of his vision and the source of his hope even in difficult times:
”For want of me the world’s course will not fail.
When all its work is done the lie shall rot.
The Truth is great and shall prevail,
When none cares whether it prevail or not.”
– Coventry Patmore, Magna est Veritas
Confidence that the Truth shall prevail, and the tireless effort to pursue it, sums up the life, and legacy, of Bill Rusher.
