For a look at just how statist today's religious right has become, check out this interview with former Bush speechwriter Michael Gerson. Despite his protest, Gerson's description of "compassionate conservatism" sounds like a neocon version of Jim Wallis. Gerson doesn't even give lip service to small government, and seems totally oblivious to the notion that true compassion is demonstrated by voluntary giving our own time and money to the less fortunate. The idea that government "charity" is harmful to the recipient also escapes his notice.
Of course, Gerson lists Lincoln and Bryan as heroes and freats that post-Bush conservatism may revert to libertarianism. Much I wish otherwise, I don't think he has much to worry about.
Here's a sample of the interview:
"Until recently, the Republican Party and Christian conservatives have complained that government is the problem. Is that a view they will likely return to?
I think it's a temptation, but I don't think it's going to happen. One reason is because of what's changed in evangelical political involvement.
I think there are lots and lots of young people, in their 20s to 40s, who are very impatient with older models of social engagement like those used by the Religious Right. They understand the importance of the life issues and the family issues, but they know the concern for justice has to be broader and global. At least a good portion of the evangelical movement is looking for leaders who have a broader conception of social justice. President Bush has provided that in many ways. He ran his initial campaign on education and on faith-based answers to poverty and addiction. And then he's led the international efforts we've undertaken, both on the development and disease side, but also on the spread of human liberty."
