Why Conservatism Gained Favor Despite a Minority Support Base in the United States

Introduction

Although only a minority of the U.S. population identifies as conservative, conservative policies and attitudes have managed to gain widespread support, especially in recent decades. This article explores the persuasive tactics and strategies employed by conservative groups and the factors that have allowed them to maintain support, despite their small base.

Employer vs. Employee Class Dynamics in American Politics

The dynamic between the employer and employee classes has played a significant role in the success of conservative politics. Conservatives traditionally support the interests of the employer class, while progressives have historically championed the employee class. In a democratic society, this creates a built-in disadvantage for conservatives, as employees vastly outnumber employers.

Conservatives have utilized various tactics to overcome this disadvantage. One notable example is the strategic branding used by Lee Atwater in the late 20th century. Atwater targeted whites, often positioning them as the 'default employer class,' suggesting that their skin color alone was a marker of personal and professional merit. This approach leveraged widespread racial hubris, which serves as a potent tool for control and influence.

Racial Hubris as a Persuasive Tool

Racial hubris has become a powerful tool in conservative messaging. The deliberate creation of narratives that suggest whites, regardless of their socioeconomic status, are inherently superior, resonates strongly with many. This strategy appeals to a deep-seated sense of pride and entitlement, effectively convincing many to align with conservative ideals.

The appeal of racial hubris is not just emotional; it also taps into psychological mechanisms linked to dopamine release. By fostering a sense of superiority, conservatives tap into a powerful psychological reward system, which has proven to be an effective means of maintaining support even in the face of overwhelming opposition.

Outdated Districting Laws and the Electoral College

The success of conservative policies is also linked to the structure of the U.S. electoral system. Outdated districting laws and the unique features of the Electoral College have amplified the influence of Republican voters. The current electoral landscape favors the Republican party, allowing even a small core of supporters to have disproportionate influence.

Mainstream Liberal Indifference and Missteps

Mainstream liberal inaction and overreach have also contributed to the historical success of conservative politics in the United States. For decades, Democrats and progressive parties have failed to adequately address the interests of the white, working-class voters who form the backbone of the Republican base. This failure to connect with these voters has allowed conservatives to maintain their standing.

One significant flaw in the Democratic strategy has been a persistent reluctance to take a clear stance against the neoconservative policies emanating from figures like Ronald Reagan. While a temporary shift to the right might have had strategic benefits, it ultimately backfired. Shock jock personalities like Rush Limbaugh fueled a widespread belief that any Democrat was an enemy, setting the stage for conservative dominance.

Furthermore, the Obama administration's cautious and accommodating approach to Republicans, while perhaps well-intentioned, was ultimately perceived as weakness. This lack of assertiveness allowed the Republican party to implement conservative policies in critical areas such as judicial appointments, maintaining their control over the courts.

Lessons from Bernie Sanders’ Traction with Young Leftists

The rise of Bernie Sanders in the 2015-2016 primary season provided a counterpoint to traditional liberal approaches. Sanders’ success with young leftists and former centrist liberals highlighted the importance of taking a firm stance against Republican policies. His willingness to stand up to moderate positions and his focus on progressive values reinvigorated the left and drew support away from conservative candidates.

It is clear that the Democratic party must be more willing to challenge Republican positions and take more assertive stances to regain lost ground. The failure to do so has led to a situation where conservative policies continue to thrive, despite their limited support base.

Conclusion

Conservatism's success in the United States is the result of a combination of strategic branding, psychological manipulation, and a flawed electoral system. Conservative groups have effectively leveraged racial hubris and other psychological tools to garner support, while liberal inaction has allowed them to maintain their influence. Addressing these systemic issues is crucial for achieving a more equitable and stable political landscape.