By Babette Holder -
The Republican Party is often perceived by society (especially by Democrats) to be Pro-life, and that’s not a negative as far as many of the party’s constituent base. But perception often times is not reality, nor often times is it that Republicans are uniform in principles, morals and even voting practices.
As with any party, there is true diversity in the GOP and not just racially, but in mind-set. One troubling trend though, and especially specific to blue states are those that present themselves as conservative candidates, but do not legislate nor vote as conservatives when they are elected, especially on issues that are typically touted as the core principles of the party.
Some call those Republicans RINOs, others like to refer to them as "moderates." RINO stands for Republican In Name Only, and the more politically-correct version “moderate” is a favorite for those that fear swing voters can’t stand to hear the values of core conservatism.
This practice of catering to those possible voters is not only dividing the party, but it is aiding the opposition in winning elections.
Republicans in Illinois can sometimes deliver a convoluted message, one that isn’t very definitive, and because of that, we have heard everything from being called outright liars and hypocrites, to being reprimanded with “You Republicans clamor for less government, but then you turn to the government for stiffer laws on illegals and reproductive rights.”
Many times I find myself explaining to doubters that we do want smaller government and fewer regulations and tax burdens on businesses so we can have a state where businesses would feel welcomed. We do demand the government stop fostering a place of legal sanctuary for those that don’t respect our laws enough to apply for citizenship. We provide non-citizens with taxpayer-funded welfare and other support services that continues to aid to the trillions of dollars of debt for the United States of America.
Regarding the reproductive rights, I explain that while many conservatives don’t support abortion, we should demand safer practices and clinics for those women that choose abortion because that is true pro-life advocacy, valuing the human life at all its stages.
Also, it is often inaccurately brandished about that conservatives are judging women that have had abortions. Again, that is false. There is no judgment, only concern that women have post-abortive followup and be provided information that will direct them to professional and experienced counselors if they desire to talk to someone after experiencing an abortion.
Aristotle wrote, “All things in moderation” and moderates have been far too long preferred in the ballot box, questionably campaign-funded and championed by Republicans in Illinois.
How is that election strategy working out fiscally for Illinois? Where are the jobs? Why are so many organizations and churches rallying at the state capital protesting legislation that angers conservatives and morally-conscious voters?
It is time for moderation of moderate Republicans in Illinois. Conservatives don’t have to use emotional tactics to garner votes. They can competently deliver a clear message of what is right and wrong without fear or compromising the integrity of their principles and voter constituency.
Illinoisans should also be concerned with having a reputation of fostering fairness in regards to reproductive rights and life.
Fair concern would include offering the emergency contraceptive pill when a woman is taken to a hospital to be treated after rape, but also providing help information with carrying her possible pregnancy to term. Rape victims have up to 72 hours to ingest a Plan B pill to avoid pregnancy and even longer with other products. It would be fair and beneficial to rape victims to allow a few hours to calmly assess all the options, as some decisions cannot be undone.
